Travel Archives - Portugal Travel Blog 2024 - Plan Your Perfect Trip from UK

January 28, 2021

All about the Fantasporto International Film Festival 2021

Fantasporto, which is also known as Fantas, is an international film festival. It is annually organized since 1981 in Porto, Portugal. It is giving screen space to fantasy/science fiction/horror-oriented commercial feature films, auteur films and experimental projects from all over the world; Fantasporto has now created enthusiastic audiences, ranging from cinephiles to more popular spectators, with an annual average of 110,000 attendees. In spite of being organized by a private entity, the event is mostly state funded, with the Ministry of Culture of Portugal leading and the President of the Republic as head of the Honor Committee in addition to several private sponsors. The news dates have came up now for the much awaited Fantasporto International Film Festival 2021.

With its doors open to the World Fantasporto International Film Festival is now on its way for its 41^st edition wedged to its motto, “Fantas goes Global”. There are three indicators through which its worldwide growth can be been seen clearly in media. First, last year we received film submission from all continents and 76 countries. Formerly in the same year, there were 43 world premieres across the competitions.

And the third point that shows the impact and reorganization of Fantasporto abroad is that Porto welcomed roughly 200 film crew members – in 2020, 73% of films were screened in the presence of the director and crew. As the film selection goes, it may be measured by the applause that heavily follow each presentation.

Fantasporto has reached many countries in very small time through world media. In 2021 as well Fantasporto International Film Festival 2021 shall once again be a film celebration bringing the name of Porto to every corner of the world.

The festival is very important for the critics and the Portuguese market. Fantasporto has now developed as the Portuguese festival. Authorities consider the Portuguese festival to be interesting and diverse. The director of this festival Mario Dorminski is also a distributor with good relations to Spanish broadcasters.

Details of the Festival

Type: Feature Film and Short Film Festival

Theme: Fantasy films

Location: Porto (Portugal)

Duration: 23^rd February 2021 to 7^th March 2021

Awards and Prizes:

The best work in each category of the festival will be awarded: Fiction (short and feature length), Animation, Documentary, and Experimental, for each competition.
Official Section: Best film, Best direction, Best Actor/Actress, Best Screenplay, Best special Effects, Special Jury Award, Best Short Fantasy film, Melies d’Argent Award (Best European Fantasy Feature and short Film).
Director’s Week: Best film, Best New Director, Best Screenplay, Special Jury Award, Best Actor/Actress.
Orient Express: Best Film Award, Fantasporto Special Award.

Direction: Mr. Mario Dorminsky

Artistic Director: Ms. Beatriz Pacheco Pereira

If you are planning to make your travel to Portugal, you should select the dates in end of February so that at the same time you can enjoy one of the best film festivals of the world that is The Fantasporto International Film festival 2021. There is enough from now to apply for Portugal Visa. In a single travelling plan you can enjoy the festival as well as explore Portugal and watch all the best places to visit in Portugal during this time.

September 3, 2019September 3, 2019

Shopping in Lisbon – An unforgettable experience!

A mere thought of shopping can definitely cheer up your mood! It suddenly energizes every part of your body! In other words, shopping is no less than a therapy for many! Well, while on your Lisbon travel, shopping is considered mandatory! As we all know, Lisbon is Europe’s least expensive capital city, yet its market will never disappoint you! Despite being the most inexpensive city, Lisbon has all the luxuries, glamour and comfort available. Shopping in Lisbon is no less than a cultural experience, when you are planning to visit the historic stores.

Fashion freaks, you are just a Portugal visa away from the Europe’s most budget – friendly shopping center.

Lisbon is where the sun shines brightly throughout the year! The city is a proud holder of countless unique and wonderful things. Apply for Portugal visa soon and browse the shopping mall Lisbon. This article will help you to find the best shops in Lisbon, where you can explore for fashion apparels, handicrafts, books and many more.

1. Under The Cover: Book Worms, under the cover is the place you should not skip visiting while sojourning in Lisbon. Located near the Gulbenkian Foundation, it is a perfect spot to end your day! Get inspired by the magazines, journals, books and artwork of all genres here!

2. Maison Nuno Gama: The menswear collection of this new flagship store by the famous Portuguese designer is undoubtedly matchless. The masculine aesthetics are created with the perfect touch of Portuguese heritage.

Maison-Nuno-Gama

The stylish apparels designed by Nuno Gama are ideal to grace up your personality with Portuguese touch. Add glitters to your garments with the best ever Gama’s footwear, travel luggage and jewelry range.

