Portugal might not be considered a traditional backpackers’ destination, yet the country boasts fantastic weather, beautiful countryside and mouth-watering food that will sate even those bitten hardest by the travel bug.
So many amazing trips can be booked where you can explore historic cities, see beautiful beaches, meet friendly locals who will be sure to persuade you to stay for as long as possible. And if you do want to stay longer, why not apply to work here! Summer jobs, learning to surf and studying Portuguese are all popular activities.
Portugal Facts
• Capital City: Lisbon
• Currency: Euro, EUR
• Language: Portuguese
• Time Zone: 0 GMT
• Dialling Code: +351
• Religions Practised: Christianity (Roman Catholic)
• Total Area: 92,391 square kilometres
• Population Size: 10084245
Practical Information
Voltage and Plug Info
220 V. European plug with two round metal pins.
Visas
As Portugal is a member of the EU, citizens of fellow member states don’t need a visa for stays of up to three months. Anyone wanting to stay longer will need to apply for a registration certificate at any town hall. Visitors from the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Canada and USA can also enter visa-free while others may have to apply for a visa.
Safety
With no internal conflicts or a high crime rate, Portugal is a safe travel destination compared with other European countries. A little common sense will, however, go a long way. Be wary of pickpockets and petty thieves in crowded areas and keep your valuables safely locked up.
Vaccinations and Health
Hospitals and health clinics are of a high standard in Portugal but if you do need treatment it can be costly so make sure you have adequate health insurance.
Travel Tips
If you are planning a year long gap year in Europe or just want to get away. for a few months, why not stop in Portugal to take in some European culture?
Best Time to Visit?
With hot summers and mild winters you can visit Portugal at any time of year. From November to March there’s usually more rain but on the plus side fewer tourists. If time allows, make sure you’re there for Carnaval in February or March discover how the Portuguese love to party.
Getting There and Away
Bus-hopping networks (view Europe tours) link cities across the continent, including Lisbon but journeys can be quite pricey. Direct buses run from destinations across Spain and are an easy and cheaper way to cross the border while going by train is another option. You can fly to Portugal from most European cities as well as New York, Los Angeles and a couple of Canadian cities.
Getting Around
An extensive network of trains and buses covers the country so you’ll be easily able to get where you want to go. For a more scenic and unique experience, take a train on the old railway lines of the Douro valley and watch the beautiful countryside go by. In the cities of Porto and Lisbon, opt for the tram over the metro – it’s a far more enjoyable way to get around.
Portugal Gap Year Ideas
Don’t leave Portugal without…
Dancing until daylight
Stay up all night in the swinging streets of Lisbon, where the dancing doesn’t get going until 2am. If you’re hardcore, keep going until dawn then head to the docklands for a spectacular urban sunrise.
Feeling fortified
Port may not be your tipple of choice, but so many British grannies can’t be wrong. Tour the distilleries and taste the local liquor in the country that gave the drink its name.
Getting sandy
From the Atlantic-bashed west coast to the rugged cliffs of Sagres in the Algarve, Portugal has some of the finest beaches in Europe. It’d be rude not to sample a few.
Filling your face with custard
Every Sunday, locals across the country flock to cafés for a plate of pasteis de nata – addictively tasty custard pastries. It’s a ritual well worth getting closely involved in.
Getting emotional over fado
The country’s national folk music is melancholic and beautiful enough to make grown men weep. So prepare to stare into your Super Bock and pretend there’s a fly in your eye.
