Accommodation
Editor's Choice: Pousadas
The pousadas are a network of inns housed in historic buildings, castles, palaces and convents, or sometimes built especially for the purpose. They have often been geographically sited in regions not on the usual tourist itinerary to give people the opportunity to visit the whole country. The architecture and design of the pousadas has been carefully studied in order to give visitors a better knowledge of the cultural traditions of the various regions of the country, with particular attention paid to handicrafts, cooking and wines.
Accommodation
There is a wide range of accommodation available all over the country, ranging from luxury hotels, pensions, boarding houses and inns to simple guest houses, manor houses, campsites and youth hostels. Pousadas offer very good value and are often situated in places of scenic beauty in converted castles, palaces or old inns.
Hotels
Most hotels have a private swimming pool and serve international cuisine as well as some typically Portuguese dishes. During the low season, hotels normally grant substantial reductions. There should be an officially authorised list of prices displayed in every bedroom, and children under eight years of age are entitled to a reduction of 50 per cent on the price of full meals and 50 per cent on the price of an extra bed, if sharing parents’ room or apartment. Classification of hotels is according to the international 1- to 5-star system and their prices are officially approved. Apartment hotels are classified from 2- to 4-star, motels from 2- to 3-star and boarding houses from 1- to 3-star (with 1-star being the best); there are also 4-star albergarias.
Private houses
Rooms are available in private houses and on farms all over Portugal. Some of the old manor houses are now open to visitors and provide good opportunities for tourists to make contact with Portuguese customs and people.
Self-catering
There is self-catering tourist accommodation in deluxe, first- and second-class tourist villages and tourist apartments, particularly on the Algarve. Tour operators can arrange a wide variety of villas for self-catering parties.
Youth hostels
Youth hostels are located to give young people the opportunity of visiting towns, countryside, mountains and coastal areas. Tourists can obtain accommodation and meals.
Camping/Caravanning
Portugal provides camping and caravan parks near beaches and in thickly wooded areas. Some have model installations including swimming pools, games fields, supermarkets and restaurants. For further information, check online (websites: www.roteiro-campista.pt or www.orbitur.pt).
Accommodation Information
Associação Hotéis de PortugalAvenida Duque d’Ávila 75, 1000 Lisbon, Portugal Tel: 2135 12360.Website: www.hoteis-portugal.pt Pousadas de PortugalRua Soares de Passos, 3 Alto de Santo Amaro, 1300-314, Lisbon, Portugal Tel: 2184 4200.Website: www.pousadas.ptMOVIJOVEM (Youth Hostels)Rua Lucio de Azevedo 27, 1600 Lisbon, Portugal Tel: 2172 32100.Website: www.pousadasjuventude.ptFederação Portuguesa de CampismoAvenida Coronel Eduardo Galhardo 24D, 1199-007 Lisbon, Portugal Tel: 2181 26890.E-mail: campasino@fpcampismo.pt
Business
• GDP:
&Euro;129.9 billion (2003).• Main exports: Clothing and footwear, machinery, chemicals, cork and paper products, and hides.• Main imports: Machinery and transport equipment, chemicals, petroleum, textiles and agricultural products.• Main trade partners: Spain, Germany, France, UK, Italy and The Netherlands.
Economy
Portugal was traditionally an agrarian economy but since joining the EU in 1986, the industrial and especially the service sectors have grown considerably by comparison. Agriculture still employs 12 per cent of the workforce – unusually high by Western European standards – and contributes 3 per cent of GDP, producing wheat, maize, tomatoes, potatoes and grapes. Production has undergone a relative decline so that Portugal now imports a sizeable proportion of its foodstuffs after having long been self-sufficient. The manufacturing sector is dominated by the textile and footwear industries and automobiles, which now account for 15 per cent of total exports. Other important products are paper, cork and other wood products, electrical appliances, chemicals and ceramics. Both foreign and internal investment have been high, attracted by Portugal’s relatively low labour costs and the recent modernisation of much of the country’s infrastructure. Many former state-owned industries have been sold off under a gradual privatisation programme which began in 1989. During the last five years, unemployment has hovered around 5 per cent while inflation has fell to 2.4 per cent in 2004. Portugal joined the Eurozone upon its inauguration in 1999. Unfortunately, since then, the economy has stagnated – growth was 1 per cent in 2004. The main reasons have been a reduction in domestic demand and Government spending cuts – required under the terms of Eurozone membership – to tackle the country’s large budget deficit.
Business Etiquette
Businesspeople are expected to dress smartly and formal attire is expected in some dining rooms and for important social functions. English is widely spoken in business circles, although when visiting a small family business it is best to check in advance. Visiting cards are generally only exchanged by more senior members of a company. July and August are best avoided. Office hours: Mon-Fri 0900-1300 and 1500-1900.
Conferences/Conventions
Lisbon is the main centre for conventions, with venues that can seat up to 1500 people. The Lisbon Convention Centre was founded in 1987, and a major Congress centre, fully integrated with the facilities offered by the Lisbon International Fair, opened in 1989. The fair is a department of the Portuguese Industrial Association, which promotes trade fairs, exhibitions and meetings. After the EXPO ’98 in Lisbon, the North International Area became the new Lisbon Exhibition Centre, with an area of 80,000 sq m (743,200 sq ft), also run by the Portuguese Industrial Association. The Lisbon International Fair will now be the major congress centre in Lisbon, with a capacity for events of up to 3000 delegates. The Lisbon Convention Bureau is a non-profit-making association of companies providing support services to conference organisers. Its services directory includes details of the Congress Centre and hotels with conference facilities. Lisbon opened the Belem Cultural Centre in 1992 to coincide with Portugal’s EU Presidency; it features high-quality technical equipment and facilities for meetings of up to 1400 delegates. Additionally the former site of the EXPO ’98 ‘Utopia Pavillion’ has been converted into the multi-purpose Atlantic Pavillion, which can accommodate up to 16,500 seated spectators. The city of Oporto also has two major international exhibition and congress centres. The Oporto International Exhibition Centre (Exponor) has a total area of 29,500 sq m (274,000 sq ft) with a congress centre that has a capacity for 1000 delegates; the International Congress and Exhibition Centre (Europarque) has a large and flexible exhibition hall that can host receptions for up to 12,000 delegates on a floor space of 7200 sq m (66,890 sq ft).
Commercial Information
Associação Comercial de LisboaCâmara de Comércio e Indústria Portuguesa, Rua das Portas de Santo Antão 89, 1169-022 Lisbon, PortugalTel: 2132 24050.Website: www.port-chambers.comConfederação do Comércio e Serviços de Portugal (CCP)Avenida Dom Vasco de Gama 29, 1449-032 Lisbon, PortugalTel: 2130 31380.Website: www.ccp.ptLisbon Convention Bureau (Information on Conferences/Conventions)Rua do Arsenal 15, 1100-038 Lisbon, PortugalTel: 2103 12700.Porto Convention Bureau (Information on Conferences/Conventions)Av Inferior a Ponte D. Luis 1, 53, 1 4050 Porto, Portugal Tel: 2233 26751.Website: www.portocvb.comBelem Cultural Centre (Information on Conferences/Conventions)Praça do Império, 1499-003 Lisbon, PortugalTel: 2136 12400.Website: www.ccb.pt
Climate
Climate
The northwest has mild winters with high levels of rainfall and fairly short summers. The northeast has longer winters and hot summers. In the south, summers (March to October) are warm with very little rain except in early spring and autumn. High temperatures are moderated by a permanent breeze in Estoril (July to August).
Required clothing
Light- to mediumweights and rainwear are advised.
Communications
Telephone
IDD is available. Country code: 351. There are call boxes in most villages and all towns; there are also public telephones in many cafes and bars, from which international calls may be made.
Mobile telephone
Roaming agreements exist with international mobile phone companies. Coverage exists across the whole country.
Internet
Internet cafes exist in all urban areas, and some post offices offer Internet facilities. In various hotels and public facilities, there are areas where it is possible to access wireless Internet.
Post
Post office (correios) hours: Usually Mon-Fri 0800-2200, Sat-Sun 0900-1800. The post office at Lisbon Airport is open 24 hours a day. Airmail to European destinations from continental Portugal and the Azores takes three days; from Madeira, up to five days.
