Portugal is a beautiful country with a rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes. The locals are friendly, the nature is breathtaking, and there are plenty of vegan restaurants available in the country.

In bigger cities like Porto and Lisbon, plant-based options are easier to find than in the rural areas. But the locals are very friendly, and they will help you find a solution in restaurants that typically do not offer plant-based food on their menu.

VEGAN FRIENDLY VILLA IN PORTUGAL

We discovered the most vegan-friendly villa in Portugal, called Villa Epicurea. Located in the lush landscape of Serra da Arrábida Natural Park, this villa offers organic meals, mostly sourced from local producers. The food is vegetarian and vegan, with gluten-free options available on request.

All the rooms offer a perfect balance between simplicity and comfort. The decorations are crafted by local artisans, the bedding is 100% linen or cotton, and the amenities are organic.

It is a perfect stay to experience the beautiful nature of Portugal. ->Check the availability here.

BEST VEGAN RESTAURANTS IN PORTUGAL

Most of our favourite vegan restaurants in Portugal are in Porto, Lisbon, and Sintra. While Sintra may not have as many plant-based restaurants as Lisbon or Porto, you can still find several great options.

Lisbon is a perfect destination for plant-based foodies. There is a variety of restaurants, markets, and hotels to choose from. If you are looking for healthy and sustainable food or fast food, you will be happy with all the options that Lisbon has to offer.

Porto is known for its traditional cuisine, but has also embraced the growing demand for vegan food. With an increasing number of plant-based restaurants, cafés, markets, and specialty shops,

Portugal is a country that offers a great selection of options for vegans and those searching for plant-based restaurants. You will have a great time exploring all the amazing flavours.

AO 26 VEGAN FOOD PROJECT

Ao 26 is a trendy vegan restaurant known for its creative and diverse menu. They offer beautiful dishes and innovative plant-based desserts. Ao 26 is a restaurant that will surprise you with its flavourful dishes. It is one of our favourite restaurants in Portugal.

This restaurant combines a beautiful atmosphere with an extensive menu. You will find dishes that you can not try elsewhere. One must-try from their menu is the plant-based cheeseboard! It is a perfect place for a date night, but do not forget to make a reservation.

SCOOP ‘N DOUGH LISBON

Scoop ‘n Dough is the cutest vegan gelato and doughnut shop in Lisbon. They offer many amazing gelato flavours like black sesame, mango lassi, raspberry cheesecake, salted caramel, passionfruit and macaron, and many more. When you visit the shop it feels like you are entering a plant-based heaven.

Their doughnuts are not only aesthetically pleasing but also taste amazing. We tried the chocolate hazelnut and raspberry with vanilla, and they were delicious. They have the best plant-based desserts in Portugal.

ODETE VEGAN BAKEY PORTUGAL

Odete Vegan Bakery is probably our favourite place in Porto and the best bakery in Portugal. In this small and charming plant-based bakery, you will find a selection of bread, pain au chocolate, cinnamon buns, muffins, croissants, and the famous pastel de nata.

We enjoyed a good cup of coffee and the most delicious traditional plant-based pastel de nata.

VEGAN NATA IN PORTUGAL

Vegan Nata offers a plant-based alternative to the traditional Portuguese pastel de nata. Typically, it is made with eggs and dairy.

They have created the most delicious vegan version. When we were in Lisbon, we stopped there every day for our afternoon snack.

INCOMUM

Incomum restaurant is located in Sintra. It has creative and flavourful dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients on its menu. The menu changes regularly because they try to incorporate seasonal produce from all over Portugal.

This lovely restaurant offers two vegan dishes: sweet potato with vegetables and spinach, or penne pasta with avocado and coconut. It was the best meal and restaurant that we found in Sintra.

ESPÉCIE – VEGAN OPTION IN PORTUGAL

Espécie is a vegetarian restaurant in Porto offering a good selection of creative plant-based dishes. The menu includes artichoke crostini, corn soup, Korean fried cauliflower, aubergine schnitzel, sweet potato curry, and so much more.

This is a must-visit restaurant in Portugal.

OUTRA ESPÉCIE

Outra Espécie offers a menu similar to the original Espécie restaurant mentioned above. We tried three different dishes: Korean Fried Cauliflower, Tofummus, and Breaded Tofu Curry. When visiting Portugal, you have to try one of these two restaurants. Everything tasted great!

