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Portugal is a country that has a lot to offer to the travelers who want to discover its beauty, diversity, and charm. Portugal is located in southwestern Europe, on the Iberian Peninsula, and has a long coastline along the Atlantic Ocean. It has a rich and varied heritage, influenced by the Romans, the Moors, the Christians, and the explorers. It also has some of the most stunning landscapes in the world, from the green mountains and valleys of the north, to the golden plains and beaches of the south, to the volcanic islands of the Azores and Madeira. In this article, we will explore some of the main attractions and tips for travelers who want to discover Portugal.
Destinations
Portugal has many destinations to suit different tastes and interests. Here are some of the most popular ones
- Lisbon : The capital and the largest city of Portugal, Lisbon is a vibrant and colorful city that combines the old and the new. You can visit the Belém Tower, a 16th-century fortress that is a symbol of the Age of Discovery; the Jerónimos Monastery, a 16th-century monastery that is a masterpiece of the Manueline style; the São Jorge Castle, a medieval castle that offers a panoramic view of the city; and the Alfama, the oldest and most picturesque neighborhood of the city, where you can listen to fado, the traditional music of Portugal.
- Porto : The second-largest city and the cultural capital of Portugal, Porto is a historic and charming city that is famous for its wine, architecture, and art. You can visit the Ribeira, the riverside district and the UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can see the colorful houses, the boats, and the bridges; the São Bento Station, a 19th-century train station that is decorated with azulejos (ceramic tiles) that depict the history of Portugal; the Clérigos Tower, a 18th-century baroque tower that is the landmark of the city; and the Port Wine Cellars, where you can taste the famous port wine, a fortified wine that is produced in the Douro Valley.
-Algarve : The southernmost region and the most popular tourist destination of Portugal, Algarve is a paradise for sun-seekers, beach-lovers, and golfers. You can visit the Albufeira, the largest and liveliest resort town, where you can enjoy the nightlife, the restaurants, and the water sports; the Lagos, a historic and scenic town, where you can see the old walls, the churches, and the cliffs; the Sagres, a small and quiet town, where you can see the Cabo de São Vicente, the southwesternmost point of Europe; and the Faro, the capital and the gateway of the region, where you can see the cathedral, the museum, and the old town.
- Sintra : A fairy-tale town and a UNESCO World Heritage site, Sintra is a magical and romantic place that is surrounded by hills, forests, and palaces. You can visit the Pena Palace, a 19th-century palace that is a colorful and eclectic mix of styles, such as Gothic, Moorish, and Renaissance; the Quinta da Regaleira, a 20th-century estate that is full of symbols, mysteries, and secrets, such as tunnels, wells, and grottoes; the Moorish Castle, a 10th-century castle that is a remnant of the Islamic occupation of Portugal; and the National Palace, a 15th-century palace that is the oldest and the best-preserved royal residence in Portugal.
Cities
Portugal has many cities that offer different attractions and experiences. Here are some of the most notable ones
- Coimbra : A university city and a former capital of Portugal, Coimbra is a cultural and intellectual center of the country. You can visit the University of Coimbra, one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Europe, which has a magnificent library, a chapel, and a tower; the Old Cathedral, a 12th-century Romanesque cathedral that is one of the oldest in Portugal; the Santa Cruz Monastery, a 12th-century monastery that is the burial place of the first kings of Portugal; and the Quinta das Lágrimas, a 19th-century palace and a hotel, where the tragic love story of Pedro and Inês took place.
- Évora: A historic and charming city and a UNESCO World Heritage site, Évora is a treasure trove of monuments and art. You can visit the Roman Temple, a 1st-century temple that is one of the best-preserved in the Iberian Peninsula; the Cathedral, a 13th-century Gothic cathedral that has a cloister, a museum, and a tower; the Bones Chapel, a 16th-century chapel that is decorated with the bones and skulls of more than 5,000 monks; and the Giraldo Square, the main square and the center of the city, where you can see the fountain, the church, and the arcade.