MEDIA
Public TV services are operated by RTP, which enjoyed a monopoly until the launch of commercial channel SIC in 1992. Today, Portugal's commercial TV stations provide tough competition for the public broadcaster. Press: Each region has its own Portuguese-language dailies. The English-language newspapers published in Portugal include: Anglo Portuguese News (Lisbon) and The Portugal News (Algarve). Portugese dailies include: Diario Noticias, Publico and Expresso.TV: RTP operates two domestic channels and external services RTP Africa and RTP Internacional. It had a monopoly position until the commercial channel Sociedade Independente de Comunicação (SIC) was launched in 1992. TVI is another commercial channel, while TV Cabo is the main pay-TV operator. A wide range of domestic and foreign channels are available through Multichannel TV - via cable and satellite - in Portugal.Radio: Rádio e Televisão de Portugal (RTP) is Portugal's public broadcasting organisation. It operates public radio networks in the country. Radio Comercial and Radio Clube Portugues are two of the commercial channels. Radio Renascenca is very popular and owned by the Roman Catholic Church. Around 300 local and regional radio stations operate in Portugal.
Duty Free
Duty Free
The following items may be imported by visitors over 18 years of age from countries outside the EU without incurring customs duty: 200 cigarettes or 100 cigarillos or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco; 1l of spirits over 22 per cent or 2l of spirits up to 22 per cent; 2l of wine; 50g of perfume and 250ml of eau de toilette; 500g of coffee or 200g of coffee extract (provided bought in a tax-free shop); 100g of tea or 40g of tea extract (provided bought in a tax-free shop); further goods up to &Euro;175 per adult or &Euro;90 if under 15 years of age.
Abolition of duty free goods within the EU
On 30 June 1999, the sale of duty free alcohol and tobacco at airports and at sea was abolished in all of the original 15 EU member states. Of the 10 new member states that joined the EU on 1 May 2004, these rules already apply to Cyprus and Malta. There are transitional rules in place for visitors returning to one of the original 15 EU countries from one of the other new EU countries. But for the original 15, plus Cyprus and Malta, there are no limits imposed on importing tobacco and alcohol products from one EU country to another. Travellers should note that they may be required to prove at customs that the goods purchased are for personal use only. Member states may follow the EU’s guide levels of: 10l of spirits; 20l of fortified wine; 90l of wine; 110l of beer; 800 cigarettes; 400 cigarillos; 200 cigars and 1kg of tobacco.
Entertainment
Food & Drink
Seafood is popular, especially in Lisbon. Soup is a main dish. Portugals' sweet pastries are also worth a try. Thinsg to know: Table service is normal. There are no licensing hours.National specialities: • Seafood is popular, especially in Lisbon, but can be expensive. •
Sopa de marisco (shellfish soup cooked and served with wine).• Caldo verde (green soup made with finely shredded green kale leaves in broth). • Bacalhau (dried cod, cooked in over 100 different ways). •
Caldeirada is a fish stew with as many as nine kinds of fish, cooked with onions and tomatoes. • Carne de porco á Alentejana, in which bits of fried pork are covered with a sauce of clams stewed with tomato and onions. • Puddings include arroz doce (rice pudding), Madeira pudding and nuvens (egg custard).• Portugal’s sweet pastries (available in most cafes) are also worth a try. National drinks:• Portuguese wines have changed beyond recognition over the past 10 years. Many of these new, modern wines are indigenous varieties with distinctive flavours. Sparkling rosé wines are mostly produced for export. • Mateus Rosé is a famous lightweight rosé. • Portuguese brandies are also good; the best are produced around Oporto, where Port wines originate. Tipping: Generally 10 to 15 per cent. Taxi drivers are tipped 10 per cent.
Nightlife
The large towns offer every kind of entertainment. There are many nightclubs, theatres, cinemas, stage shows, folk dancing and music performances. The traditional Fado can be heard in many restaurants, and performances begin at about 2200. Gambling is authorised and Espinho, Estoril, Figueira da Foz and Monte Gordo have casinos. The elegant Estoril Casino is the most renowned.
Shopping
Items include leather goods, copper, ceramics, handcrafted silver and gold, embroidery and tapestry, woodcarving, cork products, porcelain and china, crystal and glassware. Shopping hours: Generally Mon-Fri 0900-1300 and 1500-1900, Sat 0900-1300 (and 1500-1900 in December). Shopping centres are usually open Mon-Sun 1000-2300.
General Information
Area
92,345 sq km (35,655 sq miles).
Population
10.3 million.
Population Density
112.7 per sq km.
Capital
Lisbon. Population: 564,657; 2.5 million in Greater Lisbon.
Geography
Portugal occupies the southwest part of the Iberian Peninsula and shares borders in the north and the east with Spain, while to the south and west lies the Atlantic Ocean. The country is divided into various provinces, including the Atlantic islands of Madeira and the Azores; the latter lying some 1220km (760 miles) due west of Lisbon. The Douro, Guadiana and Tagus rivers flow across the border from Spain. North Portugal is mountainous, the highest part being the Serra da Estrela, a popular area for skiing. South of Lisbon stretch the vast plains of the Alentejo region. A range of mountains divides the Alentejo from the Algarve, which runs along the south coast, and is one of the most popular resort areas with wide sandy beaches and attractive bays.
Government
Republic since 1910. Head of State: President Anibal Cavaco Silva since 2006. Head of Government: Prime Minister Jose Socrates since 2005. Recent history: In spite of a successful Presidency of the EU in 2000, the domestic popularity of Portugal's Socialist government was decreasing, and after Prime Minister Antonio Guterres resigned in December 2001, the centre-right Social Democratic Party (PSD), headed by new Prime Minister Durao Barroso, formed a coalition government with the Popular Party. Barroso went on to become President of the European Commission in July 2004, but the Government he left had become increasingly unpopular because of escalating unemployment, and in the Autumn of 2004 there were clear signs of its instability, which led President Jorge Sampaio to dissolve Parliament. In the general elections in February 2005, the Socialist Party won its first absolute majority since democracy returned to the country in 1974, and Prime Minister Jose Socrates and his new Cabinet were sworn in. On taking office, Mr Socrates said his priority would be to encourage economic growth and stem the rising unemployment. President Sampaio, a Socialist, has served two five-year terms and was succeeded by the winner of the January 2006 presidential poll, Anibal Cavaco Silva. Mr Silva, a former Prime Minister, is the first centre-right politician to be President since the coup of 1974.
Language
Portuguese. English is widely spoken within the business community.
Religion
Roman Catholic.
Electricity
220 volts AC, 50Hz. 110 volts in some areas and 230 DC in parts of the south. Continental two-pin plugs are in use.
SOCIAL CONVENTIONS
The Portuguese way of life is leisurely, and old-fashioned politeness is essential. Warm, Latin hospitality is the norm. The country has a deeply individual national character, although each province has its own traditions and folklore. Casual wear is widely acceptable, although beachwear should not be worn in towns. In restaurants, it is usual to smoke only at the end of the meal. Smoking is prohibited in cinemas, theatres and on buses.
Health
Health
1.
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travellers over one year of age arriving in (or going to as a destination) the Azores or Madeira, if coming from infected areas. However, no certificate is required from passengers transiting through Funchal, Porto Santo and Santa Maria.
Health care
European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland: If you or any of your dependants are suddenly taken ill or have an accident during a visit to an EEA country or Switzerland, free or reduced-cost necessary treatment is available – in most cases on production of a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Each country has different rules about state medical provision. In some, treatment is free. In many countries you will have to pay part or all of the cost, and then claim a full or partial refund. The EHIC gives access to state-provided medical treatment only and the scheme gives no entitlement to medical repatriation costs, nor does it cover ongoing illnesses of a non-urgent nature, so comprehensive travel insurance is advised. Note that the EHIC replaces the Form E111, which is no longer valid. Some restrictions apply, depending on your nationality. If you require a doctor or a dentist in mainland Portugal, go to the nearest health centre (Centro de Saúde). Show your passport or European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), and ask to be treated under the EU arrangements. You will be charged a non-refundable standard fee. Dental treatment is limited under the state scheme. You will probably have to pay, and the charges are not refundable. In Madeira, you can get a partial refund if you see a private doctor. Make sure you get an official (green) receipt. For some prescribed medicines, you will have to pay between 30 and 80 per cent of the cost. There is no charge for prescriptions issued for certain serious illnesses ('A Level'). Basic hospital treatment is free, but you will have to pay for secondary examinations, such as X-rays, and laboratory tests. More information can be obtained in Portugal from the nearest Administração Regional de Saúde (Regional Health Service Office).
