For most Russians, Portugal is a dark horse, few people choose it for their holidays. Meanwhile, Portugal is famous among Europeans for first-class beaches and excellent excursion routes.

Portugal is a small country on the westernmost coast of Eurasia. On land, Portugal borders only one European country - Spain. From all other sides, Portugal is washed by the waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Portugal also owns several islands, the most notable of which is the island of Madeira, the birthplace of the famous Madeira fortified wine.

Portugal on the map of Europe

Visa to Portugal

Portugal is a member of the Schengen Agreement, but it has some of the most loyal rules regarding visa processing. You can apply for a visa to Portugal through one of the visa centers. Detailed information about the addresses of visa centers in Russia, the rules for filling out the questionnaire, the list required documents and much more you will find on the website of the Single Visa Application Center of Portugal in Russia.

If any information about a visa to Portugal, posted on the site, is not clear or insufficient for you, you can seek advice by phone, full list see .

Visa to Portugal

Map, language, money in Portugal

Portuguese is one of the most widely spoken languages ​​in the world. In addition to Portugal, he is official language Brazil, Angola, Macau (China) and a number of other countries from different parts of the world. Such a geographical spread is explained by the fact that Portugal, despite its modest size, in the past was one of the most powerful states that had colonies around the world.

Colonization of Brazil by Portugal

The Portuguese language is closest to Spanish, but it still exists on its own. If you speak Spanish, you will not be able to communicate fluently with the Portuguese. To the ear, the Portuguese language seems very melodic and replete with hissing and whistling sounds. The most popular hit in Portuguese is the unforgettable "Nose Nose" by Michel Telou, so any of you can sing at least a couple of lines in Portuguese.

The official currency of Portugal is the Euro. It is rather problematic to exchange rubles in the country, if you are traveling to Portugal with cash, it is better to exchange them in Russia. If you are carrying money on a bank card, then there will be no problems - the banking sector is very well developed in Portugal, there are ATMs and bank offices in even the most seedy village. However, keep in mind that banks in Portugal close quite early - at 15 o'clock in the afternoon.

ATMs in Brazil

You can also pay with a bank card almost everywhere. Prices in Portugal are very democratic compared to other European countries. The budget for the day will be approximately 40-50 euros per person (travel, meals, incidentals), budget travelers and are completely able to meet the 25-30 euros. For the purchase of things and expensive excursions, you need to allocate additional amounts.

Lello Bookstore, Portugal

Look detailed map Portugal in Russian is possible. The map shows attractions, museums and exhibitions, stops public transport, catering establishments and much more. There you can also download the most interesting options for you on mobile phone or gadget. Map provided by Google.

Cascais city, Portugal

How to get to Portugal?

You can fly directly to Portugal from Russia only by the Moscow-Lisbon flight (departs once a week), but the ticket price is quite high. There are no direct regular flights to Portugal from other Russian cities. The flight can only be booked with a transfer in Europe, such a flight will cost you much less than a direct one. From the regions there are inexpensive flights through Istanbul. You can also get there by train, but again with a change in one of the European cities.

international Airport Portela, Lisbon, Portugal

There are international airports in Portugal in Lisbon (center of the country), Faro ( South coast) and Porto (north). The islands of Portugal can only be reached through Lisbon - there are daily direct domestic flights for a small price.

Airport in Faro, Portugal

Which vacation to choose: beaches or cities?

Most tourists go to Portugal for sightseeing holiday. In terms of beauty and the number of historical sights, Portuguese cities are among the best in Europe. Sightseeing bus tours in several cities are very popular (there are one-day options, or for 2-4 days with an overnight stay in hotels on the route).

Obidos city, Portugal

A beach holiday in Portugal is not as popular as a sightseeing holiday. The coast of Portugal is impregnable cliffs, indented with small sandy bays. The waters of the Atlantic are rarely calm, not everyone dares to swim in them, and even bathing season limited to a couple of months a year (from July to September). But even in these months, the water temperature rarely exceeds 20-22 degrees, as the cold currents of Gibraltar do not allow the water to warm up any more.

Beach in Albufeira, Portugal

The best sandy beaches of Portugal are located in the south, in the Algarve region. This is where you need to go if you are a lover of the lazy beach holiday. In the center of the country, not far from Lisbon, there are also several small resort towns (Cascais, Estoril, Carcavelos) with good beaches, but this area is more suitable for surfers - the waves are too big for ordinary swimming. In the north of Portugal, beach holidays are not developed due to cold currents.

