Did you know Portugal holds the Guinness World Record for the oldest operating bookstore in the world? Bertrand Bookstore, which opened in 1732, has been serving book lovers for almost three centuries now. This is just one of the many surprising facts that make the country full of unique history and charm. From beautifully tiled buildings to its role in global exploration, the country offers a rich history and modern energy together.
In this article, you will learn about the rich and fascinating history of the country, some of its interesting facts, and a brief guide on how to explore it.
Turn Your Visit into a Homecoming
If Portugal’s rich traditions and vibrant lifestyle captivate you during your travels, why not make it more than just a vacation destination? For those with a steady income or passive earnings who dream of calling Portugal home, the Portugal D7 Visa offers an inviting pathway to long-term residency. This option not only allows you to relish the country’s cultural and historic charm every day, but it also provides the freedom to live, work, and enjoy the lifestyle that has made Portugal so unforgettable.
You can seamlessly blend a temporary visit with the possibility of a permanent future—enabling you to immerse yourself fully in the local traditions, festivals, and culinary delights while building a new life in one of Europe’s most enchanting destinations.
Plan your next trip to this amazing destination, and if you find yourself longing for more than just a short stay, explore the benefits of the Portugal D7 Visa to truly embrace the Portuguese way of life.
Where is Portugal Located?
The country is in southwestern Europe on the Iberian Peninsula. It borders Spain to the east and north, while the Atlantic Ocean lies along its western and southern coasts, giving it beautiful beaches and port cities. It’s also the westernmost country in mainland Europe.
Climate and Best Time to Visit
Portugal has a Mediterranean climate, which means mild winters and warm to hot summers, especially in the southern regions like the Algarve. Coastal areas are generally cooler, while inland areas, like Alentejo, can get quite hot in summer.
| Spring (March to May) | If you’re someone who likes peace and enjoy lovely nature with different destinations this could be the best time to visit the country. The temperature in this climate ranges from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). |
| Summer (June to August) | This is the peak season of the country to enjoy the lively festivals and events in cities like Lisbon and Porto. The temperature in this season equals or more than 30°C (86°F) |
| Autumn (September to November) | Again this is another great time to visit the country, with the comfortable weather, fewer crowds, and grape harvests in the wine regions. The temperature in this season lies between 17°C and 27°C (63°F to 81°F). |
| Winter (December to February) | This could be the best season for sightseeing without crowds especially along the coasts. In the mountains, you may find some snow, especially in Serra da Estrela, Portugal’s highest peak. The temperature in this season ranges between 8°C to 15°C. |
Key Events You Should Never Miss
The country is full of vibrant culture and exciting events throughout the year. Here are some key events you shouldn’t miss:
| Carnival (February or March) | Celebrated across Portugal, especially in Lisbon, Madeira, and the Azores, Carnival is a time for colorful parades, costumes, music, and dancing to mark the start of Lent. |
| Festa de São João (June) | Held in Porto, this fun festival celebrates St. John with street parties, fireworks, and delicious traditional food. |
| Fado Festival (May) | Celebrate Fado, Portugal’s soulful music, in Lisbon with live concerts and performances, showcasing this iconic music style. |
| Lisbon Fashion Week (March/October) | A must-see for fashion lovers, this event highlights Portuguese designers and the latest trends in fashion. |
| Oktoberfest (October) | Lisbon hosts its version of Oktoberfest with beer, music, and food, offering a taste of this famous German celebration. |
| Festas de Nossa Senhora da Agonia (August) | Held in Viana do Castelo, this festival honors the city’s patron saint with processions, music, and traditional dancing. |
| Madeira Flower Festival (April) | This colorful festival in Madeira celebrates the island’s flowers with parades and floral displays. |
| Lisbon Music Festival (June) | Enjoy live performances by both Portuguese and international artists at this lively music festival in Lisbon. |
| Rock in Rio Lisbon (May) | A major music festival that brings top global artists to Portugal, perfect for fans of rock and pop music. |
| The Algarve International Film Festival (November) | This film festival showcases international cinema, attracting filmmakers and movie lovers from around the world. |
Rich and Fascinating History
Portugal has a rich history that dates back to Roman times, leaving behind influences in art, architecture, and language. In 1139, the country became an independent kingdom under King Afonso I. The 15th and 16th centuries were Portugal’s golden age, known as the Age of Exploration. Explorers like Vasco da Gama and Magellan opened trade routes to Africa, India, and Brazil, making the country a powerful empire.
However, the country faced a decline in the 17th and 18th centuries due to wars and the loss of colonies. In 1910, the country became a republic, but political instability led to a dictatorship in 1926. The 1974 Carnation Revolution peacefully ended the dictatorship and restored democracy.
In 1986, the country joined the European Union, leading to modernization. Today, the country is known for its vibrant culture, beautiful landscapes, and historical landmarks, making it a popular destination for visitors worldwide.
Foods You Must Try in Portugal
The country offers a rich variety of flavors that reflect its vibrant culture and history. From savory dishes like bacalhau to sweet treats like pastéis de nata, Portuguese cuisine is known for its fresh ingredients and bold, comforting flavors.
1. Bacalhau (Salted Codfish)
Bacalhau is a traditional dish in the country that is often called “the dish that Portugal eats”. The ingredients used to make this mouthwatering dish are salted cod, potatoes, onions, olives, and olive oil.
2. Pastéis de Nata (Custard Tarts)
These sweet tarts are a popular dessert, especially in Lisbon. The major ingredients used to make this dish are puff pastry, eggs, sugar, milk, and cinnamon.
3. Caldo Verde (Green Soup)
This is a comforting soup that is very popular in the northern part of the country. The major ingredients used to prepare this soup are kale, potatoes, chorizo (sausage), onions, and olive oil.
4. Francesinha (Little Frenchie)
This is a popular sandwich that is loved for its delicious flavors. It is often preferred to eat with fries and the major ingredients used to make it are bread, steak or sausage, cheese, and a spicy sauce.
5. Amêijoas à Bulhão Pato (Clams with Garlic)
It is a popular seafood dish, especially in Lisbon and the Algarve. The major ingredients used to make this are clams, garlic, olive oil, cilantro, white wine, and lemon juice
5 Interesting Facts About Portugal You Didn’t Know
Discover some fascinating and lesser-known details about the country, with a rich history, unique traditions, and a culture that has left its mark on the world. From its global contributions to unexpected landmarks, here are five surprising facts about this beautiful nation.
- Portuguese is the official language of nine countries, including Brazil, Angola, and Mozambique, making it one of the most spoken languages in the world.
- The country is home to the Vasco da Gama Bridge, the longest in Europe, stretching over 17 kilometers across the Tagus River.
- It is famous for its Port wine, a fortified wine from the Douro Valley, and it is one of the oldest regulated wine regions in the world.
- It was the first country to establish a global empire, with colonies stretching from Brazil to parts of Africa and Asia.
- The country is the world’s largest producer of cork, providing around 50% of the global supply, and cork oak trees are a key part of its landscape.
Conclusion
From its historic landmarks and unique festivals to the delicious foods and fascinating facts, Portugal is a destination that promises something for everyone. Whether you’re exploring its beautiful beaches, enjoying lively events, or festivals, the country charm will make it an unforgettable experience place to visit. Plan your next trip to this amazing destination.
