Portugal, with its rich history, picturesque landscapes, and melancholic yet vibrant soul, has long been a source of inspiration for writers across the world. The country’s cobblestone streets, golden beaches, and sun-drenched cities provide an evocative backdrop for tales of love, mystery, and self-discovery. Whether you’re a traveler looking to immerse yourself in the spirit of Portugal before your visit or simply a lover of literature, these novels set in Portugal capture the essence of the country and its people. Below are some of the best books where Portugal is not just a setting but an integral part of the narrative.
Recommendations for books set in Portugal
As said before, Portugal’s allure as a literary setting lies in its rich history, diverse landscapes, and a culture deeply rooted in both joy and saudade. These book, set in Portugal, offer readers a chance to experience the country’s many layers, from the bustling streets of Lisbon to the quiet villages of the Alentejo and the mysticism of its northern mountains. Whether historical, philosophical, or magical, each of these books provides a unique window into the heart and soul of Portugal.
If you’re looking to be transported to this beautiful country without leaving the comfort of your reading chair, these are the books that will take you there.
“The Book of Disquiet” by Fernando Pessoa
No list of books set in Portugal is complete without mentioning “The Book of Disquiet”, a masterpiece of introspection by one of the country’s greatest literary figures.
Set in Lisbon, the fragmented narrative, told by the semi-fictional character Bernardo Soares, reflects Pessoa’s melancholic and philosophical musings on life.
The city of Lisbon, with its ever-changing moods and timeless beauty, becomes a character in itself, embodying the existential unease and quiet contemplation at the heart of the book.
“Night Train to Lisbon” by Pascal Mercier
This international bestseller takes readers on a journey both literal and philosophical. After a chance encounter with a Portuguese woman, Swiss professor Raimund Gregorius becomes captivated by the work of a Portuguese doctor and philosopher, Amadeu de Prado.
He spontaneously boards a train to Lisbon, where he delves into the mysteries of Prado’s life and the political turbulence of 20th-century Portugal. Through Gregorius’ quest, Lisbon and its history unfold, with the city’s streets and atmosphere vividly portrayed.
“Baltasar and Blimunda” by José Saramago
Nobel Prize-winning author José Saramago’s “Baltasar and Blimunda” is a quintessential Portuguese novel. Set during the construction of the grandiose Mafra Palace in the 18th century, this magical realist story intertwines love, mysticism, and history.
Through the lens of its two unforgettable protagonists, Baltasar, a one-handed soldier, and Blimunda, a woman with supernatural powers, Saramago paints a detailed portrait of Portugal’s past. The novel offers a sharp critique of power and religion, all while celebrating the resilience of the human spirit.
“Alentejo Blue” by Monica Ali
Set in a small village in the Alentejo region, this novel brings the quiet beauty and slower pace of rural Portugal to life.
“Alentejo Blue” is a collection of interconnected stories about the lives of villagers and the tourists who pass through. Through these varied perspectives, Monica Ali explores themes of isolation, tradition, and the clash between old and new, while offering a rich depiction of the landscapes and culture of Portugal’s rural heartland.
“Requiem: A Hallucination” by António Tabucchi
Italian author António Tabucchi, one of the foremost European literary voices, had a deep connection with Portugal. His novella “Requiem: A Hallucination” is a surreal journey through Lisbon, where the protagonist spends a single afternoon meeting the ghosts of his past and pondering life’s mysteries.
The novel captures Lisbon’s otherworldly atmosphere, with its narrow alleyways, the melancholy sound of fado, and the slow flow of the Tagus River. This novella is a meditation on memory, loss, and the city’s poetic soul.
“The High Mountains of Portugal” by Yann Martel
From the author of “Life of Pi”, “The High Mountains of Portugal” combines magical realism, humor, and tragedy to create a deeply imaginative narrative. The novel is divided into three interconnected stories spanning the 20th century, each tied to the rugged region of northern Portugal (Trás-os-Montes).
With elements of adventure, philosophical reflection, and mystery, Martel’s portrayal of Portugal’s remote landscapes is vivid and transporting, making the country an essential part of the novel’s emotional resonance.
“The Last Kabbalist of Lisbon” by Richard Zimler
Set during the Lisbon Massacre of 1506, this historical thriller follows the life of Berekiah Zarco, a young Jewish manuscript illuminator. In the chaos of anti-Semitic violence, Berekiah embarks on a dangerous journey to solve the murder of his uncle.
Zimler’s novel is rich in historical detail, offering readers a glimpse into the life of Lisbon’s Jewish community and the turbulent religious conflicts of the time. The city’s history is woven deeply into the fabric of this gripping and darkly atmospheric narrative.
“A Bridge with a View” by Alberto Mulas Caballero
Originally published in Spanish as “Un puente con vistas”, this novel written by one of the members of Muros de absenta offers a contemporary take on the romantic journey of Lucas, a young man who embarks on an Erasmus exchange to Portugal.
Set in Coimbra, the story explores themes of personal growth, emotional turmoil, and the search for meaning in a globalized world. Lucas’ experiences in Portugal are not just a backdrop but integral to his self-discovery. With a mixture of romance and existential reflection, the book vividly portrays life and study in Coimbra.
“Journey to Portugal” by José Saramago
While this is not a novel but rather a travelogue, Saramago’s “Journey to Portugal” deserves a place on this list. The book chronicles the author’s travels through his homeland, offering insight into the landscapes, people, and history that shape the country.
Saramago’s poetic prose and thoughtful reflections make this an essential read for anyone wishing to understand the deeper soul of Portugal beyond the touristic façade.
(Madrid, 1988). Azahara P. Navas has a degree in Chemical Engineering from the Complutense University of Madrid and currently works as a language translator with knowledge of English, French, German and Greek.