Beaches in Carcavelos, Portugal

Regardless of which region of Portugal you are relaxing in and how good a swimmer you are, it is worth getting out for a couple of days on the coast to at least just watch the ocean, feel its unique smell, see all the power and beauty of the ocean surf. Still, Portugal is a country of great geographical discoveries and first-class sailors, and you can feel this craving for overseas shores only at the edge of the ocean.

Ocean surf in Porto Covo, Portugal

Lisbon and its surroundings: description of attractions

Lisbon (Portuguese "Lisboa" - Lisboa) is the capital of Portugal, one of the oldest cities in Europe. In its lifetime, Lisbon has been ruled by the Romans, Arabs, Crusader Knights, Spaniards and Napoleon's troops. Each era of government has left its mark in Lisbon, therefore, historically and architecturally, Lisbon is a real storehouse of discoveries for tourists.

Night view of Lisbon, Portugal

Monastery of Jeronimos was built by the Portuguese king Manuel I as a gratitude to God for the successful voyage of Vasco da Gama.

The great navigator opened the sea route from Europe to India, from where expensive takni and spices poured into Portugal, which were worth their weight in gold in those days. The discovery of this path brought fabulous wealth to the crown of Portugal, in many respects the construction of the monastery was carried out precisely with the proceeds from the trade in Indian goods.

After the construction, the monastery was given into the possession of Hieronymite monks, from which it got its name. The building of the monastery houses the Maritime Museum, which tells about the times of the Great Geographical Discoveries. The official website of the monastery www.mosteirojeronimos.pt, website maritime museum http://museu.marinha.pt

Jeronimos Monastery, Lisbon, Portugal

Belem Tower (or Belem) It was built at the beginning of the 16th century as a fort to protect the city harbor and city buildings at the mouth of the Tagus River from pirate raids. Later, Belem Tower was used at various times as a prison, a lighthouse, an armory and a customs office. Official website of the tower www.torrebelem.pt

Belem Tower, Lisbon, Portugal

Castle of Saint George- this is the most high point Lisbon. The walls of the castle can be seen from any part of the city. It was built during the reign of the Romans, then rebuilt somewhat during the time of the Crusader Knights and Muslims. The castle served as the residence for the first king of Portugal, Afonso.

You can get to the castle on foot from the Commerce Square in the center of Lisbon through the historical quarters. It is better to plan a walk for the whole day. In addition to antique objects and medieval interiors, inside the castle you will find observation deck, several cafes, you can participate in interactive entertainment, for example, learn how to shoot from a medieval crossbow.

Saint George Castle, Lisbon, Portugal

Baixa area – historic quarter Lisbon, in which several significant sights of the city are located at once:

• Triumphal Arch opens the Rua Augusta pedestrian area, a beautiful historic street and perfect place for shopping

Rua Augusta, Lisbon, Portugal

• Commerce Square- the main square of Lisbon, which offers stunning views of the embankment of the Tagus River. Street performers often perform on Commerce Square, holidays are held, and there is also a stop for sightseeing buses

Arc de Triomphe and Commerce Square in Lisbon, Portugal

• Figueira Square formerly used as a site for the city market, now it is tourist place, but fairs in Figueira Square are still held. One of the most interesting sights of Figueira Square is the Hospital of the Dolls - a museum-shop where old broken toys are taken, put in order, and then sold to everyone

Figueira Square, Lisbon, Portugal

• Russio Square- a place of public executions and an arena for bullfights (the Portuguese call this entertainment "torada"). Fairs are often held on the square, the most beautiful of which is Christmas

Roussio Square, Lisbon, Portugal

• Elevador Santa Justa- a building in the center of Lisbon in the form of a tower with a lifting passenger cabin inside. The elevator is used to quickly move between areas of Lisbon, which are separated by too steep a slope. From the top of the elevator, a panorama of the surrounding streets opens up. You can ride the elevator only in the daytime, the fare is paid

Elevador Santa Justa, Lisbon, Portugal

• Ajuda Palace – Royal Palace, residence of Luis I. Currently, the palace operates as a museum, it presents a collection of paintings, royal porcelain, jewelry and interior items that belonged to the royal family. Official website of the museum http://www.palacioajuda.pt

Ajuda Palace, Lisbon, Portugal

• Nations Park- entertainment quarter, built for the world exhibition EXPO. It has everything for a great pastime: entertainment centers and walking alleys, a casino and a cinema, cable car teleferico. On the territory of the Park of Nations there is the Lisbon Oceanarium, where you can visit a unique attraction: “night with sharks”. Lisbon Oceanarium official website: https://www.oceanario.pt/en

Oceanarium in Lisbon, Portugal

• Tram number 28- perhaps the most popular tram route in the world. It is mentioned in every advertising brochure as one of the main attractions of Lisbon. The tram route runs through the most beautiful corners of Old Lisbon, past the most famous sights. The entire route will take about an hour.

