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About 1 hour and 30 minutes from Lisbon, Nazaré is one of the most fascinating towns on the Portuguese coast. It’s famous for its giant waves, old fishing traditions, and a strong local culture.

What to See

Praia do Norte: Known for the biggest waves in the world. Visit the small Interpretation Centre near the lighthouse to understand how the underwater Nazaré Canyon creates them.

Forte de São Miguel Arcanjo: A fortress built on the cliffs with stunning ocean views and a small surfboard exhibition.

Sítio da Nazaré:The upper part of the town, with panoramic views over the beach and cliffs. You can walk or take the funicular to reach it.

Praia da Nazaré: The main beach, ideal for a walk, swim, or just watching the colourful fishing boats.

Ermida da Memória & Santuário de Nossa Senhora da Nazaré are two small chapels that are part of local legends and pilgrimages.

Mercado Municipal: A local market full of fresh fish, fruits, and regional products.

Museu Dr. Joaquim Manso: A small museum dedicated to Nazaré’s fishing history and sea traditions.

Culture and Traditions

Peixe Seco: Dried fish displayed under the sun on wooden racks, a centuries-old custom.

Sete Saias: The traditional seven-layer skirts worn by Nazaré’s women, a symbol of the town’s identity.

Arte Xávega : A traditional fishing method where nets are pulled from the sea by hand or tractor.

For more recommendations check out my blog at www.portugaldigitalguides.com

Maybe it's not as famous as bacalhau, but piri-piri chicken is one of the most loved meals in Portugal. When I was a kid, I used to go every Sunday with my grandfather to eat grilled chicken at a local restaurant. Even today, if you visit a summer festival in any village, you'll always find chicken on the grill. We eat it with fries, rice, and salad. if you don't like spicy food you can always ask for it without the sauce.

The Story of Piri-Piri ? The chili pepper used in the sauce was first brought by the Portuguese from South America to Africa during the Age of Exploration. In Mozambique and Angola, these peppers were turned into a spicy sauce that became part of local cooking. When Portuguese people came back from Africa, they brought this flavor with them. That's how grilled chicken with piri-piri became a classic dish in Portugal.

Where to Eat in Lisbon In my Lisbon Travel Guide, I share my favorite places to eat piri-piri chicken. But here's a personal tip... If you're in the Arroios neighborhood, visit a small restaurant called Quionga. It's not in tourist guides, but it's where I like to go for good chicken. And don't leave without trying their Pudim Toucinho do Céu, my favorite dessert.

If you need more recommendations check out my blog at www.portugaldigitalguides.com

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Yesterday I revisited the Museu Nacional dos Coches (National Coach Museum) in Belém, one of the best areas to explore in Lisbon.

This museum has one of the most important collections of royal carriages in the world, mainly from the 16th to the 19th century.

Some of the highlights include ceremonial coaches used for royal weddings, diplomatic missions and important events across Europe. One of the most famous pieces is the set of three Baroque coaches sent to the Pope in Rome in the 18th century, they are extremely detailed and were designed to impress.

Many of the coaches are richly decorated with gold, wood carvings, paintings and symbolic details that show power, religion and history.

If you are planning your trip, you can combine it with other places in Belém (all walking distance):

Museu do Terramoto (interactive experience about the 1755 earthquake)

Mosteiro dos Jerónimos

Torre de Belém

Padrão dos Descobrimentos

Jardim botânico de Belém

Try the famous Pastel de nata at Pastéis de Belém

For more recommendations check out my blog at www.portugaldigitalguides.com