Shani Laplume
My road trip continued to Coimbra, with a quick stop in the small town of Lousã. Lousã’s charming simplicity and its peaceful, forested surroundings made for a refreshing break. In Coimbra, I explored the historic University of Coimbra, one of the oldest universities in Europe, and visited its stunning Joanina Library, known for its ornate baroque architecture and ancient book collection.
I had the chance to visit Fátima, one of the most meaningful pilgrimage sites in the world. It’s said that the Virgin Maryappeared here in 1917, and you can feel the deep sense of faith and devotion in the air. Watching the pilgrims and feeling the peaceful atmosphere made it a really moving experience. After Fátima, I made my way to the medieval town of Tomar. Exploring the Convento de Cristo and the Castle of Tomar—both tied to the history of the Knights Templar—felt like stepping into another time. Strolling through Tomar’s narrow streets and lively squares gave me a real sense of the town’s rich and fascinating past.
I decided to make Nazaré my home base for a month during my time in Portugal, and it turned out to be the perfect summer retreat. Known for its towering waves and world-class surfing, Nazaré attracts surfers from around the globe, especially when the weather cools and the swells become massive. During my stay, I immersed myself in the local culture—visiting bustling markets, savoring the region's incredible seafood (especially the sardines), and soaking in the laid-back coastal atmosphere. I loved strolling along the beach, feeling the ocean breeze, and exploring the vibrant charm of this small but lively town.On my way to Lisbon, I made a stop in the beautiful walled city of Óbidos—a charming medieval town that feels like stepping back in time. Encircled by well-preserved stone walls, Óbidos is a postcard-perfect mix of whitewashed houses adorned with colorful flower boxes and narrow cobblestone streets. I decided to walk a stretch of the wall, and while the sweeping views of the town and countryside were absolutely breathtaking, the narrow path and steep drops made it a bit nerve-wracking—I’m not sure I’ll be doing that again anytime soon!
Óbidos has a fascinating history that dates back to Roman times, but it’s best known for being a wedding gift from King Dinis to Queen Isabel in the 13th century, which is why it’s often called "The Wedding Town." One of the highlights of my visit was trying Ginja (or Ginginha), a sweet cherry liqueur traditionally served in a small chocolate cup. There’s something special about sipping the rich, fruity liqueur and then biting into the chocolate—it's a simple yet unforgettable taste of Óbidos’s warmth and charm.
One of my favorite places in Portugal is Cascais. This charming fishing village is a spot I make sure to visit every time I’m back in Portugal. I love the relaxed vibe, the ocean views, the seafood and the small-town feel. Cascais also makes a perfect base for day trips to Sintra. My visit to Pena Palace was pretty memorable—this iconic, colorful palace perched high on the hill is truly breathtaking. The first time I visited, though, it was windy and cold at the top. Fog rolled in, the drizzle started, and it got pretty chilly—not exactly ideal! The second time around, I decided to switch things up and visit Quinta da Regaleira instead. It was a much better experience—fewer crowds, more time to wander, and I really enjoyed walking around the town of Sintra, soaking in the beautiful surroundings.