History and Government
History
The part of Iberia which is now Portugal was occupied by a people known as the Lusitanos, who are thought to be direct ancestors of the Portuguese people. The region was invaded and occupied by the Romans and later the Moors; it remained under the latter’s control until the 11th century, when Ferdinand, ruler of the Kingdom of Leon and Castilla (in what is now Spain) conquered much of the territory. Over the next 200 years, the remaining Moors were driven out and the boundaries of Portugal fixed; and it was during this period (in 1143) that Portugal first became recognised as an independent entity, under the rule of King Afonso Henriques. The Castilians were themselves expelled in 1385 after defeat at the hands of João of Aviz (who became King João I) at the Battle of Aljubarrota. From this point, the Portuguese went on to build a colonial empire in Africa, Latin America, India and the Far East. One of the most famous figures during this period was Prince Henry the Navigator, amongst whose acquisitions were the Azores and Madeira. One of the best-known visitors to Madeira was Christopher Columbus, who married a daughter of one of the island’s governors and lived for some time on Porto Santo. The island survived a brief invasion by a French pirate in 1566, but in 1580, along with the rest of Portugal, came under Spanish domination. This arose from the recurring friction between the two kingdoms, particularly after the union of Aragon and Castilla in the late 15th century. In the 16th century, with the Portuguese regime weakened by a struggle for the succession to the throne and the legacy of a disastrous ‘crusade’ against the Moors, Philip II of Spain (who had a claim to the Portuguese crown) invaded. Spanish rule lasted just 60 years until 1640, when the Portuguese launched a successful uprising and seceded from Spain. However, by the time they recovered their independence, the Portuguese had lost the bulk of their empire, including most of the valuable East Indies territories, which had been occupied by the Dutch.Portugal ceased to be a major player in the European colonial scramble thereafter. The Braganza dynasty, which took power after the defeat of the Spanish, lasted until the mid-19th century, presiding over a weak economy and a largely feudal society. One of the princesses of the royal house, Catherine, married Charles II of England, confirming the friendly relations between the two countries which date back to the 14th century. This brought many advantages to English merchants in Portugal, and also on the island of Madeira where the treaty helped the rapid development of the trade in the island’s wine which became popular in England. Portuguese political development lagged behind that of many European states during this period and it remained comparatively untouched by the Enlightenment until the emergence in the late 18th century of the Marquis de Pombal. The Marquis de Pombal was both dictatorial and enlightened (by the standards of the time) on matters of social reform. He did much to break the power of the landed aristocracy over the country. Occasional conflicts with the Spanish and French – sometimes in alliance – threatened the country’s autonomy, but the Portuguese always managed to preserve their independence, often with the support of the British. The monarchy was finally overthrown in 1910 by republican forces, who particularly resented the strong influence of the Catholic church on the regime. Portugal supported the Allied Powers during World War I, but contributed little due to the presence of a strong pro-German element in the armed forces, which made several coup attempts. Finally, a right-wing dictatorship took power in 1926. Though military in composition, the key figure in the new regime was finance minister Antonio de Oliveira Salazar. Having addressed Portugal’s chaotic financial situation, Salazar became President in 1932. Salazar was influenced by the populist fascism of Benito Mussolini in Italy and founded a party, the National Union, to prepare the way for an Estado Novo. Despite its Government’s sympathies, Portugal, like Spain, stayed neutral during World War II. Salazar remained in power until 1968 without effecting any of the post-war reforms which had been forced upon or embraced by other European countries: the economy remained largely agricultural and under-industrialised, while the Portuguese colonies were subject to regimes more consistent with the conditions of the 19th and early 20th centuries. Salazar’s eventual successor, Marcello Caetano, eased the restrictions on domestic political activity, but otherwise altered little. His downfall six years later was connected with the colonial policies inherited from his predecessor: specifically, that Portugal’s overseas possessions were an ‘inalienable’ part of the country. The strain of fighting several different nationalist movements simultaneously (see Angola, Guinea-Bissau, Indonesia and Mozambique sections) strained both army morale and the Government’s finances. On April 25, 1974 (a date of great significance in Portugal), a group of radical army officers deposed Caetano in a bloodless coup. The African colonies were immediately abandoned: indeed, they were left with such haste that internal crises were almost inevitable. Portugal was governed for two years by a leftist military junta led by members of the Movimento das Forcas Armadas, the instigators of the revolution, while civilian politicians re-emerged and crystallised around the Socialist and Communist Parties and the right-wing Partido Popular Democratico. Under the constitution adopted in 1976, Portugal was nominally committed to a path of socialist development, but the country has since followed a standard Western European model of political pluralism. Portugal has been a member of NATO since its inception in 1949 and a member of the EC, now the EU, since 1986. The Government of Anibal Cavaco Silva which took office in 1987 concentrated on bridging the economic gap between Portugal and its richer fellow Community members. With average annual growth of around 5 per cent in the last four years, the Government was broadly successful on the economic front. This as much as anything else won Cavaco Silva’s centre-right Partido Social Democrata (PSD, Social Democrats) a further endorsement from the electorate in October 1991. Since the election, the Government has been pursuing a controversial austerity programme which aims to dispose of almost the entire state sector as part of a drive to increase competitiveness and reduce structural inefficiency. The unpopularity of this programme became apparent in the October 1995 general election at which the Socialists were returned as the largest single party with sufficient parliamentary seats to form a minority government. The new Prime Minister was Antonio Guterres, who reformed his party after taking it over in 1991 in much the same direction as the British Labour Party leader, although without the benefit of Tony Blair’s huge parliamentary majority. The party thus had to make accommodations at various stages with communist and environmentalist parties. But by March 2002, the electorate had tired of the Socialists and re-elected the centre-right alliance. José Manuel Durao Barroso, leader of the Social Democrats – the main centre-right party – took over as premier. Like his Socialist predecessor, Barroso lacked an overall majority, and brought the far-right Partido Popular Democratico (PPD) into government. As elsewhere in Western Europe, the far right has been gaining ground in Portugal, although its historical background means that the PPD often seems more interested in rekindling ancient rivalries between Portugal and Spain than in pursuing the customary ultra-right themes of race, immigration and crime. Barroso was appointed as President of the European Commission in Brussels and Pedro Santana Lopes was elected as Portugal's Prime Minster in 2004. Portugal is a relatively contented participant in the post-Maastricht integration process, and joined the European Monetary Union at the beginning of 1999. EU reforms were a principal motivation for the constitutional changes effected by the government in 1997, of which the most important was a measure allowing for referendums on important matters of national interest. Outside Europe, the Portuguese Foreign Ministry contributed substantially to the various political settlements in Angola and, co-operating closely with Italian diplomats, Mozambique. Relations with the government of Indonesia suffered from the latter’s appalling behaviour in the former Portuguese colony of East Timor. However, since East Timor became an independent nation in May 2002 (see Indonesia section), the issue is effectively closed. The future of Macau, which reverted to Chinese possession in December 1999, was settled far more amicably between Beijing and Lisbon than the parallel negotiations between the British and Chinese governments over the future of Hong Kong.
Government
Since 1982, when the Military Council of the Revolution was abolished, Portugal has been formally governed by a directly elected President, who is head of state and appoints a Prime Minister and Council of Ministers. Legislation is handled by the unicameral 230-member Assembly which, like the President, is elected for a five-year term. Following constitutional amendments promulgated in 1997, the number of deputies will probably be reduced further to between 180 and 200. The Azores and Madeira are integral parts of the Portuguese republic, but since 1976 have had autonomous governments. Macau, now a Special Administrative Region of China, is governed by special statute (see Macau section).
Money
Single European currency (Euro)
The Euro is now the official currency of 12 EU member states (including Portugal). The first Euro coins and notes were introduced in January 2002. Euro (&Euro;) = 100 cents. Notes are in denominations of &Euro;500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10 and 5. Coins are in denominations of &Euro;2 and 1, and 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 cents.
Currency exchange
Many banks offer differing exchange rates depending on the denominations of Portuguese currency being bought or sold. It is common practice for banks to charge 0.5 per cent commission with a minimum charge of approximately £6/&Euro;10. However, some banks do not charge any commission on transactions of less than &Euro;25. Check with banks for details and current rates. Additionally, ATMs, identified by the symbol MB (MultiBanco), are increasingly being installed and tend to be more efficient and only charge 2 per cent commission. There are also many bureaux de change available.
Credit & debit cards
American Express, MasterCard and Visa are widely accepted, as well as Eurocheque cards. Check with your credit or debit card company for details of merchant acceptability and other services that may be available.
