Portugal is located on the Iberian Peninsula. Even though it is a small European country, the country is a tourist paradise due to its delicious gastronomy, idyllic climate, rich cultural history, and affordable travel costs. There is no doubt that Portugal is one of the most visited countries in Europe. Here are the Top 10 Things To Know About Portugal Before You Visit
Portuguese people love their cars. One of our best Portugal travel tips is to take a walk. Walk along a quiet path. The car park is just a few steps away. Follow a country lane. There’s a good chance that you’ll find a beach or beauty spot that’s quieter.
Number 9. Make sure you wear comfortable shoes
It seems common sense, but it’s an important tip, especially when visiting a hilly city like Lisbon. As well as creating unstable footing, cobblestone streets can sometimes be slippery. Additionally, many coastal towns can be very windy, blowing sand onto sidewalks and streets. It is best to explore some of Portugal’s most popular spots on foot, so pack a pair of sneakers, hiking shoes, or sturdy sandals.
Number 8. Learn how to ask for coffee properly
The following is a more figurative tip than a literal one, but ordering the wrong coffee can ruin your day (or ruin an otherwise delicious meal). The standard Portuguese coffee is espresso, which may be too strong for some people, who would prefer a Meia de Leite, a Galo, or any coffee-based drink.
Number 7. Portugal has the biggest waves ever surfed
World records have been set at Nazaré, making it a permanent stop on the World Surf League Big Wave Tour. McNamara broke his own world record in 2013 by serving a 30-meter wave off the coast of Nazaré. Brazilian Rodrigo Koxa currently holds the Guinness World Record for the largest wave ever surfed, catching an almost 25-meter wave at Praia do Norte in Nazaré in Portugal in 2017.
Number 6. Beware of soup when traveling to Portugal as a vegetarian
Portugal’s traditional vegetable soup is Caldo Verde. Most restaurants offer it on their menus. Please be aware that this is not a vegetarian dish. There is almost always sausage in it. There are limited vegetarian options in Portuguese restaurants. You will eat a lot of salads and omelets
Number 5. Drug dealers should be ignored
This is a piece of common sense to keep in mind when walking through downtown Lisbon more than most other areas. Men selling drugs are quite common in touristy parts of the city. If you don’t understand what they’re saying, you’ll notice that their hand is lightly held out and their voice is soft. Although a simple “no” doesn’t always work (they can be persistent), avoiding eye contact and walking away usually works, and they’ll move on to the next person.
Number 4. At night, stay in a group
Nightlife in Portugal can be spectacular, and some clubs stay hopping until dawn. In the middle of the night, however, try to leave with a friend or two (or three). In Faro, Lisbon, and Porto, the streets can appear deserted at night (even in the daytime), and walking alone is never a good idea. That’s it.
Number 3. Beach safety is important
There is a reason why Nazaré, Peniche, and Ericeira are known worldwide for producing huge waves, some of which are dangerously large. A fully-grown adult can sometimes get knocked over while wading up to their knees at a beach. Don’t let children get too close to the water’s edge without supervision. During the winter, when waves are at their highest in Portugal, be careful while walking along the beach.
Number 2. One of the most peaceful countries in the world is Portugal
Portugal ranked 4th on the Global Peace Index (GPI) in 2021, behind Iceland, New Zealand, and Denmark. Thus, Portugal is one of the safest countries in the world.
Number 1. Europe’s oldest nation is Portugal
Portugal’s borders were defined in 1139, making it not only one of the world’s oldest nations but also among the oldest in Europe. In that year, Portugal appointed King Afonso Henriques as its king. There are actually four centuries between Lisbon and Rome. The territory had been settled by various empires and civilizations before Portugal was established in 1200 BC, including the Phoenicians.
Portugal’s landscape is blessed with rolling hills, verdant forests, and miles of coastline. The country is a haven for history lovers, as there it’s home to a medieval castle, a 14th-century aqueduct, and a Gothic cathedral. And, of course, you’ll see nuns. In true Portuguese fashion, those nuns are extremely cute.
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