Tram number 28, Lisbon, Portugal

• The fare is the same as on any other routes, because this is a regular city public transport branch. If you buy a day pass, you can use tram number 28 instead sightseeing bus in Lisbon: get off at every stop, take your time to see the sights, and go to the next station on the next tram

Tram number 28 in Lisbon, Portugal

• National Museum carriages- one of the most interesting museums Lisbon. Here are collected unique authentic examples of carriages from all over Europe. The museum is located in the premises of the riding school at the royal palace, the official website of the museum: museudoscoches.pt

National Carriage Museum, Lisbon, Portugal

• Vasco da Gama bridge– one of the most recognizable places in Lisbon – cable-stayed bridge, the longest bridge in Europe. The bridge is named after the great Portuguese navigator and is a kind of hallmark of the city

Vasco da Gama Bridge, Lisbon, Portugal

Sintra and its attractions

Sintra is a city near Lisbon, one of the few cities in the world that is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site (not individual buildings and structures, but the entire city). Sintra has long served as the summer residence of the kings of Portugal. Sintra also has a unique tram route that runs from the city to the coast.

Old fortified walls of Sintra, Portugal

Pena Palace- the royal palace, with its outlines and colors somewhat reminiscent of a cartoon castle. The palace was built on the site of an ancient monastery destroyed during an earthquake.

Initially, the architect planned to build a palace on the model of German and Bavarian castles, but King Ferdinand, who ordered the construction, very actively intervened in the original construction plans, and added to the project everything that seemed to have come into his head at that time.

As a result, the palace is woven from completely incongruous styles and elements and painted in rather original colors. This is what makes it a completely unique building of its kind.

Pena Palace in Sintra, Portugal

Quinta da Regaleira) - the estate and the park of the same name around it. The owner of Quinta da Regaleira was rumored to belong to one of the powerful Masonic lodges and traced his lineage back to the Knights Templar. The park is replete with mystical structures and Masonic signs, the most famous of which is the Well of Initiation.

Well of Initiation in Sintra, Portugal

Cape Roca- the most extreme point Eurasian continent, which can be reached from Sintra by bus. A very strong wind always blows at Cape Roca, and its direction is constantly changing, and gusts can sometimes knock you off your feet. You should be extremely careful, especially when you are standing at the rocky edge of the cape: you never know where the next gust of wind will come from and how strong it will be. AT winter time visiting Cape Roca is not at all safe for life.

Cape Roca near Sintra, Portugal

Montserrat Palace- a luxurious villa for the court nobility, which Byron sang in his poem "Child Harold's Pilgrimage" (therefore, Montserrat Palace is especially popular with British tourists). The villa acquired its modern look thanks to the investments of the English industrialist and philanthropist Francis Cook.

Montserrat Palace in Sintra, Portugal

National Palace of Sintra, in the common people referred to as "village", for a long time was the summer castle of the kings of Portugal. As befits a dacha building, the Sintra Palace is small in size and has modest interiors compared to city palaces, but nevertheless, this royal building is considered one of the most important sights of the city.

Sintra National Palace, Portugal

North of Portugal: Porto

Porto is the second largest city in Portugal. It was Porto that gave the name to the whole country, since in Roman times the city was called Portus Cale.

City of Porto, Portugal

Ribeira area- a very colorful historical district of Porto, the main tourist attraction of the city. Ribeira's houses are painted in bright colors, many decorated with traditional Portuguese azulejo ceramics. It is difficult to describe in words all the charm of this area. A completely unique atmosphere reigns on the narrow cobbled streets; local cafes and restaurants offering excellent port wine and dishes add color to them. local cuisine.

