Coimbra at sunset. Things to do in Coimbra portugal

Coimbra is often overshadowed by Lisbon and Porto, but it remains one of Portugal’s most rewarding cities to explore. Home to a UNESCO World Heritage university, centuries of fascinating history and a lively student culture, Coimbra combines grand monuments with riverside parks, traditional fado and a distinctly local atmosphere. AsRead More →

Porto and Dom Luís I bridge

A lot of people arrive in Porto thinking they’ll see everything in a day or two, then realise how many worthwhile places and experiences there are once they start exploring. Last update: May 2026 There are the obvious highlights like the Ribeira, São Bento station and the port wine lodgesRead More →

Coimbra and Mondego River from Santa Clara bridge

Trying to decide where to stay in Coimbra? This city is compact enough to explore on foot, but where you base yourself still makes a noticeable difference. Some areas are much easier if you’re arriving by train or bus and planning to walk everywhere. Others make more sense if youRead More →

Monte cable car. Things to do in Funchal, Madeira Portugal

Funchal is much more than a cruise port or somewhere to base yourself while exploring Madeira. Between the tropical gardens, historic old town, museums, markets, cable cars and boat trips, you could easily spend two or three days here without getting bored. If you’ve only got one day in Funchal,Read More →

Trapped, Museu do Oriente, Lisbon

Like most cities, Lisbon is steeped in history and even has an interactive museum dedicated to its story. While the Lisbon Story Centre certainly helps you understand the background to the enticing blend of old and new that shapes Portugal’s capital, it’s not one of the best Lisbon museums. There are many others thatRead More →

Lisbon seen from the river

I’m often asked about the best things to do in Lisbon, so I’ve drawn on my experiences of countless visits over the years to put together what’s actually worth your time – a mix of classic sights and a few under-the-radar favourites. One quick note before we start: I getRead More →

Guimarães castle. One of the main things to see and do in Guimarães

Last Updated: November 2025 I’m always looking for an excuse to visit Guimarães and have visited multiple times over the last 18 years. This ancient northern city is known as the cradle or birthplace of Portugal so its wealth of cultural heritage is hardly surprising, nor is its UNESCO World HeritageRead More →