Go, wander, get lost

Portugal is a perfect destination all year round. But to truly experience the soul of Portugal, it is essential to slow down and take the time to explore the country's hidden gems and lesser-known regions.

Just let yourself go and savour all the things we have to offer: the different landscapes, the aromas and flavours of our gastronomy, the unique cultural traditions, the sounds of nature, of Fado and the guitar, or explore the interior of Portugal along National Road 2 as it crosses the country from one end to the other and get involved with the local communities, at your own pace and with the freedom to choose what to see and what to do.

In Portugal, slow travel is particularly rewarding. The country is home to an abundance of small villages and historical towns, like the Schist villages or the Historical villages in the Centre of Portugal, where time passes more slowly, and the hospitable people always have time to welcome visitors and share their traditions.

The Natural Parks and Reserves, Geoparks and Biosphere Reserves recognised by UNESCO have ensured that Portugal is also a favourite destination for outdoor activities, whether they are more contemplative, such as birdwatching, or stargazing, or more active, like canyoning, rafting, or just following nature trails on foot or by bike. You can take it at your own pace, sensing the aromas and sounds that might otherwise pass unnoticed. Whether you choose to have the sea by your side, as on the Vicentina Route (Rota Vicentina) that goes along the Alentejo and Vicentina Coast, or to go up and down the mountains, like in the Azores or Madeira archipelagos, the options of trails are endless, and they are a good choice if you prefer to combine physical exercise and contact with the locals.

For many slow travellers, the Alentejo region is a must-visit destination. The region’s unhurried pace encourages you to move slower and appreciate the simple things in life like the warm sunshine on your skin, its rolling hills, the vineyards and olive groves, long lunches with friends, and of course, Évora, the historic city of the Alentejo, to be the 2027 European Capital of Culture, with a concept based on “Vagar", the philosophy of enjoying life with a “slow” living approach.

During your visit, take time to savour our Mediterranean Diet, classified as World Heritage by UNESCO, and a part of the identity of the Portuguese gastronomy.  It is based on fresh, natural and mostly locally sourced products, on the use of olive oil, the constant presence of fresh fish and the limited consumption of red meat, the role of fruit, grains and green vegetables - everything in this diet is part of a healthy lifestyle. It also supports the local economy, by preferring to consume in season, be more sustainable and buy from the local shops and markets.

Remember: these experiences shouldn’t be rushed, so take your time to dive deeply into everything Portugal has to offer, and you will be rewarded with memories that last a lifetime.