Ribeira area in Porto, Portugal

Church of San Francisco- one of the most beautiful in the city. The church looks rather unusual by the standards of Catholic religious canons: it is decorated with unique wooden carvings, reminiscent of the work of Russian architects. The dome and walls of the church are painted with scenes from biblical scenes, however, in the drawings, not the faces of the Saints, but images of animals and plants are much more common.

Interiors of the Church of Sao Francisco in Porto, Portugal

Due to the unusual and too bright interior decor of the church, the Catholic clergy refused to use the church for prayers, and now it is a museum open to everyone. In addition to the church itself, those who wish can visit the neighboring catacobmas - the burial place of the townspeople in the 18th-19th centuries.

Church of San Francisco in Porto, Portugal

Luis I Bridge- one of the most unusual structures in Porto and an excellent observation deck. The bridge consists of two levels, both have walkways. The bridge offers simply stunning views of the banks of the Douro River. The bridge itself, as an architectural structure, also deserves a separate picture: this impressive building was made in the Eiffel style by one of his students.

Luis I Bridge in Porto, Portugal

Cathedral Porto- a place that is unique not only in architectural, but in historical terms. It is from this building that the city of Porto originates: the first building of the church served as a fortress rather than a Catholic church, around which the city of Porto gradually began to grow.

Another famous historical fact: Henry the Navigator, a member of the Portuguese royal family and the organizer of many sea expeditions of the era of the Great Geographical Discoveries, was baptized in the Cathedral of Porto.

Porto Cathedral, Portugal

Guimarães Castle- a medieval defensive fortress near Porto. At various times, the fortress belonged to the most famous kings of Portugal, served fortification during numerous defensive wars and a gloomy medieval prison. Currently, Guimmarais Fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Guimarães Castle near Porto, Portugal

Faro and the Algarve region

Faro is a small city in the south of Portugal, the capital of the Algarve region. The city has a very rich and interesting story, in which the times of Roman rule, Arab conquerors, numerous pirate raids and the knights of the Reconquista are intertwined.

View of Faro city and port at night, Portugal

Chapel of Bones- a church, the walls and internal weapons of which were built from the human bones of monks and ordinary citizens. Despite the eerie decoration, such a decision during construction has a completely prosaic explanation.

The church belonged to the order of Franciscan monks, which was popularly called the "mendicant order", since the Franciscans took a vow of selflessness and did not have the right to start personal property, especially to accumulate wealth. Having no funds to build a church, as well as money to buy land for the burial of their dead brothers, the monks found an original way out of the situation in the form of this building.

Chapel of Bones in Faro, Portugal

Faro old town– an interesting historical area, where you can find a lot of small local attractions, narrow cobbled streets, family restaurants with a long history and unique paintings of everyday life local residents adhering to for centuries family traditions. Faro's Old Town has the amazing atmosphere of a typical seaside town that has lost track of time.

Faro Cathedral, Portugal

Moorish castle in Silves is an Arabic-style fortress in the middle of orange and tangerine plantations. Near the castle is Archaeological Museum with a rich collection of finds from Paleolithic times to the present day.

Moorish castle in Silves, Portugal

Albufeira- a small old fishing town, built in the Moorish style. The city has several historical museums local importance, the remains of an ancient Arab mosque, the 12th-century fortress of Castelo de Almoada and the Zoo Marine marine animal park, on the territory of which regular performances of dolphins and fur seals take place.

Albufeira city, Portugal

Fort Baleira- the remains of an old fortification near the city of Sagres. The fortress was built to protect against pirate raids that haunted local fishermen and whalers. However, this fortress did not stop the pirates from raiding at all. As a result, the fort was destroyed by the team of the legendary sea robber Francis Drake and was never restored.

Fort near the city of Sagres, Portugal

Cathedral of Santa Maria do Castelo- a beautiful old church in the city of Tavira, which has been awarded the status of a national monument of the Algarve. The sconces in the church have a unique collection of cult objects and jewelry XV-XVIII centuries. The church also has several tombstones with the remains of the Crusader Knights of the Order of St. James.

Cathedral of Santa Maria do Castelo, Portugal

Silves Cathedral for a long time served as the main diocesan center of the entire Algarve region. The church is a typical example of the Catholic style of Portugal: whitewashed walls and a red sandstone frame. Inside the church can be found interesting burials wealthy citizens of different centuries.