- Aveiro : A coastal and colorful city and the Venice of Portugal, Aveiro is a lovely and lively place that is famous for its canals, boats, and sweets. You can visit the Ria de Aveiro, a lagoon that is connected to the sea by four channels, where you can take a boat ride and see the salt pans, the islands, and the birds; the Moliceiros, the traditional and painted boats that are used to collect seaweed and transport people; the Art Nouveau, the architectural style that is characterized by the curved lines, the floral motifs, and the ironwork; and the Ovos Moles, the typical and delicious sweets that are made of egg yolks and sugar, and wrapped in wafer.
- Braga : The religious and the oldest city of Portugal, Braga is a sacred and splendid place that is known for its churches, sanctuaries, and festivals. You can visit the Cathedral, the oldest and the most important church in Portugal, which has a Romanesque nave, a Gothic choir, and a baroque organ; the Bom Jesus do Monte, a 18th-century sanctuary that is located on a hill and has a monumental staircase, a basilica, and a funicular; the Sameiro, a 19th-century sanctuary that is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and has a dome, a tower, and a park; and the São João, a popular and festive celebration that takes place on June 24th and involves music, dancing, and hitting people with plastic hammers.
Hotels
Portugal has a wide range of hotels to suit different budgets and preferences. You can choose from luxury hotels, boutique hotels, rural hotels, hostels, and more. Here are some examples of hotels in Portugal
- Bairro Alto Hotel : A five-star hotel located in Lisbon, Bairro Alto Hotel offers a stylish and sophisticated stay. It has 87 rooms and suites, which are spacious and elegant, with balconies overlooking the city or the river. It also has a spa, which offers massages, facials, and body treatments, using natural and organic products. It also has a restaurant, which serves Portuguese and Mediterranean cuisine, a bar, which offers cocktails and live music, and a rooftop terrace, which offers a stunning view of the city and the river.
- The Yeatman : A five-star hotel located in Porto, The Yeatman offers a luxurious and relaxing stay. It has 109 rooms and suites, which are bright and spacious, with terraces overlooking the city or the river. It also has a spa, which offers a range of treatments, including vinotherapy, a therapy that uses wine and grapes. It also has two restaurants, which serve Portuguese and international cuisine, a bar, which offers wine and port, and a wine cellar, which has more than 25,000 bottles of wine.
- Vila Vita Parc Resort & Spa : A five-star hotel located in Algarve, Vila Vita Parc Resort & Spa offers a paradisiacal and exclusive stay. It has 170 rooms and suites, which are comfortable and elegant, with balconies or terraces overlooking the sea or the garden. It also has a spa, which offers massages, facials, and body treatments, using natural and local products. It also has 10 restaurants, which serve Portuguese, Italian, Japanese, and international cuisine, a bar, which offers cocktails and live music, and a beach, which offers sunbeds, umbrellas, and water sports.
- Tivoli Palácio de Seteais : A five-star hotel located in Sintra, Tivoli Palácio de Seteais offers a royal and enchanting stay. It is housed in a 18th-century palace, which was once the residence of a nobleman. It has 30 rooms and suites, which are decorated with antique furniture, fabrics, and art. It also has a spa, which offers massages, facials, and body treatments, using natural and local products. It also has a restaurant, which serves Portuguese and international cuisine, a bar, which offers wine and tea, and a garden, which offers a panoramic view of the town and the mountains.
Meals and Restaurants
Portugal has a delicious and diverse cuisine, influenced by the sea, the land, and the world. Portuguese food is simple, hearty, and flavorful, using ingredients such as olive oil, garlic, parsley, and coriander. Some of the typical dishes are
-Bacalhau : A salted and dried cod fish that is the national dish of Portugal and can be cooked in more than 365 ways, such as bacalhau à brás (shredded cod with potatoes, eggs, and olives), bacalhau com natas (cod with cream and cheese), and bacalhau à Gomes de Sá (cod with onions, potatoes, and boiled eggs).
- Caldo verde : A soup made of potatoes, kale, onion, garlic, and chorizo (a spicy sausage), usually served with bread and cheese. Caldo verde is a traditional and comforting dish that is often eaten on special occasions, such as Christmas and New Year's Eve.
