Portugal is very vegan-friendly. On our 7-day road trip, we had no trouble finding plant-based food options. It quickly became one of our favourite countries in Europe to explore.
Portugal is a stunning country with a rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes. The locals are friendly, the nature is beautiful, and there are plenty of vegan options to choose from.
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 strike 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. 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 fantastic destination for plant-based foodies, with a variety of restaurants, markets, and hotels to choose from. Whether you’re looking for healthy and sustainable food or fast food, there’s something for everyone.
Porto, known for its traditional cuisine, has also embraced the growing demand for vegan food. With an increasing number of plant-based restaurants, cafés, markets, and specialty shops, Portugal offers a wide range of options for vegans and those seeking plant-based dining experiences.
AO 26 VEGAN FOOD PROJECT
Ao 26 is a trendy vegan restaurant known for its creative and diverse menu. From mouthwatering burgers to innovative plant-based desserts, Ao 26 delights diners with its flavourful dishes. It’s our favourite restaurant in Portugal.
The restaurant combines a beautiful atmosphere with an extensive menu that fuses international flavours, offering an unforgettable dining experience for everyone. One must-try from their menu is the cheeseboard!
SCOOP ‘N DOUGH LISBON
Scoop ‘n Dough is the cutest vegan gelato and doughnut shop. They offer many amazing gelato flavours like black sesame, mango lassi, cookie dough and brownie, raspberry cheesecake, salted caramel, passionfruit and macaron, and many more.
Their doughnuts are not only aesthetically pleasing but also taste amazing. We tried the chocolate hazelnut and raspberry and vanilla, and they were delicious. They have the best plant-based desserts in Portugal.
ODETE VEGAN BAKEY PORTUGAL
Odete Vegan Bakery is probably my favourite place in Porto and the best bakery in Portugal. This small and charming plant-based bakery offers a delightful selection of bread, pain au chocolate, cinnamon buns, muffins, croissants, and the famous pastel de nata.
I 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 made with eggs and dairy.
They have created the most delicious vegan version, and we stopped there every day in Lisbon for our afternoon snack.
INCOMUM
Incomum serves creative and flavourful dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The menu changes regularly to incorporate seasonal produce from Portugal.
This lovely restaurant offers two vegan dishes: sweet potato with vegetables and spinach, or penne pasta with avocado and coconut. It was our favourite meal in Sintra.
ESPÉCIE – VEGAN OPTION IN PORTUGAL
Espécie is a vegetarian restaurant in Porto offering a variety of creative plant-based items. The menu includes corn soup, Korean fried cauliflower, artichoke crostini, roasted and caramelised celeriac, aubergine schnitzel, sweet potato curry, and many more.
This is a must-visit restaurant in Portugal.
OUTRA ESPÉCIE
Outra Espécie offers a menu similar to the original Espécie restaurant. We tried three different dishes: Tofummus, Korean Fried Cauliflower, and Breaded Tofu Curry. Everything tasted great!
A PRAÇA VEGAN AND VEGETARIAN RESTAURANT IN PORTUGAL
A Praça is a vegetarian restaurant in the city centre of Sintra offering vegan options. Their food is fresh, simple, and very delicious.
They have a daily menu that includes a plant-based version. You can enjoy a whole lunch that includes soup, a main dish, and dessert.
Whether you are a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a fairytale escape, Portugal offers something for everyone. With its rich history, architectural marvels, delectable cuisine, and warm hospitality, Portugal promises an unforgettable travel experience.
By opting for vegan food when travelling or in your everyday life, you can enjoy a delightful culinary experience and contribute to a more sustainable and compassionate lifestyle.
Portugal is a stunning country with a rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes. One of the best ways to experience its beauty 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. You can check our 7-day Portugal guide here.
SEE ALSO: Porto on a Plant-Based Plate: Navigating the City’s Vegan Cuisine Like A Pro