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Portugal is a small country in Southern Europe at the western coast of the Iberian Peninsula. Portugal has a rich history and very unique culture and traditions, with lively cities and a dazzling countryside.
In this piece of land by the sea, you will find an incredible landscape diversity. In a few hours journey you can see the green mountains and vine valleys in the North, the rocky mountain ranges in the Centre, the dry yellow plains in the Alentejo and the glamorous beach and golf resorts in Algarve. The tropical island of Madeira and the almost unknown islands of Azores are part of this country best kept secrets.
The most beautiful natural areas lie in the Minho , Lima, and Douro valley. You can explore the verdant beauty and rural customs of the Minho Valley, or check out the spectacular gorge in the Douro valley.
The city of Oporto is located at the end of the Douro Valley, on the sea, and is famous for its port wine. It is an excellent base for exploring the region.
The South also boasts some of the best preserved natural reserves in Europe. The best example being the Natural park of the Southwest of the Alentejo and Vicentine Coast, comprising two mountain ranges and 200 miles of southern coastline dotted with idilic beaches and secluded coves.
If it�s the beach you are after, the Algarve coast offers highly developed stretches of beach. The rest of the coast (with the exception of the area near Lisbon and Porto) remain relaxing, totally Portuguese and isolated. Great stretches of sand are there for the relaxing, especially along the northern Costa Verde , near Viano do Castelo . The beaches near southern Alentejo are the most remote and least populated.
REASONS TO GO
The beautiful cities of Lisbon and Porto.
The wines from Alentejo region and from the Douro Valley.
The paradise islands of Azores and Madeira.
GOOD TO KNOW
Capital: Lisbon
Currency: euro (EUR)
Area: 92.391 sq km
Population: 10 million
Language: Portuguese
Electricity: 230V/50Hz (European plug)
Calling Code: +351
Time Zone: UTC
PUBLIC HOLIDAYS
New Year`s Day - 1 January
Freedom Day - 25 April
Worker`s Day - 1 May
Portugal Day - 10 June
Feast of the Assumption - 15 August
Implantation of the Republic - 5 October
All Saints Day - 1 November
Restoration of Independence - 1 December
Immaculate Conception - 8 December
Christmas Day - 25 December
Moveable public holidays:
Good Friday
Corpus Christi
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