Learning to kill two birds with a stone is the best way to maximise a travel experience. It is not enough to visit Portugal for Afro Nation without experiencing the breathtaking coast of Portimão, exploring the bubbling local markets, or visiting the historical and cultural attractions.

As the show returns to the iconic Praia da Rocha in Portimão from July 9-11, Afro Nation 2025 promises a memorable celebration of African music, culture, and vibes. The star-studded lineup features artists like Burna Boy, Tems, Chris Brown, and Amapiano pioneers like Oskido and Scotts Maphuma.

However, Afro Nation is more than just a festival. It’s an opportunity to experience and explore the vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes of the Algarve region.

Here’s your guide to making the most of your time in Portugal before and after the Festival.

Also read: Getting your foreign currency account

Explore Portimão’s stunning beaches and sea caves

If you think Praia da Rocha, the Festival’s venue, is breathtaking, you might not have any breath left when you see the rest of Portimão. The port city is renowned for its amazing coastline, and you should take a boat trip to explore the iconic Benagil Cave. It is a spectacular sea cave with a natural skylight just 15 minutes from Portimão.

You can pay around €30-40 for a boat tour that showcases many of Algarve’s fun sights, including the cliffs and secluded beaches. A kayaking tour through the caves and dolphin-watching are some other memorable activities you should try.

Visit Slide & Splash Waterpark

Slide & Splash Waterpark in Lagoa is about 15 minutes from Portimão. Cool down from the summer’s heat by enjoying the thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, and plenty of space to relax, eat and meet new people. The park’s lively atmosphere makes it a perfect place to visit before or after the Festival.

Also read: How to plan your Afro Nation trip without overspending on FX

Explore Sand City

Sand City is another tourist favourite in Lagoa. It is an open-air museum with intricate sand sculptures created by international artists. This unique attraction is a great way to spend your day appreciating the creativity and craftsmanship on display. It’s a short drive from Portimão and offers a relaxed, cultural experience before the high-energy festival days.

Relax in Alvor

Alvor is a quiet and laid-back town just 10 minutes from Portimão. A walk through its cobblestone streets is said to be therapeutic. There are local cafes where you can try out Portuguese cuisine, and Praia do Alvor is a beautiful beach perfect for relaxation. Alvor is also a great spot for affordable accommodation if you’re extending your stay.

Indulge in local cuisine

The Algarve is a foodie’s paradise. It is known for its fresh seafood and Portuguese delicacies. In Portimão, visit local restaurants in the old quarter to sample dishes like cataplana (a seafood stew), grilled sardines, or piri-piri chicken. The Yam Foodcourt near the festival site offers a diverse selection of global cuisines to satisfy your cravings. If you are up to it, a table at a beachfront restaurant like Vau Steakhouse can also set the tone for a memorable Portimão experience.

Shop on Portimão’s shopping streets

Before bidding Portugal farewell, spend a day exploring Portimão’s markets and malls, where you can shop for souvenirs for yourself and your loved ones back home.

Why Grey is the reliable payment solution for your Afro Nation trip

Planning an international trip like Afro Nation requires a seamless and secure way to manage payments, from booking tickets and accommodation to covering activities and dining. Grey is a reliable fintech platform that simplifies cross-border payments, making it an ideal solution for your festival adventure. Here are some reasons to travel with Grey, and manage your finances.

• Seamless currency conversion: Grey allows you to convert and send money in multiple currencies, including EUR, GBP, and USD, at competitive exchange rates. This is perfect for paying for festival tickets, accommodation, or activities in Portugal without worrying about high conversion fees.
• Virtual cards for online purchases: Grey offers virtual USD debit cards that you can use for online purchases.
• Budget-friendly: Grey’s low fees and transparent pricing help you save money, leaving more in your budget for your pre and post-festival experiences.
• Convenience for international travellers: It doesn’t matter where you are travelling from, Grey’s mobile app makes it easy to manage payments on the go, from topping up your festival wristband to covering Uber rides from Faro Airport to Portimão.

Also read: How to open US, UK and Euro bank accounts in Portugal

Afro Nation Portugal 2025 is more than a music festival. It is a cultural experience celebrating African art, fashion and food. By arriving early and staying a few days after, you can see more of Portugal and have a more holistic experience. With Grey as your payment solution, you can manage your festival expenses securely and efficiently, ensuring a stress-free trip. So, grab your tickets, pack your bags, and prepare for an unforgettable Portimão adventure.

Get started with Grey today and explore Portugal without financial hitches.

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