A PRAÇA VEGAN AND VEGETARIAN RESTAURANT IN PORTUGAL

A Praça is a vegetarian restaurant in the city centre of Sintra. The restaurant is offering vegan options. Their food is fresh, simple, and very delicious.

They have a daily vegetarian menu that includes a vegan option. You can enjoy a whole lunch that includes soup, a main dish, and dessert.

If you are a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or you are simply looking for a fairytale escape, Portugal offers something for everyone. Portugal has a rich history, architectural marvels, colourful cuisine, and warm hospitality.

EATING VEGAN IN PORTUGAL

By choosing vegan food when travelling in Portugal or your everyday life, you can enjoy a healthier lifestyle and contribute to a more sustainable and compassionate world. When eating plant-based while travelling, you will also help local restaurants in Portugal to keep their business running. 

Portugal is one of the European countries that is most diverse and unique. You have a charming Douro Valley where Port wine is produced, and also beautiful beaches in the South of the country. Visiting Portugal will give you an unforgettable travel experience.

One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Portugal is through a road trip. A one-week itinerary is an excellent way to see some of the best sights this country has to offer. We did this road trip a few years ago, and it was one of the best trips we have ever been on. You can check our 7-day Portugal itinerary here.

SEE ALSO: Porto on a Plant-Based Plate: Navigating the City’s Vegan Cuisine Like A Pro

The post Vegan Portugal: Savour the Top 8 Best Plant-Based Dining Experiences Across the Country appeared first on Vegan Friendly Travel.

In this itinerary, we will take you on our 7-day road trip through Portugal that covers four destinations: Albufeira, Sintra, Porto, and Lisbon.

A 7-day itinerary for such a diverse and beautiful country like Portugal feels too short. But if you are limited on time, like we were, this is the best trip to do to experience most of what Portugal has to offer.

This itinerary will help you make the most of your time in 7 days.

DAY 1-2 PORTUGAL ITINERARY: ALBUFEIRA – ENJOY SOME BEACH TIME

Our Portugal itinerary starts in Albufeira, a charming town located in the southern part of Portugal’s Algarve region. The town is famous for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lively nightlife.

We recommend starting your road trip by exploring the old town of Albufeira. The town has narrow streets and whitewashed houses that date back to the Moorish era.

You have to visit the Praia da Falésia, one of the most fascinating beaches in Portugal, and enjoy a swim there. We were there at the end of April, and it was a little too cold for us to swim.

On day two of our Portugal itinerary, head out to explore the surrounding areas of Albufeira. Take a boat trip to the Benagil Cave, a natural rock formation that has become one of Portugal’s most famous tourist attractions. We recommend an organized tour by Dream Wave Algarve.

You can also explore the nearby villages of Carvoeiro and Ferragudo, which offer a glimpse into traditional Portuguese life – but for that, you will need more than 2 days in this area.

We loved the laid-back holiday vibe of this part of Portugal. You can also relax on the beach and skip our itinerary recommendations.

WHERE TO STAY IN ALBUFEIRA?

We loved our stay at the Hotel PortoBay Falésia. It has direct access to the Falésia beach. The rooms are spacious, and breakfast has great options. It is also just a short walk away from restaurants.

DAY 3 PORTUGAL ITINERARY: SINTRA – A FAIRYTALE ESCAPE

The next destination on our Portugal itinerary is Sintra, a picturesque town located just outside Lisbon. It is famous for its fairytale palaces, castles, and gardens, all of which are located in the Serra de Sintra hills in Portugal.

Start by visiting the Pena Palace, a colourful palace that sits atop a hill and offers amazing views of the surrounding countryside.

Next, head to the Quinta da Regaleira, a Gothic-style mansion with beautiful gardens, underground tunnels, and grottoes. Lastly, visit the Moorish Castle, a medieval fortress offering views of the surrounding area.

You can check our more detailed Sintra guide and itinerary here.

WHERE TO STAY IN SINTRA?

The best thing you can do is not to take Sintra as a daily trip, but to spend the night there. The city is full of charm, and we loved spending one night there.

