Portugal Travel Tips

Portugal is another top tourist destination in Southwestern Europe with its sunny climate, extensive and diverse shore lines. It is situated in the western part of the Iberian Peninsula and borders the Atlantic Ocean along the south and west coasts. The towns in Portugal are a charm to travelers, and one can discover historical rural dwellings with traditions carefully preserved even though this is a modern European country.

Lisbon cityscape

Contemporary-styled lofty buildings and resorts can be found along the coast of Algarve in the south, while numerous luxury tourist resorts abound along the western coasts of Lisbon. To get a bit of Portugal’s history and go back to its past, just a little trip to the east or north will reward travelers with picturesque countryside impression, with scenes of towns and villages reminiscent of the medieval times.

History and Language

Lisbon is the capital city of Portugal, and Portuguese is the official spoken language; although in some areas, Mirandese, the second official language, is spoken. It is interesting to know that Portugal was once a world power in the past, along with Spain during the 15th and 16th centuries, until some events led to its decline such as the 1755 earthquake, the invasion of Napoleon and the independence of Brazil.

Sunset at Cascais

Weather

Portugal’s climate is considered one of the warmest in Europe and can be categorized into two, oceanic climate in the northern part and Mediterranean climate in the southern part. Average mainland temperature in the north is 13 degrees Celsius and 18 degrees Celsius in the south. Weather is hot as well as dry during summer, cold and also wet during winter. As a travel tip, it is best to have a vacation in Portugal during autumn and spring.

Tourist Attractions

There are numerous tourist spots in Portugal such as the Castelo de Sao Jorge (or the Castle of St. George), the Marian shrine in Fatima, Bairro Alto district, Torre de Belem (or Tower of Belem, a UNESCO World Heritage Site), Alfama (the oldest part of Lisbon), Parque das Nações (Park of the Nations), and many other attractions such as museums, cathedrals, and historical structures and towns.

Torre de Belem (Tower of Belem)

Tourist Tips

Generally, casual attire would do. Beach wear is not recommended when visiting towns. Most restaurants allow smoking but this is prohibited in cinemas, theatres and buses. When giving tips, it is usually 10% to 15% for dining and hotel services, and 10% for taxi cabs. Electricity is 220 volts/50 Hz; plug types used are the “Type C” Europlug and the “Type E” and “Type F” Schuko plug.