Traveller's cheques
These are readily exchanged. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travellers are advised to take traveller's cheques in Euros, Pounds Sterling or US Dollars.
Currency restrictions
The import of local or foreign currency in cash or traveller's cheques is unlimited. However, there is an obligation to inform the customs authorities if foreign currencies exceed approximately &Euro;4987.98/US$6000. The export of local currency is limited to &Euro;498.80. There are no restrictions on the export of foreign currency although currency exchange receipts may be requested for amounts over &Euro;4987.98. The export of gold, silver, jewellery and other valuables is limited to a value of &Euro;149.64 and subject to special conditions. For details, contact the Embassy; see Passport/Visa Information.
Exchange rate indicators
DateAt time of publishing£1.00=&Euro;1.46$1.00=&Euro;0.82
Banking hours
Generally, Mon-Fri 0830-1500 (certain banks in Lisbon are open until 1800).
Overview
Portugal is a country of astonishing beauty and diversity, not to mention clear blue skies and friendly, courteous people. Pick any destination and the view from your window might be a rugged stretch of windswept coastline (Cabo do São Vicente, Castelejo, Cabo Espichel), a pristine beach where fishermen mend their nets beside brightly painted sardine boats (Albufeira, Bordeira, Praia do Camilo) or a cobbled street overlooked by dazzling whitewashed houses with wooden balconies and red-tiled roofs. Portugal is a land of infinite options. You can mingle with the crowds in one of the more sophisticated beach resorts or wander through the medieval quarters of historic cities like Lisbon, Porto, Braga or Coimbra. To explore the more remote beauty spots (car hire is relatively cheap, driving a delight) stay overnight in a romantic pousada – a converted farm, monastery or manor house enjoying a wonderful setting – an amazing bargain. If it’s an activity holiday you’re looking for, Portugal is one of Europe’s premier golfing destinations while the tennis schools are second-to-none. You could try your hand at big game fishing or horseriding, learn how to windsurf or water ski. Other unmissable experiences include Fado (Portugal’s answer to soul music), country fairs where centuries-old folk traditions are lovingly reenacted, Port wine tastings and mouthwatering fish suppers. Portugal is a country ripe for discovery.
Christopher Rice
OverviewII
Often overshadowed by its much larger eastern neighbour, Spain, Portugal, is something of an unspoilt jewel on the European tourist map. It has a rich and turbulent history of seafaring and discovery dating back to the 15th century when Portuguese explorers such as Vasco da Gama put to sea in search of a passage to India. From this point, the Portuguese went on to build a colonial empire in Africa, Latin America, India and the Far East. Because Portugal was a dictatorship for almost half of the 20th century, under the leadership of Antonio de Oliveira Salazar, the rulers' stubborn refusal to relinquish their grip on the former colonies as demands for independence gained momentum there resulted in expensive wars in Africa. This period was brought to an end in 1974 in a bloodless coup, known as the 'Revolution of the Carnations', which ushered in a new democracy. By the end of 1975, all of Portugal's former colonies in Africa were independent of Lisbon but the 200 million Portuguese speakers around the world today are an obvious legacy of Portugal's colonial past. Modern Portugal contains enough World Heritage Sites and other natural and cultural wonders to keep any visitor busy for a long, long time. It is a country of astonishing beauty and diversity, not to mention clear blue skies and friendly, courteous people. Pick any destination and the view from your window might be a rugged stretch of windswept coastline (Cabo do São Vicente, Castelejo, Cabo Espichel), a pristine beach where fishermen mend their nets beside brightly painted sardine boats (Albufeira, Bordeira, Praia do Camilo) or a cobbled street overlooked by dazzling whitewashed houses with wooden balconies and red-tiled roofs. Portugal is a land of infinite options. You can mingle with the crowds in one of the more sophisticated beach resorts or wander through the medieval quarters of historic cities like Lisbon, Porto, Braga or Coimbra. To explore the more remote beauty spots (car hire is relatively cheap, driving a delight) stay overnight in a romantic pousada - a converted farm, monastery or manor house enjoying a wonderful setting - an amazing bargain. If it is an activity holiday you are looking for, Portugal is one of Europe's premier golfing destinations while the tennis schools are second-to-none. You could try your hand at big game fishing or horseriding, learn how to windsurf or water ski. Other unmissable experiences include Fado (Portugal's answer to soul music), country fairs where centuries-old folk traditions are lovingly reenacted, Port wine tastings and mouthwatering fish suppers. Portugal is a country ripe for discovery.
Passport/Visa
Passport/Visa
Note
Portugal is a signatory to the 1995 Schengen Agreement. For further details about passport and visa regulations in the Schengen area see the introductory section How to Use This Guide.
Passports
Passport valid for at least three months beyond length of stay required by all except:1. EU/EEA nationals (EU + Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway) and Swiss nationals holding a valid national ID card. Note: EU and EEA nationals are only required to produce evidence of their EU/EEA nationality and identity in order to be admitted to any EU/EEA Member State. This evidence can take the form of a valid national passport or national identity card. Either is acceptable. Possession of a return ticket, any length of validity on their document, sufficient funds for the length of their proposed visit should not be imposed.
Note
Passport validity depends on nationality; 2. A return or onward ticket and funds of &Euro;75 plus &Euro;40 per day are obligatory for all except EU and EEA nationals.
Visas
Required by all except the following for stays of up to 90 days: (a) nationals referred to in the chart and under passport exemptions above; (b) nationals of Andorra, Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Brunei, Bulgaria, Chile, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, El Salvador, Estonia, Guatemala, Honduras, Hong Kong (SAR), Hungary, Iceland, Israel, Korea (Rep), Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Macau (SAR), Malaysia, Malta, Mexico, Monaco, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Norway, Panama, Paraguay, Poland, Romania, San Marino, Singapore, Slovak Republic, Slovenia, Switzerland, Uruguay, Vatican City and Venezuela; (c) transit passengers continuing their journey by the same or first connecting aircraft, provided holding onward or return documentation and not leaving the airport. However, nationals of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Congo (Dem Rep), Eritrea, Ethiopia, Ghana, Iran, Iraq, Liberia, Nigeria, Pakistan, Senegal, Somalia and Sri Lanka always require a transit visa, even when not leaving the airport transit area; contact the Consulate (or Consular section at Embassy) for details.
Types of visa and cost
A uniform type of visa, the Schengen visa, is issued for tourist, private or business visits. There are three types of Schengen visa: Short-stay, Transit and Airport Transit. Visa costs are dependent on the tariff charges of the issuing country and prices may vary with exchange rates. Check with your local Embassy for the most up-to-date prices.
Note
A Schengen visa will be issued free of charge to the spouse and children of an EU national, upon presentation of the original marriage or birth certificate and a valid EU passport. For children, original full birth certificates are required.
Validity
Transit visas are valid for single or two entries of maximum five days, including the day of arrival. Visas cannot be extended; a new application must be made each time.
Application to
Consulate (or Consular section at Embassy) responsible for your place of residence; see Passport/Visa Information. Travellers visiting just one Schengen country should apply to the Consulate of that country; travellers visiting more than one Schengen country should apply to the Consulate of the country chosen as the main destination or the country they will enter first (if they have no main destination).
Application requirements
Tourism: (a) Passport or official travel documents accepted by Schengen countries, valid for at least three months longer than the validity of the visa, with blank page for attachment of visa sticker. (b) Application form. (c) One passport-size photo. (d) Proof of purpose of visit in the form of an official letter of invitation from host or business partner, provisional ticket booking and hotel booking where appropriate. (e) Proof of sufficient funds and medical insurance may also be required. (f) Fee (payable in cash or by postal order). (g) For postal applications, a large self-addressed envelope, stamped for registered or recorded delivery. (h) For applicants driving to Portugal, registration document, proof of legal ownership of the vehicle, driving licence and insurance papers. Applicants entering Portugal by land must register with the Police within three days of arrival. Business: (a)-(g) and, (h) Letter from employer or, if self-employed, from solicitor, accountant, bank manager or local Chamber of Commerce stating purpose and duration of the visit. This should be faxed to the relevant Consulate at least 48 hours before submitting an application. References may also be required.
Working days required
From a few days to a few weeks. Apply in plenty of time.
Temporary residence
Contact the Consulate (or Consular section at Embassy) for further details; see Passport/Visa Information.
