Portugal: What to see and do?
Portugal is an increasingly popular tourist destination for travellers from all over the world. This small country on the west coast of Europe is rich in history, culture, cuisine and incredible scenery. Here are the main sights to see in Portugal:
Lisbon: the capital of Portugal is a city full of charm, colour and life. There is so much to see in Lisbon, such as the famous Belem Tower, St George's Castle, the Alfama district and its narrow streets, or the Place du Commerce and its impressive arch.
Porto: Portugal's second largest city is famous for its port wine, but it also offers many tourist attractions such as the Clerks' Tower, the Dom Luis I Bridge, Porto Cathedral and the Palácio da Bolsa.
The Algarve Coast: Portugal's southern coast is famous for its golden sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and impressive rock formations. Algarve resorts such as Lagos, Albufeira and Faro are ideal destinations for swimming and water sports enthusiasts.
Coimbra: Located in the centre of Portugal, this university town is one of the oldest and most beautiful in the country. It is home to the oldest university in Portugal, the Joanina Library and the Sé Velha Cathedral.
Sintra: Located only 30 kilometres from Lisbon, Sintra is a charming city with a rich historical and cultural heritage. It is known for its palaces, castles and lush gardens. The Pena Palace, the Moorish Castle and the National Palace of Sintra are major tourist attractions.
Madeira and Azores Islands: These islands off mainland Portugal are popular destinations for hiking, nature and adventure enthusiasts. They offer incredible landscapes, waterfalls, volcanoes and spectacular panoramic views.
To get around Portugal, there are many transport options such as train, bus, metro and tram. It is also possible to hire a car or take a taxi to get around the cities and tourist sites more easily. Domestic flights are also available for those who wish to travel quickly between the different regions of the country.
Portugal is thus a rich and diverse tourist destination, offering attractions for all tastes and ages. Travellers can enjoy Portugal's rich history and culture, tasty cuisine, breathtaking scenery and warm Portuguese hospitality.
Portugal: How to get around the country?
Portugal is a beautiful country full of charming cities and spectacular scenery. If you're a tourist looking for adventure and discovery, you're probably wondering about the best ways to get from one city to another. Don't worry, we've got you covered!
Portugal has a well-developed public transport network, giving you plenty of options for exploring the country. Here are some of the main modes of transport you can use:
Trains: Portugal's railways, known as CP (Comboios de Portugal), offer an excellent option for travelling between cities. The trains are fast, comfortable and allow you to admire the picturesque scenery along the way.
Buses: Portugal has a well-developed bus network with links between the country's main cities. Bus companies such as Rede Expressos and Flixbus offer regular, comfortable services. You can book your tickets online in advance on Vivanoda.
Planes: If you're planning to travel long distances, flying may be a quicker and more comfortable option. Portugal has several international airports, including Lisbon, Porto and Faro. Airlines such as TAP Air Portugal, Ryanair and EasyJet offer regular flights between Portuguese and European cities.
As well as these public transport options, you can also hire a car to explore Portugal at your own pace. Major car hire companies, such as Avis, Europcar and Hertz, are easily accessible in major cities and airports. Bear in mind, however, that driving in Portugal is often hectic and parking can be difficult in city centres.
Here are some useful tips for getting from one city to another in Portugal with ease:
- Plan ahead: Check train and bus timetables, and book tickets in advance where possible. This will help you avoid delays or running out of seats.
- Be flexible: If you have the choice, avoid peak travel times to reduce waiting times and crowds.
- Download public transport apps that will help you plan your routes, check timetables in real time and get information on disruptions in real time.
- Ticket prices can vary depending on the type of transport and destination. Make sure you check fares and understand ticket refund or exchange policies before booking.
- Whichever mode of transport you choose, keep your camera handy to capture Portugal's beautiful scenery on the move.
Portugal: When to visit?
If you're thinking of travelling to Portugal, it's important to choose the best season for your climate preferences. Portugal has a Mediterranean climate, characterised by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.
The best time to visit Portugal is generally from May to September. During these months, the country enjoys pleasant temperatures, with an average of 25 to 30 degrees Celsius in the hottest months (July and August). The days are sunny, ideal for enjoying the country's many magnificent beaches, such as the Algarve in the south.
In autumn, from October to November, Portugal is also an attractive destination. Temperatures start to drop slightly, but are still mild, averaging between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius. This is an excellent time to explore the cities, visit the vineyards and discover Portugal's rich gastronomy.
The winter months, from December to February, can be wetter and colder, particularly in the northern regions of the country. Average temperatures fluctuate between 10 and 15 degrees Celsius, which can be ideal if you prefer to avoid the tourist crowds and take advantage of more affordable prices for accommodation and flights.
Spring, from March to April, offers a mild and pleasant climate, with temperatures between 15 and 20 degrees Celsius. The landscapes come alive with colour as the flowers bloom, making it an ideal time for hiking and photography.
If you're looking for warm, sunny weather, plan your trip between May and September. If you prefer to avoid the tourist crowds and take advantage of lower prices, consider travelling in autumn or winter. Whatever the season, Portugal offers a wealth of culture and nature that makes it an attractive destination all year round.