We stayed at the cutest place called Hotel Nova Sintra. The hotel has a great location within walking distance of everything. They also offer a free parking space, which was a bonus for us. You can check the availability here.

DAY 4-5 PORTUGAL ITINERARY: PORTO – DISCOVERING THE NORTHERN GEM

After exploring Sintra in our itinerary, we head north to Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city. Porto is famous for its port wine and charming old town. It is a must-visit in your Portugal itinerary.

Spend your first day exploring the city’s historic centre, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a stroll down the Rua das Flores, a pedestrian street lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops.

Your itinerary must include a visit to the iconic Luis I Bridge, one of Porto’s most famous landmarks, and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the top. It is also a great place to watch the sunset.

We also recommend visiting the famous São Bento Train Station. It is one of the most beautiful train stations in Portugal and in the world.

The Ribeira district is a lively neighbourhood that sits on the banks of the Douro River and it is the perfect place to try some local Port wine. Trying the region’s famous wine is an essential part of your Portugal itinerary.

There are many wine tastings available in the city. One of the best-rated guided tours is at Cockburn’s Lodge, the largest Port cellar in the historic quarter of Vila Nova de Gaia.

You can check our more detailed Porto guide and itinerary here.

WHERE TO STAY IN PORTO?

We stayed at the Chic & Basic Gravity Hotel in Porto, you can check the hotel here. The hotel is in the best location possible. The rooms are nice, new, and clean. It also has a private parking garage, which was a big plus for us.

Everything in the city is within walking distance of this hotel. Because of that, you do not need to use public transport while staying there.

DAY 6-7 PORTUGAL ITINERARY: LISBON – A VIBRANT CAPITAL

No Portugal itinerary is complete without a visit to Lisbon, Portugal’s vibrant capital city, known for its colourful neighbourhoods, historic landmarks, and delicious cuisine.

Spend your first day exploring the Alfama district, a charming neighbourhood known for its narrow streets and cute houses.

If you want to explore as much as possible, take a 3-hour sightseeing tour by tuk-tuk. 

On your final day of your Portugal itinerary, visit the Lisbon Cathedral, one of the city’s oldest and most iconic landmarks in Portugal. Explore the nearby Castelo de São Jorge, a medieval castle that offers beautiful views of the city.

We also recommend visiting the Belem district, home to the Belem Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery.

You can check our more detailed Lisbon guide and itinerary here.

WHERE TO STAY IN LISBON?

There are many great hotels in the city centre. As long as you choose the right location and hotel for your budget, you will be happy. Because of the great location and beautiful rooms, we recommend the Memória Lisboa FLH.

This itinerary was made to explore as much as possible in 7 days. We did our road trip at the end of April, the beginning of May, and we were surprised that the weather was not as warm as we expected it to be. In the Albufeira region, there were summer vibes, but Porto was quite cold and rainy.

Portugal truly is a unique country to visit, and it was one of our favourite trips on our European travels. With our 7-day itinerary, you will find beautiful nature, lively cities, and a 7-day glimpse of what Portugal has to offer.

Our Portugal itinerary is great if you are a nature lover or, history enthusiast. In this itinerary, we tried to include as much as possible for you to enjoy the beautiful Portugal.

SEE ALSO: Revealing Lisbon’s Vegan Gems: Your Ultimate Guide to Experience the Rich Heritage and Modern Marvels of Portugal’s Capital

The post The Ultimate 7-Day Portugal Road Trip Itinerary for Lifelong Memories. Pack Your Bags and Hit the Road! appeared first on Vegan Friendly Travel.

Sintra is nestled in lush green hills and stands as a true testament to the beauty and rich history of Portugal. It is located just a short drive away from Lisbon.  

In Sintra, you can find fairy-tale castles and pristine forests. The city offers a unique and unforgettable experience that will take you to a world of wonder and magic.

In the 19th century, Sintra became the first centre of European Romantic architecture. It is no wonder that it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1995. The city is an exceptional mixture of nature and architecture.

Sintra’s historic center is a maze of cobbled streets, lined with charming shops, cafes, and traditional Portuguese houses.

WHERE TO STAY IN SINTRA

We made the best decision and did not take Sintra as a day trip, but spent the night there. The city is full of charm, and we loved spending one night there.

