Portugal provides visitors a slice of Old Europe without the high prices of other destinations. Great food, sandy beaches and a vibrant cultural awareness make Portugal a great spot to visit.
History of Portugal
Portugal was once known as Lusitania, an area on the Iberian Peninsula occupied by the Roman Empire for several centuries. The locals converted to Christianity, but like the rest of the peninsula, Portugal came under Muslim rule after the invasion of 711 CE. Taking part in the Reconquista that took 700 years to drive the Muslims out, Portugal’s strong Catholicism remains today as a relic of the Roman age. Roman, Muslim, and medieval eras threw their litter onto Portuguese grounds, providing rich historic layers.
Portugal has been called the “little nation that could,” because of its small size and huge impact on world affairs during the Renaissance. It is no accident that Portuguese is a global language today; after the Reconquista, this small nation ascended to world power status during the 16th century’s “Age of Discovery,” building up a vast empire that included modern-day Brazil, East Timor, Angola and Mozambique. Portugal even held a little piece of China at Macau.
Portugal remained in decline throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, yet held onto its African colonies until 1975. First in, last out. Today Portugal’s streets are littered with reminders of an era gone by, as well a somewhat quirky set of people ready for the future.
Tips for Portugal
Public transportation connects the larger cities of Portugal. If you are interested in rural Portugal, you’ll need to rent a car.
Driving is not as scary as it looks. Just watch your speed just in case and ignore the tailgater.
Getting around larger cities is easy by public transportation, except if you need to take a bus in Lisbon.
Food is relatively affordable even in larger cities. Most cities have a great variety of restaurant types, from traditional Portuguese to Italian to Chinese and even American. *Note: restaurant opening times on Google are often wrong.
Try the pastries. They are delicious. Seriously.
The traditional Portuguese siesta is shorter than the Spanish siesta. It usually runs from 12-2 pm. Eating at 1pm is common.
Larger cities tend to have restaurants with longer dining periods. Check out fast food for eating at a weird time, or hit the grocery store. The chain, Pingo Doce, tends to have grab and go sandwiches.
Museums, even larger ones, might close mid day for the siesta. In Lisbon and Porto, they tend to be open all day.
Places To Go
Check out where I have been in Portugal and other places I haven’t been to but look awesome (maroon color). Click on the links for posts for the places I’ve been!
*in progress =(