Silves Cathedral, Portugal

Features of choosing hotels in Portugal

The price of living in Portugal cannot be called cheap. There are not so many cheap hotels in 2 * -3 * here, they can mainly be found in Lisbon. In the resort area, 4 * -5 * hotels prevail, especially in the suburbs of Lisbon, in the Cascais-Estoril-Carcavelos areas.

Avenida Palace Hotel in Lisbon, Portugal

If there is a need for inexpensive housing, you can look for a place in a hostel or camping - this type of accommodation in Portugal is more in demand than in neighboring European countries. Also good options can be found on the Airbnb website, where apartment owners offer their services directly (tip: look for apartments and apartments on the outskirts, not in the city center - save on price).

Tattva Design Hostel in Porto, Portugal

Very popular options for living in rural houses, estates and inns. This type of recreation is very popular among Europeans, as it involves healthy country food, a lot of entertainment on fresh air(horse riding, contact farms, excursions to vineyards) and a warm welcome. The main problem may be ignorance of the language, but with the help of a phrase book and expressive gestures, the language barrier can be overcome.

Homestead "Casas Caiadas", Portugal

Another accommodation option is the “pouzada” hotels - restored and converted into upscale hotels historical Buildings(medieval monasteries, castles, palaces of the local nobility). Living in such hotels will leave a very vivid impression, but the prices here will be very high, and only very wealthy tourists can afford this option.

Pousada Palmela Historic Hotel, Portugal

Transport and food in Portugal

Transport in Portugal

Metro station in Lisbon, Portugal

In addition to the metro, Lisbon and Porto have bus, funicular and tram lines. It is most convenient to buy a single travel card for all types of transport. Such a pass is purchased for each passenger separately, you can use it as much as you like, since it is replenished.

Transport Card in Portugal

Travel cards are sold at vending machines at metro stations, at the post office, and at magazine kiosks. Plus buying a card in the machine: there are inscriptions on English language. When buying a pass in other places, the seller may not speak English, which will cause difficulty in communication.

The trip is considered paid only after you have attached the card to a special device inside the cabin vehicle- these are small devices with a round reader in the center and a small screen at the top.

When you swipe the pass to the reader, the green indicator above the screen should light up, and the screen will display the remaining number of trips, the amount of money left on the card, or the expiration date of the pass.

If a red indicator lights up above the screen, it means that you do not have enough funds on the card to pay for the fare. It is worth being careful and replenishing the amount on the card in a timely manner, as there are controllers quite often in Portugal.

How to pay your fare in Portugal

In small towns, in the suburbs of Lisbon and on the Algarve coast, it is most convenient to use buses or rented cars. Bus tickets can be bought from the driver or at special kiosks.

Bus service in the Algarve is not very convenient, as there are many seasonal routes that often change schedules and traffic patterns. In addition, buses run only until 6-7 pm, later you will only have a taxi at your disposal.

Rede Expressos bus in Portugal

Buses stop at stops only at the request of the passenger. To stop the bus, you need to raise your hand, otherwise it may pass by. If you need to get off the bus, you need to inform the driver by pressing the red button on the handrail inside the cabin.

In addition to the bus for travel between small towns, you can use suburban trains. Tickets are sold at the stations; when selling, the cashier may ask you for a passport. Trains run strictly on schedule. If you board a train at a station where there is no station (this happens in very small towns), then you can buy a ticket from the conductor.

Official site railways Portugal can be seen.

Train Station in Lisbon, Portugal

Food in Portugal

Most often, hotels in Portugal offer their guests only breakfast, so you will have to decide on your own with lunch and dinner. In any, even the smallest city in Portugal, you can easily find where to eat.

Street cafe in Lisbon, Portugal

Coffee with a sandwich will cost you 2-3 euros. For a regular lunch or dinner in a cafe (hot and a drink), you will have to pay 12-15 euros per person. Prices in restaurants start from 25 euros, and lunch in a restaurant with live music is more expensive than in an institution without it. Prices for a bottle of local wine range from 2-3 euros to infinity (it all depends on the brand and class of the drink).

Restaurant in Porto, Portugal

The cuisine of Portugal is similar to the national cuisine of the Mediterranean: a lot of greens, vegetables, seafood and olive oil are required. The meals are mostly simple but hearty. Very large portions. Of the drinks, the most popular is young Portuguese wine.

