ABOUT PORTUGAL

Portugal, located on the Iberian Peninsula in Southern Europe, is a country rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Its capital city, Lisbon, is known for its colourful neighbourhoods like Alfama and Bairro Alto, historic landmarks such as the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, and a lively nightlife that attracts visitors from all over the world.

With more than 1,700 kilometres of coastline, Portugal offers a variety of landscapes – from sandy beaches and rugged cliffs to world-famous surfing spots like Nazaré and the Algarve. Inland, the country reveals a different charm, with rolling vineyards, medieval castles, and peaceful villages that reflect its long heritage and traditions.

Portuguese cuisine is a highlight for many travellers. Expect plenty of fresh seafood, aromatic spices, and rich stews. Classic dishes include bacalhau (salted cod), caldo verde (kale soup), and pastel de nata (custard tart). The country’s wine regions, particularly the Douro Valley, are world-renowned for producing Port and Vinho Verde wines.

Portugal’s people are warm, welcoming, and proud of their traditions. Visitors can experience this through local festivals, cuisine, and the country’s distinctive Fado music, recognised by UNESCO as part of the world’s cultural heritage. Thanks to its mild Mediterranean climate, Portugal offers pleasant weather year-round – perfect for both sightseeing and relaxation.

Whether you’re walking through Lisbon’s historic streets, relaxing on the beaches of the Algarve, or tasting wine among the hills of the Douro Valley, Portugal combines history, culture, and scenery into one unforgettable destination.

Entry into Portugal

For citizens of the European Union, entering Portugal is straightforward. The country is part of the Schengen Area, so you can travel freely without a visa or passport – a valid national ID card is enough.

Currency

Portugal uses the euro (€). Most businesses accept major credit and debit cards. However, if you plan to rent a car, you’ll usually need a credit card, as debit cards are often not accepted. ATMs are easy to find in all towns and cities. To avoid high fees, use machines operated by banks rather than private providers such as Euronet, which can charge up to €10 or 10% of your withdrawal.

Electricity

Portugal uses 230V AC electricity at 50 Hz, the same as most of continental Europe. Standard Type C and F plugs are used, so most European travellers won’t need an adapter.

Mobile services

Portugal has reliable mobile coverage provided by MEO, Vodafone, and NOS, with strong 4G service and expanding 5G networks. EU residents can use their phones under the roam-like-at-home rules, meaning no extra roaming charges apply.

Non-EU visitors can easily buy local prepaid SIM cards at airports, supermarkets, or convenience stores. For short stays, Airalo and similar eSIM apps are also a convenient option for mobile data.

Important telephone numbers

If you need help while in Portugal, these are useful contacts (country code +351):

• Emergency (police, fire, ambulance): 112
• Tourist Information (Portugal Tourism): +351 808 209 209
• ULS Algarve – Hospital de Portimão: +351 282 450 300

Interesting Facts About Portugal

Oldest nation-state in Europe
Portugal was founded in 1139, making it the oldest nation-state in Europe. Lisbon, its capital, is one of the continent’s oldest cities – even older than Rome.

First global maritime power
During the Age of Discovery, Portuguese explorers such as Vasco da Gama and Ferdinand Magellan opened sea routes to India, Africa, and South America, establishing Portugal as the first great global maritime power.

World’s oldest bookstore
The Bertrand Bookstore in Lisbon, established in 1732, holds the Guinness World Record as the world’s oldest continuously operating bookstore.

Tea Tradition
In the 17th century, Catherine of Braganza, a Portuguese princess who married England’s King Charles II, introduced the custom of tea drinking to the British court.

Language
Portuguese is the sixth most spoken language in the world, with more than 230 million speakers across nine countries, including Brazil, Angola, and Mozambique.

Europe’s longest bridge
The Vasco da Gama Bridge in Lisbon stretches 17 km (10.6 miles) across the Tagus River – the longest bridge in Europe.

Fado Music
Portugal’s national music, Fado, is known for its emotional and soulful melodies about love, longing, and nostalgia. It is recognised by UNESCO as part of the world’s intangible cultural heritage.

Cork production
Portugal supplies about 50% of the world’s cork, harvested sustainably from cork oak trees found mainly in the Alentejo region. Cork is used not only for wine bottles but also in fashion, design, and eco-friendly materials.