North Travel Guide

Planning a trip to North? Read our comprehensive travel guide to explore the culturally rich, scenic and adventurous destination in Lisbon, Portugal.


Introduction to North

North, a region in Lisbon, has several treasures to offer to its visitors. With beautiful landscapes, architectural marvels, and cultural sanctums, North is one of the top destinations in Portugal. Nestled in the Greater Lisbon region, North boasts of its scenic beauty, natural reserves, and outdoor adventures. This comprehensive guide to North will help you plan an unforgettable trip to this culturally enriching destination.

List of Places to Visit in North

Here is our list of the top places to visit in North, Lisbon.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

North is a culturally rich region, filled with some of the most significant landmarks and museums. Some must-visit places are:

  • Palácio Nacional da Pena - A castle constructed in the nineteenth century, sitting atop a mountain and adorned with rich architecture and intricate artwork.
  • Jeronimos Monastery - A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its intricate architecture and rich cultural significance.
  • Museu Coleção Berardo - One of the most significant contemporary art museums in the world.

Natural Attractions of North: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

North also abounds with breathtaking outdoor destinations and scenic views. Here are some must-visit natural attractions:

  • Parque Natural Sintra-Cascais - A beautiful natural reserve where you can hike, bike, or wander amidst nature’s abundance.
  • Serra de Sintra - A mountain range on the outskirts of Lisbon, perfect for hiking and enjoying scenic views of the Atlantic Ocean.
  • Cabo da Roca - The westernmost point in Europe, offering spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and a perfect spot to watch a beautiful sunset.

Hiking/Biking Routes of North

North offers stunning landscapes, perfect for hiking and biking. Here are some of the best routes you must try:

  • The Rota Vicentina Fisherman’s Trail - A popular 5-part coastal trail that lets you experience the beautiful coastline of Portugal.
  • The Paiva Walkways - A beautiful wooden walkway along the Paiva River that offers an unforgettable experience to nature lovers.

Best Things to Do in North: Activities and Tours

North has plenty of things to offer to its visitors, here are some of the best activities and tours to try:

  • Port Wine Cellar Tour - Port wine is one of the significant attractions of North, and a tour of one of the vineyards is a must-do activity.
  • Surfing Lessons in Ericeira - Ericeira is the surfing capital of Portugal, and taking surfing lessons there is an absolute must-do for adventure lovers.
  • Explore Lisbon on a Bike Tour - A tour around Lisbon on a bike is a great way to explore the city’s rich cultural history and scenic beauty.

Week-Long Itinerary for North

Here is a seven-day itinerary that will allow you to explore the top destinations in North.

Day Activity
1 Explore Lisbon on a Bike Tour
2 Visit the Palácio Nacional da Pena and Castelo dos Mouros in Sintra
3 Surrounded by nature - Visit Serra de Sintra and Cabo da Roca.
4 Hiking in the Montesinho Natural Park
5 Port Wine Tasting and Cellar Tour in Vila Nova de Gaia
6 Strolling around Porto’s Ribeira District
7 Explore Porto’s Riverside Landmarks and enjoy a Douro River cruise

Food and Drink Scene of North

North’s food and drink scene has a lot of diversity to offer. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Francesinha - A meaty sandwich that originated in Porto and filled with ham, sausage, and beef steak, topped with melted cheese and a spicy tomato sauce.
  • Pastel de nata - A Portuguese dessert pastry filled with custard and baked in a crust.
  • Leitão assado - Roasted suckling piglet, typical dish in the north region of Portugal.

Local Beverages

  • Port Wine - A sweet and fortified wine that is a must-try when in North.
  • Ginjinha - A cherry-flavored liquor that can be enjoyed as an aperitif.

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

North has several options for every budget range, here are some accommodations that you can book based on your preference.

  • Hotel Palacio Estoril Golf and Spa - A luxurious resort renowned for its golf course, spa facilities and comfortable rooms.
  • Surf Villa Ericeira - A beautiful villa located near one of the best surfing spots in Lisbon.
  • Lisbon Lounge Hostel - A budget-friendly hostel in the heart of Lisbon’s centre.

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

North has unique souvenirs and products that you can bring back home. Here are some must-buy items:

  • Port Wine - The most famous product of North, it comes in different varieties and flavors.
  • Azulejos - Hand-painted ceramic tiles that depict traditional Portuguese artwork and architecture.
  • Cork Accessories - Portugal is the leading cork producer, and you can find a wide range of cork-made accessories such as purses, hats, and belts.

Local Culture and Customs of North

The people of North are friendly and have a rich cultural heritage that they are proud of. Here are some cultural practices to keep in mind when in North:

  • Respect the Dress Code - When visiting churches and religious sites, be sure to dress modestly.
  • Use Greetings - Portuguese culture is polite and respectful, and using greetings such as bom dia (good morning) and boa tarde (good afternoon) is considered appropriate.
  • Practice Table Etiquette - In Portugal, you are expected to wait until everyone is served before eating.

Best Time to Visit North

The best time to visit North is from April to October when the weather is comfortable, and outdoor activities can be enjoyed. However, the crowds are more prevalent in July and August. If you want to avoid the crowds, visit between April and June or September and October.

Do’s and Don’ts of North

Always keep in mind the following cultural practices when visiting North:

Do:

  • Learn a few Portuguese phrases
  • Respect the culture and customs
  • Try the local cuisine

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothes when visiting churches.
  • Waste food - Portuguese people consider it rude.

Safety and Health

North is a safe destination, and there are no significant health risks associated with traveling there.

Safety in North

Portugal is considered a safe country, but you should still take precautions to ensure your safety. Here are some tips:

  • Keep your valuables safe
  • Store your documents in the hotel safe
  • Avoid walking alone in empty streets at night.

Health in North

Portugal’s healthcare system is adequate, and there are no significant health risks. However, you should always have travel insurance to cover any medical emergencies.

Getting to North: Transportation Options and Logistics

North is well-connected, and several transportation options can take you there.

Airports Near North

  • Lisbon International Airport - The closest airport to North, just a 20-minute drive from Lisbon’s center.

Bus Stations Near North

  • Lisbon Oriente Bus Station - A central bus station in Lisbon that provides bus services to different regions in Portugal.

Other Options

  • Train - A scenic train ride from Lisbon to Porto is an excellent option to explore North.

How to Get Around in North

To get around North, you can use the following transportation options:

  • Bus - Buses are the most convenient and economical way to explore North.
  • Metro - Lisbon’s Metro system covers several regions and is an easy way to get around the city.
  • Taxi - A comfortable and efficient way to travel, but, it can be expensive.

Where to Go Next from North: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

North has several nearby destinations and excursions that you should consider visiting.

  • Madeira - A beautiful island located off Portugal’s coast, known for its scenic beauty and local cuisine.
  • Porto Santo - An island paradise famous for its pristine beaches and crystal clear waters.
  • Évora - A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its Roman architecture, historical sites, and museums.

Conclusion

North is a destination that has something to offer for everyone - from scenic natural reserves to the rich culture and history of Portugal. This comprehensive travel guide will help you plan an unforgettable trip to North. So, pack your bags and embark on a memorable journey filled with adventure, culture, and beauty.

Parque Eduardo VII offers magnificent views of Praça Marquês de Pombal, Avenida da Liberdade, all the way down to the Baixa and the River Tejo. Parque Eduardo VII offers magnificent views of Praça Marquês de Pombal, Avenida da Liberdade, all the way down to the Baixa and the River Tejo. A few residents of the Lisbon Zoo. A few residents of the Lisbon Zoo.