What Makes Portugal such an Interesting country to visit
There are many reasons I love writing about Portugal so much, because it is such an interesting with country to visit! It has an incredible architecture and ambience.
Portuguese history is complex and very interesting. Its mix of conquest and exploration, shaped Portugal’s unique and beautiful architecture and many other aspects.
The first King of Portugal, Afonso I (Afonso Henriques) established the independence of Portugal from León in 1139 and started different building campaigns, including incredible Sintra National Palace.
Also, there was Marquis de Pombal, who rebuilt Lisbon to be a highly functioning city.
Portugal has many famous writers and poets who have left their mark, like Luis de Camoes, one of the great Renaissance writers of his times, almost as famous as Shakespeare.
There was no shortage of talented architects, winning Valmor prizes, a prestigious architecture award given by the Lisbon City Council to recognize the best architectural works in Lisbon.
One example is Nicola Bigaglia, winning it in 1902 for his famous Palacete Mayer.
As a result of all these influences, Portuguese architecture is amazing and it has Roman ruins, Gothic cathedrals, Moorish influences, and a mix of different styles, Mudejar architecture.
There are even uniquely Portuguese styles – Pombaline and Manueline.
The Royal palaces of Portugal are very pretty and while less glamorous than French Royal palaces, are very authentic and unique.
Besides amazing Sintra palaces, there is a surprisingly beautiful Ajuda Royal Palace in Lisbon.
Also, there was Marquis de Pombal, who rebuilt Lisbon to be a highly functioning city.
Portugal has many famous writers and poets who have left their mark, like Luis de Camoes, one of the great Renaissance writers of his times, almost as famous as Shakespeare.
One very interesting thing about Portugal is its role in the Age of Exploration. While it’s a controversial topic, no one can deny its importance in historically shaping the world.
This in part influenced the museums in Portugal: they’re stunning and unique, displaying different rare objects from around the world!
They are usually located in some equally stunning buildings, bringing double pleasure from visiting them.
Portuguese cuisine is a tasty mix of Mediterranean and Atlantic flavors. There’s fresh seafood, hearty stews, and sweet pastries, including the famous pastel de Nata.
I talk a lot on my on my blog about the ways to travel cheaper, and ways to save money traveling between cities in Portugal.
I also explain how to save on public transportation in the cities in Europe in general, and Portugal in particular.
For example, you can save a lot, using Navegante card for Lisbon.
I also love talking about all the fun ways to explore Portugal, traveling while doing sightseeing.
One of the fun (and healthy) ways to travel in Portugal is by cycling. I have a guide on that as well.
I also explain in which cities you can use Uber in Portugal, and about other Uber alternatives, like Bolt.
Portuguese culture is rich and traditional festivals in Portugal are a true delight to watch. Many different cities in Portugal have festivals that unique to that city. If you are interested in all festivals taking place in Lisbon, here is a list of all festivals in 2024.
If you need a visa to visit Portugal, consult your country’s embassy website. If you’re the US citizen, you don’t need a visa to visit Portugal for less than 90 days. Here is a post on what to know before visiting Portugal as an US citizen.
And don’t worry, Portugal is safe, but there are some scams to be aware of.
Wherever you decide to go in Portugal – wander around Lisbon and central Portugal, explore the intriguing Sintra town, enjoy the sun in the Algarve, or explore beautiful Porto and the Northern Portugal area – you will have an amazing time visiting!
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