Welcome to Portugal!
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About Portugal
Portugal is the western most country in Europe. It shares the Iberian peninsula with Spain. Even though they have some things in common, Portugal is very different that Spain in many ways. First Portuguese is the main language. Their culture and history is unique to their own country which is one of the oldest in Europe. Actually, besides Athens, Lisbon is the oldest city in Europe. It has had a long history of outsiders overtaking and ruling, like the Celts, the Romans, and the Moors. It established itself as an independent kingdom in 1143 and was ruled by kings until a revolution in 1910.
In the fifteenth century, a member of the Royal Family, Henry “the Navigator” put major effort into sea travel and opened up a school in Sagre which is the farthest southern tip of Portugal. Some call it “the end of the world”. He wanted to open up a trade route with Africa and India, as well as spread Catholocism. The school was established where men, from all over the world, came to learn about ship building, map making and preparation for sea travel. Chirstopher Columbus actually washed up at this shore after being shipwrecked. He stayed and learned about exploration. When he did not get the backing from Portugal, he received support from Spain. The rest is history.
From 1910 to 1972, it was ruled by repressive governments. At one time, it was considered the poorest country in Europe. In 1972 after a coup, it became a more legitimate, forward thinking country. It joined the EU in 1986, which gave it a place at the table and an opportunity for additional economic growth. Now the country is sought after for tourism and investment in industry. Portugal is slightly smaller in size than Hungary or the U.S. state of Indiana. Since it spans from north to south, the weather in the north tends to be more rainy and the terrain more rugged, like Spain’s Galicia in the northwest corner of the Iberian Peninsula. The south can be arid and its climate is mild in winter and very warm.
The regions revolve around the major cities. Lisbon is the most populated city, and is the capital. It sits in the middle of the country near the coast. Porto is in the north and can get temperatures that are a little more rainy and colder. The Duoro River is nearby and is the best place for wine in the country. The south comprises the Faro District and home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The rock formations and terrain make the scenery breathtaking. (Wikipedia: Portugal)
A special thank you to Denis Barbas for his “Memories of Portugal”. He captures the magic in each shot! This video will inspire you to visit this amazing country. Be sure to check out Visit Portugal for the Official Travel Site.
Country Planning Guide
Map of Portugal
Regions of Portugal
- Porto and the North-known for the wine that carries the same name (port wine), lovely rolling hills, winding river and fertile valley, castles, convents, historical locations
- Central-the area souths of Douro and north of the Tagus river. It runs from the west at the coast, inward to Serra Estrela mountain range, Coimbra, the place of the largest university and romantic past of a king and forbidden lover
- Lisbon and Tagus River Valley-Lisbon is filled with incredible history among is many hilly streets, a waterfront dedicated to the age of discovery, Sintra, an area with palaces and castles, and Cascais, the rocky coastline boasting the farthest west of continental Europe
- Alentejo– Just south of Lisbon and north of Algarve is a region that has incredible history and culture, spans from the coastline inward to places like Evora, a former Roman town with many relics, and Monsararaz, a mountain town with medieval architecture
Algarve-The southern coastline consists of a long stretch of fabulous sandy beaches, broken up by extraordinary rugged red cliffs and fantastic grottoes, only 2/12 hours from Lisbon, it is worth the trip to include the multitudes of sandy beaches and sunshine
- Azore Islands and Madeira are islands that are part of Portugal
Geography Now
For a hilarious yet informative few minutes on Portugal, check out Geography Now by clicking on the flag below. Paul Barbato & friends will enlighten you on geography, history, people, and other interesting facts. Click HERE to see their other videos as Geography Now works through the alphabet of countries.
What to Know Before You Go
Check out the content in each slider to help you prepare for your trip to Portugal! We will share with you information on the best time to go, culture, language & currency. We also give suggestions on transportation and cost saving ideas. Learn more about the culture and food so you are ready of the best trip ever!
*Be sure to click on the slider to stop and read, and click again to move forward or the button at the top right.
The best time to visit Portugal is in the shoulder season. That is April-June and September-October. It is very hot in the summer and in places like the Algarve, the prices can increase by 30%. Whether wine tasing and vineyards in the Duoro valley, a great tour of Lisbon and its castles, or the beautiful sands of the Faro District or Algarve, there is really something for everyone. The surf, especially in the north is some of the best in the world, and surprisingly winter is the best time to enjoy the surf. There is a very cool town called Ereceria, which caters to the surfing crowd all year round.
it is hard to focus in one one particular piece of culture as there is so much pride and history in this country that is is everywhere you turn. From the beautiful handcrafted tiles, exquisite linens, and incredible winemaking to the traditional foods and heartwarming music (called Fado). It is easy to include these important traditions to appreciate the people and culture. I highly recommend viewing Fado music in a venue to get a full appreciation of their connection to this type of music. And don't forget the tapas (called Petiscos). Check out information in Lisbon to find out more about the music and food. Portuguese is the language of Portugal.