We stayed at the cutest place called Hotel Nova Sintra. It is in a great location within walking distance of everything, and they offer a free parking space, which was a bonus for us. You can check the availability here.

VEGAN RESTAURANTS IN SINTRA

While Sintra may not have as many vegan restaurants as larger cities like Lisbon or Porto, you can still find several options that cater to plant-based eaters.

INCOMUM

They serve creative and flavourful dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The menu changes regularly to incorporate seasonal produce.

It is a very nice restaurant that offers two vegan dishes. You can have a sweet potato with vegetables and spinach or penne pasta with avocado and coconut.

It was our favourite meal in Sintra because the taste of the food was amazing.

A PRAÇA VEGAN AND VEGETARIAN RESTAURANT

It is a vegetarian restaurant in the city centre of Sintra offering vegan options. Their food is fresh and simple and very delicious.

They have a daily menu that you can have in a vegan version. You can have a whole lunch that includes soup, the main dish, and dessert.

PURO SABOR SINTRA

We found an ice cream shop in Sintra called Puro Sabor that sells vegan ice cream. It was not the best ice cream that we ever had but it is great to have an option!

MELA CANELA VEGAN RESTAURANT

It is a vegan restaurant located just outside the city centre of Sintra. They offer a variety of daily specials and very tasty desserts.

TASCA – BOUTIQUE DAS TAPAS IN SINTRA

It is a small tapas restaurant with the friendliest owner. They have one vegan dish which is a vegan wrap. Our favourite part about the restaurant was the Sangria.

CAFÉ SAUDADE SINTRA

It is a cute café in the centre of Sintra. It is a great place to have breakfast. They have two vegan options which are vegan toast or salad with chickpea mash.

Additionally, keep in mind that many non-vegan restaurants may also offer vegan options on their menus. It is always a good idea to inquire about these options when dining out.

Whether you are a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a fairytale escape, Sintra offers something for everyone. Its magical landscapes, architectural wonders, and mystical ambiance make it a destination unlike any other.

HOW TO GET AROUND SINTRA

Most visitors visit Sintra from Lisbon by train. You can also go there by car, but parking might be a problem. When you get to the train station or park your car, you can visit all the sights on foot. Just wear your best sneakers, and you’re good to go.

->For renting a car, we recommend Discover Cars for the best deals.

Some places are up the hill, like Pena Palace, so it would be quite a hike to go up there. There are tuk-tuk taxis available everywhere in Sintra.

If you are visiting from Lisbon, you can also check out the best organised tour by Tugatrips. 

NATIONAL PALACE OF PENA

One of the most iconic landmarks in Sintra is the Pena Palace. Perched atop a hill, this colourful palace is a masterpiece of Romantic architecture. Its vibrant colours and details make it look like straight out of a fairy tale.

From the moment you set foot on the palace grounds, you are transported to a world of fantasy and imagination. The panoramic views from the Pena Palace are simply breathtaking, offering a sweeping view of the surrounding countryside.

The best way to see the Pena Palace is to go up from the city centre by tuk-tuk and walk all the way down through Pena Park.

THE PENA PARK

It is a vast forested area that surrounds the Pena Palace. We loved the park even more than the palace. The park is like walking in a fairytale, full of secret paths, pavilions, ponds, and beautiful trees.

QUINTA DA REGALEIRA

Another architectural gem in Sintra is Quinta da Regaleira. This villa is a fusion of eccentric, neo-Gothic architecture. But the main attractions are its gardens and the Initiation Well. It spirals deep into the ground.

It is one of the most popular sights for the majority of tourists, so the waiting line to see the Initiation Well can be quite long, but, in our opinion, it is worth the wait.

Designed with esoteric symbolism, the Quinta da Regaleira invites visitors to explore its enchanting grounds and uncover its hidden secrets.

MOORISH CASTLE IN SINTRA

For history buffs, the Moorish Castle is a fascinating site to explore because it was built in the 8th and 9th centuries.

The castle’s ruins offer glimpses into its storied past, and the climb to the top rewards visitors with panoramic views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean.

MONSERRATE PALACE

It is a Palace that most tourists skip when visiting Sintra. It is a 19th-century villa that is a fusion of Arabic styles, surrounded by beautiful gardens.

