S01E01 Porto
Michael explores highlights and hidden secrets of the country, starting out in the cosmopolitan second city of Porto, whose chic shopping boulevards and tourist hotspots hides a proud industrial past making it the 'Manchester of...
Portugal with Michael Portillo
S01E06: Sintra
Michael Portillo embarks on an exploration of the authentic Portugal, starting in Sintra, a town once cherished by the Portuguese monarchy. His adventure kicks off aboard a swift tuk-tuk, navigating the town’s steep and twisting roads, leading him to the remarkable 19th-century Pena Palace, a symbol of Portugal's Romantic era. Along the way, he hunts for Sintra's famous pastries, follows the route of King Manuel II to Ericeira, and visits the grand yet seldom-used Mafra Palace. Michael concludes his journey by participating in a cacao ceremony at a wellness retreat and foraging for wild food along Portugal’s rugged Atlantic coastline, close to its westernmost point.
Overview
Portugal is fast becoming the go-to location for Brits to explore and spend their holidays. Not just resorts, villas and golf courses, Portugal's rich and varied locations are attracting millions of us with its year-round sunshine and generous welcome. Now Michael takes us in search of its heart and soul, revealing the secrets of places we know well, and taking us to discover those we don't.
Episodes
S01E02 Braga and Ponte De Lima
Michael explores Braga and Ponte de Lima, enjoying folk music at the Feiras Novas festival. He then climbs the Bom Jesus shrine, cooks with chef Renato, and ends up with belly dancers!
S01E03 The Algarve
Michael explores the Algarve beyond its beaches, uncovering history, visiting Silves's castle and Faro's bone chapel, meeting a fisherman who risks his life for barnacles, and enjoying fresh oysters in Olhao.
S01E04 Madeira
Michael Portillo's journey through Portugal continues on the stunning island of Madeira, a subtropical paradise 500 miles off the Algarve coast as he explores its extreme landscapes, historic levadas, and unique toboggan rides. He enjoys...
S01E05 Aveiro and Coimbra
Michael Portillo's journey continues in two cities. He begins in Aveiro, a city of canals and brightly decorated boats, renowned as the Portuguese Venice. He enjoys the local food and discovers a historic connection between...
S01E06 Sintra
Michael Portillo embarks on an exploration of the authentic Portugal, starting in Sintra, a town once cherished by the Portuguese monarchy. His adventure kicks off aboard a swift tuk-tuk, navigating the town’s steep and twisting...
Cast
Michael Portillo
Himself
