Useful information for tourists about Portugal, cities and resorts of the country. As well as information about the population, currency of Portugal, cuisine, features of visa and customs restrictions in Portugal.
Geography of Portugal
The Portuguese Republic is the westernmost state in Europe. Located in the southwestern part of the Iberian Peninsula. It borders with Spain and is washed by the Atlantic Ocean.
The northern part of the country is occupied by the low mountains of the Serra da Estrela (height up to 1991 m), the southern and central parts are occupied by the Portuguese lowland, hills and lowlands.
State
State structure
Parliamentary republic with a presidential form of government. The head of government is the prime minister. Parliament is a unicameral Assembly (Council) of the Republic.
Language
Official language: Portuguese
Spanish and English are used.
Religion
Catholics (97%) and Protestants (1%).
Currency
International name: EUR
A euro is equal to 100 cents. In circulation are banknotes in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 euros, as well as coins in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents.
The most convenient way to exchange money is at Lisbon airport (favorable rate, lower commission fee), in banks and hotels the rate is lower, and the fee is higher (in banks the commission is 0.5%). Exchange rates in different banks may differ significantly from each other. Some commercial banks They do not take commissions on transactions worth less than 30 euros. In some private shops and markets you can pay in US dollars.
Traveler's checks are accepted everywhere and have a better rate than cash, but the fees are quite high (up to 13%), with the exception of American Express checks, which can be exchanged without a fee at Amex. Euro checks with a check guarantee card are exchanged in many banks. MasterCard, American Express and Visa credit cards are accepted everywhere. ATMs ("multibancos") are located in all tourist centers.
History of Portugal
Until the Middle Ages, the history of Portugal was inseparable from the history of Spain. In the 2nd century BC. The territory of modern Portugal became part of the Roman province of Lusitania.
In the 5th century AD control of the region passed to the Visigoths, and in the 8th century to the Moors. In 997, the territory between the Douro and Minho rivers (northern Portugal) was conquered from the Moors by King Bermudo II of León. In 1064, King Ferdinand 1 of Castile and Leon captured the territory up to modern Coimbra. The territories conquered from the Moors were divided into several feudal fiefs. In 1093, in gratitude for his help in the war with the Moors, King Alfonso 1 granted Henry of Burgundy the title of Count of Portugal.
After Alfonso's death, Henry refused to recognize the authority of the Kingdom of Castile and started a war. In 1143, Henry's son Alfonso Henriques was proclaimed King of Portugal Alfonso 1 by the Portuguese knights. In 1179, the Pope recognized the independence of Portugal.
Over the next two centuries, the Portuguese kings waged wars with the Moors, eventually ending in the expulsion of the latter from the country. At the beginning of the 15th century, the first large voyages of Portuguese sailors began. In 1418 and 1427, Portuguese sailors discovered Madeira and the Azores and annexed them to Portugal.
In the 17th century, King João IV expelled the Dutch from Brazil and established complete Portuguese dominance in the region. At the beginning of the 19th century, fleeing Napoleon's army, The Royal Family fled to Brazil and ruled Portugal from Brazil from 1807 to 1820.
At the beginning of the 20th century, the republican movement gained strength in Portugal and in 1910, after the revolution, Portugal was proclaimed a republic. One of the darkest pages in the history of Portugal is the reign of dictator Salazar, who came to power in 1932 and created the authoritarian regime of the so-called Estado Novo (new government).
In April 1974, a group of young officers carried out a coup d'état, also called the April Revolution. As a result, democratic reforms began in the country. Portugal is a member of the UN, GATT, IMF, WHO, NATO, EU, Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development.
Until the Middle Ages, the history of Portugal was inseparable from the history of Spain. In the 2nd century BC. the territory of modern Portugal became part of the Roman province of Lusitania....
Popular attractions
Tourism in Portugal
Where to stay
Today, Portugal provides many accommodation opportunities. Here you can find both fashionable hotels and inexpensive campsites, rural houses for rent. Since the hotel business is strictly controlled by the state, the owners try to provide services at the highest level. After all, the slightest discrepancy with the hotel’s “star” rank threatens the deprivation of such a profitable business. Hotels in Portugal are graded from five stars and below.
Hotels in Portugal usually offer half board. The cost of living depends on the location of the hotel, but most resort areas have a uniform pricing policy. Those who prefer the comfort and amenities available only in hotels choose apart-hotels from 2 to 5 stars.
For all lovers home comfort and a measured luxurious life, accommodation is offered in expensive elite estates, which are located in the picturesque countryside. Moreover, the level of service offered is truly high, because such estates correspond to the 5-star category.
Among those who prefer an economical holiday, guesthouses are also very popular - a kind of analogue of a European Bed & Breakfast in the Portuguese style. Guesthouses also have their own categories, namely three, and the highest is usually intended for foreign tourists.
Inns are popular accommodation in Portugal. The peculiarity of such courtyards is their location in ancient buildings, the warm family welcome provided by the owners, as well as high level comfort.
No less colorful are the peasant farms, which involve complete immersion in the life typical of Portuguese rural residents. In addition to accommodation in comfortable pousadas or village houses, you will be offered horse riding, excursions to vineyards, and even participation in agricultural work.
Most campsites are located in resort areas, they have a classification from 1 to 4 stars. This can be either a state campsite for everyone, or closed private campsites, where only club members are allowed to stay.
Motels in Portugal cannot be called the safest or most comfortable to stay. They are usually located near busy highways and are intended for short rest while traveling.
Popular hotels
Excursions and attractions in Portugal
Portugal is one of the oldest countries in Europe. Despite its relatively modest size, it is a very interesting and beautiful country. Its fascinating centuries-old history and rich cultural heritage attract a huge number of tourists every year. Portugal is also famous for its magnificent natural landscapes, excellent resorts, mild climate and relaxed atmosphere of cordiality and hospitality of the local people.
The heart of Portugal and its “pearl”, of course, is its capital Lisbon - one of the most beautiful cities in the world. It is located in an amazingly picturesque location at the mouth of the Tagus River on the Atlantic coast. Spread over seven hills, the historical center of the city impresses with the beauty of magnificent architectural masterpieces from different eras, labyrinths of cobbled streets, many steep stairs and funiculars, as well as an abundance of cozy park areas. Among the most interesting sights of Lisbon, it is worth highlighting the Castle of St. George, the Lisbon Cathedral, the Carmelite Monastery, the National Pantheon of Portugal (Church of Santa Engracia), the palaces of Ajuda and Sao Bento (both in the classicist style), the baroque palaces of Belem and Queluz, the Basilica da Estrela , Jeronimos Monastery and the National Archaeological Museum located on its territory. No less interesting are the churches of St. Roch and St. Vicente di Fora, the Lisbon City Museum, and the National Museum. ancient art, the Puppet Museum, the Oriental Museum, the Music Museum, the Electricity Museum and the Aguas-Libres Aqueduct. Great pleasure will come from visiting the National Theater of São Carlos and the National Theater of Queen Maria II, as well as walking along the famous Avenida da Liberdade (Liberty Avenue) and Figueira Square. If you are vacationing with children, be sure to visit the magnificent Lisbon Zoo, Botanical Garden, Oceanarium and Calouste Gulbekian Planetarium.
