Introduction to Portugal
Portugal is a small country in located on the western portion of the Iberian peninsula which it shares with Spain. A maritime superpower in the 16th century, Portugal saw its fortune wane over the centuries, and by the middle of the 20th century, it was one of the poorest countries in western Europe. The end of dictatorship and the introduction of democracy has seen significant enhancement in the quality of life in Portugal.
Portugal is small enough to be covered in a day. While many from Britain crosses over to Portugal for golfing holidays, there is much more that Portugal offers.
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Fast Facts about Portugal
Official Name: Republic of Portugal
Capital: Lisbon (2,600,000)
Population of Portugal: 10,366,000
Languages: Portuguese
Currency: Euro
Religions: Roman Catholic, others
Size: 91,950 sq km (35,502 sq miles)
Continent: Europe
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When to visit Portugal
For the most agreeable weather, go between mid-June to September, but expect it to be the most crowded time. The summers, especially in the south, tend to be warm with little rain.
What to wear in Portugal
Light to medium weight clothing is advised.
Getting into Portugal
By Plane
There are three major international airports in Portugal, in Lisbon, Porto and Faro. In addition, some airlines also fly to Madeira and the Azores islands.
By Train
One can also go to Portugal by train. There are services between Lisbon and Madrid. For details, visit the Portuguese Railways website.
By Road
Roads are generally good, although highways are almost always tolled.
Portugal Entry Requirements
No visas are required for nationals of Australia, Britain, Canada, the United States and EU countries. You need a passport with at least 3 months validity.
Where to stay in Portugal
Click on the name of the towns listed below to view hostels and budget accommodation available for booking there.
Click here for Budget Hostel Listing with Price and Room Availability
Agua de Moura
Albufeira
Alcanena
Alenquer
Apulia
Assumar
Bemposta
Braga
Bussaco
Caldas da Rainha
Carvoeiro
Cascais
Castelo de Vide
Coimbra
Costa da Caparica
Esposende
Faro
Fatima
Figueira da Foz
Funchal
Fundao
Guarda
Lagos
Leiria
Lisbon
Lisbon-Alenquer
Lisbon-Queluz
Miranda do Douro
Monchique
Nazare
Obidos
Peniche
Peso da Regua
Pinhao
Ponta Delgada
Porches-Algarbe
Portimao
Porto
Porto-Villa do Conde
Quarteira
Santa Clara a Velha
Santa Clara-a-Velha
Sao Pedro do Sul
Serra D'el Rei-Peniche
Setubal
Sintra
St Antonio da Caparica
Tabua
Tavira
Torres Vedras
Viana do Castelo
Vila de Prado
Vilamoura-Loule
Viseu
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Getting around in Portugal
Domestic flights are provided by TAP Air Portugal and Portugália Airlines.
Where to go in Portugal
The following are the main travel destinations in Portugal:
Lisbon
Porto
Porto Santo
Madeira
Faro
The Azores
Things to see and do in Portugal
Sightseeing Tours of Portugal
The following are local tours that are available for you to book:
ALBUFEIRA Sightseeing Tours Events & Attractions from Viator
ALGARVE Sightseeing Tours Events & Attractions from Viator
FAIAL ISLAND Sightseeing Tours Events & Attractions from Viator
FARO Sightseeing Tours Events & Attractions from Viator
FLORES ISLAND Sightseeing Tours Events & Attractions from Viator
FUNCHAL Sightseeing Tours Events & Attractions from Viator
GRACIOSA ISLAND Sightseeing Tours Events & Attractions from Viator
LISBON Sightseeing Tours Events & Attractions from Viator
PICO ISLAND Sightseeing Tours Events & Attractions from Viator
PONTA DELGADA Sightseeing Tours Events & Attractions from Viator
PORTO Sightseeing Tours Events & Attractions from Viator
SAO JORGE ISLAND Sightseeing Tours Events & Attractions from Viator
TERCEIRA ISLAND Sightseeing Tours Events & Attractions from Viator
VILAMOURA Sightseeing Tours Events & Attractions from Viator
Money matters in Portugal
Portugal uses the Euro, €. Banknotes are in denominations of €500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10 and 5 while coins are in denominations of €2 and 1, and 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 cents. Banks are open Mon-Fri, 0830-1500.
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