3. Feira da Ladra: What can be a cheap place to enjoy shopping than a flea market! Vibrant and colorful, you can find a lot of antique stuff here. The market offers clothes, books, handicrafts, home decor and what not!

Feira-da-Ladra-Lisbon

4. Colombo Mall: The Lisbon travel is incomplete without exploring the biggest mall in the country. In addition to its exterior, the interior of the mall will leave you awe-inspiring. With 340 shops, you can shop till you drop! Colombo mall is a true reflection of the luxurious shopping in Lisbon.

colombo-shopping

5. Freeport Lisboa Fashion Outlet: Shopoholics, this is no less than paradise on Earth. This is the place, where you can find an outlet of every big brand. While on your Lisbon tour, spend a day at this fashion outlet and take everything back home.

Freeport Lisboa Fashion Outlet

A perfect balance of malls, fashion outlets and small streets, shopping in Lisbon is an experience in itself. Being the cheapest shopping hub in Europe, Lisbon gives you an opportunity to spend lavishly on your favourite artefact, fashion apparels and other commodities.

So, what are you waiting fashion enthusiasts! Plan your Portugal tour now! Remember to keep enough room in your luggage to carry back the items you shop.

Happy Shopping!

July 22, 2019July 22, 2019

Vila Nova de Gaia is calling! Get your Portugal visa soon!

Situated on the Shore of Douro River, Vila Nova de Gaia will take you back to the 17^th century. The time, which embarked the production of port-wine! At that time, British merchants transformed wine into post-dinner booze by adding brandy to it.

Apart from the traces of antiquity, Vila Nova de Gaia Portugal has a vibrant array of things to do! Imagine a place with rich cultural heritage and long-standing fishing tradition! Imagine hectares of lush green lands with wildlife! How can you forget kilometres of white sand beaches! Does it magnetize you? What are you waiting for? Get your Portugal visa and fly!

The beautiful city is proudly called Gaia by the natives! Along with offering the best view of Porto, Vila Nova de Gaia is now one of the most sought places in Portugal. If you are planning an escape to tranquillity, Portugal Vila Nova de Gaia is where you should head to!

Wandering in this magnificent city without a blueprint could be a difficult task! This travel guide will assist you to plan a well – organised travel to Vila Nova de Gaia Portugal. Let us embark our journey by exploring the top destinations to make your tour mesmerizing one!

Port Wine Cellars in Gaia

It is true that Porto has given its name to the wine, however the cellars of wine doesn’t land in Porto ever. They travel in the Douro River straight to Vila Nova de Gaia Portugal. With the ideal climate to age wine, Gaia is producing the wine since 17^th century. Many wine traders have settled in Gaia & built cellars in the year 1710.

Port wines are the most famous fortified wine in wooden barrels. As the wines had to go through a long boat trip, certain sweetening elements are added to it. Amongst countless wineries in Gaia, Graham’s Winery is the best!

Douro River Trip

The riverside of Vila Nova de Gaia, offers massive boats to take you off on a beautiful cruise in the Douro. This all day long cruise renders the opportunity to witness the city from different points.

Furthermore, while cruising in the river, you can cherish the beauty of both ports – Porto & Vila Nova de Gaia. To your surprise, it is the place where the wine barrels were rolled off the boats.

Once in Portugal, you cannot miss this thrill!

Capela do Senhor da Pedra

Be it winter, Capel do Senhor da Pedra in Gaia is a curious sight! This picturesque location is a 17^th century Baroque Chapel rooted into a rocky outcrop. Situated in the middle of the beach, it is a perfect destination to depart from all the chaos of life and escape in tranquillity.

While in summers, you can enjoy the dreamlike experience of sunbath in front of the chapel. Get ready to explore the most beautiful Chapel of the Lord of Stone.

While exploring the tourist destinations, if you crave for good food, Vila Nova de Gaia houses numerous restaurants. Here are a few of them:

Perto do Cais

Craving for local delights? The Perto do Cais is the perfect destination! This cozy family restaurant enjoys immense popularity for its tasty delights. Francesinhas is its speciality!

This Portugal dish is consists of wet cured ham and steak sandwich topped with melted cheese. Not so fancy, however you can encounter the authentic taste of Portugal cuisine.

Pizzaria da Salvatore

It is one of the main pizzarias in Gaia. Located close to sea, it serves a lot of international dishes along with a few local specialities. Do not forget to try ‘Charbonnade’ pizza!

What else inspiration do you need? Get your Portugal visa appointment fix ASAP!

Happy Vacation!