SEE ALSO: Revealing Lisbon’s Vegan Gems: Your Ultimate Guide to Experience the Rich Heritage and Modern Marvels of Portugal’s Capital

The post Sintra is The Town Where Fairytales Come to Life. Join Us on a Journey Through Vegan Restaurants and Historical Palaces appeared first on Vegan Friendly Travel.

It is a city that you will love because of its unique blend of old-world charm. Lisbon is the sun-kissed capital of Portugal, and it is famous for its charming streets, historical sites, and breathtaking views.

The city is a heaven for vegans with many excellent restaurants offering plant-based options. In Lisbon you will find trendy restaurants and traditional Portuguese dishes with a vegan twist. Lisbon offers a wide selection of plant-based restaurants for locals and visitors.

WHERE TO STAY IN LISBON

There are many great hotels in the city centre of Lisbon. Because of the great location and beautiful rooms, we recommend Memória Lisboa FLH.

VEGAN FOOD IN LISBON

When you explore vegan dining in Lisbon, you will be able to try traditional Portuguese dishes. If you are not travelling with a vegan partner or are in a group, several restaurants have adapted their menu, so now they also offer plant-based options.

AO 26 VEGAN FOOD PROJECT

It is a trendy restaurant in Lisbon known for its creative and diverse menu. At AO 25, you will be able to try delicious and creative dishes, and also amazing plant-based desserts.

This restaurant has a beautiful atmosphere with an extensive menu, where you can find many creative dishes. It is an unforgettable vegan dining experience, and it is best if you make a reservation a few days before. We also really recommend trying the cheeseboard!

ORTEÁ VEGAN COLLECTIVE – BOTANISTA

Orteá was established in 2018 by the owners of Ao 26. The focus is on unprocessed vegan food. This restaurant in Lisbon has a really nice décor and a great menu.

SCOOP ‘N DOUGH LISBON

It is the cutest vegan gelato and doughnut shop in Lisbon. They have many amazing gelato flavours like black sesame, mango lassi, cookie dough & brownie, raspberry cheesecake, salted caramel, passionfruit & macaron, and many more.

Doughnuts are not only aesthetically pleasing, but they taste amazing. We tried chocolate hazelnut and raspberry & vanilla, and they were delicious.

KONG – FOOD MADE WITH COMPASSION

It is a vegan restaurant that mainly serves traditional Portuguese food. You can choose from many interesting dishes.

We tried their daily menu, which includes a starter, a main dish, and a dessert. We loved all the food, exceptthat  the dessert was a little bit too sweet for us.

VEGAN NATA LISBON

They offer a plant-based alternative to the traditional Portuguese pastel de nata. This pastry is typically made with eggs and dairy.

They created the most delicious vegan version, and for this reason, we stopped there every day for our afternoon snack.

CROSSROAD10

It is an Asian bistro with vegan choices in the centre of the city. We tried pho and dumplings and loved them.

O GAMBUZINO

O Gambuzino is a 100% Vegan restaurant in Lisbon. It is the perfect place for dinner & cocktails. The menu features fusion cuisine with tastes from around the world.

VEGAN JUNKIES IN LISBON

It is a fast-food restaurant in Lisbon. They have loaded nachos, burgers, BBQ cauliflower wings, tacos, hot dogs, and many more.

LEGUMI SUSHI LISBON

If you are in the mood for sushi, Legumi Sushi is a restaurant in Lisbon that serves vegan sushi and Japanese cuisine.

THE GREEN AFFAIR IN LISBON

It is a vegan restaurant in Lisbon serving Portuguese and international cuisines, desserts, and cocktails.
They have starters, burgers, and delicious mains like healthy bowls, risotto, roasted cauliflower, and seitan steak or ribs.

ORGANI CHIADO

It is a vegan restaurant that offers a menu with seasonal dishes crafted from local and fresh ingredients. They prioritise organic options whenever available. Importantly, their menu is completely free from any refined sugars.

Located in Lisbon centre, Organi Chiado restaurant is an option for healthy and natural food.

MERCADO DA RIBEIRA LISBON

The Mercado da Ribeira, also known as Time Out Market in Lisbon, is a food lover’s paradise. It really is the market you cannot miss. Alongside traditional eateries, you’ll find a diverse selection of vegan options.

