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Portugal

Welcome To Portugal Travel Guide

Portugal is a perfect combination of scenic coastline, white sandy beaches, architecturally creative- design buildings, and some of the world’s best wine.

Portugal has become one of the top-rated for expats to live due to its affordable cost of living and high quality of life. The Portuguese have embraced contemporary life without getting rid of the cultural heritage. You will find an ancient church, outdoor market, and street performers in every city, and you’ll notice that the Portuguese still have a strong family nucleus.

Due to its high degree of acceptance, you will find many integrated people from Africa, Asia, and Brazil. Along with these mixes of cultures, you will see the influence in their food, music, and styles throughout Portugal.

Portugal is a country with something for everyone from historic cities, tropical coastline, hills of vineyards, and outdoor adventures in the mountains.

Things to See and Do in Portugal

The Algarve Beaches
River journey on Rio Douro
Island hopping in the Azores
Dolphin and Whale watching in Madeira
Visit a Royal Palace in Sintra
The Venice of Portugal in Aveiro

Typical Costs When Travelling

Accommodation – When looking for a place to stay, you will find the cost is relatively low compared to other European countries. You can find a basic guesthouse or small hotel offering a simple double or twin room for as little as $50 per night. A mid-range hotel will cost around $90 per night. A unique option is to stay in Pousadas de Portugal, which is a chain that took historic properties such as monasteries or castles and made them into hotels that range from $120-$200 per night. To book a pousada, visit Petrabax in the US or Keytel in the UK. Another popular alternative is country or manor houses, which are privately owned farmhouses offering a bed and breakfast style accommodation and promoted under the Turismo no Espaco Rual (TER). To book your stay with one of these rural houses, you will need to visit the CENTER (Central Nacional de Turismo no Espaco Rual). Rates start around $80 per night. My recommendation is to stay with an Airbnb, ranging from $35-$100 per night. The Airbnb locations were great and within walking destinates to sightseeing locations.

(I recommend using www.Airbnb.com when looking for moderate price accommodations within a nice neighborhood)

Food – I would not consider Portuguese food as appealing as other European cuisines. The typical menu will offer a traditional variety of grilled fish or meat, stews, casseroles, and all served with the same trio of accompaniments -rice, potatoes, and salad. A padaria is a bakery, usually offering a warm croissant or pastel de Nata (custard tarts) with coffee. Much like Spain, the Portuguese enjoy small plates, known as petiscos, which are excellent for sharing with someone. A typical dish is a platter of freshly grilled sardines. While meal prices can vary, the average food cost is around $45- $60 a day.  Some of the supermarkets, such as Pingo Doce, will offer a buffet lunch for $5.00. Expect to pay on average $12-$15 for a meal.

(Use www.TripAdvisor.com when trying to locate a restaurant within your budget range)

Transportation – Getting around is pretty easy and inexpensive in Portugal. Buses are the best choice when moving around in the city and covering a lot of territories. In each town is a central bus station to purchase a pass. Check with your hotel concierge to find out more details on where to buy the pass. If you plan to use a bus to travel from one city to another, I suggest visiting the Rede Expressos website.  Comboios de Portugal trains are a great way to travel from one city to the next. Beware that some train stations in rural communities may be a reasonable distance from the city center. A route from Lisbon-Porto cost about $30 per person (discounts available for those 65 and older or children). If traveling by rail from Portugal to other European countries, I suggest visiting the InterRail Portugal Pass website. If driving a car is your desire, you will find that many significant roadways will have toll gates, so be prepared to pay with cash.

Suggested daily budget – Average daily budget should be approximately $117 per person, including hotel, transportation, meals, and sightseeing. A two-week vacation for two people costs roughly $3,258 staying at mid-range hotels.

Money Saving Tips

1
Visiting Portugal museums and UNESCO sites will charge between $7-$15 for entrance fees. Most museums are closed on Mondays, but a great day to explore cathedrals. Most museums are free on Sunday, so plan accordingly. Wine tours are about $60 for a full-day tour.
2
Avoid the taxis as they are expensive and ride the metro or bus system.
3
When eating out, beware that the bread and olives brought to your table will be extra costs.
4
If you want to join a small group tour, I suggest you check out the Intrepid Travel website, which offers many great discounts.
5
Are you looking for a walking tour? Visit Context Tours offering in-depth history, food, and cultural tours throughout Portugal.
6
Select restaurants that are not on the main routes where tourists visit. Check with apps such as TripAdvisor or The Fork to review comments about the restaurant.
7
Visit outdoor markets or local grocery stores to pick up snacks, drinks, and sandwiches for quick bites to eat while sightseeing.
8
If you plan on doing a lot of eating out and shopping, you may find it's worth combining it with the Eat & Shop Card. Check with the city you are visiting, and most likely, they will have a discount card that will give you discounts on restaurants, shops, and transportation.
9
Check for local events occurring in the city in which you are visiting. Events are typically free and are a great way to see local musicians, crafts and enjoy what the locals enjoy.

What can I expect from Portugal?

Portugal is a real gem in Europe and will surprise you, as it exceeded our expectations. It is true, Portugal captured our hearts and was on our list of considerations to live permanently. Whether you are looking for history, architecture, food, local traditions, beaches, or the outdoors- Portugal has it all.