Be careful! Often in restaurants and cafes they can put food on the table that you did not order (cold meats, cheese, pastries). Such dishes are not a compliment to the establishment, you will have to pay for them. If you don't intend to spend more than you ordered, don't touch these treats - even if you try one or two pieces, you will have to pay for the whole plate.

National cuisine of Portugal

If you intend to cook on your own, then meals will cost you even less. In local supermarkets you can buy any products. Moreover, the smaller the town, the lower the prices.

Expiring products are placed in special baskets and are given a discount, the size of which depends on how soon the product goes bad. In addition, supermarkets often arrange sales for a certain category of products, the discount can reach 30% of the original cost.

Tours for the New Year all over the world

In the old days, almost all travels crowned with great geographical discoveries began off the coast of Portugal. Nowadays, the opposite is true - thousands of tourists come here every year to touch it. great history, to see with your own eyes the architectural splendor of the country and the natural diversity.

Nature of Portugal

It is simply impossible not to envy the Portuguese, because in their very small country countless natural resources. Firstly, Portugal is located on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, in the immediate vicinity of it the Gulf Stream keeps its way, so in summer the ocean gives coolness, and in winter it warms with its warmth. Also in the north and northeast of the country there are mountains of incredible beauty, covered with centuries-old trees. Moreover, in Portugal there are a lot of forests with the richest flora. All sorts of flowers and exotic fruits grow here, which are not found anywhere else in the world. Even bananas and pineapples from the Portuguese islands, which are familiar to all of us, have unique taste qualities.

Holidays in Portugal

Climate

The climate of the country can be described as subtropical, it is greatly influenced by the ocean. The period from the beginning of summer to the end of September is considered especially comfortable for a beach holiday, there is little precipitation at this time, and the average daily temperature in the coastal regions is about +25 ° C, while in the central part of the country it can be several degrees higher. Winter here is very mild, with a lot of precipitation and an average temperature of about +11 °C. But the island part of Portugal can delight tourists with sun and warmth all year round, in particular, in Madeira, even in January, the air warms up to +18 ° C, and coastal waters - up to +16 ° C.

The beaches of Portugal

In general, for those who are aimed at a full-fledged beach holiday, it is better to go to the Algarve - a resort region in the extreme south of Portugal, Madeira or the Azores. The Algarve is distinguished by its beaches, developed infrastructure, and, most importantly, excellent conditions for family vacation. Along with all kinds of bars, restaurants and nightclubs, there are a huge number of water parks and all kinds of children's attractions.

The Algarve is distinguished by its beaches, developed infrastructure, and, most importantly, excellent conditions for family holidays.

The Azores are separated by an ocean from mainland Portugal by a distance of almost one and a half thousand kilometers. If you want to briefly change the frantic rhythm of the metropolis with its traffic jams, deadlines and stresses, for a leisurely, easy vacation surrounded by almost wildlife, but with a consistently high level of service, you should definitely go there.

Since the end of the 15th century, Madeira has become a favorite vacation spot for almost all European monarchs. Today, all world celebrities come here to relax with their soul and body. Indeed, from the natural beauties of this island, literally, it takes your breath away. Primordial forests alternate with majestic mountains, at the foot of which the ocean quietly laps. In addition, there are probably no such luxurious hotels and SPA centers anywhere in the world.

Monasteries and castles

Fans of architectural sights will be delighted with the ancient monasteries, temples and numerous castles-fortresses of Portugal. Almost every city can boast of several unsurpassed monuments of past eras at once.

Gastronomy

Portugal is also beautiful place for gastronomic tourism, because the cuisine of this country is very original. The close proximity of the ocean could not but determine the predominance of fish dishes in the menu of the Portuguese, the main of which is cod in a special marinade (there are more than one hundred and fifty recipes for this marinade). Such salted fish is invariably served with boiled potatoes or eggs. There are relatively few meat dishes, but they are all incredibly tasty, because they are prepared with the addition of a huge amount of spices, marinades and sauces.

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In the Azores, you can taste truly unique meat, and the thing is that it is stewed over the steam of a natural hot spring. Rice is also often served with meat and fish; by the way, it is even used to prepare sweet dishes. In general, the local desserts deserve admiration. Be sure to try the world-famous Madeira wine and quality Portuguese beer.

The intricacies of travel

You can travel within the country both on a rented car and through a developed railway communication. It should be noted that it is better to buy a round-trip ticket at once, as in this case you may be given a small discount. In order to get from mainland Portugal to the Azores and Madeira, there are special flights. For a more comfortable and economical movement in the city, it is best to use travel cards for tourists, which are sold at kiosks at bus stops.

