Portugal
Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of Portuguese landscapes, architecture and culture, which offer a rich diversity and unparalleled beauty. From the historic old towns of Lisbon and Porto to the breathtaking coastal landscapes of the Algarve, Portugal offers a wealth of photo opportunities that will delight any photography enthusiast.
From the Algarve to Porto. Portugal is fantastically beautiful
Photo spots in Portugal
Welcome to the land of explorers – Portugal, where photo spots invite you on a journey through the many facets of culture, history and breathtaking landscapes. From the historic old towns of Lisbon and Porto to the vibrant city life of Faro and the breathtaking coastal landscapes of the Algarve, Portugal’s nature and architecture reflect a fascinating diversity that will inspire any photographer.
Explore the magnificent palaces and gardens of Sintra, the charming villages in the Douro Valley and the idyllic beaches and cliffs along the Atlantic coast. Portugal is a country full of contrasts, characterized by its rich history and cultural diversity, which enchants its visitors with every photo spot. From the small hidden gems to the vibrant cities, Portugal offers an almost infinite range of photo opportunities waiting to be discovered. Get ready to be captured by the beauty of this country and start your photo journey through Portugal.
Good to know
Here you will find important information for your visit to Portugal or for your trip through this fascinating country on the Iberian Peninsula. We’ll give you everything you need to get the most out of your stay in Portugal. Let’s go on a journey of discovery together and experience the best photo spots with Fotogoals.
Regions
Portugal is divided into 18 districts and two autonomous regions: from Lisbon via Porto and Faro to the Azores and Madeira. These regions each offer their own unique sights and cultural highlights. From the historic old towns of Lisbon to the breathtaking coastal landscapes of the Algarve, Portugal offers a wealth of diversity to explore.
Currency
The official currency in Portugal is the euro (€), which is accepted as a means of payment throughout the country. The country’s largest banks include Caixa Geral de Depósitos, Santander, Millennium BCP and Novo Banco. ATMs can be found in banks as well as in many public places such as shopping centers, train stations and airports, making access to cash convenient and easy.
Mobile radio
Portugal has the country code +351 and the leading mobile providers are MEO, Vodafone and NOS. Other providers use one of the networks of the major providers. The mobile network is generally well developed and offers extensive network coverage, even in rural areas. In general, 4G LTE is readily available. 5G is largely available in urban areas.
Grocery
In Portugal, most supermarkets and discount stores are open from Monday to Saturday from around 7 or 8 am until 8 or 10 pm. Some are also open on Sundays, with certain restrictions. The most popular retailers include Continente, Pingo Doce, Lidl and Aldi. They offer a wide selection of food and other products at affordable prices.
Transportation
There are a variety of transportation options in Portugal. Comboios de Portugal (CP) offers an extensive train network for national and international travel. Cities have public transportation such as subways, streetcars and buses. Rede Expressos and Flixbus offer inexpensive long-distance bus connections. There are also ride-sharing services such as Uber, traditional cabs and car rentals for flexible transportation options.
Restaurant
Portugal has a diverse restaurant scene that offers something for every taste and budget. In addition to traditional restaurants serving Portuguese cuisine, you will also find a large number of international chains and snack stands offering a wide range of dishes, from bacalhau to sweet desserts. Prices for main meals average between 10 and 20 euros. It is customary to tip about 10%.
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Portugal - FAQ: Travel
Here you will find the answers to the most frequently asked questions about traveling to Portugal
If you want to visit Portugal, the best time to travel depends on your personal preferences and the activities you are planning. Summer (June to August) offers warm weather and is ideal for beach visits and outdoor activities. Autumn (September to November) offers mild weather and fewer tourists, which is perfect for sightseeing and wine tasting. Winter (December to February) is ideal for visiting Christmas markets and cultural events. In spring (March to May), nature awakens and the cities blossom, which is perfect for walks and sightseeing tours. When planning your trip, consider your personal preferences and interests to find the best time to visit Portugal.
If you wish to enter Portugal, the need for a visa depends on your nationality, the purpose of your stay and the intended duration. Nationals of many countries do not require a visa for short-term stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism or business purposes. However, a visa may be required for longer stays or other purposes. It is important to check the current entry requirements and apply for a visa in good time if necessary.
If you are planning a vacation trip to Portugal, the choice of airport depends on your destination and personal preferences. Most international flights land at major airports such as Lisbon (LIS), Porto (OPO) or Faro (FAO). These airports offer a wide range of connections and are well connected to the public transport network. If you have a specific destination in Portugal in mind, it may make sense to choose the nearest regional airport. Find out about the various options in advance and choose the airport that best suits your travel plans.