Passport/Visa Information
Embassy of the Portuguese Republic in the UK11 Belgrave Square, London SW1X 8PP, UK Tel: (020) 7235 5331. Opening hours: Mon-Fri 0900-1300 and 1400-1730.Portuguese Consulate General in the UK3 Portland Place, London W1B 1HR, UK Tel: (020) 7291 3770 or (0906) 550 8948 (recorded visa information; calls cost £1 per minute). Opening hours: Mon-Fri 0830-1330 (appointment only; closed UK and Portuguese public holidays).Embassy of the Portuguese Republic in the USA2012 Massachussetts Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20008, USA Tel: (202) 328 8610.
Public Holidays
Public Holidays
Below are listed Public Holidays for the January 2006-June 2007 period.Jan 1 2006 New Year’s Day. Feb 28 Mardi Gras (Carnival). Apr 14 Good Friday. Apr 25 Freedom Day. May 1 Labour Day. Jun 10 Portugal Day. Jun 15 Corpus Christi. Aug 15 Assumption. Oct 5 Republic Day. Nov 1 All Saints’ Day. Dec 1 Restoration of Independence Day. Dec 8 Immaculate Conception. Dec 25 Christmas Day. Jan 1 2007 New Year’s Day. Feb 20 Mardi Gras (Carnival). Apr 6 Good Friday. Apr 25 Freedom Day. May 1 Labour Day. May 26 Corpus Christi. Jun 10 Portugal Day.
Note
Holidays falling on a Sunday are not observed on the following Monday.
Resorts & Excursions
Introduction
Often overshadowed by its much larger eastern neighbour, Spain, Portugal has its own distinct language, identity, customs, landscapes and scenery. Despite the encroachment of tourism, it remains one of the least spoilt corners of Europe. Portugal can conveniently be divided into five regions: Porto and the north, Beiras, Lisbon and the Tagus Valley, Alentejo and the Algarve. Portugal’s Atlantic islands, the Azores and Madeira, are covered separately in this guide. For more information, see their individual entries.
Lisbon & the Tagus Valley
Lisbon
Lisbon (Lisboa), the capital of Portugal, enjoys one of the most dramatic settings of any European capital, clinging to a series of steep hillsides at the estuary of the River Tagus (Rio Tejo), just 10km (6 miles) from the Atlantic Ocean. Perched above the old Moorish quarter of Alfama, characterised by twisting, cobbled streets and whitewashed houses, is the magnificent Castle of São Jorge. Founded in the 12th century, its 10 towers crown the hill where the original colony was situated in Phoenician times. Lisbon Cathedral (Sé) dates from the same period as the castle and was an important element in the fortifications. The downtown Baixa district was built on a grid formation following the devastating earthquake in 1755. Today, it is one of Lisbon’s best areas for shopping (especially crafts – gold, silver and jewellery). This is a lively area with plenty of cafes and terrace restaurants. Baixa slopes down towards the River Tagus, Lisbon’s main waterway, where visitors can take an interesting boat trip along the estuary and across to the picturesque southern shore. An antiquated elevator operates between Baixa and the aptly named Bairro Alto (Upper Town), home of Fado, the traditional folk music of Lisbon. Also worth a visit is the Gulbenkian Foundation, a cultural centre and museum set in its own park. The museum houses a range of artefacts, from Oriental jewellery to French impressionist paintings. The exhibition grounds of ‘Expo ’98’ are now known as the Park of Nations. Its attractions include the second largest Oceanarium in the world, a Virtual Reality Pavilion, and the Vasco da Gama Tower. The 850m-tower (2788ft) offers excellent views of the city and beyond.The fin-de-siècle glories of the Chiado quarter, traditional haunt of artists and writers, are now re-emerging after a fire in 1988 which destroyed large parts of the city. Also worth seeing is the 2.5km- (1.5 mile-) long suspension bridge over the Tagus which is overlooked by a towering statue of Christ. The riverside suburb of Belém is where the ships of Vasco da Gama, Àlvares Cabral and other famous explorers were launched in the 15th and 16th centuries. The attractions here include the strikingly beautiful prison tower, known as the Torre de Belém (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the Monument to the Discoverers, the Hieronymite Monastery – one of the architectural glories of Portugal’s Golden Age – and the Coach Museum.
Elsewhere
There are two famous seaside resorts close to the capital. Estoril predates the tourist boom of the 1960s but has adapted well to changing tastes and demands. The elegant hotels, which fringe the glorious Tamariz Beach, maintain the standards of the pre-war era. The entertainment on offer includes a casino, restaurants and nightclubs, watersports, golf and riding. Cascais has changed even more quickly, from a small fishing village with fine but empty beaches to a lively resort with bars, nightclubs and good-value restaurants. Sintra (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), a mountain town 25km (15 miles) from Lisbon, boasts the former summer residence of the Portuguese royal family, the Monserrate gardens and a twice-monthly antique market. A classical music festival takes place every July and August. Colares is an attractive village, famous for its red wines. Queluz has an 18th-century rococo palace, supposedly modeled on Versailles. Mafra is home to a Baroque convent built in 1717. Ericeira and Sesimbra are busy fishing villages with good beaches and developing facilities for tourists. Tróia is a modern tourist complex, situated on a peninsula near to the industrial town of Setubal, with a casino, marina, good beaches and sports facilities. The village of Palmela has a 12th-century castle and monastery, which is now a pousada (see the Accommodation section). There is a wine festival here in September. The shrine at Fátima has been an important centre of Roman Catholic pilgrimage since 1917 when the Virgin Mary appeared to a group of children. Torchlight processions are held annually on May 13 and October 13. Battle Abbey (Mosteiro de Santa Maria) in Batalha is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a breathtaking example of Portuguese Gothic and Manueline architecture, built to commemorate the victory of King João I over a Castilian army in 1385. Obidos is a beautifully preserved fortified town, dating from the Middle Ages. Leiria, a quiet country town, is dominated by its 12th-century castle, built on a plateau high above the town. An annual fair takes place here at the end of March. Santarém is the capital of a rich agricultural district and the venue for the ‘Ribatejo Fair’ in June. Tomar is a charming town on the Nabão River overlooked by a great convent-castle, once occupied by the knights Templar. There are spas at Caldas da Rainha, Cucos and Vimeiro.
Porto & the North
This region of Portugal incorporates the historic city of Porto (Oporto), famous for Port wine, the remarkably lush coast, the valleys of the Douro and the Minho and part of Portugal’s highest mountain range, the Serra da Estrêla.
Porto
The second-largest city in Portugal was nominated European City of Culture for 2001 and the historical centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Founded by the Romans at the mouth of the River Douro, modern Porto (Oporto) is an industrial city with a wonderful atmosphere and plenty to see. The sights of the old town include the Cathedral (Sé), dating from the 12th to the 18th centuries, the Church of São Francisco, famous for its rococo interior, a splendid example of Portuguese gilt-work (talha dourada), the 19th century Stock Exchange and the Torre Dos Clérigos, which offers wonderful views. The old waterfront, known as the Cais da Ribeira (a World Heritage Site), caters for tourists with cafes, restaurants and an open-air market. Across the river, the 18th century Port wine lodges of Vila Nova de Gaia are open to the public for tours and tastings.
Elsewhere
The Cathedral of the ancient Roman town of Braga is an important centre of the Roman Catholic church. The best time to visit is during Holy Week when the traditional street processions are impressive. Guimarães, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Portugal’s medieval capital, boasts a fine castle, the former palace of the Dukes of Bragança, as well as some attractive squares and churches. Póvoa de Varzim retains a small but attractive harbour, a reminder of its days as a fishing port. In recent years, fishing has taken a back seat to tourism, the 8km- (5 mile-) long beach being the main attraction. Rates and Rio Mau have splendid Romanesque churches. At Monte São Félix, the windmills have been converted into houses and there are panoramic views of the coast towards Póvoa de Varzim. Vila do Conde is a traditional fishing port and burgeoning resort, famous for its crafts such as ‘bone lace’ and chocolate-making. Ofir presents a vast expanse of sandy beach fringed by pinewoods. Barcelos is famous for its handicrafts, particularly ceramics which are on show at the Thursday market. The busy resort of Viana do Castelo is noted for its Renaissance and Manueline architecture as well as local products such as ceramics, embroidery, jewellery and filigree. There is a first-class beach across the river at Praia do Cabedelo. Valença is a 13th-century border town with a flourishing market and ancient fortifications. Monção, an attractive old town, is the home of the wine Alvarinho Vinho Verde. The Peneda-Gerês National Park comprises 170,000 acres (68,798 hectares) of mountainous countryside near the Spanish border. It is popular with hikers, climbers and naturalists. There are spas at Caldas de Vizela, Gerez, Monção and Pedras Salgadas.