February 5, 2019

Lisbon: The Treasure trove of Charismatic & Vibrant Culture

Portugal’s capital, Lisbon is eminent for its rich & varied history, a buzzing nightlife & is blessed with a glorious year round climate. Located in western Portugal, Lisbon is the largest city of Portugal with an estimated population of 505,526. The capital city is perched on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean & is one of the rare Western European cities that enjoy the reputation of being a leisure city. To relish the mesmerizing beauty of this euphoric city facing the turquoise ocean, grab your Portugal Schengen visa.

Lisbon is one of the major economic centers on the European continent. The city has earned the recognition as an alpha-level global city because of its flourishing financial, commercial, media, entertainment, tourism, arts & education sectors. Its white-bleached limestone buildings, intimate alleyways, & an easy going charm fascinates travelers from across the globe & makes it a popular year-round destination. To witness the ecstasy of this extravagant and ostentatious destination, apply for Portugal visa online now & gather memories for life.

Lisbon is a wonderful holiday destination & this guide will detail you about the major attractions & things to do in this historical prominence.

1. Savor culinary delight: Lisbon has a clear sweet tooth which is visible while walking along most city streets. Bakeries & pastries shops are as ubiquitous as Dunkin Donuts shops are in the Northeast US. The authentic pasteis de nata compels visitors to sink their teeth into this mouth watering dessert. This city is eminent for serving delicious Portuguese dishes, cheese and wine for every budget. Among the major delectable cuisine of this city include:

• Bacalhau, a dried and salted codfish
• Lulas recheadas à lisbonense, stuffed squid of Lisbon style
• Petiscos, small and tasty snacks served in Lisbon bars
• peixe e marisco, scrumptious fish & seafood
• Azeitão cheese, creamy and rich-smelling cheese, specialty of Lisbon etc

2. Bag for Bargain at Feira Da Ladra: This is Lisbon’s flea market often misunderstood as Thieves’ Market. The market is held every Tuesday & Saturday in Campo de Santa Clara, & is dedicated to sell objects of all kinds. These include real gems, azulejos, antiques, handicrafts, CD’s, books, clothes, coins, military objects, furniture etc.

This is one of the oldest markets in Lisbon that has evolved overtime from selling the unwanted second-hand goods to the present day jumble of antics & random goods. The market offers stupefying opportunity to bargain venerers to practice their haggling skills & get the best purchase at the lowest price.

3. Stray in the beauty of Alfama District: Alfama is one of the oldest districts in Lisbon. It is a delightful maze of narrow cobbled streets, breathtaking views, ancient houses, charming & traditional districts & many historic buildings including the Se Cathedral, the Castle, the National Pantheon & Saint Anthony’s Church.

The streets of the district are best explored by simply getting lost in, as every corner or steep climb is a delightful tiny plazas, funky cafés, unique shops & wonderful viewpoints. Alfama is an adorable district which could easily take a full day to explore it.

4. Marvel at the Torre de Belem: Soaring high above the seafront of the Lisbon quays, Belem’s great tower is the undisputed heart stealer. It is recognized as a prominent site in the UNESCO listed monastery & displays a veritable fusion of architectural styles from the Gothic to the Romanesque, Mudejar to the Moorish.

Built in between 1514 & 1520 as part of the Tagus estuary defence system, the elegant fort is lavished with beautiful & intricate details. Since its construction, the fort has risen to become perhaps the most iconic feature of the city.

The list of “To Do Things” in Lisbon is endless. To discover the magical attractions, entertainment, special events and more in this amazing city, apply for Portugal Visa online now.

January 21, 2019April 29, 2019

The remarkable archipelago in the middle of Atlantic

Palpitated with architectural beauty, spectacular views & amazing signature tipples, Portugal is one of the most ravishing & prosperous countries in the world. Renowned for its idyllic cinematic scenery, succulent food & history, Portugal is a captivating country with varied geographical definitions that fascinates travelers from around the globe. Portugal is recognized as one of the best value destinations in the whole European continent for its pristine beaches, glorious climate, traditional fishing villages & historic districts. To relish the charismatic beauty of this seraphic destination, grab your Portugal visa UK now with our expedited online services.

Portugal may be a small country in terms of geographical definitions, however the plethora of extraordinary adventures & remarkable attractions acclaimed it the Best travel Destination in 2018. Portugal’s Islands in particular are among the country’s esteemed highlights that enjoy the reputation for being a leisure stop. The archipelago of the Azores for instance is a whole other world of beauty. To indulge in your love for spectacular views, incredible wildlife, serene ambience and delectable cuisine apply for Portugal visa UK & form memories of its many wonders!