The surrounding area of the capital is famous for its many medieval fortresses and castles, the picturesque Arrábida mountain range and the famous Lisbon Riviera, famous for its resorts and nature reserves. About 30 km from Lisbon is the city of Sintra with many royal palaces and magnificent parks. The main attraction of the city is the famous palace complex of Pena Palace. Of great interest are also the National Palace of Sintra, the Regaleira Palace, the ruins of the medieval Castle of the Moors and National Park Sintra-Cascais.
The ancient city of Porto (the former capital of Portugal) is also very popular among tourists. Its historical center, located on the right bank of the Douro River, is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The main attractions of Porto are the Clérigos Tower, the Cathedral, the Episcopal Palace with the Mashado de Castro Museum, the Church of St. Francisco, the two-level Ponte de Don Luis bridge, the Sao Bento train station and the oldest Botanical Garden in the country. A walk along Avenida dos Aliados, as well as a visit to the Ribeira quarter and the city market, will bring you a lot of impressions. The city is famous for its magnificent wine cellars, and in the Porto suburb of Vila Nova de Gaia there is a unique Port Wine Museum.
The Portuguese city-museum of Évora, where historical monuments await tourists literally at every step, and the unusually beautiful city of Aveiro are also famous for their attractions. Also of great interest to tourists are cities such as Guimarães, Braga, Obidos, Coimbra and the world famous pilgrimage center of Fatima. However, you will find many interesting places in all corners of this amazing country.
The most popular resorts in Portugal (besides the Lisbon Riviera) are the Algarve, the Madeira archipelago and the Azores. These places are famous not only for their beautiful beaches and excellent tourist infrastructure, but also for their stunning natural landscapes and protected areas.
Cuisine of Portugal
The main difference between Portuguese cuisine is the use of fish and fish products.
Fish cooking is the main direction of Portuguese cuisine. The favorite dishes of the Portuguese are the already mentioned sardines, tuna (although it is too expensive for the average person), salted cod, crab croquettes and other seafood. Portuguese cuisine is rich in sauces.
In Portugal, fish dishes are more popular than meat dishes; the latter is rarely used here. But if a Portuguese housewife gets down to cooking meat, it turns out extremely tasty. This happens mainly due to the use of a large amount of herbs, garlic, onions and other spices. The national dish is salted cod, which is prepared in more than 150 ways. Most often, cod is eaten with potatoes, hard-boiled eggs and turnip sprouts, seasoned olive oil and vinegar.
Rice is widely used, not only as a side dish for main courses, but also as a dessert - with milk and eggs, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon or lemon peel.
The Portuguese love sweet wine, and among drinks they prefer port wine, as well as white Vimjos and Verdos, which are exported. The Portuguese cook excellent bowls. The country has good beer, but the most common drink is a mixture of syrup, grated lemon zest and fresh water.
Tips
If you are satisfied with the service, leave the waiter about 10% tip. It is also customary for taxi drivers to leave a 10% tip.
Visa
Office hours
Banks are open on weekdays from 8.30 to 15.00, some bank branches in Lisbon and tourist areas close at 18.00, and in large shopping centers Algarve is open daily from 9 to 21 hours. ATMs of the national system "MULTIBANCO" operate around the clock.
Stores are open on weekdays - from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 3 to 7 p.m. On Saturdays, most stores close at 1 p.m.
Purchases
VAT (IVA) is 8% on services and about 10% on goods. The prices must indicate whether VAT is included in the price of the product or service ("IVA incluido") or not ("mas 8% IVA"). Many stores offer tax refunds when purchasing goods over a certain amount (each store varies, but usually no less than 50 euros). You must receive a tax refund check, present your passport, fill out a special form, and the refund must be sent by bank transfer. You can also get a tax refund at customs when leaving the country at Lisbon Airport (international departures hall), Lisbon Seaport, Porto (before passport control) and Funchal airports.
Souvenirs
In Portugal you can buy high-quality and fashionable shoes and clothes, gold items, ceramics, original white or red port wine, and the world famous Portuguese Madeira wine.
Portugal is a country for people who, above all, value comfort and pleasure. While leisurely strolling through the Portuguese streets, you can feel the atmosphere of France or Spain. There is no rush here, which is usual for large tourist cities.
The country honors traditions, a rich historical and architectural heritage, and the main value for the Portuguese is family. Of course, the country's residents know how to enjoy life, surrounding themselves with comfort and creating it for travelers. If you want to see the real Europe - proud and beautiful - come to Portugal, enjoy the aroma of eucalyptus and oranges, try the famous Portuguese wine and plunge into the atmosphere of sad Fado music.
General information
Portugal is the westernmost European country, located on the Iberian Peninsula. On two sides - west and south - the state is washed by the Atlantic Ocean, in the east and north - it borders on Spain. The country covers an area of 92.1 square kilometers and is home to 10.7 million people.
City of Porto
In addition to the mainland, the country includes the Azores and. , the single state language is Portuguese.
Portugal is a unique state; during its existence, the country has experienced rapid ups and downs into a deep abyss. In the 16th century it was a powerful superpower, it included many colonies, but soon the state found itself on the outskirts of Europe. Today Portugal is experiencing another boom.
Great discoveries
It's safe to say that sailors from Portugal changed the world forever. It was the Portuguese who were the first to venture into the waters of the Atlantic and follow the coast of Africa.
Vasco da Gama
The famous navigator Vasco da Gama was the first to reach the western shores of India. His fleet was the first to set foot on the shores of Ceylon and Sumatra. This event marked the beginning of trade relations between Portugal, China and Japan.
Portuguese sailors were the first to reach the shores South America and landed in Brazil. According to some historical data, it was sailors from Portugal who sailed to the shores of North America before Columbus's expedition.
First sea trip around the world, was carried out by the Spaniards, but it was led by the Portuguese Fernando Magellan. The captain did not manage to return triumphantly to his homeland, but the Portuguese sailors gained worldwide fame.