It is very easy to rent a car in Portugal. The highways are easy to use and can get you from Lisbon to Algarve in the south in less than 3 hours. In Algarve we suggest a boat trip or kayaking among the caves. It is a terrific experience. Another suggestion is to hire a driver or cab to visit the sites near Lisbon and Sintra, including the Castelo dos Mouros, Belem, and Pena Palace. Parking can be a challenge with tight roads, so it is an option. In Lisbon there are funiculars (which are trolly cars on rails) The town is hilly so it is a great experience to catch one while there. These trolley cars of Lisbon was the world’s very first street funicular. If you head to Lisbon, check it out!
There are many ways to avoid crowds and get a local experience without a huge investment. The Fado bars offer an all in one dinner and show but this can be touristy and costly. It is easy to find local establishments that offer this traditional music without the price tag. In each city and village, there are ways to find authentic restaurants and hiking paths. In any city near the water, grab a bottle of wine and snacks and watch the sunset. There are ways to appreciate your surroundings without much cost.
There are so many amazing castles and estates to visit while in Portugal. Porto and Lisbon have amazing squares with historic monuments. Near Lisbon and Sintra, take a look at the Castelo dos Mouros, Palacio de Belem, and Pena Palace. Even if you do not visit inside, these sites are amazing! Another suggestion is to visit one of the many gorgeous wineries. Many of the wineries are near Porto in the Duoro Valley. look up Portuguese wineries on Tripadvisor, to get a list of locations that are nearby. Algarve has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The coastline is filled with amazing cliffs and rock formations.
The Portuguese have so many traditional foods and dessert. With so much coastline it is easy to believe that there are many fish dishes including cod, octopus and sardines. Bifanas are traditional Portuguese pork sandwiches, so popular that you’ll find them everywhere in the country. Another type of sandwich includes marinated pork and crunchy white bread with a special sauce. You will find in about every bakery throughout Portugal, the Pastel de Nata. this is an iconic dessert that resembles a custard tart. You also might see something called Conventual Desserts which are made with egg yolks, sugar, almonds and cinnamon. The many convents made these bakery items and sold them to make money for the parish. The wine is some of the best I have tasted. It is grown in many areas of Portugal including the Douro Region and Alejante which climate resembles California.
Portugal joined the EU in 1986 and uses the Euro like much of Europe. Keep in mind exchange areas will charge a surcharge for money exchange. The best option is to use a credit card when possible or an ATM periodically. Another piece of advice for travelling with a passport is to make a photocopy and keep in another secure location in luggage. Many people speak English so no need to learn Portuguese (although a few words go a long way). Tipping is not expected but will not be refused. Rounding up is a way to show appreciation. Also it is good to get a Euro app to know the currency exchange rate.
Of course a passport is needed when arriving in Portugal, through the airport. Many hotels and AirBNBs will check identification as well. It is best to call your mobile phone carrier to find out about international plans. There are also ways to locate mobile wifi. The electrical outlets in Portugal are the same as those in neighboring Spain: Type C and Type F. They both have two round holes, but Type F also has two grounding clips, while Type C is ungrounded. In Lisbon and throughout Portugal, Type F tends to be the more common outlet type.
Oliver Astrologo ~ Portugal
You will be amazed and inspired by this incredible look at Portugal! Oliver has an amazing ability to bring the culture and vibrance of a city right to you. He travels from north to south, sharing what makes this little known country, shine! And do not forget to see Oliver’s other works of art on Youtube as he travels to Venice, Rome, Japan, and more or click HERE.
Top Destinations
Get Inspired - Podcasts, Blogs & Video
Portugal Top 10
Ryan Shirley showcases the best places in Portugal. He has traveled the world and shares these experiences with us. This is great to watch before setting up your itinerary.
Janz Anton-Iago left his office job in London to take a risk on a country he had only read about. He has done an amazing job showcasing the cities and towns of Portugal. Check out his website and videos to learn more. He is one of the most thoughtful, introspective and inspiring film-makers we have come across.
Besides the podcast, Rick Steves provides excellent resources with video, and articles. Be sure to look for Rick Steves Travel Talks Podcast, where he discusses destinations, culture & people. Click the title to be taken to the Portugal page where you can get access to all of these resources. The city audio guides are terrific!
Eight Miles From Home can be found on YouTube as Jmayel, Sacha, their beautiful daughter Story take you on an adventure around Portugal. This amazing family left their life in England to travel the world and share their experiences. Nowadays you can catch them in the Philippines.
The Amateur Traveler is a great podcast that takes you all over the world. This episode focuses on Algarve and the places that take you outside of the crowds. In the summer, Algarve (southern Portugal) can get crowded but there are some great ways to enjoy yourself away from the hustle and bustle.
Top 10 Touropa
Touropa gives us the top places to visit in Portugal. This country has so much to offer so this video will inspire you to start planning your itinerary. Click Explore More for a detailed travel guide filled with so many great suggestions.
World Wild Hearts
One of our favorite traveling couples, Ine and Zac, spent last summer in Portugal and share their top 15 favorite places. Check the out at our Portugal city pages and click Explore More to spend time at their blog. You will find videos, articles, and a lot more.
Get Inspired - Portuguese Recipes!