The food scene in Lisbon has grown in recent years. Because of that, the city is a must-visit destination for travellers and food enthusiasts.

You will find plant-based restaurants and cafes, and also be able to try traditional Portuguese cuisine. Many restaurants in Lisbon prioritize locally sourced, organic ingredients, minimizing their carbon footprint, and supporting local farmers.

WHAT TO DO IN LISBON

You can start your adventure in Lisbon in Alfama, which is the city’s oldest district. There are historic sites like the São Jorge Castle that offer breathtaking panoramic city views.

You will get the best view of Lisbon from the Viewpoint of Senhora do Monte. It is quite a hike, so for this reason, many people take tuk-tuks to the top.

Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery are two monuments worth visiting in Lisbon. The best way to get there is to take a tram or a bus, Uber is also an option, but it will be more expensive.

On the way back to the city centre, you can go and check the LX Factory. It is a former industrial complex that is now full of art galleries, design shops, and trendy cafes.

There is also the Praça do Comércio, which is one of the largest squares in Europe. When you are there, you can take a stroll on Rua da Prata and check out the famous Santa Justa Lift and the Gothic-style Carmo Convent.

One of the most fun neighborhoods is Bairro Alto, known for its wild nightlife and many restaurants. In Bairro Alto, you will find cozy vegan cafés and lively restaurants. If you are in the mood for a party, it is a place to go to.

DAY TRIPS FROM LISBON

A must when travelling to Portugal is visiting Sintra. It is a true fairytale escape with many palaces and gardens. It is just a short train ride away from Lisbon, or you can go on an organized day trip. We found the best one, you can check it out here. 

In Sintra, you can explore the colourful Pena Palace or the mysterious Quinta da Regaleira. You can also check out our Sintra vegan travel guide for the best food recommendations.

SEE ALSO: Porto on a Plant-Based Plate: Navigating the City’s Vegan Cuisine Like a Pro

The post Revealing Vegan Gems in Lisbon: Your Ultimate Guide to Experience the Rich Heritage and Modern Marvels of Portugal’s Capital appeared first on Vegan Friendly Travel.

Porto is famous for its rich history, charming architecture, and amazing cuisine. It is the second largest city in Portugal. There are many things to experience in Porto, from the lovely old town to the world-famous wine cellars. For us, the city is very unique and worth visiting.

Many vegan restaurants and traditional eateries are offering vegan options. Locals and visitors can find delicious plant-based dining experiences in Porto.

Our travel guide will help you find all the best parts of Porto and its vegan cuisine.

WHERE TO STAY IN PORTO

We stayed at the Chic & Basic Gravity Hotel in Porto, you can check the hotel here. The hotel is new and in the best location possible. It also has a private parking garage, which was a big plus for us. Because of the hotel’s central location, everything in the city is within walking distance, so you do not need to use public transport.

VEGAN FOOD IN PORTO

More and more restaurants are adapting their menus to include vegan options. In our experience, Porto is a vegan-friendly city.

ODETE VEGAN BAKEY

This is probably my favourite place in Porto. It is a small and cute vegan bakery. They have bread, pain au chocolat, cinnamon buns, muffins, croissants, and the famous pastel de nata.

I had a good cup of coffee and the most delicious traditional vegan pastel de nata.

ESPÉCIE IN PORTO

It is a vegetarian restaurant with a variety of creative vegan items on the menu. You can have corn soup, Korean fried cauliflower, artichoke crostini, roasted and caramelized celeriac, eggplant schnitzel, sweet potato curry, and many more.

OUTRA ESPÉCIE

The menu is very similar to the original Especie restaurant. We tried three different dishes: Tofummus and Korean Fried Cauliflower, and Breaded Tofu Curry. Everything tasted great!

ZENITH IN PORTO

We did not have breakfast at our hotel. Zenith was the closest breakfast spot to us, and we loved it. They have a great selection of plant-based options. The food is delicious, and the staff is very friendly.

For breakfast, you can have nachos with beetroot hummus, homemade granola with soy yoghurt, acai bowl, pancakes, tacos, different types of toast, and smoothie bowls.

JARDINEIRO VEGAN IN PORTO

Vegan upscale dining restaurant in Porto. The prices are higher than in other restaurants, but their menu is wide with a big selection of dishes. When visiting, do not skip the dessert!