Manueline style
Manueline style, Hotel Bussaco The Portuguese became famous not only for the courage of their sailors. A unique style of architecture, called Manueline, is the personal contribution of masters from Portugal to world architecture. Distinctive feature style - stone carving. The style first appeared in the second half of the 15th century during the reign of monarch Manuel I, after whom the style was named. The architects drew inspiration from the achievements of seafarers. The basis of the style is Gothic, complemented by a lot of decor and decorations. Skilled craftsmen carved amazing marine-themed patterns from stone. The first buildings designed in Manueline style:
- Temple of Jesus in Setubal;
- Belem Tower in Lisbon;
- Jeronimo monastery;
- Chapels of the Batalha Temple.
Interesting to know! In the 16th century, the Manueline style lost its relevance, since in the middle of the century the country became part of Europe, where the Renaissance style was revered.
Traditions and contrasts
Portugal is a country of amazing contrasts. Wanting to keep up with modern Europe, some regions of the country look stylish in a European way. There are also regions where traditions are respected. There are still settlements in Portugal where the land is plowed with oxen and people continue to wear black clothes.
Portuguese girl The centuries-old history of the state left an indelible mark on the appearance of regions, cities and people. The Phoenicians were the first to settle in the country, then the Romans came to power, leaving new cities and high-quality roads as a legacy. Jews worked as medical specialists and artisans. The Moors were skilled builders of fortresses, grew amazing gardens and built settlements where narrow streets were intricately intertwined.
Interesting to know! In the north of the country live people with white skin and blue eyes- descendants of Celts and Germanic tribes. Residents of the southern regions are characterized by olive skin and black eyes.
During difficult times, many residents emigrated from Portugal, but today, during a period of economic prosperity, the country is growing stronger again - new residential buildings are appearing (mainly in the northern regions). The state attracts many immigrants. This is the best proof that Portugal has become a truly democratic, European, stable country.
Short story
The first ancestors of the Portuguese settled on the territory of the modern state in the 4th century BC. Later the Romans conquered the land. The name Portugal comes from the Roman settlement of Portus Calais. In the 5th century the state was under the control of the Visigoths. Two centuries later, power in the territory of the state was consolidated with the Arabs.
Antonio Salazar At the beginning of the 12th century, the country received the status of an independent kingdom. 30 years later, the independence of Portugal was recognized by the Pope. The following years became a great challenge for the Portuguese, as the country fought fierce battles with the Moors.
Since the 15th century, the state has been actively expanding its territory and strengthening its borders - Madeira and Brazil were also included.
At the beginning of the 18th century, the Methuen Agreement was signed, in accordance with this provision, Portugal became completely dependent on England. 100 years later, Napoleon's troops invaded Portuguese territory. However, a year later the invaders left Portugal.
The 19th and 20th centuries were revolutionary for the country. At the beginning of the 20th century, a revolution took place that changed the form of government - Portugal received the status of a republic.
From 1932 and for forty years, the country was ruled by Antonio Salazar. His dictatorial regime was overthrown during the April Revolution. Since then, the country has been moving along the path of democratic reforms.
Economy
In the second half of the 20th century, Portugal was on the list of underdeveloped industrial-agrarian states. In 1986, the state became a member of the EU, after which its economy stabilized.
Solar farm The country's share of the EU's gross domestic product is about 2%. Portugal has the lowest unemployment and inflation rates.
Interesting Facts:
- the country occupies a leading position in the EU in the production of copper concentrate;
- the country produces almost 5% more electricity than it actually consumes;
- most of the electricity is generated through hydropower resources;
- a specific industrial sector, characteristic only of Portugal, is the production of cork;
- The country confidently ranks first in the list of European countries for the extraction and processing of seafood, production of wine, port and olive oil.
Most industrial enterprises are located between the capital and Porto. Highest value for the country has water transport. The country also has 67 airports, the length of roads is 60 thousand km, and railways are only 3 thousand km.
This is interesting! In terms of living standards, Portugal is included in the list of the best thirty countries in the world.
Regions, cities and resorts
Regions of Portugal Many tourists completely in vain limit themselves to visiting only Lisbon and a beach holiday in the Algarve. The most striking and memorable sights are located next to the usual tourist trails; it is enough to move away from the usual route.
Despite the fact that the area of Portugal is twice as large less area Britain, there are hundreds of historical and architectural attractions preserved here. In addition, the country surprises with its variety of landscapes.
In Portugal you can visit about 200 palaces and fortresses, which were built for the ruling monarchs to protect their possessions from attacks by enemies from the sea and land. Each castle is a luxurious, majestic structure, many of them are now hotels and welcome guests in luxurious rooms decorated in historical style.
Street in Lisbon Of course, the most beautiful city in the country is the capital, Lisbon. After the earthquake in 1755, it was completely restored, turning it into a luxurious European capital.
The beaches of the Algarve are located 160 km from Lisbon; Europeans, accustomed to comfort and a mild climate, like to come here. Fans of a relaxing holiday on a sandy shore under the warm sun choose the southern regions of the country, where they can find secluded beaches with golden sand, the clearest ocean, picturesque bays surrounded by steep cliffs.
One of the beaches of the Algarve To the north of the Algarve is the province of Alentejo, famous for its agricultural lands.
University of Évora The main administrative city of the province is one of the oldest. The city is ideal for exploring the original national cuisine. The region is borderland, ancient castles have been preserved here, there are many wheat fields, olive groves, and oak trees grow - raw materials for the production of cork.
To the north of the capital, along the Atlantic coast, there are two regions - Estremadura and Ribatejo. Fishing families live here, the coast is comfortable for a beach holiday, and there is a lot of agricultural land. Tourists come here to visit religious monuments and attractions.
Coimbra in the evening Even further north is the region of forests and mountains - Beiras. This is where tourists come to conquer the highest point of continental Portugal. Beiras is famous for its unique variety of Serra cheese, which is produced only here. Travelers are attracted by fortified cities, amazing lagoons and one of the oldest European universities - the University.
The northern part of the state is radically different from the provinces located in the south and center. The north of the country is covered in hills, where traditions are revered; on the banks of the Douro River, grapes are grown, from which the world-famous port wine is produced.
Madeira Island 
Golf course in the Algarve Portugal attracts sports lovers; the country has comfortable golf courses. You can also engage in horse riding, tennis, and water sports.
Excellent conditions for surfing and fishing are created in the west of Portugal.
Portugal is a country of festivals and various holidays. A distinctive feature of Portuguese festive events is street markets. Major tourist cities have nightclubs, luxury restaurants, and casinos.
Wine Vault If you are planning a gastronomic tour of the country, choose the western regions. Here you will be fed tasty and satisfying food in any restaurant or small cafe. Tourists are offered to taste wines directly at the vineyards.
