Music, sun and sea, partying every night and 850 km of beaches: it is one of the best combinations in music festivals in Portugal. But there are other programs where the calm richness of sound blends perfectly with historical heritage or rural environments.

In addition to good music, festivals are a chance to get to know the sites in an atmosphere of complete relaxation and fun. Lisbon and Porto have been acknowledged year after year as the perfect destinations for a short break and they have very lively evenings that are the natural continuation of the party atmosphere. 

Photo: Alentejo © fffbarrada

On the coast concerts have a relationship with beaches, friendly people and nights that go on until daybreak. From north to south, there are so many festivals that take place by the sea, with all the advantages that this offers, such as the possibility of taking a dip or having some surfing lesson in the best spots along the Portuguese coast. 


Photo: Festival Músicas do Mundo|Sines ©Câmara Municipal de Sines

And further inland there are festivals that take place in idyllic settings in the heart of nature. Bike rides, trekking, canoeing and river bathing are just some of the activities that can round off some well-spent days to perfection. At some of them art and freedom are celebrated, and at others it is the people themselves who get together to organize the event and to present the best of music and their region.  

Photo: Paredes de Coura

Every musical genre has its festival. From classical music to jazz or to fado, the melodies invade the historic centres of towns and even penetrate national monuments like castles, churches, and monasteries and convents. They provide wonderful opportunities to attend artistic shows in buildings of great beauty. And for complete immersion in the local culture, you sometimes get the chance to take part in programmes that display Portuguese activities and traditions.    

Photo: Festival Terras sem sombra|Beja

From shows featuring big names to important events in the international calendar there will always be a programme somewhere in the country that will suit you. Don't fail to check the agenda to see who's going to be here in 2023 and then ... just follow the melody!