Discover the Beauty and Culture of Portugal: A Travel Guide
Sitting upon the Iberian Peninsula with plenty to offer both short- and long-term visitors, Portugal’s greatest attraction is its gorgeous coastline. The southern region of the Algarve is a firm favourite, where an array of top-class beach resorts, once sleepy fishing villages, provide luxurious oceanside accommodation.
The region’s fine, year-round climate and ease of access mean that it’s a hugely popular winter sun vacation destination. Additionally, there are several low-cost European carriers providing cheap direct flights to the Algarve. It also serves well as the perfect place for a weekend getaway when the daily grind of city life becomes too much. Seaside towns like Albufeira and Lagos are home to some of the best beach resorts in the Algarve, providing a heady mixture of sheltered beaches, outstanding natural scenery and high-quality lodgings.
There is far more to Portugal than its beaches, however. As anyone who has ever set foot in Lisbon’s historic Alfama district, or travelled to the medieval town of Evora will tell you, the country is home to some breathtaking architecture and cultural treasures. Notable tourist sights in Lisbon include the Jeronimos Monastery and its Manueline architecture, the iconic Monument to the Discoveries and the most-photographed building in all of Portugal, the Tower of Belem.
There are also skiing opportunities found in the Serra Estrela Mountains. This craggy, forested mountain range is also a great area for walking and hiking trails, and is the place to go for those craving the pampering of a spa resort holiday in Portugal.
Key Facts
- Language:
- Portuguese is the official language, but English is widely spoken and understood.
- Passport/Visa:
All visitors, except EEA member states, must hold tickets and documents for their return or onward journey, and proof of paid accommodation (equivalent in convertible currency accepted). The borderless region known as the Schengen area includes the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lichtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland. All these countries issue a standard Schengen visa that has a multiple entry option that allows the holder to travel freely within the borders of all. It is highly recommended that passports have at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
- Currency:
The official currency is the Euro (EUR), which is divided into 100 cents. There are numerous banks, bureaux de change and ATMs available in main cities and tourist destinations. Foreign currency can be exchanged at banks, bureaux de change and automatic currency exchange machines. Banking hours are generally 8.30am to 3pm Monday to Friday. Major credit cards are widely accepted.
- Electricity:
- Electrical current is 230 volts, 50Hz. Round two-pin plugs are used.
Overview
Sightseeing in Portugal consists of a warm climate, charming ports and friendly people. The sea has always been the country’s first love, with the golden beaches and soaring cliffs of the Algarve attract millions of visitors every year. Vibrant, energetic tourist resorts in the south give way to the natural treasures of the Parque Natural de Ria Formosa.
The trademark seven hills of Portugal’s historic capital city, Lisbon, stand over a colourful city. Visitors can wind their way through Lisbon aboard the famous Tram 28, and experience mournful Fado music in the Alfama district. Not to be missed is a day trip to the picturesque town of Sintra, nestled in the mountains north of Lisbon. Equally impressive is the walled town of Obidos, with its hilltop castle now turned into a luxury pousada (inn).
Not far away lie the mysterious megalithic monuments of the Cromeleque dos Almendres, situated just outside the lively university town of Evora. Porto, in the north, is an edgy city boasting a historic centre and great food and drink, as well as being a gateway to the famous Port-producing region of the Douro Valley. On the way north to Porto, visitors should stop to take in the atmosphere in Coimbra, former medieval capital of Portugal and home to the country’s oldest university dating back to the 13th century.
Portugal’s historic seafarers uncovered yet more delights in their travels west. The tiny island of Madeira is known as a ‘floating garden’, hiding a botanical wonderland and famous fortified wine behind its soaring ocean cliffs. Further west lies the Azores, dramatic island landscapes shaped by geological forces within the earth. Visitors can indulge in watersports, see whales and dolphins, hike to volcanic craters and explore the lush scenery.
Climate in Portugal
The weather in Portugal is among the warmest in Europe, with an average temperature of around 55°F (15°C) in the north, and 64°F (18°C) in the south. The average annual rainfall is as high as 118 inches (300cm) in the northern mountains, but countrywide is closer to 43 inches (110cm).
Southern Portugal has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters. There is very little rain and summers are warm, but refreshing sea breezes make for pleasant conditions. Summer temperatures in the Algarve can pass 86°F (30°C), and reach as high as 116°F (47°C) in the Alentejo.
In the north, the weather is wetter, particularly in winter, and cooler, with temperatures influenced by Atlantic currents and the Spanish Meseta.
The climate of the Azores and Madeira is subtropical with some variation from island to island. Much of the Azores experiences dry summer months with warm temperatures year-round.
The best time to travel to Portugal is during spring (April and May) and autumn (September and October) when days are pleasantly sunny and warm but tourist areas are relatively quiet. These seasons also offer cheaper rates at hotels and less crowded beaches, restaurants and golf courses.
Health Notes when travelling to Portugal
There are no health risks when travelling to Portugal. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is necessary for entry for anyone travelling from an infected area and destined for the Azores or Madeira. Health facilities are good and reciprocal health agreements exist with most European countries. It’s advisable that travellers obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) before travel. Dental care and repatriation costs are not covered under this agreement, and travel insurance is therefore advised.
