Portugal
Portugal Introduction
Portugal, one of the smallest European countries, lies in south-west Europe on the Iberian Peninsula. It has a long Atlantic coast and a border with Spain. Portuguese territory also includes the island of Madeira. There are great regional differences in the geography of Portugal from mountain ranges in the north to the long sandy beaches in the south and west. Architectural differences reflect the influences of the various invaders and occupiers of the land. Portugal is a year round holiday destination offering skiing in the winter in the north and beach holidays in the south. City breaks are especially popular in the spring and autumn.
Why Go To Portugal
Portugal holidays are so varied that they attract all age groups and appeal to all interests. Sun worshippers and beach lovers are spoilt for choice having a long Atlantic with hundreds of beaches. Golfers are well provided for with many championship courses. Those interested in the architecture and culture of Portugal will find city breaks are the perfect way to explore the magnificent churches, museums, monuments and ancient historic sites found in the towns and cities of Portugal.
Who Is Portugal Popular With
Portugal has a year round holiday season with hot dry summers and warm winters in the south. The Algarve has an average of six hours sunshine per day during the winter months. The north also has good summers but the winters are much colder with snow in the hills and mountains. City breaks can of course be taken at any time of year but are most popular in the spring and autumn when the temperature is not so high.
When To Go To Portugal
Portugal, a small country, offers a wide range of holiday attractions including historic villages, border castles, impressive museums and monuments and of course wonderful beaches of glorious golden sand. The River Tagus divides the mountainous north from the plains of the south. These differences in the geography of Portugal account for the wide variation in climate.
The sunny coastal resorts of Portugal attract hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. The beaches range from quiet family areas to bustling resorts with lively nights.
Water sports include surfing, wind surfing, sailing, deep sea fishing and diving. On land there is tennis, hiking, cycling, horse riding and jeep safaris to name but a few of the many leisure activities that a Portugal holiday offers.
Portugal is also well known for its excellent golf courses where the game can be enjoyed at any time of year.
Lisbon, its capital, is a very pretty town where its old centre displays architecture from the different eras of its history. The earthquake of 1755 destroyed many of its historic buildings but if you walk through the narrow medieval streets of Alfama you can see the buildings that were spared the devastation. The imposing Castle of Saint George sits on top of the hill above the city.
A Portugal holiday offers a wealth of leisure activities and sight-seeing opportunities all of which can be enjoyed in dawn to dusk sunshine.
Portugal - The Place
Portugal is a Catholic country and its many festivals each year are often associated with the church. Music and dance form a large part of any celebration. Saints days, particularly patron saints, are celebrated with gusto.
Portugal Nightlife
Nightlife in Portugal depends on where you choose to holiday. There are peaceful resorts more suited to families who like to sleep at night, frenetic resorts where partying continues until dawn and resorts with a combination of both.
Wherever you travel in Portugal you will find many shopping opportunities from elegant boutiques to gift shops and from specialist shops to markets. Leather goods, jewellery, embroidered linens and ceramics are all popular souvenirs.
Portugal Eating
The Portuguese are a nation of people who like to eat out and it is easy to see why this is so. You don’t need to eat in an exclusive restaurant to enjoy a good meal. Small family run bars and cafes often serve the best of Portuguese cuisine using locally produced ingredients. Fish stew, Caldeirada, is a firm favourite along with the many recipes for dried cod. Try some of the delicious pastries with your morning coffee and you will not be disappointed. Portuguese wines are pleasing to the palate as well as the pocket.
Local Portugal Customs
Portugal is a catholic country and many of its festivals are connected with the church and the feast days of the saints. Visitors to churches, particularly in rural areas, should dress modestly in order to avoid offence. The Portuguese are a warm and friendly people who offer a genuine welcome to visitors. Children are always greeted with much affection.