Tourist Traps to Avoid When Visiting Portugal (And What to Do Instead!)
Portugal is a dream destination, known for its stunning coastline, rich history, and mouthwatering cuisine. But like any popular travel hotspot, it has its fair share of tourist traps that can drain your wallet, waste your time, and leave you feeling disappointed.
If you’re planning a trip to Portugal, knowing what to avoid (and what to do instead) will help you make the most of your experience. Here’s a guide to the biggest tourist traps in Portugal and some authentic alternatives.
Overpriced Restaurants and Cafés
The Trap: Tourist-Filled Cafés and Restaurants in Lisbon and Porto
Many restaurants in heavily visited areas, like the streets around Lisbon’s Praça do Comércio or Porto’s Ribeira, charge sky-high prices for subpar food. Some even lure customers in with “free” bread, cheese, or olives, only to add these items to the bill later.
What to Do Instead: Eat Where the Locals Eat
For an authentic experience, head to local tascas (traditional Portuguese eateries) outside tourist zones. In Lisbon, explore Alfama or Campo de Ourique for family-run spots. In Porto, head to Bonfim for excellent and affordable meals. Look for restaurants filled with locals, and check reviews before dining.
2. Tuk-Tuk Tours in Lisbon and Porto
The Trap: Expensive and Unnecessary Rides
Tuk-tuks have become a common sight in Lisbon and Porto, offering tourists “unique” city tours. However, they often charge inflated prices for routes that can easily be explored on foot or via public transport. Many tuk-tuk drivers lack in-depth knowledge of the city’s history, making the experience less valuable.
What to Do Instead: Walk or Use Public Transport
Both Lisbon and Porto are best explored on foot or by using their affordable and efficient public transport systems. Lisbon’s tram 28 offers a charming way to see the city’s historic neighborhoods for just a few euros, while Porto’s funiculars provide scenic rides for a fraction of the cost.
3. Overhyped Pasteis de Nata Shops
The Trap: Long Lines for Overrated Custard Tarts
Many tourists flock to the famous Pastéis de Belém bakery in Lisbon, where the pastel de nata (custard tart) was supposedly invented. While they are delicious, the long lines and touristy vibe can make the experience underwhelming.
What to Do Instead: Try Other Amazing Bakeries
Skip the crowds and head to Manteigaria, another top-tier pastel de nata spot with multiple locations across Portugal. Locals often prefer it over the tourist-packed Pastéis de Belém! Other great options include Aloma in Lisbon and Nata Lisboa, which has locations throughout the country.
4. The Algarve’s Overcrowded Beaches
The Trap: Touristy and Overpriced Algarve Resorts
The Algarve is famous for its stunning coastline, but some of its most well-known beaches, like Benagil Cave and Praia da Marinha, can be overwhelmingly crowded. Tour operators in these areas often charge excessive prices for boat tours and parking.
What to Do Instead: Visit Lesser-Known Beaches
Instead of fighting for space at overcrowded beaches, visit less touristy spots like Praia da Amoreira, Praia do Castelejo, or Praia da Arrifana in the western Algarve. These offer beautiful landscapes and a more peaceful atmosphere without the high prices.
5. Fake Fado Restaurants
The Trap: Tourist-Targeted Fado Dinner Shows
Fado, Portugal’s soulful traditional music, is a must-experience. However, many restaurants, especially in Lisbon’s Bairro Alto, charge exorbitant fees for dinner shows with low-quality food and uninspired performances.
What to Do Instead: Visit Authentic Fado Houses
For an authentic Fado experience, visit smaller, more traditional venues. Mesa de Frades in Lisbon and Casa da Mariquinhas in Porto offer intimate performances with a real connection to the music. If you want a more budget-friendly option, some local bars in Alfama have free performances where you only need to order a drink.
6. Overpriced Port Wine Tastings in Porto
The Trap: Expensive, Mass-Tourism Wine Cellars
In Porto, many tourists flock to Vila Nova de Gaia for a port wine tasting experience, only to find themselves paying hefty fees for factory-style tours with little personal attention. Some of the bigger brands cater mainly to tourists rather than offering an authentic Portuguese experience.
What to Do Instead: Visit Smaller, Family-Owned Wineries
Skip the big names and opt for boutique wineries that offer a more personal experience. Quinta do Noval and Graham’s Lodge provide in-depth, high-quality tastings without the mass-tourism feel. If you have time, take a trip to Douro Valley, where you can visit vineyards surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
7. Generic Souvenir Shops
The Trap: Overpriced, Mass-Produced Trinkets
Many souvenir shops, especially in Lisbon’s Baixa district or Porto’s Ribeira, sell cheaply made items at inflated prices. These shops often target tourists with so-called “traditional” products that are actually mass-produced in China.
What to Do Instead: Buy Authentic Portuguese Crafts
For unique, high-quality souvenirs, visit places like A Vida Portuguesa, which sells beautifully designed, locally made products. Consider purchasing azulejos (hand-painted tiles), cork products, or Portuguese ceramics from artisan shops instead of tourist stalls.
Portugal is full of incredible experiences, and avoiding tourist traps will make your trip even more enjoyable. By skipping overpriced and overcrowded attractions in favor of more authentic alternatives, you’ll get a deeper, more genuine taste of Portuguese culture.