Beiras
Beiras is a region which includes three provinces (Beira Litoral, Beira Alta and Beira Baixa) but it is the wooded coastal strip that holds most appeal for tourists.
Coimbra
Portugal’s third-largest city, Coimbra boasts one of the oldest universities in the world and is characterised by twisting streets and terraced houses. Worth visiting are the University, the magnificent Romanesque Cathedral (Sé), the Art Museum housed in the former Bishop’s Palace and the 12th-century Monastery of the Holy Cross. Coimbra is also renowned as a centre of Fado, traditional Portuguese folk music.
Elsewhere
Aveiro, the ‘Venice of Portugal’, is a fishing port surrounded by salt flats, beaches and lagoons, and dissected by three canals. Torreira is a typical fishing village, lying between ocean and lagoon, which can be reached by boat from Aveiro. Figueira da Foz is a small but growing resort with an excellent surfing beach and casino. Anadia, the centre of the wine-growing region of Bairrada, offers tastings in its cellars. At Conimbriga, fine Roman mosaics dating from the first century AD can be seen. Buçaco is renowned locally for its ‘enchanted forest’, cultivated by the Carmelite monks who arrived here in the 17th century. Pinhal do Rei is a beautiful pine forest with walking trails and some pristine beaches. Viseu, an impressively sited medieval town with a cathedral and bishops’ palace (now a museum) lies in a part of the country best known for its Dão wine. There are spas at Curia, Luso and São Pedro do Sul. Serra da Estrêla is a natural park, with mountain scenery best appreciated from the car.
Alentejo
The Alentejo is an agricultural region, renowned for its cork plantations. It also boasts a number of barely discovered historic towns and an extensive coastline of windswept beaches.
Evora
This beautiful, hilltop town, still protected by a ring of fortified walls enclosing cobbled streets and quaint houses, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The sights are numerous and include a splendid medieval Cathedral (Sé), the Church of São Francisco, famous for its grisly ossuary, the 14th-century Palace of the Dukes of Cadaval and a ruined Roman temple.
Elsewhere
Monsaraz is a splendid hilltop village near the Spanish border with traditional whitewashed houses, cobbled streets and fine views of the surrounding countryside. Marvão is an impressively sited medieval town, the clifftop location being the main attraction. Elvas retains its ramparts, gateways and historic old quarter. Vila Viçosa contains the former palace (now a museum) of the Dukes of Bragança.
The Algarve
Portugal’s southernmost region looks out onto the Atlantic on two sides. It is one of Europe’s favourite package destinations on account of its attractively rocky coastline and excellent sandy beaches. East of the capital, Faro, the beaches are interspersed with mud flats and sandbanks and the resorts are fewer in number and relatively low key. Watersports are one of the main attractions the Algarve is also home to numerous world-class golf courses.
Faro
The capital of the Algarve, Faro was devastated by the earthquake of 1755, but part of the old town has survived. Sights include the Cathedral (Sé), rebuilt in the 18th century, an Archaeological Museum and the Carmo Church and ossuary.
Lagos
A former centre of the slave trade, Lagos was where Henry the Navigator’s mariners set sail for West Africa on their voyages of discovery. The main sight is a 17th-century fort (now a museum), offering superb views of the town’s natural harbour. The pedestrianised town centre is well provided with shops and restaurants and there are boat trips to nearby grottoes and beaches.
Elsewhere
Albufeira is a busy market town and well-established resort. Armação de Pêra is a fishing village with one of the biggest beaches on the Algarve. Carvoeiro is an old fishing village with a picturesque harbour. Portimão is one of the largest towns and fishing ports in the Algarve, known for its furniture and wickerwork. Its beach resort is Praia da Rocha. Vilamoura is a modern purpose-built resort with marina and golf courses. Sagres is noted for lobster fishing. The village contains the remains of a 15th-century fort and there are beaches nearby. Cape St Vincent is the most southwesterly point of mainland Europe. Monte Gordo is a modern tourist resort with a casino, nightclubs, restaurants and a 20km- (12 mile-) long beach backed by pine forest. Tavira is one of the most attractive market towns in the Algarve with cobbled streets, several fine churches and a ruined castle. There are beaches at Cabanas and Pedras da Rainha. Inland, Monchique is set high in the mountains and has a spa. Silves is an old walled city with a 12th-century cathedral. Loulé
is a market town famous for crafts such as leather and copper. The River Guadiana forms a natural boundary between Portugal and Spain. There are commanding hilltop views from the ruined fortresses at Castro Marim; nearby are the saltpans of the same name, now a nature reserve open for guided tours.
Sport & Activities
Wine tasting
Portugal is renowned for its Port but is also establishing a good reputation for its still light wines that use a variety of indigenous grapes. For its size Portugal boasts a surprisingly high number of different styles of wine and vineyards can be found throughout the country. Oporto is famous for port wine, which became a major trade following a 1703 agreement with the United Kingdom, and there are many wine lodges (still bearing English names like Croft or Graham) where visitors are welcome. (For information on Madeira wine, see the Madeira section.)
Music and folklore
The melancholic fado, said to have originated from 16th-century sailors’ songs, is Portugal’s best-known musical form. One of the best places to experience it is Lisbon, with many fado clubs located in the Alfama and Bairro Alto neighbourhoods. One of the country’s main traditional crafts is the making of decorative tiles known as azulejos. Visitors wishing to learn the craft should enquire locally. Traditional folk dancing is still practised in rural areas and there are numerous colourful festivals (see Special Events in the Social Profile section).
Watersports
Portugal’s coastline offers excellent beach holidays with all the usual activities –
swimming, snorkelling, water-skiing, sailing and windsurfing – widely available. For information on diving, which is practiced in many areas along the coast, contact the Portuguese Federation for Underwater Activities (FPAS), Rua Frei Manuel Cardoso 39, 1700 Lisbon (tel/fax: 2181 41148; e-mail: fpas@fpas.pt; website: www.fpas.pt). The Algarve has a perpetually mild climate, although the tides can be strong in the winter, and big-game fishing is popular here. The west coast is best for surfing; the Beiras in the north has big Atlantic breakers and is still fairly undeveloped, with many deserted beaches. The wetlands around Rio de Aveiro (crossed by numerous canals) offer some interesting boat trips in traditional Portuguese moliceiros (gondola-like sailing barges). Another good boating destination is the Douro Valley, stretching from Oporto to the Spanish border, where the River Douro is navigable. Canoeing is available in the Peneda-Gerês National Park.
Golf
Portugal is a well-known golfing destination and the south in particular has many championship golf courses (there are 19 in the Algarve alone). The climate allows playing all year round. Some of the best-known 18-hole courses include Estoril, one of the oldest, close to Lisbon, hosting many major competitions; Quinta de Marinha, on the Estoril coast near Lisbon, with good views of the Sintra mountain range; Golden Eagle, near Rio Maior, boasting a typically US design, open to non-members; Ponte de Lima, a typical mountain course in the northern Minho region, close to vineyards, fruit gardens and mountains; Estela, on the coast near Póvoa de Varzim; Tróia, in Alentejo, southern Portugal, reputedly the country’s most difficult course; and the Royal Golf Course, in the Algarve, said to be one of the world’s most famous and most photographed courses.
Other
The Peneda-Gerês National Park, a wilderness park in the far north near the Spanish border, has many short-distance walking trails with places to swim along the way. The dense Foia forest in the Algarve highlands also offers good scenic walks. Horseriding is also available in the park as well as in many resorts elsewhere. Portugal offers some excellent cycling routes, notably in the Minho region in the north, where the most interesting villages and towns are sometimes not accessible by car.
