The beauty of Portugal is undeniable, with a rich history, alluring beaches and delicious cuisine, it is a popular holiday destination. However, not all places are equally appreciated by the Portuguese, and there are some locations that are simply not to the liking of the local population.

“It seems counterintuitive, but we all have that place we just don’t like, for one reason or another”, says Julianna Marshall, travel expert at the International Drivers Association. “For some people, these places are even in their own country.”

After consulting several sources and experts like Julianna Marshall, a list of the 10-holiday destinations in Portugal that the Portuguese dislike most has been put together.

  1. Algarve during the summer: Although it is a popular holiday destination, many Portuguese avoid the Algarve during the summer due to overcrowding and higher prices.
  2. Nazaré on weekends: Nazaré is known for its big waves, but the locals are not fans of the crowds of tourists on the weekends.
  3. Bairro Alto at Night: In the center of Lisbon, Bairro Alto is full of parties until the early hours of the morning. A lot of Portuguese people stay away from this area because of all the noise and hustle.
  4. Costa da Caparica in August: This area sees a large increase in visitors during the summer season, resulting in the Portuguese opting for other, less crowded beaches.
  5. Porto during São João: Despite São João being a very famous festival, many Porto residents steer clear of the city center at this time of year due to the excess of people and noise.
  6. Madeira at Carnival: For many Portuguese people, Carnival in Madeira is too commercial and they prefer more traditional festivities in other parts of the country.
  7. Sintra on Sundays: Sintra is a wonderful city, however, the Portuguese tend to avoid it on Sundays, when it is most invaded by tourists.
  8. Aveiro during Ria de Aveiro Weekend: Aveiro is known as the “Portuguese Venice”, but many Portuguese people tend to divert from the city during this annual event because of the increased traffic, noise and hustle.
  9. Óbidos during the Christmas Season: Óbidos has a unique charm, but during the Christmas season it becomes too busy and overcrowded, leading many residents to look for other places to celebrate.
  10. Coimbra during Queimas das Fitas: Queimas das Fitas is a student tradition that attracts many visitors, however, local residents tend to avoid it due to the crowds and noise.


This doesn’t mean that these locations don’t have incredible qualities. However, it is interesting to note the nuances in travel habits within the same country.


“It is always essential to remember that regardless of your personal travel preferences, respect traditions, local residents and the environment. No matter where you go, make sure you are a travel-conscious person”, concluded Julianna Marshall.

Author

A journalist that’s always eager to learn about new things. With a passion for travel, adventure and writing about this diverse world of ours.

“Wisdom begins in wonder” -  Socrates

Kate Sreenarong