The entire population of the country communicates in Portuguese, but most people are fluent in English.

As a souvenir from Portugal, you can bring Madeira, porcelain dishes, handmade leather products and embroidery.

Albufeira

Holidays in Aybufeira are recommended for those who are tired of the intense life in the metropolis and want to be alone with their thoughts. Here you can find harmony with nature and enjoy the unique beauty of this amazing city. The azure sea, the sun and the beach will make your vacation unforgettable!

Algarve

The Algarve resort is first and foremost great beaches and warm ocean. Fans of swimming, sunbathing and water activities will like this Portuguese province. The Algarve also has good conditions for families with children.

Lisbon

One of ancient cities world and at the same time progressive European capital drenched in spirit historical heritage city ​​on the Atlantic coast - it's all Lisbon, the capital of Portugal. The resort of Lisbon is attractive for tourists with its beauty and attractions.

Porto

Porto is the northern capital of Portugal, where you can feel the atmosphere of a maritime city at every step. The clean smell of the ocean, the seagulls flying around the city, the mountainous terrain - all this is impressive and gives pleasant memories. This is one of the oldest cities in Europe, which received the status of an object in 1996. world heritage UNESCO.

Sintra

The Portuguese resort of Sintra is often called the treasure of Portugal, and it is deservedly so - the city is very beautiful, there are magnificent views of the coast, many attractions and picturesque nature. Sintra has all the conditions for a successful vacation, including for families with children.

Faro

The Portuguese resort of Faro is located on the shores of the Ria Formosa, in the south of the country. The city is small and cozy, Faro is quite suitable for a measured family holiday with children. The resort will appeal to lovers of ancient monuments, hiking and South Portuguese cuisine.

Cascais

The Portuguese resort of Cascais is considered the center of youth entertainment, here life is in full swing day and night. People rarely come to Cascais to relax with children, this place is more suitable for lovers nightlife. There are also many attractions in the city that will not let tourists get bored during the day.

Estoril

The popular Portuguese resort of Estoril is located on the coast washed by Atlantic Ocean. Life here is full, tourists are offered a lot of entertainment - from golf and surfing to gambling in casinos and European-level racing.

carcavelos

The prestigious Portuguese resort of Carcavelos is located on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean. This is a small cozy town, located just 12 km from the capital - Carcavelos, tourists often choose to a relaxing holiday with children and spend a few days of vacation walking around Lisbon.

Madeira

In guidebooks, the resort of Madeira is characterized as picturesque corner eternal spring with many colorful shades. The evergreen peaks of an underwater volcano, combined with bright flower arrangements on land, perfectly complement the rocky coastline and the azure expanse of the Atlantic Ocean.

Description of resorts in Portugal

Resorts of Portugal - one of the sunniest European countries, uniquely colorful, with a pleasant climate and a good ecological situation. Therefore, resorts in Portugal on the sea, in the mountains and near thermal springs are so popular.
Coming to the resorts of Portugal on the Mediterranean Sea, you get a powerful energy boost, only positive emotions and a great mood. Sea resorts Portugal are famous good hotels with a high level of service, amazing wines and luxurious cuisine.
The southern resorts of Portugal are located in the Algarve province, which stretches for one and a half hundred kilometers, which is famous for its variety of beaches - sandy, pebble and rocky. The most popular resorts of Portugal in the south are Portimão and Albufeya.
Want to splash in the ocean? There are more than enough resorts in Portugal on the ocean. After all, the length of the ocean coast in the country is almost 2 thousand kilometers. And you will definitely like the beaches of the so-called "Lisbon Riviera" - they are marked blue flag, velvety from the finest light sand, fresh from the breeze and caressed by a leisurely, crystal clear wave. Windsurfers, going on vacation in Portugal, choose resorts here - on the riviera. The most famous of these resorts is Guinshu, which hosts international competitions and championships.
If you list the beauty that Portugal is rich in, resorts on the ocean should be considered only the third part of the proposed beach holiday. Two more are sea and island resorts. What can Madeira be compared to? Her extinct volcanoes, small clean beaches, thickets of eucalyptus groves, in which to breathe, not breathe. What about Pico Island, beloved by divers? If you have been dreaming of an underwater journey in search of whales, dolphins and the treasures of sunken ships since childhood, you need to come here.
But Portugal is not limited to beach holidays, resort cities also offer treatment, including in thermal springs. There are a little over thirty of them in the country. Among the most famous is Chaves, discovered in ancient Roman times, its thermal waters help to get rid of problems with digestion, pressure, high blood sugar. There is also Geres, where bronchial asthma is treated.
The younger generation also likes Portugal, a youth resort in the mountains, like Vodafone Sky, is crowded all year round. In winter people go skiing and snowboarding, in summer they go in for paragliding.
For those who like Portugal, popular resorts will hospitably open their doors at any time of the year. Do you like sunny Portugal, resorts, the prices of which seem not so high? Welcome - any resort of your choice!