After Brexit, the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) replaced the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for UK citizens. The GHIC allows UK citizens access to state healthcare during visits to the EU.
Safety Notes when travelling to Portugal
Generally, safety is not a problem for travel in Portugal but reasonable care should be taken. Road maintenance is fairly poor so exercise caution and drive defensively when driving.
Customs in Portugal
Family is an important pillar of Portuguese society, with familial loyalty overriding everything, even in the corporate environment. Thus it’s not uncommon for employers to hire family members as they feel comfortable around those they trust. Self-respect through appearance is also of high importance, with dressing smart for all occasions not a rare occurence. In terms of cuisine, the Portuguese love seafood as well as sweet treats like honey cakes and pasteis. As a nation which is predominately Roman Catholic and conservative, overly exuberant foreigners are frowned upon while lateness and informal etiquette is also considered rude.
Duty Free in Portugal
Travellers over 17 years arriving from non-EU countries do not have to pay duty on 200 cigarettes, 100 cigarrilos, 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco; 4 litres of wine, 16 litres of beer and 1 litre of spirits over 22% or 2 litres of liquor less than 22% volume; 50g of perfume and 250ml of eau de toilette; other goods up to the value of €430 for air and sea travellers.
Doing Business in Portugal
Business culture in Portugal observes a strict hierarchical top-down approach to management and leadership. Subordinate employees are expected to do as they are told. Strong business relationships are built on trust between colleagues, and personal connections are important.
Business etiquette is formal yet relaxed. Use titles such as ‘Señhor’ and ‘Señhora’ until strictly instructed not to do so, and show deference to those in obvious positions of authority. Business meetings in Portugal must be made by appointment.
The dress code in Portugal is strictly smart and formal – with a strong emphasis placed on presentation. Business hours in Portugal vary, but are generally from 8.30am to 1pm, and 3pm to 6pm, from Monday to Friday.
Communication in Portugal
The international access code for Portugal is +351, and wifi is available in most hotels, cafes and restaurants throughout Portugal.
Tipping in Portugal
Service charges are not usually added to hotel and restaurant bills but it’s customary to leave a 10 percent tip. Bar staff and taxi drivers also expect tips, which usually entails rounding up the bill to the nearest Euro.
Passport/Visa Note
All visitors, except EEA member states, must hold tickets and documents for their return or onward journey, and proof of paid accommodation (equivalent in convertible currency accepted). The borderless region known as the Schengen area includes the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lichtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland. All these countries issue a standard Schengen visa that has a multiple entry option that allows the holder to travel freely within the borders of all. It is highly recommended that passports have at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Entry Requirements
- Entry requirements for Americans:
US nationals do not require a visa for a stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. A passport valid for at least three months beyond period of intended stay is required.
- Entry requirements for Canadians:
Canadians do not require a visa for a stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. A passport valid for three months beyond period of intended stay is required.
- Entry requirements for UK nationals:
UK nationals do not require a visa for a stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. A passport valid for at least three months beyond period of intended stay is required.
- Entry requirements for Australians:
Australian nationals do not require a visa for a stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. A passport valid for three months beyond period of intended stay is required.
- Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
Irish nationals do not require a visa to visit Portugal. A passport valid on arrival is required.
- Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
New Zealand nationals do not require a visa for a stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. A passport valid for three months beyond period of intended stay is required.
- Entry requirements for South Africans:
South African nationals require a passport valid for at least three months beyond period of intended stay, and a Schengen visa.
Tourist Offices
Institute of Portugal Tourism, Lisbon: +351 211 205 050 or http://www.visitportugal.com
Portugal Embassies
- In the United States:
Portuguese Embassy, Washington, United States: +1 202 350 5400.
- In Canada:
Portuguese Embassy, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 729 0883
- In the United Kingdom:
Portuguese Embassy, London, United Kingdom: +44 207 235 5331.
- In Australia:
Consulate General of Portugal, Sydney, Australia: +61 2 9262 2199
- In Ireland:
Portuguese Embassy, Dublin, Ireland: +353 1 412 7040
- In New Zealand:
Portuguese Consulate, Auckland, New Zealand: +64 9 255 2569
- In South Africa:
Portuguese Embassy, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 12 341 2340
Foreign Embassies in Portugal
- American Embassy
United States Embassy, Lisbon: +351 21 727 3300
- Canadian Embassy
Canadian Embassy, Lisbon: +351 21 316 4600
- British Embassy
British Embassy, Lisbon: +351 21 392 4000
- Australian Embassy
Australian Embassy, Lisbon: +351 21 310 1500
- Irish Embassy
Irish Embassy, Lisbon: +351 21 330 8200
- New Zealand Embassy
New Zealand Consulate, Lisbon: +351 21 314 0780
- South African Embassy
South African Embassy, Lisbon: +351 21 319 2200
Public Holidays Around the World
Planning your year? Knowing public holidays in different countries can help you plan trips, schedule events, or understand global schedules. Below, find a comprehensive list of public holidays sorted by country.
