Portugal Travel Guide
Introduction to Portugal
Why do we travel? Is it to escape the mundane, to discover new cultures, or perhaps to taste flavours we’ve never before experienced? Whatever your reasons, Portugal, a small yet diverse country nestled on the western edge of the Iberian Peninsula, has all this to offer and more. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, delicious cuisine, and warm-hearted people, Portugal is undoubtedly Europe’s best kept secret, and one of the cheapest countries to visit! Let’s get into this Portugal travel guide!
5 Key Takeaways
- Portugal’s Diverse Cities: From the vibrant capital city of Lisbon to the historic charm of Porto and the gateway to the Algarve, Faro, Portugal offers a range of unique urban experiences. Each city has its own character and attractions, making them fascinating destinations for travellers.
- Rich and Diverse History: Portugal’s history is deeply interwoven with global events, particularly the Age of Discovery. The country’s historical landmarks, like Lisbon’s Monument to the Discoveries and the Jerónimos Monastery, offer a fascinating insight into its rich past.
- Breathtaking Natural Beauty: Portugal boasts an array of stunning landscapes, from the gorgeous coastline of the Algarve, to the verdant Douro Valley and the volcanic Azores Islands. These locations offer fantastic opportunities for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
- Unforgettable Cuisine: Portuguese cuisine, with its fresh seafood, hearty meat dishes, and world-renowned wines, is a highlight for many visitors. The iconic pastel de nata, a delicious custard tart, is a must-try for any foodie.
- Warm and Welcoming People: The Portuguese people are known for their warmth and hospitality. Traditional festivals, like the Festa de São João in Porto, reflect the vibrant culture and strong sense of community that make Portugal such a welcoming place to visit.
Portugal Past and Present
A Glimpse into Portugal's Past
Portugal has a rich history of cultural influences and exploration. It was inhabited by Celtic and Iberian tribes, became part of the Roman Empire, and established the Kingdom of Portugal after the Christian Reconquista. During the Age of Discoveries, Portuguese explorers like Vasco da Gama created a global empire by establishing trade routes to Africa, Asia, and South America. However, Portugal also experienced decline through events like the Lisbon earthquake, Napoleonic Wars, and loss of colonies. A dictatorial regime was established in the 20th century, but was overthrown in the peaceful Carnation Revolution of 1974, leading to a democratic republic.
Portugal Today: A Symphony of Experiences
Portugal merges past and present, with traditional charm and modern appeal in its cities. Rich history is evident in landmarks and monuments, while stunning landscapes offer beaches, wine tastings, and island exploration. The cuisine, with its fresh seafood and famous pastel de nata, is a gastronomic delight. Portugal’s people are friendly and hospitable, with lively festivals and a strong sense of community.
The Charm of Portugal's Cities
Portugal, a small country by comparison, boasts some of the most enchanting cities in Europe. Let’s explore a few.
Lisbon: The Vibrant Capital
Lisbon, Portugal’s sun-kissed capital, is a city that seamlessly blends traditional charm with modern appeal. With its pastel-coloured buildings cascading down hillsides, historic yellow trams, and a bustling nightlife scene, Lisbon is a city that captivates all who visit. Did you know that Lisbon is one of the oldest cities in the world, predating other European capitals such as London, Rome, and Paris?
Related article: Lisbon Travel guide coming (20th may)
Porto: A Historic Treasure
Then there’s Porto, known for its stunning Ribeira district, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city’s charming narrow streets, magnificent bridges, and, of course, its world-famous Port wine cellars, make Porto a must-visit city on any Portuguese itinerary.
Related article: Visit Porto: the ultimate guide
Faro: A Gateway to the Algarve
Faro, often overlooked, is the gateway to the Algarve’s stunning coastline. But the city itself, with its well-preserved medieval quarter and vibrant cultural scene, is worth exploring in its own right.
Portugal's Rich and Diverse History
Portugal might be small, but it punches well above its weight when it comes to history.
The Age of Discovery
Portugal was at the forefront of the Age of Discovery, an era that fundamentally shaped our world today. Navigators like Vasco da Gama and Ferdinand Magellan set sail from Portugal’s shores to discover new lands, with Portugal establishing colonies in Africa, Asia, and South America. This period of exploration is vividly commemorated at Lisbon’s Monument to the Discoveries.
Historical Landmarks
Portugal’s history can be traced through its incredible array of historical landmarks. From the well-preserved Roman ruins of Conímbriga, to the striking Manueline architecture of the Jerónimos Monastery, there’s plenty to explore for history enthusiasts.
The Natural Beauty of Portugal
Beyond its cities and history, Portugal’s natural landscapes are astonishingly diverse and breathtakingly beautiful.
The Algarve's Stunning Coastline
The Algarve region is renowned for its stunning coastline, featuring golden sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic limestone cliffs. The region also boasts a number of excellent golf courses, making it a popular destination for golfing holidays.
