Portugal

General Information about Portugal

Portugal has the Atlantic Ocean on its Western border, with Spain to the North and East. Its capital is Lisbon and the population is 10.8 million. The Northern area of Portugal is mountainous in the interior and cooler in the winter with temperatures falling well below freezing point, while in the southern areas the summer temperatures can reach between 35 and 49 degrees.

Portugal in history has had influences from a number of civilizations and this is reflected in the number of World Heritage Sites listed such as the Gothic Batalha Abbey built in 1388, and the Jeronimos Monastery built in 1502 to name just two. As a result of Portugal's history there are many influences on its architecture and there is plenty to see. There is plenty to do for the outdoor enthusiast depending on the season from hiking trails to kayaking and skiing in the winter at Serra da Estrela.

A good range of accommodation is available to suit most budgets from hostels, bed and breakfasts, apartments and hotels. Portugal also has a range of privately owned homes ranging from farmhouses to manor houses available for the tourist market.

Portugal Photo Gallery (8 of 100 Photos)

Vila Nova de Milfontes	Vila Nova de Milfontes	Viana do Castelo	Viana do Castelo
Viana do Castelo	Viana do Castelo	Viana do Castelo	Viana do Castelo

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Climate

Learn About The Climate In Portugal

Summers in Portugal are normally dry and sunny with about of 12 hours of sunlight each day and an average of 28 degrees. Temperatures in the north are lower with averages of 20 degrees. Along the coast the winters are mild, autumns are normally dry while spring can be wet. Rainfall is low from June through to August with less than 5 percent of the country's annual rain fall.

Geography

Geographical Information On Portugal

Portugal can be found in south-western Europe bordering the North Atlantic Ocean with Spain on its west. It has a coastline of over 1,793 kilometres and a landmass of over 88,880 square kilometres. Its capital is Lisbon with a population of over 10,642,836. The countryside is mountainous is the north while the south is full of rolling plains.

Economy

Find Out About The Economy In Portugal

The economy in Portugal is largely based around the service industry contributing over 60 percent of the country's economy. The agriculture industry is quite low only contributing about 8 percent. The main produces are grains, potatoes, olives and grapes used for wine. The industry sector offers over 25 percent of the economy with produces such as textiles, wood pulp, paper, cork, chemicals as well as tourism. The official currency is the EURO.

Festivals and Events

Discover What's On In Portugal

Festivals are a large part of the culture in Portugal so it would be no surprise to have something happening every month. One of the country's oldest festival is Festa da Feira which dates back to the 16th century. On the day children dress in white, with fogacas (bread hats) decorated with flags. Its an event not to be missed. If your a music lover you must visit in June where the Sintra Festival of Music and Dance is celebrated for over a month. Finally at the end of the year there is Noite Magica where thousands of people celebrate the coming of the New Year with DJ's and fireworks displays.

Portugal Destinations

Travel Guides for Destinations in Portugal

Apartments in Portugal

Attractions, Activities and Tours in Portugal

Car Rentals in Portugal

Guesthouses in Portugal

Hostels in Portugal

Hotels in Portugal

European Explorer would like to wish you an enjoyable stay in Portugal.