If you are traveling to Portugal, no special vaccinations are usually required. However, it is recommended that you keep your standard vaccinations up to date according to your home country's vaccination calendar. If you are traveling from countries with yellow fever infection areas, you may need to provide proof of a yellow fever vaccination. It is advisable to find out about current health and entry regulations before you travel and to seek medical advice if necessary.
Yes, many people in Portugal speak English, especially in urban areas, tourist centers and among the younger generation. English is a widely spoken foreign language and is often learned as a second language at school. In hotels, restaurants, stores and tourist attractions, it is common for staff to speak English or at least have a basic knowledge of English in order to communicate with international visitors. If you don't speak Portuguese, you can usually communicate in English to find your way around and get help.
Portugal - FAQ: Daily life
Here you will find the answers to the most frequently asked questions about daily life in Portugal
In Portugal, the voltage is 230 volts and the frequency is 50 hertz. The sockets correspond to the European type C and type F. If you come from a country that uses other plug types, you may need an adapter to connect your electronic devices. These adapters are available in most electronics stores, airports and hotels. It is recommended that you check whether you need an adapter before your trip to ensure that your electronic devices can be used without any problems.
Yes, tap water in Portugal is generally safe to drink. The water is tested regularly and meets European drinking water standards. In most urban areas and tourist regions, you can drink the tap water without hesitation. However, in some rural or remote areas, the water quality may vary. In such cases, it is advisable to check with the locals or accommodation providers. If you are unsure or don't like the taste of tap water, you can also opt for bottled water, which is widely and easily available in Portugal.
Payment by card, especially by credit card, is widespread in Portugal. In larger stores, restaurants and bars in cities or tourist regions, payment by credit card is generally accepted. However, some smaller stores or rural areas may only accept cash. It is therefore advisable to find out in advance whether payment with your credit card is possible. Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere, while American Express can sometimes cause problems. All cards are usually accepted in supermarkets, as are Apple Pay and Google Pay. It is always a good idea to have both cash and a credit card with you to be prepared for all eventualities.
In Portugal, you can buy alcohol in supermarkets, discount stores, petrol stations and kiosks. You can get a standard selection of alcoholic drinks almost everywhere, while a larger selection is usually only available in specialty drinks markets or in large supermarkets. The sale of alcohol is generally not limited in time, but it is advisable to find out about local regulations. The minimum age for the purchase of alcohol is 18 years.
In Portugal, you can buy cigarettes and tobacco in supermarkets, kiosks, petrol stations and special tobacco stores. These products are usually kept behind the counter and must be requested from the staff. It is important to note that the sale of tobacco products is regulated and the minimum age for buying tobacco is 18. A pack of cigarettes costs around 5-6 euros on average.
In Portugal, you can buy drugstore and hygiene products in supermarkets such as Continente and Pingo Doce as well as in specialized drugstores such as Wells. These stores offer a wide range of products, including body care, cosmetics, household cleaners and baby care. Drugstore items are also available in pharmacies, which are widespread in most towns and communities.
Right-hand traffic prevails in Portugal. The speed limits vary depending on the type of road: the limit is usually 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on rural roads and 120 km/h on freeways. Seat belts must be worn by all vehicle occupants. The blood alcohol limit is 0.05%. The use of cell phones without hands-free equipment while driving is prohibited. It is important to obey traffic signs and traffic lights and to give priority to pedestrians at crosswalks.
When visiting Portugal, there are a few important things to bear in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable stay:
- Dress: Portugal has a relaxed dress code, but it is advisable to dress appropriately in urban areas and for formal occasions. Conservative clothing should be worn in religious sites.
- Traffic: Right-hand traffic prevails in Portugal. It is important to follow the traffic rules and drive carefully. Pedestrians have priority at crosswalks.
- Smoking: Smoking is prohibited in public buildings, restaurants, bars and many public places. There are designated smoking areas which should be used.
- Alcohol: The consumption of alcohol is permitted in Portugal from the age of 18. However, it is forbidden to drink alcohol in public, except in designated areas such as licensed bars and restaurants.
- Emergency number: The emergency number in Portugal is 112. This number can be used for the police, fire department and ambulance.
- Tipping: Tipping is not obligatory in Portugal, but is appreciated in restaurants and for good service. Usually about 10% of the invoice amount is given.
Portugal - FAQ: Photo
Here you will find the answers to the most frequently asked questions about photography in Portugal
In Portugal there are some important rules and regulations regarding photography:
- Respect privacy: Do not photograph people without their express permission, especially in private or sensitive situations.
- Military and government buildings: Photography of military facilities and government buildings is often restricted or prohibited.
- Religious sites: Special care should be taken when taking photographs in churches and other religious sites. Find out in advance whether photography is permitted.
- Commercial photography: Permission is required for commercial photography. Find out about the necessary permits in advance.