The magnificent coast of Portugal, the rest on the ocean - best places ancient country is the topic of today's article. You will also find out where it is better to relax with children, about the best beach holidays and what excursion programs are offered for tourists.

On the map of Europe, the Portuguese Republic is located to the west of other countries. On the border with, and the coast is washed by the Atlantic Ocean.

The sea in the country is all about water activities and beaches, “it is the place where the earth ends and the sea begins” (Camoes).

The nature and climate of this very small country are beautiful and unique. The Gulf Stream flowing nearby warms with its warm waters in winter, and gives coolness in summer. The mountains covered with centuries-old trees have the richest flora. Many exotic fruits and flower plants can only be found in this country. Even local and pineapples have an unusual, original taste for us.

The best time to travel

Tourism in the country is excellently developed: every year thousands of tourists come to relax on the shores of Portugal, with children and just couples. Leave reviews and take great photos. The best months for a beach holiday are considered to be the beginning of June to the end of September, when there is little rain, and the average temperature is about +25 degrees on the coast. But in the center of the country a couple of degrees higher, so it can be too hot. During the winter, there is too much precipitation, the average temperature is +10. Although on the islands and in winter it is usually up to +20, and the water off the coast is warmed up to +16.

Popular beaches

There are many great resorts on the coast of Portugal. Let's start with a trip to the Algarve - the southernmost point of the country. It can be said that this is a strip of beaches 150 km long, protected from cold winds by mountains. Here the most charming thing is to relax on the sand by the water, periodically going on excursions.

Tourists prefer to play golf, tennis, horseback riding and water sports here. One of the beaches - Albufeira is famous for its original cuisine with signature dishes.

Arriving in this part of Portugal, tourists first find themselves in Faro or Faro, a city that is considered the capital of the region and has preserved the beauty of an ancient fortress. Of interest is the ancient building with the terrible name of the Chapel of Bones, beautiful brightly decorated villages, the city port. And here good beaches better to look elsewhere.

Now for those who have chosen the Azores - one of the regions of the country. It is here that it is good to come with a child, it is quiet and calm here. But also outdoor activities You can do a great job: diving, snorkeling, fishing.

All summer in the Azores is quite hot, but not stuffy at all, because a pleasant breeze blows on the ocean, and warm warm water especially for toddlers. But the nights are quite cool, so if you are going to walk at dusk, dress warmly. You can get to the islands from Lisbon domestic airlines in about 2 hours.

Madeira has long been a favorite vacation spot for monarchs and the richest people from other countries. Now all the world celebrities rest here with their soul and body - because the beauty of Madeira is really breathtaking. And super luxurious hotels and spa-centers, most likely, can be found only here.

Prices for hotels in the country in best season vary from 50 euros (3 stars) to 100 (5 stars) per person. The rest of the time, hotel rooms are a little cheaper.

You can visit any resort in Portugal by ordering bus tour for 7, 8, 10, 14 days. You can admire the country while moving from one place to another: usually these are the cities of Lisbon, Porto, Sintra and others. Most the best time for travel - holidays in May - and it's not hot, and nature is painted with spring colors. Usually from Russia the tour starts in Brest, capturing European countries at the beginning of the trip: Poland, the Czech Republic, France and others.

Many travelers who have visited Portugal leave recommendations for better holiday. For girls: try not to take only high-heeled shoes with you - the streets are lined with paving stones.

For hiking in forests and parks: making fires or simply throwing cigarette butts on the road is punished severely, up to and including imprisonment. If your money is stored on plastic cards - great! The country accepts a VISA card even in small villages. The time in the country in relation to Russia is 3 hours behind (in Madeira), 4 hours (in the Azores).

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