Top 7 Documentaries about Portugal

Intro: Documentaries about Portugal

Portugal is a nation of stunning natural beauty, deep-rooted traditions, and a unique history. The country’s history dates back to before the Roman Empire and is packed with traditions that are still alive today. From the fado music of Lisbon to the numerous festivals throughout the country, there is always something to discover in Portugal. Located in the southwestern corner of the Iberian Peninsula, Portugal is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and Spain. This lusophone country is composed of continental Portugal, the Azores archipelago, and the Madeira archipelago. With its temperate climate and diverse geography, Portugal is one of the most visited European countries.

Portugal is home to many fascinating cultural attractions. Lisbon, the nation's vibrant capital, is an exquisite mix of the ancient and modern. Here, you can find old medieval castles, Baroque churches, and breathtaking views of the Tagus River. Meanwhile, the countryside is dotted with quaint villages that offer a glimpse into a simpler way of life. Tourists can explore historic sites such as the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, as well as popular beaches such as Praia da Rocha and Costa da Caparica.

In addition to its enchanting landmarks, Portugal also has a rich culinary tradition. Visitors can sample many traditional dishes such as Bacalhau (salt cod), Caldo Verde (kale soup), and Pastéis de Nata (custard tarts). Portuguese wines are also highly prized, with Port and Madeira being the two most famous types.

For those who wish to experience Portugal's natural beauty, there are plenty of opportunities. The country has several national parks that offer beautiful views of the mountains and coastline. Nature lovers can go on spectacular hikes or take canoe trips down rivers to explore hidden caves and waterfalls. Birdwatchers will also find many species to observe in Portugal's wetlands and forests.

There are numerous documentaries about Portugal that offer an in-depth look at the country's unique culture and history. Whether you're looking for an educational experience or simply want to learn more about this picturesque nation, these films will surely enlighten and entertain you.

1. Portugal's Heartland - Rick Steves' Europe Travel Guide- Documentaries about Portugal

Dive headlong into Portugal’s vibrant tapestry of history and culture, where even the sardines tell a tale. We’re setting Lisbon aside for now, with a promise to return. Our first stop? The beach at Nazaré where we’ll dance barefoot on the sandy shores, caught in the rhythm of life by the sea.

Next, we are off to Batalha to stand in awe of a medieval abbey that whispers tales of times long-gone but not forgotten. Hold your breath as we step inside a royal library in Coimbra, its silence broken only by hushed conversations and the rustle of age-old pages. But wait! Coimbra is also home to lively university students who know how to celebrate life - there’s no way we’re missing out on that energy.

Then our journey takes us along the Douro River, where port wine isn’t just drunk; it’s revered. Here’s your chance to share a glass with those who pour their heart and soul into every bottle.

Finally, prepare yourself for Porto - Portugal’s gritty yet captivating second city. Its character is etched in every stone and echoed in each winding alleyway… This is Portugal, charming, diverse and ever surprising.

2. 16 Best Places to Visit in Portugal - Documentaries on Portugal

Nestled on the western seaboard of the Iberian Peninsula, Portugal is renowned as one of Europe's most popular destinations. With its bountiful sunshine and wallet-friendly prices, holidaymakers flock to this Mediterranean nation to relish in its diverse attractions. From the rolling vineyards and emerald mountains capes of the north to the sun-kissed shorelines of the south, Portugal's geographic tapestry never fails to capture the imagination.

Adventurous souls are also encouraged to explore the pristine archipelagos of Azores and Madeira, blessed with lush vegetation and fragrant gardens. Embark on an unforgettable journey through this enchanting land and explore some of Portugal's best-known locales, such as historic Monsaraz, surfing haven Nazaré, Peneda-Geres National Park, Braga, Tomar, Guimares, Coimbra, Aveiro, Évora, Porto, Sintra, Obidos, Algarve, and beautiful Lisbon.

