ABOUT PORTUGAL

Portugal, situated on the Iberian Peninsula in Southern Europe, is a country renowned for its captivating history, diverse culture, and breathtaking landscapes. The capital city, Lisbon, is famous for its picturesque neighbourhoods such as Alfama and Bairro Alto, historic sites including the Belem Tower and Jeronimos Monastery, and a lively nightlife scene that draws visitors from around the world.

The country’s coastline stretches for over 1,700 kilometres, offering an array of stunning beaches, dramatic cliffs, and world-class surfing spots, particularly in regions like the Algarve and Nazaré. Portugal’s interior is equally enchanting, with rolling vineyards, mediaeval castles, and charming villages that showcase the nation’s rich heritage and traditions.

Portugal is also celebrated for its culinary delights, featuring an abundance of fresh seafood, aromatic spices, and hearty stews. Signature dishes like bacalhau (salted cod), caldo verde (kale soup), and pastel de nata (custard tart) are must-tries for any food enthusiast. The country's wine regions, such as the Douro Valley, produce exceptional wines, including the famous Port and Vinho Verde.

In addition to its natural and culinary attractions, Portugal is known for its warm and welcoming people. The Portuguese are proud of their heritage and are eager to share their traditions, festivals, and music, such as Fado, with visitors. The mild Mediterranean climate ensures pleasant weather year-round, making it an ideal destination for both relaxation and adventure.

Whether exploring the bustling streets of Lisbon, lounging on the pristine beaches of the Algarve, or tasting the exquisite wines of the Douro Valley, Portugal offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience. Its blend of historical charm, cultural richness, and natural beauty makes it a beloved destination for travellers from all corners of the globe.

Entry into Portugal

If you are a citizen of a European Union country, it's going to be easy. Portugal is part of the Schengen area, so you can travel there without restrictions, visas and even without a passport - just your country's ID card.

Currency

In Portugal, you pay in euros. Most merchants now routinely accept all payment cards from the world's card associations. However, if you plan to rent a car, carry a credit card. Regular debit cards are usually not accepted for this purpose. There is a very dense network of ATMs in all cities. However, we recommend that you only withdraw money from those operated by banks. If you come across ATMs operated by other operators, such as Euronet, you will likely be charged a withdrawal fee of up to €10, or 10% of the transaction.

Electricity

In Portugal, 230 V AC with a frequency of 5 Hz is standard, as it is throughout continental Europe.

Mobile services

Portugal offers reliable mobile services through major providers like MEO, Vodafone, and NOS, with extensive 4G coverage and expanding 5G networks. Visitors and residents can choose from a variety of prepaid, postpaid, and tourist-specific plans, ensuring flexible and cost-effective connectivity.

SIM cards are widely available, and EU residents benefit from no additional roaming charges, while non-EU visitors can easily access local prepaid options.

However, if you don't have an EU number and need mobile data, we recommend apps like Airalo.

Important telephone numbers

When in Portugal, it's important to know some key telephone numbers along with the country code (+351)

Emergency Services: 112 (for police, fire, and medical emergencies)
Police (non-emergency): +351 217 654 242
Fire Department (non-emergency): +351213 422 222
Roadside Assistance: +351 808 200 520 (Automóvel Club de Portugal - ACP)
Tourist Information: +351 808 209 209 (Portugal Tourism)
ULS Algarve - Hospital de Portimão: +351 282 450 300

Always remember to dial the country code +351 if calling these numbers from an international phone (except 112).

Interesting facts about Portugal

Oldest nation-state
Portugal, the oldest nation-state in Europe, was established in 1139 and has a rich history and cultural heritage. Lisbon, its capital, is one of the oldest cities in Western Europe, predating even Rome by centuries. This historic city is known for its vibrant neighbourhoods, historic sites like the Tower of Belém and Jerónimos Monastery, and Fado music, which is recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.

First global maritime power
During the Age of Exploration in the 15th and 16th centuries, Portugal was the first global maritime power. Portuguese explorers such as Vasco da Gama and Ferdinand Magellan made groundbreaking voyages that opened up sea routes to India, Africa, and South America. This period marked Portugal's significant contribution to global exploration and trade.

The world's oldest bookstore
Portugal is also home to the world's oldest bookstore, Bertrand Bookstore in Lisbon, which was founded in 1732 and continues to operate today. This historic bookstore is a testament to Portugal's long literary tradition.

Tea
In the 17th century, Portugal introduced the habit of drinking tea to the British. Catherine of Braganza, a Portuguese princess who married King Charles II of England, brought the custom of tea drinking to the English court, which later became a beloved British tradition.

Language
The Portuguese language is the sixth most spoken language in the world, with over 230 million speakers. It is the official language of nine countries, including Brazil, Mozambique, Angola, and Portugal, making it a truly global language.

The longest bridge in Europe
Portugal boasts the longest bridge in Europe, the Vasco da Gama Bridge in Lisbon, which stretches over 17 kilometres (10.6 miles). This impressive engineering feat spans the Tagus River and is a vital transportation link for the region.

Music
The country is famous for its unique music genre, Fado, characterised by its melancholic and soulful melodies. Fado songs typically express themes of longing, love, and nostalgia, and this genre holds a special place in Portuguese culture.

Cork
Portugal is one of the largest cork producers in the world, supplying around 50% of the global cork market. Cork oak trees are native to the Mediterranean region, and Portugal's extensive cork forests make it a leading exporter of this sustainable and versatile material.