The archipelago of the Azores offers myriad of reasons to delight in this remarkable landscape once in a lifetime. Situated in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, the Azores are nine volcanic islands recognized as one of the best value destinations in Portugal. Each island of Azores has its own intriguing identity. The islands are renowned for insanely green hills & meadows, lush vegetation, whale – watching, hot springs & picturesque seaside towns. To witness a myriad of adventures offered in this beckoning blip, you’re your Portugal visa now.

Reasons to visit the Azores
Azores, the far-flung archipelago in the middle of Atlantic, is the best place for nature enthusiasts, adventure seeking fans & people looking for a beacon of sustainability. The tantalizing reasons to visit this autonomous region of Portugal include:

1. Waterfalls: Azores is a paradise for nature lovers especially for the ones who admire waterfalls. The Azores islands offer myriad of most outstanding waterfalls & thermal hot springs in the whole of Europe. The most popular waterfalls of Azores are located in Flores, the Islands of Flowers & Sao Miguel, the biggest Island of the Azores. Waterfalls are Azores trademark that offer a stupendous opportunity to unravel your long exposure skills & capture the perfect smoky photos. The five most beautiful waterfalls of the Azores include:

• Salto do Prego- – Faial da Terra
• Salto do Cabrito – Ribeira Grande
• Caldeira Velha – Ribeira Grande
• Cascata da Ribeira Grande – Agua de Alto
• Cascata do Porto Formoso – Porto Formoso

2. Mesmerizing Lakes: The Azores are Europe’s best kept secrets. The islands are characterized by extreme abundance and impressive nature. The green hills & the dreamy turquoise lakes are the breathtaking splendor that makes it a remarkable traveler’s paradise. The innumerous lakes in this amazing landscape offer visitors a multitude of sport opportunities such as fishing, boating, surfing and a lot more! The list of must visit lakes in Azores without which the trip this spectacular place is incomplete include:

• Lagoa das Sete Cidades
• Lagoa de Santiago
• Lagoa Rasa
• Lagoa das Furnas

3. Whales & Dolphins: The Azorean Archipelago is one of the best sites to spot whales and dolphins. The Island comprises of one third of more than 20 different types of cetaceans (whales, dolphins and porpoises) in the world. This is an ecosystem with unique characteristics. With majestic whales and friendly dolphins, the blue Atlantic Ocean becomes even more magic around these nine islands. To witness the exotic species of these spectacular mammals apply for Portugal Visa UK now!

The island of Azores were once uninhabited; however this volcanic archipelago now attracts thousands of tourists every year. It has also been crowned as one of the most sustainable destinations in the world. These islands offer a tremendous potential in terms of activities to feed your adventurous side. You can go on trekking, sink your toes in the sand, swim in the wild Atlantic & relish a drink the classic vineyard industry. Just grab your Portugal visa UK and gather memories for life!

January 4, 2019

Flamboyant Events & Festivals In Portugal

Wild Atlantic Beaches, gorgeous sunsets, scrumptious cuisine, medieval castles, cobblestone villages, captivating cities and golden beaches etc – Portugal never ceases to surprise the world with its ostentatious destinations & drooling culinary specialties.

Portugal is the most preferred tourist spot in Europe where you can spend morning surfing awesome waves & the afternoon skiing down snowy slopes. A connoisseur of alcohol is sure to love this country as Portugal is home to hundreds of award-winning wines. To carouse some bubbles of sparkling Portuguese wines, grab Portugal Visa now.

This is not all! Portugal is a country where you can hike up a 7,000 ft tall peak, explore centuries-old cities and castles & savor one of the world’s best kept culinary secrets.

It is difficult to say a ‘no’ to all of that. Moreover, with the sustained increase in expenses for the living, travelling & exploring to live one’s dream may seem a hard cookie. However, Portugal stands out of all the tourist destinations in Europe as it is the cheapest option for a trip for people on a tight budget.

Portugal is a trendy country that attracts big international events like a magnet. The country also has its own major events that attract millions throughout the year. The bottom line is: wherever & whenever you go, you won’t get bored in Portugal. The month of February is one of the best times of the year to fly to Portugal. So get your Portugal Visa & gather memories for life.

The main highlights during this time of the year in Portugal include:

1. Algarve Granfondo- February 19th: If you love cycling, this one is for you! The Algarve Granfondo Cofidis is a type of long distance road cycling ride held in Algarve, a beautiful southern coastline of Portugal. This competition gives adrenaline junkies a stupendous opportunity to take you around the stunning countryside of the Algarve region. Deemed one of the best early season cycling competitions, Algarve Granfondo is open to everyone.