The most spectacular sports are bullfighting and football. The main difference between Portuguese bullfighting is that the animal remains alive. Fights take place from May to October.
Portugal is a favorite travel destination for the whole family. The hotels have children's pools and sandbanks on the beaches. Older children enjoy exploring the rocky coves.
Interesting to know! The beaches have a flag that indicates the state of the sea. A green flag means the beach is safe and the water is suitable for swimming. A yellow flag warns that it is better to refrain from swimming. A red flag prohibits swimming.
Cork products Shoppers often come to Portugal to buy unique items presented in ancient souvenir shops. Crafts have been preserved in many regions; local craftsmen make beautiful Jewelry, ceramic products. You can purchase natural wool carpets, handmade baskets and, of course, cork products.
Street markets are a special place with a colorful atmosphere. A visit to such a market will be real fun. Street markets operate in many Portuguese cities.
It is important! Residents of countries that are not members of the EU have the right to refund VAT.
To do this, in a store where there is a Tax Free sign, you need to fill out documents. The amount is returned to the card at the airport or after the tourist returns from the trip.
Azulejo tiles - products made of copper and bronze;
- handmade carpets;
- ceramics and azulejos;
- cork products;
- embroidery;
- famous sweets from the Algarve;
- Jewelry;
- leather products;
- music – if you are a true music connoisseur and want to bring back a piece of the soul of Portugal from your trip, be sure to buy a recording of classical fado;
- wine, port, food.
Shops are open from Monday to Friday from 9-00 to 19-00, on Saturday only until 13-00. During the day, all shops close from 13-00 to 15-00. Sunday is a day off. Large shopping centers are open every day, opening at 10-00 and closing around midnight. Markets open at 8-00, trading stops at 12-00.
Culture
The culture of Portugal was formed under the influence of many peoples. The territory of modern Portugal was ruled at different times by Arabs, Romans, Moors, and Spaniards. The Portuguese language comes from a mixture of Arabic and Latin.
The diversity of peoples and traditions has left its mark on the appearance of the provinces and regions of the country. Many cities have retained their original, ancient atmosphere. Traditional for Portugal appearance have northern provinces. The southern part of Portugal is warm, sunny, and attracts with a mild Mediterranean climate.
Female National Costume
Part of the local color, of course, is the national costume; each region has its own. In Portugal it is customary to wear national clothes on holidays. For women, this is a striped or checkered skirt with a brightly colored apron, as well as a snow-white blouse. Men wear short trousers, leggings, a wide belt, a loose shirt and a vest.
Religion and the Catholic faith are especially revered in the country. The facades of many buildings are decorated with the faces of saints and crucifixes. Religion for local residents is a way of life, most holidays and celebrations are of a religious nature, but this does not stop residents from having fun, which is why all events are accompanied by cheerful music, fireworks, theatrical performances and dancing.
The country treats family with special respect. For every Portuguese, family is not only parents and children, but also all relatives. Recently the large family was common in Portugal, but today parents tend to raise no more than two children. The entire family often gathers for lunch and dinner. Family traditions are revered here - the man is the head of the family, and the woman is the keeper of the hearth.
Interesting features of the Portuguese character:
- local residents like to talk a lot and emotionally, accompanying the conversation with gestures;
- There is a certain leisureliness in the character of the Portuguese, they are often late, however, meal time is sacred for them;
- every meal is a kind of ritual, during which you can drink a glass of wine and discuss the news;
- coffee is the national drink of the Portuguese;
- the country sincerely loves football, there are many women among fans of this sport;
- A distinctive feature of the Portuguese is their responsiveness and politeness; in every store it is customary to say hello.
Kitchen
The cuisine of Portugal is wonderful in every sense, and it doesn’t matter where or what you want to eat. The luxurious restaurant and small cafe will serve you delicious dishes.
National tuna dish Spices are used sparingly in dishes, only to highlight the taste of the main ingredients. Almost no hot pepper is added. Portuguese cuisine can be described in two words: simple and delicious.
In every province, tourists are treated to specialties. You can safely order fish and seafood, since the freshest products are used for cooking. Sweet lovers, of course, will not be able to resist the abundance of various desserts.
Of course, it is impossible to visit Portugal without trying wine and port. Port wine is considered the hallmark of the country, white varieties are served as an aperitif, and red varieties are perfect for desserts.
If you're on holiday in Madeira, be sure to try their swordfish dishes.
There are as many wines in Portugal as there are dishes in the national cuisine. Red, white and green varieties are produced here. Green wines are young, dry drinks that are produced in the province of Minho.
Geography
Mountain range in Portugal From a landscape point of view, the state is visually divided into two zones - northern and southern. The north is dominated by the ancient Meseta massif. Mountainous regions rise above the sea to a height of up to 1200 meters. The highest point on the mainland of the country is Mount Estrela (1993 meters).
The south is dominated by low hills and plains. In the east you can find hills up to 1000 meters high.
Two large rivers are the Douro and Tagus. The Douro flows through fertile lands, where grapes for the world-famous port wine are grown. On the banks of the calm Tagus you can see numerous herds of horses.
There are protected areas in Portugal. Most of it is located near the Spanish border, along the coast, also in the north. The authorities strictly protect areas of bird colonies and nesting areas located in river deltas and swamps.
Climate and weather
The landscape of Portugal is heterogeneous, but the country has a typical Mediterranean climate. The exception is the Algarve coast, where it is hot in summer, but in winter you will need warm clothes because it can be cold.
Helpful advice! Lisbon and Alentejo get quite hot in the summer, so always take water with you. For traveling in the mountains (north of the country), stock up on warm clothes.
Weather in the north:
- in summer the weather is clear, there is practically no precipitation, the temperature does not rise above +27 °C, in the mountains - +18, the average water temperature is +17 °C;
- In winter, the temperature varies from +7 to +14 °C, and there is a high probability of precipitation.
The least precipitation falls in July, while the rainiest month is January.
Weather in the south:
In the southern provinces it remains warm throughout the year, without precipitation:
- in summer the average temperature varies from +25 to +29 °C;
- in winter the temperature does not fall below +5 and does not rise above +17 °C.
From June to August it rains extremely rarely, there is practically no rain. Most precipitation falls in November.
- the best period for traveling is from May to October, the weather is warm and comfortable enough for relaxing on the beach and for educational excursions, there is no rain;
- you need to swim carefully, since cool ocean currents pass near the coast;
- the best place for swimming is south of the capital of Portugal, where the water temperature is several degrees higher;
- Surfers traditionally come to Portugal in the spring.