-Pastéis de nata : A pastry made of flaky crust and custard filling, sprinkled with cinnamon and sugar. Pastéis de nata are the most famous and delicious sweets in Portugal, and can be found in every bakery and cafe. The best place to try them is the Pastéis de Belém, a 19th-century pastry shop in Lisbon that has the original and secret recipe.
- Francesinha : A sandwich made of bread, ham, cheese, steak, and sausage, covered with melted cheese and a spicy tomato and beer sauce, and served with fries and a fried egg. Francesinha is a hearty and indulgent dish that originated in Porto and is considered one of the best sandwiches in the world.
Portugal has many restaurants that offer a variety of cuisines, from traditional to international. Here are some examples of restaurants in Portugal
- Ramiro : A famous and popular restaurant located in Lisbon, Ramiro serves the best seafood and fish in the city, such as clams, prawns, crab, lobster, and sardines. The restaurant has a simple and casual decor, with wooden tables, paper napkins, and a queue outside. The restaurant also has a beer dispenser, which offers cold and refreshing beer.
- Cantinho do Avillez : A modern and chic restaurant located in Porto, Cantinho do Avillez offers a fusion of Portuguese and international cuisine, such as octopus salad, duck rice, and chocolate cake. The restaurant is owned by José Avillez, one of the most renowned and awarded chefs in Portugal. The restaurant has a stylish and cozy atmosphere, with white walls, black chairs, and colorful paintings.
- Vila Joya : A luxurious and elegant restaurant located in Algarve, Vila Joya offers a fine dining experience that is based on the seasonal and local products, such as sea bass, lamb, and figs. The restaurant is part of the Vila Joya hotel, which is a 17th-century Moorish palace. The restaurant has two Michelin stars and is led by Dieter Koschina, one of the best and most creative chefs in Europe. The restaurant has a refined and romantic setting, with a terrace that overlooks the sea and the garden.
-Tasca do Chico : A cozy and authentic restaurant located in Sintra, Tasca do Chico serves traditional and tasty Portuguese cuisine, such as grilled sardines, roasted chicken, and cheese and ham platter. The restaurant also has live fado, the melancholic and soulful music of Portugal, which is performed by amateur and professional singers. The restaurant has a rustic and friendly decor, with stone walls, wooden tables, and photos of fado singers.
Shopping
Portugal is a paradise for shoppers, who can find a variety of goods, such as ceramics, cork, leather, jewelry, wine, and cheese. Portugal has many places to shop, from traditional markets to modern malls. Here are some of the best places to shop in Portugal
- The Feira da Ladra : The Feira da Ladra, or the Thieves' Market, is the oldest and most famous flea market in Lisbon, where you can find everything from antiques to handicrafts. The Feira da Ladra is held every Tuesday and Saturday, in the Campo de Santa Clara, near the National Pantheon. The Feira da Ladra is a great place to bargain, browse, and discover the local culture.
- The Bolhão Market : The Bolhão Market is the most iconic and authentic market in Porto, where you can find fresh and quality products, such as fish, meat, fruits, vegetables, and flowers. The Bolhão Market is located in a 19th-century building, which has a neoclassical and iron architecture. The Bolhão Market is a great place to taste, smell, and feel the Portuguese cuisine and lifestyle.
- The Loulé Market : The Loulé Market is the most colorful and lively market in Algarve, where you can find regional and seasonal products, such as honey, almonds, figs, and olives. The Loulé Market is held every Saturday, in a 20th-century building, which has a Moorish and Art Nouveau style. The Loulé Market is a great place to shop, chat, and enjoy the atmosphere.
- The Embaixada : The Embaixada, or the Embassy, is a unique and trendy mall in Lisbon, where you can find local and independent brands, such as fashion, design, art, and gastronomy. The Embaixada is located in a 19th-century palace, which has a neo-Arabian and romantic style. The Embaixada is a great place to discover, support, and admire the Portuguese creativity and talent.
