Welcome to Portugal
Geography and Climate
Portugal is located in the southern Europe, on the Iberian Peninsula, bordering Spain to the east and north, and the Atlantic Ocean to the west and south;
The country has a diverse climate, with a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters in most areas;
Its most famous islands, Azores and Madeira, are located in the Atlantic Ocean.
Culture
Famous for:
Fado, distinctive traditional architecture (notably azulejos), and internationally acclaimed wines, especially Porto wine.
Cuisine:
Primarily Mediterranean, featuring seafood dishes like bacalhau and sardines, sweet treats such as pastéis de nata, and renowned wines.
Sport:
Football (soccer) dominates, with Cristiano Ronaldo being a global sports icon.
Tourism Highlights
Lisbon: The capital city, known for its historic neighborhoods like Alfama, Belém Tower, and tram 28.
Porto:
Famous for its riverside, wine cellars and the Ribeira district.
Algarve:
Stunning beaches, cliffs, and golf resorts.
Sintra:
The fairy-tale town with palaces like Pena Palace and Moorish Castle.
Portugal in the World
The country was a major maritime power during the Age of Exploration in the 15th and 16th centuries. Portuguese explorers, like Vasco da Gama and Ferdinand Magellan, helped map uncharted territories and establish trade routes globally.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Portugal has 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including historic cities like Évora, cultural landmarks like the Tower of Belém, and natural spots like the Laurisilva forest in Madeira.
Unique Festivals
Portugal hosts numerous traditional festivals, such as the Lisbon Fado Festival, Carnival celebrations in Madeira, and the Festa de São João in Porto, where people throw plastic hammers at each other for fun.