Currency
The currency of Portugal is the euro. You can exchange currency at points marked banco or cambio.
Almost all bank branches are open from Monday to Friday from 8-30 to 15-00. Some branches are open on weekends for money exchange transactions.
Exchange offices are located in airport buildings and in large populated areas and operate around the clock.
It is important! To receive money using traveler's checks at any exchange office, you need to pay a commission (up to 13%). It is more profitable to use an ATM (multibancos) - in this case you do not need a passport and the exchange rate is the most favorable.
- credit cards are not accepted in all stores; as a rule, non-cash payment is possible only in large cities;
- Traveler's checks are cashed by each bank branch;
- It’s better to come to Portugal with euros or exchange currency at the airport;
- the exchange rate in different banking organizations differs significantly;
- It is strictly not recommended to change money on city streets;
- in some cases you can pay in dollars.
Transport
Metro in Porto Buses and trams
All stops are equipped with a route map and a complete list of routes that pass through this stop. You can buy a ticket directly from the driver; you can purchase a travel card at kiosks or at the tourist office.
There are 4 metro lines built in Lisbon. The Porto metro has about 70 stops. Travel is permitted only with a validated ticket.
This is what a taxi looks like Portuguese taxis are black cars with a bright, green roof and traditional markings - Taxi. Cars that travel in cities have meters installed. In the period from 23-00 to 7-00 the tariff increases by an average of 20%. You will also have to pay extra for luggage. Don't forget to tip the driver - 10% of the trip amount. If the car does not have a meter, the fare will be fixed; it is important to agree on it before the trip.
Good to know! Many travel companies offer special taxi excursions; you can rent a car with a driver for the whole day for a fixed fee.
Intercity buses
Transport connections between cities in Portugal are well established. In addition, the fare is quite affordable. There are several carrier companies operating in the country, but all flights depart from the bus station. It should be taken into account that in large settlements, as a rule, there are several bus stations. The network of bus routes is more extensive and comfortable than the railway network.
Rail transportation in the country is carried out by a state-owned company. Local trains make all stops along the route. Travel on intercity trains is more expensive, and such flights do not stop at all stops. There are express trains from Lisbon to Porto. On any train you can buy a ticket for a first or second class carriage.
To cross the Douro and Tagus, you can take a ferry. This is one of the most convenient ways to get to Troy and other islands.
Important! In all major cities you can rent a bicycle, but you should keep in mind that riding on the streets of Portugal is quite difficult - there are many narrow streets, climbs, and sharp turns.
You can rent a car; driving experience must be more than one year and the client must be at least 21 years old.
It should be noted that quite often there are no markings on the roads. There are toll roads, as a rule, these are new, high-speed highways.
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Visas
Residents of Ukraine who have a biometric passport do not require a visa to visit Portugal. Other citizens of CIS countries need to apply for a Schengen visa. Visa centers accept documents. Package of required documents:
- passport;
- three photos;
- questionnaire;
- standard fee is 35 euros.
You will also need to submit fingerprints. All data is valid for five years, after which the procedure is repeated. As a rule, a visa is issued within 5 working days.
On a note! The Portuguese-Spanish border is quite arbitrary; with a passport you can easily visit the two countries.
Communication and Wi-Fi
There are three mobile operators in the country that provide mobile communication services:
- Vodafone;
- Optimus;
The price of the card is on average 10 euros; it can be purchased in specialized mobile phone stores or in regular stores. There are special machines on the streets for paying for telephone calls. For this you need a Creditofone card.
Free Wi-Fi zone is available in all hotels, cafes, large shopping malls, train stations and airport buildings. In the capital, free Wi-Fi is available in parks. Mobile Internet costs on average 15 euros per month.
In Portugal, it's easy to feel like you're at the end of the world, because you're on the westernmost cape of Europe. Then there is only the ocean and somewhere beyond it unexplored lands. The name "Portugal" comes from the name of the Roman settlement of Portus Calais, which was once located at the mouth of the Douro River.
The country has a rich history. Portugal became an independent state in the 12th century. In the distant past, brave sailors set off from these shores on voyages, during which they discovered New World. In those days, little Portugal owned almost half the world. And ahead of her were disappointments associated with the collapse of the colonial system and a long-term totalitarian regime. Despite the sad past, this country has managed to use its advantages and become today one of the most sophisticated European resorts.
Portugal has only two neighbors - Spain and the Atlantic Ocean. In addition to 90,000 m 2 on the Iberian Peninsula, it owns the Azores Islands and the Madeira Archipelago lying in the Atlantic. The capital of the country is Lisbon, other large cities are Porto, Setubal, Coimbra.
The administrative division of Portugal is made up of 22 districts (18 of them are located on the mainland, three more in the Azores and one in Madeira).
Capital |
Lisbon |
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Population |
10,707,924 people |
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Population density |
114 people/km 2 |
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Portuguese |
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Religion |
Catholicism |
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Form of government |
parliamentary republic |
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Timezone |
UTC+0, summer UTC+1 |
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International dialing code |
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Internet domain zone |
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Electricity |
Climate and weather
Portugal has a warm, sunny climate with mild winters. But please note that in winter in the north it is still damp and cold, with snowfalls in the mountains.
And in summer there is much more rainfall there than in the rest of the territory. In general, there is little rain, with an average of 500-700 mm of precipitation per year.
The average annual air temperature north of the Douro River is +10 °C, in the region between the Douro and Tagus rivers - +16 °C, and in the Guadiana Valley - +18 °C. In January, the average temperature in the northeast of the country is +7 °C, and in the south - +16 °C. In August, the average temperature is almost the same throughout the country - about +25...+27 °C.
Nature
Along the shore Atlantic Ocean pass the southern and western borders of Portugal. The landscape here is represented by a vast coastal valley. If you go towards the border with Spain, you can see how the lowlands give way to foothills and mountains that occupy most of the country. This is basically the edge of the plateau Meseta(height 1000-1200 m). In the east, the Portuguese Lowland is framed by a plateau with separate mountain ranges (height 600-1000 m). Highest point countries - mountain Estrela(1993 m).
Major rivers of Portugal - Tagus, Dora And Guadiana- originate in Spain, flow through Portugal and then flow into the Atlantic Ocean.
The country's vegetation is varied. In the south you can find olive trees and cork oaks, in the north you can stroll through dense mixed forests, and in the central regions you can relax in eucalyptus groves. The mountains alternate between coniferous-deciduous forests, low-growing shrubs and alpine meadows.
Attractions
People go to Portugal to see some of the most beautiful cathedrals in the world and well-preserved impregnable fortresses of the Moors and Crusaders. Visit ancient cities and travel back in time while admiring architectural monuments.
