Portugal in August – A local’s guide to the best places, food & fiestas

Olá!

August in Portugal is like a party that spills out onto the streets, beaches, hills, and dinner tables. It’s hot, yes—but it’s also bursting with life. As a local guide, I’ve spent many Augusts helping guests navigate this beautiful, sun-drenched country. So let me share with you the best ways to enjoy it like a local—not just survive the heat, but truly experience the season.

How to Beat the Heat (and Still Love Every Moment)

Let’s be honest: it gets hot. Especially in the interior (Alentejo, I’m looking at you). But with the right timing and a few tricks, you’ll still have an unforgettable trip.

• Early starts are your best friend – Explore in the morning, break at midday, and save the views and fun for sunset.

• Seek the shadows – Cloistered towns like Évora or Castelo de Vide have narrow lanes perfect for shady wandering.

• Swim like a local – Hidden beaches in Arrábida, river beaches in the interior (like Loriga or Alamal), or even a plunge into the Atlantic in Costa Vicentina will refresh your soul.

• Drink like the Portuguese – Try água com gás (sparkling water), iced espresso (café com gelo), or a crisp vinho verde with lunch.

What to Eat: August on a Plate

Summer in Portugal has its own flavor palette. It’s vibrant, fresh, and slightly indulgent.

• Grilled sardines – Still the king of summer nights, especially in coastal towns.

• Melão com presunto – Juicy melon with salty ham. The perfect starter.

• Salada de polvo (Octopus salad) – Cold, tender, citrusy, and refreshing.

• Watermelon – Ubiquitous in August, and usually served cold at the end of a meal.

• Pastel de nata – Always, but especially good with a scoop of cinnamon ice cream.

  
  

Pro tip: Many local restaurants in August run with smaller menus, so don’t be afraid to ask what’s fresh and recommended that day.

Festas & Events You Can’t Miss

August is when Portugal lights up—literally. Almost every village and neighborhood hosts its festa popular, and there are surprises everywhere.

Top Picks:

• Cinema ao Ar Livre (Lisbon & Porto) Free outdoor movie nights in parks, gardens, or by the river. Bring a blanket and wine. Locals do!

• Festival do Marisco (Olhão, Algarve) A seafood-lover’s dream. Everything from lobster to cuttlefish, with live music in the evenings.

• Village festas everywhere From Alentejo to the Douro, expect live bands, lights strung across tiny streets, late-night dancing, and locals inviting you to try the bifana and beer combo.

Unique Experiences to Try in August

• Sunset sailing in Lisbon or Setúbal: The breeze at sea, the golden sky, the skyline of Lisbon or the cliffs of Arrábida—pure magic.

• Stargazing in the Alqueva Dark Sky Reserve: August skies are especially clear. Go late, bring a blanket, and enjoy the quiet under the stars.

• Walk the cork forests of Alentejo early morning: They’re peaceful, shaded, and unlike anything most visitors expect from Portugal.

• Sleep in a schist village (Aldeias do Xisto): Stay overnight in one of these beautifully restored stone villages in Central Portugal. Cool nights, river dips, and slow food.

💬 Final Peppe Tip

Don’t try to do too much. August is about feeling Portugal—not racing through it. Sit in a praça with a cold drink. Watch kids play under the garlands. Listen to someone singing fado in a hidden corner of Alfama. Follow the color, the rhythm, the smells.

Portugal in August is alive. Come meet her.