The spring or early fall is the ideal time to visit Portugal. Summer months are high season. The rainy season starts in November, and many of the beach resorts are closed. If you love Christmas, you will enjoy a visit to Lisbon during the holidays as it will have Christmas markets and decorations to enjoy.

  • Language: The official language of Portugal is Portuguese.
  • Currency: Portugal’s currency is the Euro, and the current exchange rate is 1 EUR = $1.14. Most major cities throughout Portugal accept any major credit card, but it is always wise to carry cash in remote locations. The ATMs in Portugal are not only used to withdraw some money but also pay bills.
  • Plugs: The Portugal plugs are type F, the standard voltage is 230 V, and the standard frequency is 50Hz. I recommend you buy a universal adapter to attach to your hairdryer and hot tools.
  • Safety: Portugal is a safe country to visit; however, always take precautions and beware of your surroundings.

5 Gorgeous Portuguese Islands That Are Worth Visiting

Explore the serene beauty and adventure of Portugal’s stunning islands, where life moves to the gentle rhythm of the ocean waves. Discover five must-visit Portuguese islands, each offering a unique blend of relaxation, culture, and breathtaking landscapes.

Unveiling Sintra’s Charms: A Tuk-Tuk Excursion

Discover the magical allure of Sintra, Portugal, on a captivating TukTuk tour from Lisbon. Explore historic palaces, mystical estates, and charming old towns in a full day of enchantment and adventure. Book your TukTuk tour now and immerse yourself in the fairy tale charm of Sintra.”

Seven Hanging Valleys Trail in Algarve

Explore the breathtaking Seven Hanging Valleys Trail in Algarve, Portugal. Discover stunning coastal views, hidden beaches, and the beauty of limestone cliffs on this unforgettable hike. Click to find out why this trail should be on your travel bucket list!”

Artistic Heart of Chaido District:Lisbon

Chiado District is an effortless blend of history, culture, and a lively atmosphere of sightseeing in Lisbon.

Travel Guide to Baixa District

Explore the historic beauty of Lisbon’s Baixa District, where iconic landmarks offer a captivating blend of history and vibrant street life.

Timeless Adventure in Alfama District

In the heart of Lisbon is Alfama District, where every cobblestone tells a story, and every panoramic view is a piece of art. Join me as we unravel the secrets of this historic district, discovering the Lisbon Cathedral and the mesmerizing Miradouro da Portas do Sol.

Mosaic Adventure of Belem District

In Belem, you will find an open-air museum that unfolds against a backdrop of architectural marvels and delectable treats. From the majestic Belem Tower and the ornate Jeronimos Monastery to savoring the world-famous Pastels de Belem, every moment in Belem is a step into Portugal’s illustrious past.

Best-Kept Secret of Sao Vicente District

Discover Lisbon’s São Vicente district, where landmarks like the National Pantheon weave tales of the city’s past. Immerse yourself in the artistic legacy at the National Tile Museum, where azulejo tiles reflect the vibrant culture of Portugal.

Algarve Coastal Gem: Lagos

Welcome to Lagos, where history, adventure, and coastal beauty converge to create a traveler’s paradise in Portugal.

Medieval Town of Silves

As a travel enthusiast seeking new horizons, Silves promises an unforgettable experience for the spirited explorer within you.

Tavira Coastal Treasure

Discover the enchanting allure of Tavira as you wander through its charming cobblestone streets, lined with historic architecture and vibrant local markets. Immerse yourself in the rich culture where the azure waters of the Gilão River meet the pristine beaches, creating a picturesque backdrop for an unforgettable travel experience.

Uncover Loule in the Algarve Region

Welcome to Loule, a captivating gem nestled in the heart of Portugal’s Algarve region.

A Day Trip to Ferragudo and Portimão

Embark on a mesmerizing day trip with me as we uncover Ferragudo and Portimão. From picturesque beaches to historic forts and delightful dining, this adventure-packed itinerary has it all!

Carvoeiro: A Seaside Odyssey

Carvoeiro promises a blend of natural beauty, coastal adventures, and the warm embrace of Portuguese hospitality.

Faro: A Traveler’s Oasis

Embark on a journey with me to the heart of Portugal’s Algarve region – the picturesque city of Faro. I’ve explored countless destinations, but Faro’s unique blend of history, culture, and coastal charm left an indelible mark on my wanderlust-filled heart.

Sagres: Tales from the Edge of Europe

Sagres, a hidden gem at the southwestern tip of Portugal, beckons with a magnetic allure that whispers tales of maritime adventures and stunning vistas.

Exploring Algarve: Portugal’s Coastal Marvel

Join me on an adventure as we uncover the sun-soaked secrets of the Algarve, Portugal’s southern coastal gem.

A Day of Sun and Fun in Albufeira

Nestled in the heart of the Algarve region, Albufeira, Portugal, invites you to uncover its rich history and embrace a day of sun-soaked adventures. Join me as we explore the cobblestone streets of Old Town Albufeira and set sail from the picturesque marina, all while soaking up the town’s fascinating past and vibrant present.

13 Captivating Places to See in Porto

Get ready to be swept off your feet by the breathtaking beauty of Porto, Portugal. Check out my top 13 captivating places in this charming city, filled with history, culture, and unforgettable experiences.

13 Best Instagram Spots in Porto

If you’re an architecture lover and Instagram enthusiast, Porto is your perfect destination. The city has stunning buildings and structures, from Baroque and Gothic churches to modern masterpieces.

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