Lisbon- a city of steep climbs, bridges, one-car trams, beautiful squares and famous museums.
Braga- the main religious center of the country. Henry of Burgundy, father of the first king of Portugal, is buried in the local cathedral. The other cathedral is located outside the city, but it’s definitely worth a trip there. There is a never-ending queue of pilgrims to the Bon Jesus de Monti temple. The city also preserves the heritage of the Romans: the ruins of temples, an aqueduct and an amphitheater.
Porto- one of the most ancient cities in the country. It was made famous by Prince Enrique, who was born here, who launched the Age of Discovery; the altar of the Church of San Francisco, which took about 350 kg of gold; and, of course, port wine!
IN Evore is the Roman Temple of Diana. You cannot pass by the Franciscan church with a chapel, the inside of which is lined with human bones.
Nutrition
Portuguese cuisine is often described as "voluptuous". Why? One of its characteristic differences is the abundance of hot and spicy seasonings, which appeared here earlier than in the rest of Europe. What else is characteristic of Portuguese cuisine?
- First, the four main ingredients are rice, cabbage, cod and potatoes.
- Secondly, the Portuguese have a special love for soups.
- Thirdly, of course, a wide range of fish and seafood dishes.
- Fourthly, a variety of pork recipes. And finally, this is an addiction to very sweet desserts.
At the same time, each region of the country carefully preserves its traditions.
Most often served as a snack seafood- boiled, in a light sauce or as a salad. Soups are eaten both morning and evening. Thick puree soups are most characteristic of Portuguese cuisine. Try " asordu"is a stew with bread, seasoned with coriander and olive oil, which is eaten, for example, with fish.
A variety of seafood is boiled or fried on a grill and served with or without a side dish, as well as in the form of mixtures - mainly with rice.
When choosing a pork dish, do not miss " Carne de Porcu a Alentyzhana" Alentejoan pork consists of slices of meat in wine vinegar and red pepper, served with potatoes. Real jam!
And, of course, you can’t ignore the national product itself - salted dried cod, in Portuguese " bacalhau" There are more than 300 recipes for its preparation.
Portugal is famous for its wines and exquisite ports. “Every wine would like to be port if it could,” as the English say. Be sure to visit the Port Wine Museum in Lisbon to develop an even greater love for this drink.
Accommodation
The hotel network in Portugal is well developed and includes hotels, apartments, motels, guest houses, and hostels. There are hotels in historical buildings - castles, palaces, monasteries. Prices vary depending on the season: January-March - low season; April, May and September - average; July, August - high.
The average housing price is 60 € for a double room.
In Portugal, it is quite common to rent out a room, apartment or house to tourists. As a rule, such accommodation is very comfortable. This way you can find a cheap room with a private bathroom.
Camping, as usual, is the cheapest option. True, many of them are closed out of season.
Entertainment and relaxation
Favorite sport - football— local residents are ready to discuss for hours. The three most popular clubs in Portugal are FC Porto, Sporting and Benfica.
Another favorite spectacle of the Portuguese is bullfight. Tourada is different from Spanish bullfighting. Here the bull is not killed in the arena; the cavaleira (analogous to the Spanish matodora) must be excellent riders, because the tourada is only mounted. The cavalier's task is to insert 3-6 banderillas - small copies of different lengths - into the bull's scruff.
Immerse yourself in Portuguese culture and attend a concert fado. What it is? Fado is a solo lyrical vocal work performed to the accompaniment of a Portuguese guitar.
Don't miss the chance to indulge in delicious beaches located on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean. Just 15 kilometers west of Lisbon are luxurious Cascais And Estoril. And yet the most popular resort area of Portugal is Algarve- a region located in the south of the country. Here, high cliffs and sand dunes frame wild, almost deserted beaches.
Each town in the province has its own characteristics:
- Guests are attracted to Faro Old city, surrounded by Roman walls, and one of the largest motorcyclist conventions in Europe, which takes place in mid-July.
- Olhão is famous for its fishermen's quarter with Moorish-style houses.
- Vilamoura Creteira is the largest yacht harbor in the province.
- Albufeira is famous for its huge number of bars, clubs and restaurants and is considered the most fun place in the Algarve.
- Portimão is a city of gorgeous beaches and skyscrapers. At the beginning of May, the Formula 1 Scooter World Cup takes place here, and at the beginning of August, don't miss the sardine festival.
- Lagos is the starting point of the first overseas expeditions.
Purchases
In Portugal, small shops, luxury boutiques and huge shopping centers coexist everywhere. Shopping here will be very exciting.
Appreciate traditional crafts and bring home a small piece of this beautiful country. Many souvenirs use “love scarves” motifs. Previously, a girl used embroidery to reflect her feelings and give such a scarf to her lover. The ornament is clear to everyone - a heart, red carnations, lilies, roses. Why not a gift for your loved one?
A very original purchase is a piece made of cork leather. They make a lot of things out of it - bags, umbrellas, hats and even pens. The most popular souvenir in the country is the Barcelos red clay cockerel. You will be very pleased with the variety of ceramics.
Portugal is also famous for its filigree gold and silver work.
While walking through shopping centers and shops, do not pass by colorful and lively markets where you can buy almost everything. You can wander here for hours. Visit the Coimbra market (daily), Barcelos market (Thursdays) and Carcavelos market in the outskirts of Lisbon.
Shops are open from 8:00 to 19:00, on Saturdays - until 13:00. Shopping centers are open from 10:00 and wait for customers until late in the evening every day. Lunch in Portugal is from 12:00 to 14:30.
Transport
There are 66 airports in Portugal. International airports open in Lisbon, Porto, Faro, Azores and Madeira. Tap Air Portugal is the national carrier.
Network length railways is 2,800 km, and for automobiles - 68,700 km. There are three types of trains: intercidade (IC), interregional (IR) and regional (R). Tickets for regional trains are half the price of others.
Bus network provides connections between most Portuguese cities. As with trains, there is a division by class: expressos - fast and comfortable, they carry out transportation between major cities; rapidas - fast regional buses; carreiras stop at every intersection.
Basic sea ports: Aveiro, Funchal (Madeira), Horta (Azores), Lisbon, Porto, Ponta Delgada (Azores), Setúbal, Viana do Castel.
It is advisable to use urban public transport only in Porto and Lisbon. These cities have metro. Be sure to take a trip to tram or funicular in Lisbon, Braga and Nazaré. At the stops there are information boards with information about traffic, indicating the route and the exact time of arrival and departure.
Find Taxi very easy, even in the smallest towns. The cars are painted beige.
