Endless Holiday

Portugal is a beautiful country on the Iberian Peninsula in Southwestern Europe. It shares the Peninsula with neighbouring Spain on the East and North, and is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean on the South and West. Lisbon is its capital, and a popular place to visit when one is enjoying an all-inclusive Portugal holiday.

Languages

The official language is Portuguese. However, in many areas of Portugal, Mirandese–the country’s most common second language–is spoken as well. One might also hear Spanish, French and English, depending on the area of the country he or she chooses to visit.

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When to Visit

The best time to visit Portugal depends on what one has in mind for his or her holiday. June and July are the hottest months and are perfect for swimming and water sports. Spring and Autumn are ideal for sightseeing, as landmarks are a bit less crowded, but temperatures are mild. Winter carnivals and festivals abound in Portugal in December and January, which make these months ideal for partygoers and those who enjoy a boisterous nightlife.

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Currency

The Euro is Portugal’s official currency. A handful of establishments also accept the English dollar, and credit cards are widely accepted as well.

Weather

Portugal is one of the warmest countries in Europe and has only two primary climates, which are experienced in the southern Mediterranean areas, and the northern, oceanic regions. In the South, the average summer temperature is 24 degrees Celsius, with winters averaging 18 degrees Celsius. In the North, average summer temperatures rise to approximately 21 degrees Celsius, and winters may plummet to 5 degrees Celsius. Regardless of the region, winters are typically windy and wet and summers are warm and dry. Spring and Autumn offer the most pleasant temperatures in Portugal.

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Attractions and Activities

Monument to the Discoveries

One of the most popular attractions in Lisbon, Portugal, amongst both tourists and local residents alike is the Monument to the Discoveries. Situated on the banks of the Avenida de Brasilia River in the Belem district, the monument was designed to celebrate the Portuguese Age of Discovery, and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

National Museum of Soares dos Reis

The National Museum of Soares dos Reis, a famous sculptor who was a native of Portugal, is an attraction that belongs on any visitor’s must-see list. Filled with unique, authentic creations designed by the late artist, this Museum is a wonderful place for travellers to spend a morning or afternoon.

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Touring the Alfama

The Alfama is the oldest part of Lisbon and is a wise choice for anyone interested in ancient architecture and history. It is home to the Se Cathedral, which is Lisbon’s first church, and the area dates back to 1513.

Madeira Whale Museum

The Madeira Whale Museum is one of the most innovative marine museums on earth, and rigorously documents Madeira’s whaling history. Through life size models and stereoscopic 3D movies holidaymakers can learn about the lives of these amazing creatures in a fun and interactive way.

Beaches

Portugal’s beaches are some of the most beautiful in the world and provided visitors choose their holiday dates carefully, some travellers may even have the privilege of basking in the sun on near deserted shorelines The following are among the most popular beaches in Portugal, but all have something to offer visitors:

Adraga Beach is located in the northern half of the country, and runs parallel with the Atlantic Ocean. It is great for watching sunsets, surfing and hang gliding.

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Miramar Beach

Miramar Beach is a beautiful and somewhat secluded beach and is a favourite amongst visitors and tourists alike. On a rock at the edge of the water, there is a tiny white chapel, referred to as the Capela do Senhor da Pedra, which is home to a lovely and quaint celebration and festival every year in the month of June.

Praia de Cabedelo Beach

A lovely beach with soft sand that appears to stretch on forever, Praia do Cabedelo Beach can be reached without much difficulty by ferry from Viana do Castelo. It is an enchanting area and the town itself is delightful.

The Praia de Adraga is considered Portugal’s top beach, primarily due to its unblemished, golden sand, jagged rock out crops, and stunning cliff scenery. In 2016, it was named one of Europe’s top 20 beaches.