Top Things To Do
Top things to do
• Join the crowds and enjoy the sun and the excellent beaches and rocky coastline of Algarve. •
Watersports can be enjoyed all along Portugal's coastline - swimming, snorkelling, water-skiing, sailing and windsurfing are all widely available. For information on diving, contact the Portuguese Federation for Underwater Activities (website: www.fpas.pt). • Big-game fishing is another popular option, particularly along the Algarve coast (website: www.biggamefishing.info). • For a genuinely cultural experience, seek out the Alfama or Bairro Alto (Upper Town) neighbourhoods of Lisbon where Fado, Portucal's best-known traditional musical form, can be heard in many clubs. • Lovers of port wine should explore the many opportunities for wine tasting, either in Porto or across the river in Gaia, where all the port-making companies are. The vine district of Alto Douro is a World Heritage Site on account of centuries of viticulture that has produced a cultural landscape of outstanding beauty that reflects its technological, social and economic evolution. Since the 18th century, its main product, port wine, has been world famous for its quality. • The shrine at Fátima has been an important centre of Roman Catholic pilgrimage since 1917 when the Virgin Mary appeared to a group of children. Experience the torchlight processions held annually on May 13 and October 13. • Go on one of the interesting boat trips in traditional Portuguese moliceiros (gondola-like sailing barges) in the wetlands around Rio de Aveiro which is crossed by numerous canals. • Another good boating destination is the Douro Valley, stretching from Oporto to the Spanish border, where the River Douro is navigable. • Go hiking in the Peneda-Gerês, Portugal’s only national park comprising 170,000 acres (68,798 hectares) of mountainous countryside near the Spanish border. It is popular with hikers, climbers and naturalists, as it has an extraordinary diversity of climate, environment and scenery. Canoeing is also available. • Portugal is a well-known golfing destination and the south in particular has many championship golf courses (19 in the Algarve alone). The climate allows playing all year round. Some of the best-known 18-hole courses include Estoril, one of the oldest, close to Lisbon, hosting many major competitions; Quinta de Marinha, on the Estoril coast near Lisbon, with good views of the Sintra mountain range; Golden Eagle, near Rio Maior, boasting a typically US design, open to non-members; Ponte de Lima, a typical mountain course in the northern Minho region, close to vineyards, fruit gardens and mountains; Estela, on the coast near Póvoa de Varzim; Tróia, in Alentejo, southern Portugal, reputedly the country's most difficult course; and the Royal Golf Course, in the Algarve, said to be one of the world's most famous and most photographed courses. • Attend a race at world famous race track, Estoril, a short distance from Lisbon, on Portugal's Atlantic coast.
Tourist Information
Portuguese Trade and Tourism Office in the UK (ICEP)Portuguese Embassy, 11 Belgrave Square, London SW1X 8PP, UKTel: (0845) 355 1212 (brochure request and information service; local call rate). Website: www.visitportugal.comPortuguese Trade and Tourism Office (ICEP) in the USA590 Fifth Avenue, 4th Floor, New York, NY 10036, USA Tel: (212) 723 0200/99. Website: www.portugal.org
Top Things To See
Top things to see
• The dramatic setting of Lisbon on a series of steep hills at the estuary of the River Tagus (Tio Tejo) ensures that any visit to the city will have a sense of excitement. Ascend the highest of the seven hills surrounding the city and discover the magnificent 12th-century Castle of St George with its 10 towers. Back in town, check out the fabulous Lisbon Cathedral built at the same time as the castle. The exhibition grounds of 'Expo '98', known as the Park of Nations, are still worth exploring. So is the riverside suburb of Belém where the ships of Vasco da Gama and other famous explorers were launched in the 15th and 16th centuries. The attractions here include the strikingly beautiful Torre de Belém and the architectural wonder that is the Monastery of the Hieronymites at the entrance to the harbour, both of which are World Heritage Sites. • Experience the magic of Sintra (also a World Heritage Site), a mountain town full of palaces 25km (15 miles) from Lisbon. A site for lunar cults in ancient times, it boasts the former summer residence of the Portuguese royal family and the beautiful Monserrate gardens. • Go further inland and discover Évora, a virtual museum of a town that reached its golden age in the 15th century, when it became the residence of the Portuguese kings. Its monuments had a profound influence on Portuguese architecture in Brazil. • Head north for the Monastery of Batalha (Mosteiro de Santa Maria), another UNESCO World Heritage Site and a breathtaking example of Portuguese Gothic and Manueline architecture, built to commemorate the victory of King João I over a Castilian army in 1385. • Not far away is the Monastery of Santa Maria d'Alcobaça, which was founded in the 12th century by King Alfonso I. This is a masterpiece of Cistercian Gothic art. • Explore medieval history at its most intriguing at the Knights Templar castle and town of Tomar built in the 12th century. •
Porto is the second-largest city in Portugal. It was nominated European City of Culture for 2001 and the historical centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are several attractions to explore; the Stock Exchange Palace, the Romanesque-Gothic Cathedral, the church of Cedofeita (Romanesque), the Clérigos tower (Porto's ex-libris of Baroque architecture). The old waterfront, known as the Cais da Ribeira, caters for tourists with cafes, restaurants and an open-air market. • Take the trip north-east from Porto to Guimarães, Portugal's medieval capital. An exceptionally well-preserved and authentic example of the evolution of a Medieval settlement into a modern town, it boasts a fine castle, the former palace of the Dukes of Bragança, as well as some attractive squares and churches. • Vila Nova de Foz Côa is the place to go for visits to Côa Archaeological Park where along the Côa River an exceptional concentration of rock carvings from the Upper Palaeolithic period (22,000–10,000 B.C.) constitutes what UNESCO has called the most outstanding example of early human artistic activity in this form anywhere in the world. •
Coimbra in the Beiras region is one of Europe’s oldest university towns. Here students can be heard singing the soulful tones of the 'fado de Coimbra' (traditional song sung to the sound of guitars) in between visits to the university’s sumptuous Baroque library. In the adjacent quarters stand the Old Cathedral (Romanesque) and the Machado de Castro Museum, built over a Roman cryptoportico. 10 miles to the south lies Conímbriga, the most important Roman remains in Portugal.
Tourist Information
Portuguese Trade and Tourism Office in the UK (ICEP)Portuguese Embassy, 11 Belgrave Square, London SW1X 8PP, UKTel: (0845) 355 1212 (brochure request and information service; local call rate). Website: www.visitportugal.comPortuguese Trade and Tourism Office (ICEP) in the USA590 Fifth Avenue, 4th Floor, New York, NY 10036, USA Tel: (212) 723 0200/99. Website: www.portugal.org
Travel - Internal
Air
TAP Air Portugal and Portugália run services between Lisbon, Faro, Madeira, Porto Santo, Oporto and the Azores. Charter flights are also available. The airline for the Azores is SATA (Sociedade Acoriana de Transportes Aereos) (website: www.sata.pt), which operates its Air Açores service between the various islands.
Sea/River
Transport is available from all coastal ports and along the major rivers. For details, contact local ports.
Rail
Caminhos de Ferro Portugueses (Portuguese Railways) (website: www.cp.pt) provides a rail service to every town. There are a number of options: the top-of-the -range Alfa Pendular trains offer the fastest and most comfortable rail link between Lisbon and the Algarve and in the North (Oporto, Braga or Guimarães, with stops in Coimbra and Aveiro); the Intercidades (Intercity) service covers Lisbon, Oporto, Alentejo and Lisbon to Algarve routes; the International Sud-Express train and Lusitânia Hotel train leave from Lisbon and Oporto. There is a vast network of regional, inter-regional and suburban trains covering the country. The tourist areas of Cascais and Sintra are connected to Lisbon by frequent express trains. High-speed Alfa trains run between Lisbon and Porto via Coimbra and Aveiro. Fertagus trains cross the River Tagus in Lisbon, operating between Entrecampus station to Fogueteiro (on the south bank).
Cheap fares
On ‘Blue Days’, usually Monday afternoon to Thursday, special rates are available. There are also special fares (with up to 30 per cent reductions) for groups of 10 or more (Bilhetes de Grupo), travelling for a minimum distance of 75km/47 miles (single journey) or 150km/94 miles (return journey). Application should be made four days in advance by the group leader. Tourist Tickets (Bilhetes Turisticos) for seven, 14 or 21 days of unlimited travel are also available. The Rail Cheque (Cheque Trem), obtainable in four different values, can be in one name or a company’s name and has no time limit; it gives a reduction of 10 per cent and can be used both for purchasing tickets and many other railway services. An International Youth Ticket (BIJ) entitles those aged 12 to 26 to a discount (subject to certain conditions) in 25 countries for two months, including Portugal. Senior citizens are entitled to 50 per cent reduction on production of proof of age. Children under four travel free. Children aged between four and 11 pay half fare.Family Card, Inter-Rail Card, Rail Inclusive Tours and Special Tourist Trips are amongst other offers from the Portuguese Railways (Caminhos de Ferro Portugueses), Calçada do Duque 20, 1249-109 Lisbon Codex (tel: 2132 15700; website: www.cp.pt). Rail information is also available from ICEP/Portuguese Trade and Tourism Office; see Top Things To Do. The EuroDomino pass enables holders anything from three to eight days’ extensive travel within a one-month period on the entire rail network of their chosen country. It is valid in 26 European countries. To purchase a EuroDomino pass you must have been resident in Europe for at least six months and a passport number is required at time of booking. It is not permitted to purchase a pass for travel within your own country of residence. To qualify for the youth rates, you must be under 26 years on the first date of validity of the pass. Children aged four to 11 years inclusive pay half the adult fares rounded up to the nearest pound. Children under four years travel free. Seat reservations, couchette and sleeper charges are not included in the cost of the pass and are payable at the normal rate. Passholder fares are payable on some services. Available from Rail Europe (website: www.raileurope.co.uk/railpasses/eurodomino.htm).
