Things To Do
in Seia

A PDO soft, creamy sheep's-milk cheese with a buttery texture and slightly tangy flavor; look for it in local cheese shops, markets and menus throughout Seia.

Must-Try!

Locally cured sausages and cured meats — perfect sliced with bread and cheese; available at the municipal market and charcutaria stalls.

Hearty stews made with seasonal vegetables, root veg and local meats — common in mountain taverns, especially in colder months.

Chestnuts are a seasonal specialty (autumn); you'll find roasted chestnuts at fairs and chestnut-based cakes and sweets in bakeries.

Town market selling fresh produce, cheeses, cured meats and baked goods; ideal for assembling a picnic or tasting regional products.

In autumn and festival days, outdoor stalls sell roasted chestnuts, local pastries and street snacks — a good time to sample local sweets and sausages.

Polite greetings (Olá, Bom dia/tarde) are customary; a handshake or two kisses on the cheek among acquaintances is common in social settings — use formal address (Senhor/Senhora) with elders.

Respect farmland, livestock and private property; ask before photographing people or farms and keep noise levels down in villages.

Dress modestly in churches and observe silence during services; local festivals are family-friendly and welcoming but follow local cues.

Learning a few Portuguese phrases is appreciated; even if locals speak some English, initiating conversations in Portuguese shows respect.

Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory: rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% for good restaurant service is common. For taxis, rounding up or adding a few euros is normal; small tips for guides and hotel porters are welcome.

The euro is used; cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted in town restaurants and larger shops but smaller market stalls and rural businesses may prefer cash. ATMs are available in Seia but carry some cash for mountain stops.

Mild temperatures, blooming wildflowers and flowing streams; spring is ideal for hiking and photography as trails reopen and the landscape turns green. Expect some rain and muddy trails in higher altitudes.

Warm days and cool nights; comfortable for outdoor activities, mountain trails and cycling. Higher elevations remain pleasantly cool, but lower valleys can get hot — bring sun protection and plenty of water.

Crisp air, colourful foliage and chestnut season — a great time for gastronomy (chestnut festivals) and hiking with fewer crowds. Weather can be changeable; pack layers and waterproofs.

Cold with frequent snow on Serra da Estrela peaks, creating opportunities for snow sports near Torre; some mountain roads may close or require snow chains. Town is quieter — check access and opening hours for mountain facilities.

A high-elevation route linking the Torre summit area to Lagoa Comprida with panoramic views, exposed granite terrain and opportunities for wildlife spotting; prepare for variable weather and altitude exposure.

A scenic circular walk around the glacial cirque of Covão d'Ametade featuring granite formations, river pools and relatively easy terrain suitable for a half-day outing.

Trail following the Zêzere valley carved by glaciation — dramatic valley landscapes, waterfalls and viewpoints; allow time for photographing and resting at scenic spots.

Trails radiating from the high-altitude village of Sabugueiro pass through traditional pastures and small hamlets, offering cultural immersion combined with gentle hiking.

Long-standing rural families engaged in agriculture, shepherding and artisanal production, many of whom maintain traditional practices such as cheese-making.

Like many rural Portuguese areas, Seia has an older demographic profile with younger generations often moving to urban centers for work.

Visitors who come for hiking, winter sports, gastronomy and festivals — numbers spike seasonally, especially during autumn chestnut fairs and winter snow.

A modest presence of foreigners and immigrants working in agriculture, services and tourism; multilingualism is more common in tourist-facing businesses.