In Portugal, the speed limits are 120 km/h on autobahns, 90 km/h on highways and 60 km/h within urban areas. The fine for excess is paid on the spot. 0.5 ppm is the maximum permissible level of alcohol in the driver’s blood. Please note that Portuguese drivers may overtake in the most dangerous places, such as on a sharp bend.
Connection
Most cheap way call - telephone booth. Cards in denominations of 5 and 10 € are sold at newsstands and at post offices.
The mobile network covers the entire country. It is very rare to find a lack of signal anywhere. Three main mobile operators: Optimus, TMN, Vodafone. The cost of a SIM card is about 10 €. You can buy it at official sales centers.
Free WiFi can be found easily in Portugal. Many hotels provide this service, and also look for it at airports and shopping centers. In Lisbon there is even a program “ digital gardens» — 21 free access points in gardens and parks.
Safety
In Portugal, as in any other country in the world, it is necessary to monitor the safety of documents and personal belongings. Just in case, make a photocopy of your passport.
Leave cars only in guarded parking lots. Do not forget expensive things in the salon that may attract intruders.
It is better to use ATMs that are located indoors rather than outdoors.
You can drink tap water, but drinking bottled water is sold everywhere.
Smoking is allowed only in special rooms. Smoking is prohibited in public transport, educational institutions, hospitals, museums, indoor entertainment, sports centers, hotels, theaters, shops, indoor parking lots. Fine - from 50 to 70 €.
Portugal is suffering from forest fires. The fines for lighting a fire in a place that is not specially equipped for this are quite high.
Portugal is located in an active seismic zone, with earthquakes of magnitude 8 or more occurring on average every two years.
Business climate
Portugal hosts a large number of international exhibitions in a variety of areas. Large exhibition complexes are located in Lisbon (Centro de Congressos de Lisboa, Cordoaria Nacional, Feira Internacional de Lisboa Exhibition Fairground), Porto (Exponor - Oporto International Fair, Centro de Congressos da Alfandega do Porto) and Braga (PEB - Empresa Parque de Exposições de Braga).
The main sectors of the Portuguese economy are: woodworking, clothing and footwear production, metalworking, paper and cork production, oil refining and chemicals, fish processing, tourism, wine and port wine production.
In the south the main industrial area is Lisbon-Setubal, and in the north - Porto Braga Aveiro.
The following types of taxes are levied in Portugal: Imposto MunicipalsobreTransmissões - IMT (property transfer tax - up to 6%), Municipal sobre os Imóveis - IMI (real estate tax - for rural areas - 0.8%, within the city - from 0.2 % up to 0.5%, Imposto de selo (press tax - a fixed amount or a certain percentage, depending on the importance of the document), Imposto Sobre o Valor Acrescentado (VAT - 21%, 12%, 5%) and others.
Real estate
Investing in real estate is profitable - it will always pay for itself. So why not do it in Portugal? The most attractive places to buy are the cities of Lisbon (average price per 1m2 - 2100 €) and the adjacent Riviera (average price per 1m2 - 1500-3000 €), Cascais, Porto (average price per 1m2 - 800-1000 €) and the Algarve region (average price for 1m2 - 1800-3500 €).
After selecting a suitable property for purchase, it must be registered as the property. The process consists of two parts. The first is signing a contract. The buyer must pay between 10 and 25% of the total price of the property. The seller, in turn, is obliged to remove the object from auction. The notary conducts a real estate inspection - this process can take from 3 to 6 months. During this time you can cancel the purchase, but the paid amount will not be refunded. If the seller refuses, he will have to refund the original amount in double amount.
The second part is the actual signing of the final agreement with payment of the remaining amount. Before this, the buyer must pay a property transfer tax - the rate depends on the value of the property.
- Many people in Portugal speak Spanish, English, French or German, but they will be very pleased if you pronounce basic politeness formulas in their native language. Learn a few phrases in Portuguese: "Ola" - hello, "Ate Logo" - goodbye, "Obrigado (husband)", "Obrigada (wives)" - thank you, "pur favor" - please, "sim" - yes, “neu” - no.
- In restaurants, bread, snacks and water are usually served at the table, but most often they are not free. They will certainly be included in your bill.
- In many places in Portugal, cigarettes are sold in vending machines that are locked; in order to still make a purchase, you need to ask a store employee or cafe waiter to unlock them.
- Leave your high heels at home—most of the sidewalks here are paved with cobblestones.
- You can find the toilet using clear pictures or signs with the letters H (Homem) - this is a men's toilet, S (Senhora) - a women's toilet.
Visa information
Portugal is a member of the Schengen Agreement. A visa must be obtained from the embassy of that country.
We search for free the cheapest air tickets from Baku to Portugal using 728 airlines around the world and dozens of ticket agencies. A large selection of flights and special offers will help you find and buy tickets from Baku to Portugal at the lowest price.
Below we have provided statistics on this route, prices for flights and other important information so that you can understand how much an air ticket from Baku to Portugal costs and choose the optimal purchase time for yourself.
Low price calendar for the route Baku - Portugal
The cheapest flight from Baku to Portugal found by our users over the last two days: air ticket Baku → Lisbon, departure April 21, 2020, for only 11,880 ₽. Find this ticket ›
Information about the departure city
Baku is located in Azerbaijan, it is one of 6 cities in the country with airports. The IATA code of Baku is BAK. The IATA code is a unique object identifier, which consists of three letters of the Latin alphabet and is important for the passenger air transportation industry. The city's population is 2,078,000 people. We recommend arriving at the airport two hours before departure, otherwise you risk missing your flight.
Information about the country of arrival
There are 24 cities in Portugal with airports. The currency of Portugal is the Euro (EUR). A visa is required to enter the country. The ISO code for Portugal is PT. The most popular airport in Portugal is located in Lisbon - Lisbon Portela Airport. The IATA code for Lisbon is LIS.
Airfare from Baku to Portugal by city
Ticket prices from Baku to Portugal depend on many factors. They are influenced by: the season, airport of departure and arrival, airlines that fly on the route you need, and of course, promotions and sales. Below we have grouped cheap tickets from Baku to Portugal, by city, so that you can understand how much tickets from Baku to Portugal cost:Where
One way
Roundtrip
Lisbon
Porto
Portugal is one of the most vibrant countries in the world. That is why it attracts the attention of a huge number of tourists from different countries. Among the guests of Portugal are not only football fans and art lovers. This country inspires travelers with completely different interests and education with its beauty and uniqueness. Portugal is universal for everyone, and this is its main advantage! And a fairly comfortable climate and reasonable prices for accommodation and recreation add even more advantages to Portugal as a tourist destination. The availability of Aeroflot and S7 planes makes traveling to Portugal comfortable and safe. Today we will discuss what to see in Portugal if you are planning to visit this country, and we will also advise where to stay.