Road
Traffic drives on the right. Every town and village can be reached by an adequate system of roads. Petrol stations generally open 0700-2000, although some are open 24 hours. Travel by motorway is subject to a toll according to distance covered and type of vehicle. A small tax may be added to petrol bought with a credit card. Bus: There are frequent coach services between all Portuguese cities. For further information, contact Rede Nacional de Expressos (website: www.rede-expressos.pt). Taxi: Charges are according to distance and taxis are all metered. Taxis are usually painted beige (although some taxis painted in the old colours of green and black still exist). In the city, they charge a standard meter fare; outside the city limits they charge per kilometre and are entitled to charge for the return fare. There is a surcharge for carrying luggage in the cities. Car hire: Available from main towns and airports, with or without driver. Regulations: Minimum age for driving is 18 (but must be at least 21 to 25 if hiring a car). Cars may be imported for up to six months. Traffic signs are international. Headlights should be dipped in built-up areas and side lights used when parking in badly lit areas. Children should not travel in the front seat. Seat belts should be worn. Warning triangles are compulsory. It is forbidden to carry cans of petrol in vehicles. Speed limits are 50kph (30mph) in built-up areas, 90kph (56mph) outside built-up areas and 120kph (70mph) on motorways. Visitors who passed their driving test less than one year previously must display a yellow disc with ‘90’ on it on the rear of their vehicle and must not go faster than 90kph (56mph). Permitted speeds will vary if trailers are being used. Documentation: International Driving Permits or foreign driving licences are accepted. Third Party insurance is compulsory. Under the requirements of the Portuguese Road Code, those wishing to drive a car must possess a valid national/international driving licence, other official documentation with photograph, log book or rental contract and adequate car insurance. Failure to produce, on request to the authorities, any of the above will result in an on-the-spot cash fine. A Carnet de Passage is needed for a van.
Urban
Lisbon and Oporto have underground systems. Lisbon's underground (Metropolitano) (website: www.metrolisboa.pt) is currently being expanded. Oporto's underground (website: www.metro-porto.pt) operates two lines. Trams operate in major Portuguese cities. A tram ride in Lisbon provides a good opportunity to see the city. There is also an extensive bus network in Lisbon (website: www.carris.pt). Cheap fares: In Lisbon, a Tourist Pass is available for either four or seven days travel on trams, buses and the underground. The Lisboa Card (for sightseeing) is valid for 24 or 72 hours and offers unlimited bus, tram and underground travel as well as entry to 25 museums.
Travel times
The following chart gives approximate travel times (in hours and minutes) from Lisbon to other major cities/towns in Portugal. AirRoadRail Faro0.354.005.00 Oporto0.455.003.00 Funchal1.30--
Travel - International
Air
Portugal’s national airline, TAP Air Portugal (TP) (website: www.tap.pt), operates direct flights to Faro, Lisbon and Porto from a number of countries, including Canada, France, Spain, the UK and USA. Portugália Airlines (NI) (website: www.pga.pt) operates flights from Europe.
Approximate flight times
From Lisbon to London is two hours 30 minutes and to New York is eight hours.
Main airports
Lisbon (LIS) (Portela de Sacavem) (website: www.ana-aeroportos.pt) is 7km (4.5 miles) north of the city (travel time – 35 minutes). To/from the airport: Carris buses run from the airport to the city and the main railway stations. A special ‘Aerobus’ departs to the city centre every 20 minutes from 0745 to 2015. There is an airport shuttle bus that departs daily to Estoril and Cascais, every hour from 0700 to 2230, and an Express bus runs to many destinations around the country. Taxi services to the city are available, with a 20 per cent surcharge after 2200, at weekends and on holidays. Facilities: Bureau de change, banks, tourist information, post office, duty free shops, showers and car hire.Faro (FAO) (website: www.ana-aeroportos.pt) is 4km (3 miles) west of the city (travel time – 30 minutes). To/from the airport: EVA buses (website: www.eva-bus.com) link the airport with different parts of the city; taxis are available. Oporto (OPO) (Oporto Sá Carneiro) (website: www.ana-aeroportos.pt) is 20 km (7 miles) from the city. To/from the airport: Buses and taxis to the city are available. Faro and Oporto airports. Facilities: Outgoing duty free shop; bank/bureau de change; car hire and a restaurant/bar.
Departure tax
None.
Sea
Main ports: Lisbon, Leixões (Oporto), Funchal (Madeira) and Portimão (Algarve), served by Cunard (website: www.cunard.com) and P&O (website: www.pocruises.com). For details, contact shipping lines.
Rail
Travelling from the UK, the quickest way is to travel by Eurostar through the Channel Tunnel to Paris (travel time – three hours) and, from there, to Portugal. The Sud-Express runs between Paris and Lisbon, offering first- and second-class seats, sleepers and a restaurant car. For further information and reservations, contact Eurostar (tel: (0870) 6000 792 (travel agents) or (08705) 186 186 (public; within the UK) or (+44 1233 617 575 (public; outside the UK only); website: www.eurostar.com); or Rail Europe (tel: (08705) 848 848). Rail travellers from the UK not using the Channel Tunnel link need to cross the channel via some form of sea crossing, usually by ferry or catamaran; for details on sea crossings, see also the Sea section above. The cost of the crossing is usually included in the price of the rail ticket. There is a daily service between London, Paris and Lisbon, taking approximately 26 hours. Caminhos De Ferro Portugueses (website: www.cp.pt) offers an international rail service to Vigo, Madrid and Paris.Rail passes: The Inter-Rail pass offers unlimited second-class train travel in up to 29 European countries (includes Morocco and Turkey) split into eight zones (A-H). Three different tickets are available: a ticket covering one zone (two to six countries, 16 days’ validity), a ticket covering two zones (six to 10 countries, 22 days’ validity) and an All Zone Pass (29 countries, one month’s validity). Ferry services between Italy and Greece are included. Passengers must be resident in Europe for at least six months before the pass is used. Travel is not allowed in the passenger’s country of residence. Travellers under 26 years receive a reduction of about 30 per cent. Children’s tickets are reduced by about 50 per cent. Supplements are required for some high-speed services, seat reservations and couchettes. Discounts are offered on Eurostar and some ferry routes. Available from Inter Rail (website: www.interrailnet.com).
Road
The only land border is shared with Spain. Major border posts are now open around the clock, but smaller ones may close earlier in winter. From the UK, the quickest routes are via the ferry links from Plymouth to Santander and from Portsmouth to Bilbao in northern Spain (which obviates the need to drive through France). Cars can be imported for up to six months. For information on documentation and regulations, see the Travel - Internal section. Travelling from the UK, Eurotunnel operates trains 24 hours per day through the Channel Tunnel between Folkestone in Kent (with direct access from the M20) and Calais in France. All vehicles, from motorcycles to campers, can be accommodated. For further information, contact Eurotunnel Reservations (tel: (08705) 353 535; website: www.eurotunnel.co.uk). For further details, see also Travel – International in the France section. For information on required documentation and traffic regulations, see Travel – Internal section. Coach: Eurolines operates an extensive network of coach services to many destinations throughout Europe, including Coimbra, Faro, Lagos, Lisbon and Oporto. For information on timetables and fares, contact Eurolines (tel: (08705) 143 219; website: www.eurolines.com).
Travel Advice
Most visits to Portugal are trouble-free but you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate international terrorist attacks, which could be against civilian targets, including places frequented by foreigners. Travellers should be aware of serious outbreaks of forest fires in Summer and take every care during their visit to rural areas. This advice is based on information provided by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in the UK. It is correct at time of publishing. As the situation can change rapidly, visitors are advised to contact the following organisations for the latest travel advice: British Foreign and Commonwealth OfficeTel: (0845) 850 2829.Website: www.fco.gov.ukUS Department of StateWebsite: http://travel.state.gov/travel
|
PORTUGAL
