October 10, 2023

Popular places in Portugal

New to Fado? Here are five facts about Portugal's beloved cultural music:

Fado's roots can be traced back to the early 1800's and originated in Portugal, but only appeared in Lisbon after 1830.
The word Fado comes from the Latin word fatum, from which the English word fate also comes from.
Fado was added to UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage on November 27, 2011.
There are two types of Fado, one found in Lisbon, one in Coimbra. The style heard in Lisbon is the most popular, while in Coimbra, it is a more classic style.
If you're in Coimbra and enjoying a Fado performance, cough as though you are clearing your throat. But if you're in Lisbon, clap your hands.

Many Fadistas perform in restaurants so you can get a great meal while enjoying this moving music. What's great about self guided travel is that meals are always at your leisure, meaning you can search out the best places in Portugal for Fado. If you haven't heard Fado before, look for samples of Amalia Rodrigues for more traditional Fado or Cristina Branco for more contemporary Fado (so that you can search out these performers prior to your trip). Here are Pure Adventures' top picks for Fado in Lisbon, Portugal:

Sr. Fado de Alfama, located in Alfama, is owned by Fado singer Ana Marina and fado violinist Duarte Santos. Home-cooked meals and local wine star alongside Fado performances by Sr. Fado's owners!