Portugal, situated on the Iberian Peninsula in Western Europe, shares its land with Spain. This beautiful country boasts a rich and distinct culture, vibrant cities, and stunning countryside. Portugal's landscape is incredibly diverse, thanks to its unique positioning from North to South along the western coast of the Iberian Peninsula. In just one day, you can journey from the lush green mountains of the North, adorned with vineyards and diverse forests, to the rocky mountains of the Central region, featuring breathtaking cliffs and waterfalls. Continue south, and you'll encounter a nearly desert-like terrain in the Alentejo region, culminating in the glamorous beach destinations of the Algarve. Portugal truly offers an array of landscapes to explore.
Porto: This coastal gem is situated on the picturesque Douro River and is renowned for its exquisite Baroque architecture, impressive bridges, and the production of world-famous port wine. Porto is a fantastic destination for savoring local cuisine and sampling delicious wines.
Douro Valley: Often referred to as the heart of Port Wine Country, this region is nestled in northern Portugal. It boasts a scenic river, a lush valley, and is renowned for its wine production. The Douro Valley is also a popular destination for river cruises.
Lisbon: As Portugal's vibrant capital city, Lisbon is brimming with historical treasures and offers a fantastic culinary experience. This city is best explored on foot, allowing you to immerse yourself in its historic center and picturesque neighborhoods.
The Algarve: Located in the southernmost part of Portugal, the Algarve is famous for its stunning beaches and resort towns. Whitewashed villages perch on rolling hills overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, with over 200 kilometers of coastline waiting to be explored.
Islands of the Azores: Situated in the mid-Atlantic Ocean, the Azores archipelago is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, verdant pastures, and sparkling calderas filled with lakes. These islands offer a unique and breathtaking natural experience.
Portugal can be visited year round. July and August can be quite hot.
Currency: Euro
Language: Portuguese
What makes it special: Portugal is a country of diverse landscapes, rich history, and warm, welcoming people. From the historic streets of Lisbon to the vineyard-covered hills of the Douro Valley and the picturesque beaches of the Algarve, Portugal offers a wide range of experiences for travelers. The delicious cuisine, including fresh seafood and pastries, is a highlight of any visit. Portugal's blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication makes it a delightful destination.
Weather: Portugal can be visited year-round, but the best times to visit are typically spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October) when the weather is pleasant, and crowds are smaller. July and August can be quite hot, especially in the interior regions. Winters are generally mild, making it a suitable destination even in the colder months.
Social customs: Refer to others by their titles; for example, doctor, Senhor, Senhora – unless they give you permission to use just their first name. Never speak Spanish to a Portuguese person. Don't call at mealtimes. Avoid stretching in public as the Portuguese consider this impolite.
