Food and Groceries in Portugal
You can buy all the essential groceries, including dairy products, fruits, vegetables, fish, and meat, without creating a hole in your pocket. While shopping from the supermarkets you are likely to find many discount offers, sometimes even up to 50% off. Almost all supermarket chains give discount cards to loyal customers. Pingo Doce, SPAR, Continente are some of the preferred supermarket chains that operate on regular hours and weekends as well.
In addition, Portuguese food is worth dying for and the cherry on the cake, is affordable. Whether you are dining out or getting it delivered, you can munch on your favorite delicacies at cheap rates. Moreover, the seafood and the street food are mouthwatering!
Not just the Portuguese food, but considering the number of digital nomads in the country from all across the globe, there are chains of restaurants offering continental food.
If you plan a dinner for two people at an Italian restaurant that includes appetizers, a main course, wine, and dessert, it will cost you around €41.
Laundry in Portugal
- The best way to do your laundry is to opt for Airbnb which already has a washing machine. It’s not necessary that you stay in an Airbnb for the whole trip, but it would help if you booked it for two days/nights every week. Moreover, you are required to buy your detergent.
- Choose hotels that offer laundry services to the guests. However, it can be ridiculously expensive.
- There are several self-service launderettes all across the country. You can search for the nearest ones by simply googling on your phone.
Charges for 30 minutes self launderettes are:
- Light wash at 20°C- €3
- Wash at 30°C- €4
- Wash at 45°C- €4.50
- Wash at 60°C- €5
- The cheapest option is to wash the clothes in the sink. You can buy laundry soap from any supermarket and easily wash them. (Note that they may take a bit longer to dry).
Leisure and Lifestyle in Portugal
Of course, one cannot just keep working and studying for the entire duration while in Portugal. This vibrant country has a lot more to offer to people who love to spend time with family and friends. Since the country is not so expensive, you can easily plan your outings, short trips, and club parties.
Nightlife in Portugal
While in Portugal, do not forget to make the most of the country’s fantastic nightlife. The Algarve and Lisbon are known for their upscale nightlife and luxury hotels. There is something for all in the country, ranging from romantic bars to stag-themed party venues and beach clubs.
The Algarve is also famous for its vibrant student-themed nightlife. Many bars in Lisbon remain open till 3 a.m., and many discs are open till 6 a.m. You can experience the bohemian Portugal nightlife in Porto.
Outdoors Activities
For adventure lovers who usually seek outdoor activities can go hiking, rock climbing, bouldering, kayaking, trail running, camping, and more. This way, you can discover the country’s real beauty that lies amidst the landscapes, deep waters, and cozy towns. Moreover, people into sports can opt for golf, tennis, and even horseback riding.
Indoors Activities
If you are looking for a casual outdoor hangout, you can head to the country’s marvelous museums, like the Tile Museum in Lisbon. Or, maybe go shopping on the pedestrian walkway, Rua Catarina, in Porto. Moreover, there are many zoos and aquariums to explore.
And yes! Do take a beverage break at the Belle Époque Café Majestic.