Photo by Photo by Aayush Gupta on Unsplash

Portugal, with its blend of enchanting weather, stunning beaches, and diverse cultural experiences, invites travelers year-round. From the historical charm of cities like Lisbon and Porto to the golden sands of the Algarve, the country provides many activities and experiences regardless of the season. Beyond its appealing landscapes, Portugal's cultural tapestry is empowered with threads of art, music, and cuisine. The echoes of traditional fado music resonate through narrow cobblestone streets and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafts from charming tasquinhas, traditional little bars found on almost every street corner. However, Portuguese’s magic goes beyond its vibrant backdrop; the country's fashion scene flourishes, seamlessly blending tradition and modernity. In bustling marketplaces and chic boutiques, Portuguese designers and fashionistas showcase their creativity, offering a unique glimpse into their mixed and evolving style sensibilities. No wonder one of TikTok’s latest fashion trends is the “Portuguese girlie” style.

LISBON

Dive with us into the wonders of Portugal and get the ultimate tips for your next trip there! Lisbon In the heart of Lisbon, history whispers through the breeze-kissed alleys, weaving tales of centuries past. Imagine wandering up the cobbled pathways to São Jorge Castle, where ancient stones echo with the footsteps of Moorish conquerors. As you reach the top, the city unfolds beneath you: a breathtaking panorama of red-tiled roofs and the glimmering Tejo River.

Lisbon is more than just Portugal’s capital; it’s a symphony of experiences, which lure you by the haunting melodies of Fado in the charming bars and restaurants downtown. This soul-stirring music talks about love, loss and “saudade,” a Portuguese word without translation that refers to the melancholic longing of missing someone. Picture yourself in an intimate space, like O Faia or Fado na Morgadinha, where the mournful notes tug at your heartstrings, telling stories of love and loss,

As you amble through Alfama, the oldest district, the air is alive with the scent of grilled sardines and the vibrant hues of laundry strung between narrow buildings. Every twist and turn in these labyrinthine streets reveal hidden gems: small book and coffee shops, charming taverns where locals gather to share stories, laughter, and petasos, accompanied by the rich notes of Portuguese wines.

In the shadow of the Jerónimos Monastery, you’ll find yourself entranced by the intricate carvings that adorn its façade, a masterpiece of Manueline architecture. Nearby, the aroma of freshly baked Pastéis de Belém fills the air, drawing you into the world-famous bakery. With the first bite of the delicate custard tart, you taste history, a recipe passed down through generations, making each mouthful a moment to cherish.

And don’t forget: the grandeur of Lisbon unfolds in Praça do Comércio. Picture yourself standing beneath the triumphal arch, feeling the city's pulse, the vibrant energy that courses through its veins, and another astonishing view of the city’s river. Special tip: if you have more than three days in Lisbon, it’s definitely worth it to stop by Sintra’s castles and Cascais' beautiful neighborhood and beaches.

PORTO

In the heart of Porto, where the Douro River weaves its tale through the city, you'll find charming little corners and a lot of historical architecture framed around cobblestone streets and whispered in the winds that sweep down from the nearby vineyards. Imagine strolling across the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, where the arches frame the city like an artist’s masterpiece. As you cross it, entering Vila Nova de Gaia, the panorama of the city of Porto unfolds before your eyes: its vibrant colors, tiled facades, and a palpable sense of history.

After watching an unforgettable sunset at Jardim do Morro, have dinner at the Ribeira. There’s nothing better than a good glass of wine combined with the best codfish of your life. No special restaurant. However, a suggestion is Bacalhoeiro.

Make sure to secure yourself at least two days in Porto. After all, there’s a list of places you must stop by while in town. Check it out. So,

● Have a drink at Mercado do Bolhão and explore the stores

● Try the city’s famous dish, Francesinha. Brasão Cervejaria is one of the best

● Check the city’s thrift shops

● Fall in love with the blue tiles from the Porto Cathedral

● Visit Livraria Lello

● Take a walk in the Idyllic Gardens at Palácio de Cristal

Special tip: Did you know that J.K. Rowling got the inspiration for Hogwarts students' uniforms from Portuguese college students? If you’re in town during the school year, surely you’ll see groups of young adults with their traditional black capes and academic uniforms.

ALGARVE

If you’re planning your trip during summer or spring, you should add a few Algarve cities to your itinerary. Imagine savoring fresh seafood by the sea, the salty breeze enhancing the flavors. Inland, among orange groves and vineyards, indulge in figs, almonds, and honey, a testament to the region's rich agricultural traditions. Visit the marvelous natural beauty of the beaches around the area, lose yourself in the historic charm of Faro, experience the night out at Lagos and fall in love with the charm of Portimão e Albufeira.

“How to dress like a Portuguese Girlie”

Post by Vicky Montanari, one of the inspirations for the trend - Instagram: @vicmontanari

If you’re on TikTok, there’s no way you didn’t see the viral summer trend. The "Portuguese Girlie" era has taken the platform by storm, showcasing the fusion of contemporary fashion and traditional Portuguese aesthetics. Influencers and content creators have embraced this trend, celebrating the essence of being feminine and stylish. In contemplating the burgeoning "Portuguese Girlie" trend, it becomes imperative to acknowledge the discourse that envelops its emergence. Much akin to the viral Brazilian-core and Copenhagen-girly movements, these trends, in their virality, tend to encapsulate the style of an entire community, an act that begets both controversy and critique.

Nevertheless, amidst these debates, it remains undeniable that the quaint streets of Cascais bear witness to a captivating transformation. There, some women gracefully navigate a kaleidoscope of prints and unconventional pairings, defying traditional norms and embracing newfound creative liberty. In these productions, previously disparate elements harmonize, creating a unique fusion. Somehow, this style not only mirrors the individualistic spirit of these people but also offers profound insights into the trajectory of the country's current fashion identity.

Article by Júlia Vilaça, Contributor, PhotoBook Magazine
Tearsheets by Chenglin Qu, Graphic Design Intern, PhotoBook Magazine

Savoring Portugal: A Gastronomic, Fashion and Cultural Odyssey

LISBON

PORTO

ALGARVE

“How to dress like a Portuguese Girlie”