Amadora Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, food and drink, where to stay, safety and health, and transportation options in Amadora, Portugal.


Introduction to Amadora

Located in the heart of Greater Lisbon, Amadora is a vibrant and multicultural city that offers visitors a wealth of experiences. This bustling city is known for its friendly locals, lively atmosphere, and rich history. With a perfect blend of modernity and tradition, Amadora welcomes millions of tourists from all over the world each year.

List of Places to Visit in Amadora

Amadora is a city teeming with cultural and natural attractions. Here are some of the must-see destinations in the city:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museu Municipal de Amadora: A fascinating museum that displays the history, culture, and art of Amadora.
  • Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora da Mina: A beautiful church that showcases Baroque and Rococo styles of architecture.
  • Palácio Nacional de Queluz: A magnificent palace built in the 18th century, which served as a summer retreat for the Portuguese royal family.

Natural Attractions of Amadora: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Parque dos Moinhos de Santana: A serene park where visitors can enjoy walking trails, picnic spots and enjoy scenic views of the city.
  • Parque Central da Amadora: A beautiful park with green spaces, paved walkways, and play areas ideal for families.
  • Jardim da Amadora: A lovely botanical garden that showcases an exceptional collection of indigenous plants.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Amadora

Amadora is a paradise for hikers, bikers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the city’s beautiful countryside with these popular routes:

  • Rota do Tejo: A fantastic route that follows the banks of the river Tagus, and offers stunning views of the Estrela Mountain range.
  • Rota do Vinho: A picturesque bike trail that winds through some of the best wine regions in Portugal, including Arruda dos Vinhos and Alenquer.

Best Things to Do in Amadora: Activities and Tours

There are many exciting activities, tours, and experiences to enjoy in Amadora. Some of the most popular ones include:

  • Bike Tours: Explore the city’s backstreets and narrow lanes with a guided bike tour of Amadora.
  • Wine Tasting: Visit the region’s acclaimed wineries and taste some of the best wines in Portugal.
  • Portuguese Culinary Tour: Discover the most delicious traditional dishes in Amadora with a Portuguese culinary tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Amadora

If you’re planning to visit Amadora for a week, here is a suggested itinerary to make the most of your stay:

Day Activities
Day 1 Explore Historical sites: Museum of Amadora, Igreja Matriz and Palace
Day 2 Take a guided bike tour and picnic at one of the beautiful parks
Day 3 Enjoy the area’s heritage and traditions with a Portuguese culinary tour and visit a winery.
Day 4 Head off to a natural park and hike along the scenic routes.
Day 5 Visit the local shops and traditional markets to buy souvenirs
Day 6 Take a stroll around the city center and explore local art, culture, and architecture.
Day 7 Experience a nightlife or spend an afternoon relaxing at the beach.

Food and Drink Scene of Amadora

From traditional dishes, vegetarians, to ethnic cuisine, Amadora’s food scene is diverse and scrumptious. Below are some of the popular local dishes to try and beverages to experience:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cozido a portuguesa: A stew dish with a variety of meats and vegetables, boiled in one pot.
  • Bacalhau com Natas: A creamy, cheesy, and classic Portuguese dish made with codfish and potato.
  • Sopa de Pedra: A unique typical Portuguese soup from Almeirim made with bread, beans, and meat.

Local Beverages

  • Vinho Verde: A crisp and refreshing white wine from the northern region of Portugal.
  • Ginjinha: A cherry-flavored liquor typically served in a shot glass.
  • Cafe com leite: A strong, Portuguese-style coffee blend mixed with hot milk.

Where to Stay in Amadora: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Amadora has a wide range of accommodation options to choose from, such as luxurious hotels, boutique resorts, guesthouses, and budget-friendly hostels. Here are some of the recommended places to stay in the city:

  • Vila Gale Collection Palácio dos Arcos: A luxurious 5-star hotel, which is located in the nearby Oeiras district.
  • Iberia Plaza Mayor: A modern guesthouse with affordable rates, which is well-situated in the heart of the city.
  • Lisbon Student Apartments: A cozy hostel located in the heart of the university district.

What to Buy in Amadora: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Amadora is famous for its unique handicrafts, clothing, and ceramics. Here are some of the souvenirs perfect for taking home as a memento of your visit to the city:

  • Traditional Portuguese tiles, known as azulejos.
  • Handmade ceramics and pottery with Portuguese designs.
  • Woven baskets made from palm leaves and grass.

Local Culture and Customs of Amadora

Amadora is famed for its vibrant and inclusive community, so you can expect a warm welcome while in the city. Portuguese is the official language of Amadora, and the country’s currency is euros. When visiting religious sites or government buildings, modest dress is advised.

Best Time to Visit Amadora

The best time of year to visit Amadora is during the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November). These seasons provide moderate temperatures, fewer crowds, and better hotel rates.

Do’s and Don’ts of Amadora

Do:

  • Learn a few basic Portuguese words for after-to-day use such as ‘ola’ (hello), ‘obrigado’ (thank you) and ‘adeus’ (goodbye).
  • Embrace the local customs, meet new people and, make some new friends during festivals or events.
  • Be adventurous and try unique local dishes or drinks.

Don’t:

  • Don’t be loud, rude, or obnoxious when visiting religious sites or public places.
  • Don’t litter, always throw trash in public trash bins.
  • Avoid renting a car in the city center due to narrow streets and busy traffic jams.

Safety and Health

Safety in Amadora

Like any other city, Amadora has its share of crime; visitors must be aware of their belongings such as wallets or mobile phones when walking around the busy parts of the city. The city is generally safe for tourists, but visitors should be cautious when walking alone at night in unlit areas and near waterways.

Health in Amadora

Portugal’s health system is of high quality and offers excellent medical facilities to visitors. Private Clinics are abundant, and, therefore, visitors are encouraged to have travel health insurance during their stay in the country.

Getting to Amadora: Transportation Options and Logistics

Amadora is well-connected to Lisbon and other surrounding areas by public transportation, making it easier for visitors to get around the city. Here are the transportation options preferred for getting to and from Amadora:

Airports Near Amadora

Lisbon Airport (LIS) is an international gateway to Amadora, located about 19 km from the city center.

Bus Stations Near Amadora

The nearest bus stations in the city are Rodoviária da Amadora, which is the main bus station that connects to other multiple bus routes to Lisbon and nearby towns.

Other Options

Aside from taking buses, taxis, and trains, renting a bike is a sustainable and eco-friendly way of getting around Amadora.

How to Get Around in Amadora

Getting around Amadora is simple and hassle-free, with numerous transportation options such as buses, trains, taxis, and bike rentals.

Where to Go Next from Amadora: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are a few other exciting destinations to visit near Amadora, including:

  • Lisbon: The Capital city of Portugal, which is only a 20-minute train ride from Amadora.
  • Sintra: Home to amazing historical and thrilling attractions like the Pena Palace and Moorish Castle, only a 30-minute drive from Amadora.
  • Cascais: A lovely coastal town with picturesque beaches, historic parks, and villas, which is less than an hour away by train from Amadora.

Conclusion

Amadora is a diverse and inspiring city brimming with beautiful landscapes, cultural attractions, delicious cuisine, and endless possibilities for adventure. Whether it’s exploring museums, enjoying festivals, indulging in local culture, or reveling in outdoor fun, Amadora promises a remarkable experience for all. So, pack your bags, book your ticket, and get ready for a memorable trip to Amadora.

Parque Central in Amadora. Parque Central in Amadora.