The competition is available in varied options:

• Granfrando which is the longest i.e. 140 km.
• Mediofondo is 83 km long cycling race.
• Minifondo, the shortest of all i.e. 50 km

Based on the stamina and comfort you could choose to participate in any one of the above mentioned cycling rides. Apply for Portugal Visa online to be a part of this amazing cycling competition.

2. Carnaval (Entrudo): Falling on different days every year, Carnaval is a national level event in Portugal that is particularly live & exciting in Lisbon, Maderia & Algarve Towns. The carnival is all about fun, music, costumes & plenty of food. The elaborate costumes of the carnival are something to behold. The excitement of getting dressed in varied costumes can be seen with the month’s long preparation for the celebration. From feathers to metals to sequins, you will see it all.

The natives are meticulous in preparing the costume & are focused on ensuring that every detail is perfected. Though the carnival is all about fun, the preparation is hard work. Parades of people dressed in costumes are held, a tradition that comes from medieval times.

Even if you have attended the carnival celebration elsewhere, you simply must experience the Portugal carnival. A Portugal Schengen visa is all it takes to witness the amazing carnival that will have you awe struck.

The beginning of the year is the best time to experience the cities and the people of Portugal. If you want to have fun and to let loose on vacation then apply for Portugal Visa online carnival & relish the myriad of festivity treasures.

November 20, 2018January 4, 2019

Portugal- Seraphic Destination of Europe

Located on the South-western coast of the Iberian Island, Portugal shares border with Atlantic Ocean on the West and Spain to its North and East. It ranks among one of the most visited countries in Europe due to its blissful climate, astounding sceneries, fascinating history, reasonable travel costs and extraordinary attractions.

Portugal is a captivating country with varied geographical definitions ranging from verdant blooming mountains and vineyards to medieval farmland villages and charismatic beaches of the Algrave. The archipelagos of Azores and Madeira lying in the Atlantic Ocean belong to Portugal and are renowned for their lavish landscapes & flower yards. The traditional fishing villages overlook flawless beaches along the sea-shore, while in the cities; historic famed regions exist with the ultra-modern zones.

Portugal may be a small country in terms of geographical definitions; however tourism in Portugal has been voyaging on a wave of success. People are looking for ways to get Portugal Visa UK to this seraphic destination. Apply for Portugal Visa today using our expedited online services.

Here is an overview to some of the best places that you may visit in Portugal on your Portugal Tourist Visa.

1. Coimbra:
Coimbra is a charming city located in the heart of Portugal, by the Mondego River. This ancient university town is an intriguing blend of Roman and medieval ruins, historic sites & beautiful gardens. Coimbra is renowned for lively culture and country’s second popular music genre, Fado. The Ancient University of Coimbra is amongst one of the most visited tourist attractions that is classical, continually-working & degree-seeking institution of the world.

These attractions share a part of their fame with the Baroque-styled Biblioteca Joanina library admired as one of the most beautiful libraries of the world. You can simply indulge & discover many other historic sites such as Stunning Old Cathedral, Gothic Monastery of Sanat Clara-a-Velha, the Sala das Armas, and the Sala dos Capelos. So, what are you waiting for? Grab Portugal Visa UK and embark on a fascinating & enchanting journey to Portugal.

2. Azores:
The Archipelagos of the Azores are a group of nine distinct volcanic islands in North Atlantic Ocean, located around 1500 km west of Lisbon. Each island on Azores has its own intriguing identity. The islands are renowned for phenomenal whale-watching, insanely green hills and meadows, lush vegetation, hot springs & picturesque seaside towns.

São Miguel, nicknamed as “The Green Island”, is the largest & most populous island of the Azores. The island is a home to 160,000 inhabitants & holds the largest city of the archipelago named Ponta Delgada.

The Pico Island of this volcanic archipelago is also referred to as “Black Island” for its black volcanic topography. Pico is home to the highest mountain peak in Portugal, known as Ponta do Pico. There’s a tremendous potential in terms of activities to feed your adventurous side. You can go on trekking, sink your toes in the sand, swim in the wild Atlantic & relish a drink from Pico’s classic vineyard industry.

Portugal is blessed with alluring & stimulating crowd-pleasers and has progressive attitudes with liberal & innovator thinking, flamboyant nightlife. It is clear that they have kept their roots grounded.

Portugal is indeed a traveler’s paradise & a perfect spot for family holiday vacation. Apply for Portugal Visa today and head to this angelic destination.