Portugal

Portugal captivates with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. One of its most iconic landmarks is the Torre de Belém in Lisbon, a UNESCO World Heritage site that symbolizes Portugal's Age of Discovery. Another must-see is Sintra, which is famed for its fairy tale-like Pena Palace, which is nestled in the beautiful forests overlooking the town. Porto offers charming riverside views and the historic Dom Luís I Bridge, while the Douro Valley offers incredible vineyards and terraced hillsides, perfect for wine enthusiasts! For a cultural immersion, the University of Coimbra beckons with its centuries-old architecture and majestic Joanina Library. From Lisbon to Porto and beyond, Portugal promises an unforgettable journey.

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Must-Visit Attractions in Portugal

• Belém Tower Tickets: Climb spiral stairs, visit old cannons, and see city views.
• Jerónimos Monastery Tickets: Walk around the UNESCO World Heritage Site and enjoy the Manueline architectural style
• Oceanário de Lisboa Tickets: Embark on a marine voyage across the globe's oceans in Lisbon!
• National Palace of Pena and Park Tickets: Wander through a Romanticist masterpiece perched atop Sintra's mountains.
• Benagil Caves Boat Tours Tickets: Uncover the hidden wonders of the Algarve with Benagil cave boat tours
• LISBOA CARD: A very popular pass for Lisbon - access to multiple attractions.

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Useful Information for Portugal

• Portugal Dialling Code: +351
• Official Language: Portuguese
• Currency: The Euro (€)
• Emergency Number: 112

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5 Fun Facts About Portugal

• Portugal is one of the oldest countries in Europe: Portugal’s borders have been largely unchanged since 1139, making it one of the oldest nation-states in Europe!
• The world’s oldest bookstore is in Portugal: Bertrand Bookstore in Lisbon has been in continuous operation since 1732 and holds the Guinness World Record for the oldest operating bookstore!
• Portugal is the largest cork producer in the world: About 50% of the world’s cork comes from Portugal, making cork oak forests a key part of the country’s landscape and economy!
• Lisbon is older than Rome: Lisbon is one of the oldest cities in Europe! It predates Rome by centuries, having been founded by the Phoenicians around 1200 BC!
• ‍Portugal was the first global maritime empire: During the Age of Discovery in the 15th and 16th centuries, Portugal established a vast empire that stretched from Brazil to parts of Africa, India, and Asia, leading to major advancements in navigation and trade!

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Tips for Visiting Portugal

• Plan for Diverse Destinations: Explore both urban areas like Lisbon and Porto and natural wonders like the Douro Valley, Algarve beaches, and the Azores or Madeira islands. Each region offers a unique experience.
• Time Your Visit: Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to October) are ideal for mild weather and smaller crowds. Summer gets a lot busier, especially in coastal areas.
• Embrace Public Transportation: Portugal has a well-connected train system, particularly for traveling between Lisbon, Porto, and Coimbra. In cities, trams and metros are convenient. There is even a famous tram line in Lisbon called Tram 28.
• Learn Basic Portuguese Phrases: As we always say, learn a few words in the local language, so for Portugal, it would be Portuguese. The locals really do appreciate it! Many locals will speak English, especially in tourist areas, but just using greetings like "Olá" (Hello) and "Obrigado/Obrigada" (Thank you) shows respect and you will see it makes them smile!
• Indulge in Local Cuisine: Don’t miss traditional dishes like:
• Bacalhau (salted cod)
• Francesinha (a hearty sandwich in Porto)
• Pastéis de Nata (custard tarts)
• Pair your meals with port wine or Vinho Verde.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: Cities like Lisbon and Porto are hilly, with cobblestone streets that can be tough on feet. Comfortable, sturdy shoes are a must!
• Visit Smaller Towns: Beyond the major cities, charming towns like Sintra, Évora, Óbidos, and Guimarães showcase Portugal's history and character.
• Local Customs: Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory (rounding up or leaving 5-10% is common in restaurants).
• ‍Beaches: The Algarve boasts some of Europe’s best beaches, but consider lesser-known options like Comporta or Costa Vicentina for a quieter experience.