3. Portugal Travel Documentary - 4x4 Road Trip - Documentaries about Portugal

Join us on our thrilling road trip adventure through the mesmerizing landscapes of Portugal! In this unexpected gem, we weren’t merely welcomed by its famed golden beaches and dramatic cliffs but were also swept away by a stunning diversity that encompassed frost-kissed mountaintops, lush rain-soaked forests, and rugged granite highlands.

For an unforgettable five weeks, we journeyed over 4,800 km across the country in our trusty WorldCruiser 2 from Tom’s Fahrzeugtechnik. We voyaged from the northernmost tip right down to the southern edges of Portugal, soaking up as much of its breathtaking beauty as we possibly could.

4. Azores. The green wonder of the Atlantic. - Portugal Documentary

Get ready for an exhilarating journey to one of the most secluded and verdant corners of our world – the Azores! This documentary will whisk you away to a paradise where greenery reigns supreme, and isolation has never been more captivating. Our exploration takes us across San Miguel, Faial, Flores Islands - each holding unique wonders and atmospheric landscapes.

Prepare to feast your eyes on the world’s largest collection of endemic flora and fauna. With exclusive sights that are a testament to nature’s grandeur, these islands house a vibrant spectacle of plants and birds like no other. This trip promises nothing less than enchantment galore amidst breathtaking sceneries that will leave you awe-struck. Hold on tight as we embark on this thrilling adventure together!

5. Mariza and the Story of Fado - Portugal Documentaries

Step into the intoxicating world of Fado with Simon Broughton’s riveting 60-minute documentary, Mariza and the Story of Fado. Weaving together the meteoric rise of Mariza with the tale of Fado - often referred to as “Portugal’s blues” - this film transports you straight to the pulsating heart of Lisbon.

Be mesmerized by Mariza’s spellbinding concert footage, lose yourself in intimate renditions from historic fado clubs, and revel in priceless footage of the legendary Amália Rodrigues. This project paints a beautiful and entertaining portrait of Portugal’s soulful music tradition.

But wait, there’s more! Get exclusive insights through interviews with historians and witness firsthand the inaugural broadcast of fado on TV. For the very first time on screen, explore an intriguing narrative about left-wing and anarchist fado that blossomed in working-class quarters during the early 20th century - until it was ruthlessly silenced by a fascist regime in 1926.

This is undoubtedly one among the finest documentaries ever crafted about fado - eloquent narration, historical precision, intellectual depth, immersive storytelling, breathtaking visuals, and above all, a smorgasbord of music that will make your heart skip a beat.

(Note: Due to copyright constraints, there is a brief moment without sound from 44.36 - 44.49).

6. Lisbon: A portrait of Portugal's capital and its people - Documentaries about Portugal

Imagine the sun setting over the Atlantic Ocean, casting its golden rays onto a city pulsating with life and history. This isn’t just any city—it’s Lisbon, the jewel of Continental Europe’s west coast and an exceptional outlier as the only capital on this stretch of shore.

Lisbon is more than a pretty face; it’s a powerhouse of finance, commerce, media, entertainment, arts, tourism and international trade. Its beating heart fuels some of the most critical economic activities on the continent, setting it apart as one of Europe’s major economic hubs.

But let’s step back from business for a moment and journey through time. Did you know Lisbon dates back to the 5th century? Its foundations are steeped in age-old tales that contribute to its vibrant culture and architectural wonders. Over centuries, it has grown into one of our planet’s oldest cities—an enduring testament to human civilization.

And there’s more! Lisbon has another feather in its cap—it’s considered one of the world’s most livable cities. So whether you’re looking for a new place to call home or your next travel adventure, you should watch this documentary.

7. Portugal | The Carnation Revolution |1974 - Portugal Documentary

In the heart of Lisbon, Portugal’s enchanting capital, unfolds a significant week in history. This week takes us back to May 2, 1974 - a mere seven days following the monumental upheaval known as the Carnation Revolution. A decisive moment that succeeded in toppling the long-standing Estado Novo regime. Our journey through time seeks to immerse viewers in these transformative moments, shedding light on their far-reaching implications.