Things to Know Before Visiting Portugal

Portugal had been on our travel list for quite some time, and when we finally made it there, it was everything we’d hoped for and more. A place where old-world charm meets modern vibrance, Portugal instantly draws you in with its warmth, colors, and rhythm of life. From rolling hills and golden beaches to historic cities steeped in tradition, it’s a country that feels both timeless and full of energy.

As we explored, we discovered that every corner has a story to tell,

from Lisbon’s tiled streets to Porto’s riverside magic. So here’s a little peek into the most fascinating things we learned about this European gem, both from our research before the trip and from all the waddling we did once we arrived.

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14 Interesting Facts About Portugal

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#1: Portugal is one of the oldest nations in Europe

Portugal is one of Europe’s most ancient nations, established in 1139. This historical milestone places Portugal among the oldest nations globally and firmly within the historical fabric of Europe. In this pivotal year, King Afonso Henriques assumed the throne, solidifying his reign as the leader of this budding nation. Intriguingly, Lisbon, Portugal’s capital, boasts a lineage four centuries older than Rome. Before earning its current name, the land had witnessed the presence of diverse empires and civilizations, with the Phoenicians, for instance, leaving their mark as early as 1200 BC.

#2: The oldest operating bookstore in the world is in Lisbon

Interesting fact: You’ll also find one of the world’s smallest bookstores in Lisbon. There’s only enough space for one person and an impressive 3,000 books. 

#3: Porto: The Birthplace of Port Wine

#4: Portugal is home to the world’s largest cork forest

Cork is an iconic symbol of Portugal, following bacalhau and the Barcelos rooster. As the largest cork producer in the world, Portugal supplies over 50% of the global cork supply. It is also home to the world’s most extensive cork forests, accounting for 34% of its area. The Amorim Family, led by Portuguese billionaire Américo Amorim, has made a multi-billion-dollar fortune in the cork industry.

#5: Portugal is one of the most peaceful countries

According to the 2021 Global Peace Index (GPI), Portugal ranked 4th among the most peaceful countries in the world, following Iceland, New Zealand, and Denmark. This indicates that Portugal is a highly safe country with low levels of violence.

#6: Lisbon’s Great Earthquake: A Disaster That Shaped History

On November 1st, 1755, an earthquake with a magnitude estimated to be 7.7 or higher struck the city, destroying almost the entire area. A tsunami, measuring 6 meters high, was triggered by the earthquake, leading to numerous drownings. The earthquake caused a death toll ranging from 12,000 to 60,000 people in Lisbon, making it one of the deadliest earthquakes ever recorded.

#7: The maximum prison sentence in Portugal is 25 years

In Portugal, the Penal Code prohibits any individual from receiving a prison sentence exceeding 25 years, regardless of the severity of their crimes. As a result, even if someone commits multiple homicides, they will not serve a sentence longer than 25 years. It’s worth noting that the death penalty is not applicable in the country.

#8: Portugal is a surfing heaven 

Koxa caught an impressive 25-meter wave at Praia do Norte in Nazaré, earning him the official Guinness World Record for the largest wave ever surfed.

#9: Portugal is a European leader in sustainable energy

It’s impressive that Portugal achieved 100% renewable energy generation in March 2018 by utilizing hydro, wind, and solar power sources. Furthermore, according to a 2020 report, Portugal is ranked as the 4th most eco-friendly country in the European Union across six categories, which cover waste, energy, greenhouse gases, air quality, fresh water, and natural land. Portugal is also among the first countries globally to set a carbon neutrality goal for 2050, which is commendable.

#10: Fado, the Soulful Musical Expression

#11: The Sacred Beauty of Fátima

Every year, approximately 8 million people travel to the location where Fatima’s miracle occurred. In 1917, three shepherd children witnessed six apparitions of Mary, the Mother of Jesus, over six months. These apparitions and messages spread throughout the city and eventually led to the Miracle of the Sun. It is said that over 70,000 people witnessed this miracle, which consisted of the sun appearing as a spinning disc in the sky with vibrant colors after rain. Today, more than 100 years later, millions of pilgrims visit the Sanctuary of Fatima each year to see the site of the apparitions and the Miracle of the Sun. To help plan your visit, look at our guide to Fatima.

#12: The “country of tiles”

Madeira 7-Day Itinerary 

#14: The sun is (pretty much) always shining!

Portugal has a predominantly hot climate, boasting the highest number of sunshine hours on the continent. Some regions experience nearly 300 sunny days yearly, offering over 3000 hours of sunshine annually. This makes it an ideal vacation spot for those seeking summer and winter sunshine. If you’re planning to escape the cold and visit Portugal, explore the various villas and apartments available. Portugal’s southernmost region, the Algarve, delivers in spades. Golden beaches, dramatic cliffs, and turquoise waters make this coastline a paradise for beach lovers. 

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Practical Tips for Travelers Visiting Portugal

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• Tap Water. Safe to drink across the country, including Lisbon and Porto, no need for bottled water.
• Currency. Euro (€), cards are widely accepted, but carry some cash for small cafés or markets.
• Plugs & Voltage. Type F plugs (same as most of Europe) with 230 V standard voltage.
• Language. Portuguese is the official language; English is commonly spoken in tourist areas.
• Public Transport. Reliable and affordable, metros, trams, trains, and buses connect major cities easily.
• Driving. Drive on the right; toll roads are common, and some require electronic payment (Via Verde).
• Safety. Portugal is one of Europe’s safest countries; petty theft can occur in crowded areas.
• Tipping. Not mandatory, rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% in restaurants is appreciated.
• Wi-Fi & SIM Cards. Free Wi-Fi in most cafés and hotels; local SIMs (e.g., Vodafone, MEO) offer good coverage.
• Climate: Mild year-round; pack layers and sunscreen, the Atlantic breeze can surprise you.

Best Time to Visit Portugal 

Portugal is a year-round destination, but each season offers a different kind of charm, whether you’re after sunshine, surf, or quiet city strolls.

• Spring (March–May). One of the best times to visit! The weather is pleasantly warm, flowers are in bloom, and the crowds are still light. Perfect for sightseeing, coastal hikes, and wine tastings.
• Summer (June–August). Hot, lively, and full of energy. Ideal for beach lovers and festival-goers, though popular spots like Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve can get busy (and pricier).
• Autumn (September–November). A favorite among locals and savvy travelers. The sea is still warm, vineyards come alive with harvest season, and cities feel calmer again.
• Winter (December–February). Mild compared to much of Europe. Great for exploring without crowds, enjoying cozy cafés, or discovering southern Portugal under softer light.

If you prefer warmth without the summer rush, late spring or early autumn are the perfect seasons to waddle through Portugal’s wonders.

Portugal left us completely enchanted, from its sunlit coastlines and cozy cafés to its soulful music and welcoming people. Every day brought something new to love, whether it was getting lost in tiled alleys, tasting pastéis de nata straight from the oven, or simply watching the sunset paint the Atlantic in golden hues.
If Portugal has been sitting on your travel list like it was on ours, consider this your sign to go finally. Pack your curiosity, bring comfy shoes, and get ready to waddle through a country that’s as rich in heart as it is in history. Até logo, Portugal, we’ll be back for more. 

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Add Portugal to Your Bucket List, and Pin It Before You Forget!

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