THE SCENE
Portugal is a vibrant country, well-loved for its golden coasts, street art, and pastel-coloured architecture. The capital is home to one of the most expensive streets in Europe, “Avenida da Liberdade”, meaning Freedom Avenue. Lisbon’s fringe has become a haven for artists, musicians, and community-building collectives: making it an essential festival destination.
Local dishes:
Nandos can often be many people’s first experience of Portuguese-style food! Nandos is indeed a Portuguese chain; started by a Portuguese emigrant who took something which was very simple and very popular in Portugal and turned it into a franchise. You won’t find a Nandos in Portugal, as there are thousands of local restaurants that serve the same chicken – Nando’s only exists in places where it is unique.
The greatest pastry to binge eat on your trip is Pastel de nata – a Portuguese egg tart pastry dusted with cinnamon. YUM! And if you’re in Lisbon, make sure you spend a morning or afternoon at the famous Time Out Market – a hugely popular food hall located in the Mercado da Ribeira at Cais do Sodré.
Currency and spending:
The currency in Portugal is the Euro (€). Lisbon is an expensive city, similar to most of the UK’s cosmopolitan cities – so budget accordingly. Expect to pay a premium for food and drink at festivals. If you are on a budget, shop local and stock up on beers and wine from the supermarket.
FESTIVAL DESTINATIONS IN PORTUGAL
Lisbon
Lisbon is that favourite album in your record collection. No matter how many times you revisit; it always leaves a different mark. The city is a cathedral of colour and art.
Porto
Board a train for less than 3 hours from Lisbon, you will find Porto. Porto is a coastal city in cooler North West Portugal, known for its stately bridges and port wine production.
Portimão
Portimão is a port town located towards the Western end of the beautiful Algarve region of Faro, Portugal. It’s known for its old quarter, busy marina and proximity to many beaches. The nearest airport Faro, which is an hours drive away. Taxis cost around €55 and there are also bus and coach options. The average temperature in the summer months is 25 degrees, with 10 hours of sunshine. Portimao’s main beach, Praia da Rocha is a perfect festival site.
FESTIVALS IN PORTUGAL
Taking place in Oeiras, on the edge of Lisbon, NOS Alive brings the coolest and biggest international rock bands and alternative music to Portugal every summer. Situated in Monsanto – five minutes from the festival site (Passeio Marítimo de Algés) – Lisbon Camping & Bungalows is a four star camping ground which is considered one of the best in Europe, equipped with a pool, restaurant area, a bathhouse, tennis courts and mini-golf, among other facilities.
Nova Batida is a new music festival for Lisbon, taking place across Lisbon’s LX Factory. Nova Batida blends together the freshest music, art, and culture and from all corners of the world, in one of the most exciting creative hubs. Beyond the music, there are surf classes, boat parties, yoga rooftop sessions, and lots more.
NOS Primavera Sound Porto is the Portuguese edition of Barcelona’s beloved alternative music festival, held each summer in the city of Porto. Over the last eight years, since 2012 it has been extending the spirit of the Primavera brand, whilst consolidating itself as an important event on the European circuit.
Rolling Loud Portugal is the Europe edition of America’s largest hip-hop festival.
‘Rock In Rio Lisboa’ lends its name from sister festival Rock In Rio – a music event that originated in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and has later branched into other locations such as Lisbon, Madrid and Las Vegas. For four days and nights in June, Portugal’s Parque da Bela Vista becomes City of Rock, welcoming huge international artists.
TOP TIPS
Stay curious. Be prepared to get lost.