Travel

Lisbon, Portugal

Directions

The Lisbon airport is only a short distance from Barcarena. You can travel by taxi, Uber, or Portugal’s extensive public transportation routes.

 

Where to Stay

Retreat Villa

Guests will not be responsible for finding a place to stay unless they so choose. We have reserved a large villa to accommodate our guests. We understand that stays can be expensive, and hope that by covering this cost guests might be able to make it out to celebrate our marriage with us.

RETREAT VILLA

Rua Fernando Pessoa 3,
2730-080 Barcarena
Portugal

What to Do

Activities in Portugal

Barcarena is just outside Lisbon. Lisbon is close to the Eastern coast of Portugal, a short taxi or bus ride from Sintra and the national parks of Sintra and Cascais. Here's a small sampling of the things you can do in the area.

Source – Wikipedia

EAT & DRINK

Portuguese cuisine is characterized by its rich flavors and diverse ingredients, often influenced by the country's coastal geography and agricultural heritage. Fresh seafood, particularly cod, is a fundamental component, with dishes like bacalhau à brás showcasing its versatility. The use of spices, a legacy from the Age of Discovery, adds depth to many recipes, incorporating seasonings such as piri-piri and saffron. Traditional dishes like caldo verde, a kale and potato soup, and pastéis de nata, a custard tart, reflect regional variations and local produce. Overall, Portuguese cuisine offers a harmonious blend of simplicity and sophistication, celebrating both rustic roots and culinary innovation.

PLAY

Our villa is only 15 minute ride to the beautiful, soft sand beaches of Portugal. Portugal’s beaches are renowned for their stunning natural beauty and diverse landscapes. From the golden sands of the Algarve to the rugged coastline of the Azores, each beach offers something unique. The warm Mediterranean climate complements the picturesque surroundings, making these shores ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and various water sports. The dramatic cliffs and hidden coves invite exploration, while charming seaside towns provide a rich cultural experience. With over 800 kilometers of coastline, Portugal’s beaches are a captivating destination for locals and tourists alike.

EXPLORE

Portugal has a rich and beautiful history that is proudly displayed in the architecture, art, music, and overall preservation of the country. Exploring Portugal offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and stunning landscapes. From the vibrant streets of Lisbon, where azulejos adorn the buildings, to the picturesque coasts of the Praias, each region presents a unique character. The ancient walls of castles in Sintra evoke a sense of fairy-tale wonder. Portugal's blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy creates an unforgettable journey for anyone who visits. For a more extensive list of Kelsey and Matthew’s top picks, click here.

Helpful Tips

Traveling, especially to a foreign country, can be stressful. Here’s some tips to help make it a little easier!

  • The last thing you want to do when your on your way to a foreign country is forget something. Make a list and double check you have everything you need. We cant wait to see you there!

  • Make multiple copies of your passport, ID, birth certificate, and flight tickets.

    • Leave one copy at home.

    • Leave one copy in your luggage.

    • Leave one copy at the villa.

    The originals must come with you when you travel, but they should be kept in a secure place to present loss and theft.

  • STEP is a program that allows you to enroll your trip with the U.S. Department of State. This free program allows travelers to receive information from the Embassy about safety conditions in your destination country, helps the U.S. Embassy contact you in an emergency (i.e. natural disaster, etc.), and helps family and friends get in touch with you in an emergency.

  • Book early! The sooner you are able to book your flight, the cheaper your flight will be.

    Keep in mind these flights are long. Travel experts recommend wearing comfortable clothing, including compression socks, and walking every couple of hours.

    • Lcoal currency in Portugal is the Euro.

    • Notify your banks of your upcoming travel.

    • Bring cash. it is easier and cheaper to exchange currency if you already have cash rather than pulling from an ATM.

    • We recommend downloading an app that can easily and quickly do money conversions. This will help you keep track of spending.

    • An extra set of clothes just in case luggage is lost or delayed.

    • Your documents.

    • Portable charger.

    • Headphones or other portable items for in flight entertainment.

  • We highly encourage using a TSA approved bag lock for any checked luggage to prevent theft.

    Pick pocketing is also a common petty crime in Europe. We do not recommend the use of any large bags or purses while you are in Portugal with us. Opt for smaller bags or fanny packs that zip closed and can be worn close to the body.

  • Here are a list of apps we recommend downloading before your trip to hopefully bring peace of mind and make your trip a little easier.

    • Whatsapp - cellular data is not as common or reliable in other countries. Whatsapp is free and uses wifi for quick and easy communication.

    • Google translate - Most people in Portugal speak a multitude of languages. But just in case, this will provide you easy translation and communication.

    • Rio2Rome - searches any city, town, landmark, attraction or address across the globe with thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from A to B.

    • Charles Schwab - Unlimited ATM fee rebates worldwide. No foreign transaction fees. No service fees or account minimums. No paying for unauthorized charges or withdrawals.