ALTERNATIVE BURGER

Alternative burger restaurant is famous for its delicious burgers, as a result it is one of the best-reviewed vegetarian/vegan restaurants in the area. The restaurant is located a little bit out of the city centre of Porto. 

VEGANA BY TENTÚGAL

A vegan grocery store and restaurant located in Porto. They have the famous Francesinha sandwich, which is the signature dish in this area. Originally, it is made with lots of different types of meat, and it is covered with cheese and beer sauce. Here it is made 100 % vegan! They also have other food on their menu.

MY GREEN PASTRY

It is a vegan pastry shop and lunch café. They have a beautiful selection of homemade desserts.

DATERRA BAIXA

A vegan all-you-can-eat buffet restaurant offering different daily menus every week. You can stop there for brunch, lunch, and dinner.

We visited them in their second location in Mercado Beira-Rio. We were not very hungry, so we just had a very good piece of cake.

KIND KITCHEN

It is a vegan restaurant offering snacks to share, wraps, toasts, burgers, and healthy bowls. They also have vegan francesinha sandwich and yellow curry.

APURO

It is a vegan and organic restaurant. They have tapas, toasts, burritos, burgers, hot dogs, and healthy bowls.

WINE TASTING AND SHOPPING IN PORTO

Wine tasting is a must when visiting Porto because the city is famous for its Port wine. There are many guided tours and wine tastings available in the city. One of the best-rated guided tours is at Cockburn’s Lodge, the largest Port cellar in the historic quarter of Vila Nova de Gaia.

Rua Santa Catarina is one of the main shopping streets where you can explore international and local brands of fashion, accessories, and souvenirs. In the area is also a historic market called Mercado do Bolhão that opened in 1914. On the market, you can find some vegan snacks like freshly cut fruit and smoothies.

WHAT TO DO IN PORTO

The most famous monument in Porto is the Luis I Bridge. It is an iconic double-deck iron bridge. You can cross the bridge at the top or the bottom. We did it both ways, and the top part of the bridge provides stunning views of Porto, especially during sunset.

Our favourite spot for sunset watching was at the public park called Jardim do Morro just across the Luis I Bridge. The sunset was just amazing. This is one of the best things to do when visiting Porto.

Igreja do Carmo and the Chapel of Souls are significant landmarks in Porto that you must visit. And there is also the Chapel of Souls, which is famous for its extraordinary exterior covered in blue-and-white azulejo tiles.

Rua das Flores is one of the most charming streets in Porto. There are many boutiques, restaurants, and cafes. Nearby is also a historical neighbourhood called Ribeira; the main attraction there is Cais da Ribeira, which is the picturesque waterfront promenade. There are many cafes and street performers, and it is a very lively area.

Don’t miss the stunning São Bento Train Station. It is one of the most beautiful train stations in the world. This train station is truly remarkable because of its magnificent interior, particularly the main hall.

DAY TRIPS FROM PORTO 

One hour away from Porto, there is a city called Aveiro. This city is often referred to as the Venice of Portugal. It is known for its picturesque canals and colourful Moliceiro boats, which are very similar to Venetian gondolas.

You can explore the city’s historic centre, lined with traditional tiled buildings and charming cafés. There are also a few vegan and vegetarian restaurants like Musgo or Raiz, where you can have lunch.

If you are already in Aveiro, there is also our favourite spot in the area called Praia da Costa Nova. It is a stunning beach known for its iconic colourful houses.

The other daily trip option from Porto is visiting the Douro Valley. It is a stunning region famous for its breathtaking landscapes and world-class vineyards. You can enjoy wine tastings, river cruises, and explore charming wine estates. The site is famous for producing Portugal’s Port wine.

Overall, while Porto may be known for its traditional cuisine, the city has embraced the growing demand for vegan food. With an increasing number of plant-based restaurants, cafes, markets, and specialty shops, Porto offers a great selection of restaurants for vegans and those searching for plant-based dining experiences.

SEE ALSO: Vegan Barcelona: 10 Must-Try Restaurants for Plant-Based Foodies

The post Porto on a Plant-Based Plate: Navigating the City’s Vegan Cuisine Like A Pro appeared first on Vegan Friendly Travel.