The most beautiful cities in Portugal
Porto
Porto is a city that is full of the spirit of antiquity. And this is not only the influence of the great Douro River, which has known the history of many centuries. You will feel the distant past both in the click of heels on the cobblestone streets and in the old port wine cellars, preserved from the times of the 17th-18th centuries. You will fall in love with Porto instantly! Be sure to take a tram ride through the streets of this ancient city and go to Ribeira Square, located along the river, to drink a few glasses of delicious port wine. The square is very small, but extremely loved by tourists - it offers an amazing view of the two-level bridge Ponti de Don Luis I.
Porto definitely deserves a minimum two night stay. There is a lot to see and admire here! You can easily book a suitable hotel in Porto using the search engine. We, for our part, would like to recommend you a magnificent one, located in the very center of the city, close to the most interesting attractions, such as the Coliseu do Porto Theater and the Church of Santa Clara. The customer trust level of this hotel is very high - 87, so you are guaranteed a quality and relaxing holiday.
Lisbon
Lisbon is an incredibly vibrant coastal city nestled on seven hills. The magnificent architecture of the city, combining the deep reflection of many centuries, is an excellent opportunity for sightseeing tours. Be sure to explore the Bairro Alto area, enjoy panoramic views of the city from the top of the hill and walk around; Take tram 28 and the Santa Justa elevator (free with a single city transport ticket for the day), and visit Praça do Comércio (Commerce Square), located on the Atlantic Ocean promenade.
While walking around Bairro Alto, don’t forget to check out the restaurant Tasca do Chico, popular among locals but little known among tourists. In this cozy place you will not only have a delicious dinner, but also get acquainted with the enchanting melodies of Portuguese Fado.
By taking the tram from the center of Lisbon, you can be in the Belem district in just 20 minutes. Here you will have the opportunity to appreciate the beauty of the Jeronimos Monastery and stroll along the long promenade, admiring the endless ocean. Be sure to visit the monastery's bakery/pastelaria to try the world-famous pastel de nata dessert. It’s very easy to recognize pastelaria by the huge line of people wanting to try it. Many people come to Lisbon just to try this dessert! The taste of pastel de nata is fabulous, and its original recipe, developed by the monks of the monastery, has remained unchanged for many centuries and is protected from prying eyes.
We advise you to plan your trip to Portugal so that you spend at least three full days. This will be enough to get acquainted with the city and its main attractions, as well as appreciate the beauty of the capital of Portugal. We also recommend setting aside one day for a trip to the city of Sintra, the most beautiful pearl of Portugal, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site! For true art lovers, the period of stay in Lisbon and its surroundings should be extended - the city has many interesting museums that you will most likely want to visit.
There are many good hotels in Lisbon, however, we would like to advise you to stay in a hotel. The excellent location in the very center of Lisbon, the enchanting views of the city from the hotel restaurant and the presence of its own parking lot can definitely only please you. The hotel's TrustScore rating is 84: such a high customer rating frees you from thinking about the quality of the service provided - everything should be at its best.
Coimbra
If you want to stay in Coimbra for the night, you can stay at a hotel that provides excellent service for a reasonable price. You'll be greeted by friendly hotel staff, and the excellent amenities and proximity to all the city's attractions are good reasons to choose this particular accommodation option. The hotel's customer trust level in the TrustScore rating is also very high - 84, so you are sure to be satisfied.
Ultramarine water, or the most wonderful beaches of Portugal
Lagos
Beautiful beaches and enchanting ocean water are the primary reason for the high popularity of the town of Lagos among French, Spanish and British tourists. Recently, Russian travelers have also flocked to this resort. It took time to study, as well as the availability of convenient direct flights to Portugal, to truly appreciate the beauty of a holiday in Lagos!
If you're a surfer, there's nothing quite like taking a charter boat or surfboard and leisurely enjoying breathtaking views of prehistoric cliffs, rocky cliffs and endless sandy beaches.
The ancient port city of Lagos and its surroundings offer ample accommodation options. However, you need to keep in mind that when choosing a hotel near your favorite place on a marvelous beach, you may find yourself quite far from the authentic spirit of the narrow streets and excellent fish restaurants of this beautiful, unique town. For those who like to travel by car, this problem, of course, can be easily solved: quite simply (follow the link, by the way, you will get a discount of up to 15%). We would advise other tourists to stay in an excellent hotel, located within walking distance from the center of Lagos and only a hundred meters from the beautiful sandy beach. The trust level of hotel clients according to the TrustScore rating corresponds to 88 points, which indicates high-class comfort.
Cascais
Cascais is located in the west of Portugal, on the very Atlantic coast. Stretched along a long beach, the town was once a quiet fishing village. Now it is a coastline with trendy restaurants, great shopping and pristine sand beaches.
Visit the Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary and the ancient 17th-century fort in the southern part of the city to explore the architectural monuments of Cascais. Well, and, of course, enjoy the beauty of the picturesque grottoes, which nature and the ocean have created with graceful skill over many centuries. If you have any questions about where to stay in this cute town, we can safely recommend the hotel. With a high TrustScore of 93, this luxury accommodation is sure to suit everyone's tastes. The hotel offers its clients a wide range of services, as well as excellent views of the ocean and the beauty of the center of Cascais within walking distance.
Comporta
The village of Comporta is located just south of Cascais on the west coast of Portugal. The area is known for its wide and long beaches, which occupy the entire coastline of the long peninsula that opens into the ocean north of Comporta. A holiday here is often compared to a stay in Ibiza: a lot of clean sand and warm sun, but the undoubted advantage of Comport is the absence of a crazy number of people on the beaches. You can get to Comporta easily and quickly by ferry from Lisbon or Porto. In addition, you can rent a car at the airport or anywhere else.
Comporta cannot boast of a sufficient number of comfortable accommodation options. However, there are some in the area, and we, as always, will allow you to give us our advice: the best option for recreation near Comport will be. The hotel is located in the town of Troya at the very end of the above-mentioned peninsula, only 17 kilometers from Comporta. There are beautiful beaches and a golf resort nearby, and superb ocean views are available from almost anywhere. Guests rate Troia Design Hotel highly: the TrustScore customer trust level is 88 points. This is no coincidence - the hotel offers varied and excellent service and is perfect for a romantic getaway: superbly designed rooms, orthopedic mattresses, a spa, two restaurants, free parking and good Wi-Fi. So you are guaranteed a wonderful holiday!