The Verdant Douro Valley
The Douro Valley, Portugal’s wine country, is another must-visit destination. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a testament to the human will to harness nature’s bounty. Rolling hills covered in vineyards slope down to the winding Douro River, creating a landscape that is as beautiful as the wine it produces is delicious.
The Mysterious Azores Islands
And let’s not forget the Azores, a group of nine volcanic islands located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. These islands are home to some of Portugal’s most stunning natural scenery, from towering volcanoes to cascading waterfalls and lush, green pastures.
The Unforgettable Portuguese Cuisine
Portugal’s cuisine is as diverse as its landscapes, and just as delightful. It’s an integral part of the country’s cultural identity, and something no visitor should miss out on.
Iconic Dishes and Wines
From the freshest seafood to hearty meat dishes, Portuguese food is a feast for the senses. Bacalhau, or dried and salted cod, is considered the national dish, with locals claiming there are as many ways to prepare it as there are days in the year! For meat lovers, there’s cozido à portuguesa, a rich stew with various types of meat, sausages, and vegetables.
And then there’s the wine. Portugal’s winemaking tradition goes back thousands of years, and the country is known for its superb port and Madeira wines, as well as its high-quality reds and whites.
The Pastel de Nata Phenomenon
One cannot talk about Portuguese cuisine without mentioning pastel de nata, the country’s beloved custard tart. These delicious pastries, with their flaky crust and creamy custard filling, are a staple in cafés all over Portugal, and have gained fans around the world. They only cost €1.20!!
The Warmth of Portuguese People
Portugal’s greatest asset, however, might be its people. Known for their warmth and hospitality, the Portuguese are sure to make you feel welcome.
Festivals and Traditions
Traditional festivals, like the Festa de São João in Porto, offer a glimpse into Portugal’s vibrant culture and the strong sense of community among the Portuguese people. These festivals, filled with music, dance, and food, showcase the joy and warmth that characterises this amazing country.
Tips for visiting Portugal
- Explore Beyond Lisbon and Porto: While Lisbon and Porto are must-visit cities, be sure to explore other parts of Portugal as well. From the beautiful beaches of the Algarve to the verdant landscapes of the Douro Valley and the charming towns of Sintra and Évora, there’s a lot more to see in Portugal.
- Try the Local Cuisine: Portuguese cuisine is diverse and delicious. Don’t miss out on dishes like bacalhau (dried and salted cod), francesinha (a type of sandwich typical to Porto), and pastel de nata (a custard tart).
- Learn a Few Words in Portuguese: While English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas, learning a few basic phrases in Portuguese will be appreciated by locals.
- Pack for Varying Climates: Portugal’s climate varies considerably from region to region. While the south enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters, the north can be considerably cooler and wetter. So pack accordingly.
- Be Prepared for Late Dinners: The Portuguese typically eat dinner late, often starting around 8-9pm. So adjust your schedule accordingly if you’re planning to dine out.
- Use Public Transport: Portugal has an excellent public transportation system, which is often the best way to navigate cities and even travel between them. The trains are particularly good for inter-city travel.
- Respect the Siesta: Some smaller shops and restaurants may close for a few hours in the afternoon for a siesta. Plan your day keeping this in mind.
- Stay Safe: Portugal is generally a safe country to visit, but it’s always important to take common-sense precautions, like keeping an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.
- Check the Calendar: Portugal hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year, which are worth checking out. So be sure to check the local calendar when planning your trip.
- Relax and Enjoy: Portuguese people are known for their laid-back lifestyle. So take the time to relax and soak in the beauty of Portugal.
Recommended Tours
Our Personally Recommended Tour
Final Thoughts
From its enchanting cities to its beautiful landscapes, its rich history, delicious cuisine, and friendly people, Portugal truly has it all. So, why is Portugal Europe’s best kept secret? Perhaps because those who have discovered its charms prefer to keep it to themselves. But now that the secret is out, isn’t it time you discovered Portugal for yourself?
Thank you for reading. Adeus!
Related articles: Best time to visit Portugal
Recommended websites: Visit Portugal Official Website
Author
Nick Harvey
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the best time to visit Portugal? The best time to visit Portugal depends on the region and your interests. Spring and autumn are generally good times to visit most regions, with pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists.
- Do I need a visa to travel to Portugal? As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, citizens of many countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, can visit Portugal visa-free for up to 90 days. However, it’s always best to check the latest visa requirements before you travel.
- What are the Covid-19 travel restrictions for Portugal? Travel restrictions vary and change frequently due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Always check the latest information from reliable sources before planning your trip.
- What is the currency in Portugal? Portugal uses the Euro (€) as its currency.
- Can I use English to communicate in Portugal? Yes, English is widely spoken in Portugal, especially in tourist areas and among younger generations. However, locals always appreciate it when visitors try to learn a few words of Portuguese.
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