Transportation
Portugal has a good and cheap transportation system, which includes buses, trains, trams, metros, and car rentals. Here are some of the main modes of transportation in Portugal
- Buses : Buses are the most common and affordable way to travel in Portugal, especially between cities and towns. Buses are operated by different companies, such as Rede Expressos, Renex, and Eva. Buses are usually comfortable and air-conditioned, but can be crowded and slow. Buses can be booked online, by phone, or at the bus stations.
- Trains : Trains are another option to travel in Portugal, especially for long distances. Trains are operated by the national railway company, CP, which offers different types of services, such as Alfa Pendular (high-speed), Intercidades (intercity), Regional (regional), and Urban (urban). Trains are usually fast and punctual, but can be old and dirty. Trains can be booked online, by phone, or at the train stations.
- Trams : Trams are a charming and nostalgic way to travel in Portugal, especially in Lisbon and Porto. Trams are operated by the municipal transport companies, such as Carris in Lisbon and STCP in Porto. Trams are usually old and wooden, but have a lot of character and history. Trams can be paid by cash, card, or ticket.
- Metros : Metros are a modern and convenient way to travel in Portugal, especially in Lisbon and Porto. Metros are operated by the municipal transport companies, such as Metropolitano de Lisboa in Lisbon and Metro do Porto in Porto. Metros are usually new and clean, but can be busy and noisy. Metros can be paid by card or ticket.
- Car Rentals : Car rentals are a great way to travel in Portugal, especially for exploring the countryside and the coast. Car rentals are available from different companies, such as Avis, Europcar, and Budget. Car rentals are usually expensive and require a valid driver's license, a credit card, and an insurance. Car rentals can be booked online, by phone, or at the airport.
Tips for Travelers
Portugal is a safe and welcoming country, but there are some tips and precautions that travelers should follow to have a pleasant and enjoyable trip. Here are some of the most important tips for travelers in Portugal
- Visa and Passport : Portugal is part of the Schengen Area, which means that travelers from most countries do not need a visa to enter the country for up to 90 days. However, travelers should have a valid passport that is valid for at least six months from the date of entry. Travelers should also have a return or onward ticket, and a proof of sufficient funds.
- Currency and Exchange : Portugal's currency is the euro (EUR), which is divided into 100 cents. The exchange rate is approximately 1 USD = 0.85 EUR. Travelers can exchange money at the banks, the hotels, or the authorized bureaux de change. Travelers should avoid the black market, which is illegal and risky. Travelers should also use the ATMs, which are widely available and offer the best rates.
- Language and Communication : Portugal's official language is Portuguese, but English is widely spoken and understood, especially in the cities and the tourist areas. Spanish and French are also spoken by some people, especially the older and the educated. Travelers can communicate with the locals using simple words and gestures, or using a phrasebook or a translator app. Travelers should also learn some basic Portuguese words and phrases, such as hello (olá), thank you (obrigado/obrigada), and goodbye (adeus).
- Culture and Etiquette : Portugal is a Catholic country, but it is also a secular and tolerant country, where different religions and cultures coexist. Travelers should respect the local customs and traditions, such as dressing modestly, especially in the religious and rural areas; avoiding alcohol, pork, and public displays of affection, especially during Lent; greeting the elders and the women first, and using the two-kiss rule for close friends and family; and tipping the service providers, such as the guides, the drivers, and the waiters.
- Health and Safety : Portugal is a safe country, but travelers should take some health and safety measures, such as getting the recommended vaccinations, such as hepatitis A, typhoid, and tetanus; drinking bottled water and avoiding ice and raw food; carrying a first-aid kit and a sunscreen; avoiding the scammers, the pickpockets, and the beggars; and following the advice of the authorities and the tour operators.
Conclusion
Portugal is a wonderful and diverse country, that has a lot to offer to the travelers who want to discover its beauty, history, and culture. Portugal has a rich and varied heritage, a beautiful and varied nature, a delicious and varied cuisine, and a friendly and hospitable people. Portugal is a destination that will surprise and delight you, and make you want to come back again and again.
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