Top Nature Spots in Portugal

Bring a light jacket for the evening. It gets breezy after sunset, and I didn't expect it. I was shivering while others were comfortable, so plan ahead!

If you want a quieter spot, head to the far left side of the beach. It’s less populated, so you can enjoy a more relaxed experience without all the hustle and bustle of the main area.

If you're planning to surf, try to rent a board instead of buying one. I rented from a local shop and got a great deal. Also, they throw in a quick surf lesson, which was super helpful.

Don't miss the sunset. I recommend sticking around until about 9 PM. The colors are amazing, and it’s less crowded then, plus the vibe is just perfect for a chill evening.

Download a map of the park in advance; it can be a bit confusing to navigate. Trust me, wandering around too long can eat up your valuable time.

Check out the viewing point for the best pictures of the park and the city. It gets crowded later in the day, so snap your photos early!

I suggest visiting Edward VII Park in the early morning, around 8 AM, to enjoy peaceful vibes and cooler temperatures. It’s a great way to start your day.

Don’t skip a stroll down the park's pathways, but watch for uneven paths. It’s pretty but can be a little tricky if you’re not paying attention.

Check the weather before you go! It rained on my visit, and while the garden is beautiful, the paths became slippery and less enjoyable. Bright, sunny days definitely enhance the experience!

Definitely take your time to explore the different paths. I rushed at first, but just wandering around and getting lost made the experience way better!

Plan to arrive around 9 AM. You can enjoy the gardens almost to yourself before the crowds rush in. Plus, the morning light is perfect for photos!

I suggest bringing a picnic and enjoying it on the lawn... Snacks in the café are pricey, and there's plenty of pretty spots to chill and eat

I recommend downloading a good offline map. Cell service can be spotty in some areas, and you don't want to get lost in those beautiful woods.

Make sure to wear sturdy hiking boots! The trail can be uneven and muddy in some spots. I learned the hard way when my sneakers got soaked.

Don't skip the little detours to explore Roman ruins along the road. They are fascinating and make for great photo ops!

If you're visiting with kids, consider bringing some fun hiking gear like walking sticks or binoculars to keep them engaged and active.

I recommend wearin comfy shoes because you'll be doing a lot of walking! My feet hurt by the end of the day, so don't make my mistake!

If you can try to go on a weekday! The weekends get super busy and we found it nice to stroll around without too many crowds.

Don't forget to bring some cash if you plan on grabbing a drink. Some local vendors only accept cash, and I missed out because I had cards on me.

Take your time to wander around the surrounding streets after visiting. There's some beautiful murals and hidden gems that you wouldn’t want to miss!

Bring a light jacket or sweater! It can get a bit breezy in the evening, and I was not prepared for that when I visited

I suggest visiting during sunset around 7:30 PM. The colors are absolutely stunning and the crowds tend to thin out a bit as well.

There are a few great cafes along the promenade... I suggest grabbing a pastel de nata and a coffee; it’s a delicious and inexpensive breakfast before hitting the beach!

Don’t forget sunscreen! The sun can be pretty intense, even with a light breeze. I learned that the hard way on my first day – came back with a nasty burn!

Check the surf forecast before you go! I found that the waves are best in the morning, usually around 9 AM. It's less crowded and perfect for catching some early morning waves.

If you're looking to rent surf gear, I recommend hitting up one of the local shops rather than the beach rental kiosks. You’ll find better prices and a wider selection!