Portugal Travel Guide
Portugal is an extremely popular tourist destination in Europe; there has been a constant flow of visitors throughout the ages and many Brits now chose to live in the country. The country has a rich history and the past Portuguese Empire has left its stamp throughout its many districts. There is also a great urban culture, and the restaurants, clubs and bars are popular with the multitude of visitors who flock to the country each year.
Portuguese Cuisine
The process of making cheese is a traditional activity within Portugal; there are many pasture fields and flocks of animals to tend to throughout the land. The Portuguese make several kinds of cheeses from such animals as sheep, cows and goats. The country is proud that its cheeses are handmade as it showcases the skills and talents of their workers.
Cozido a Portuguesa is a popular dish which comprises of chicken, pork and beef mixed with a variety of vegetables. The dish uses a mix of flavours and ingredients that are both fresh and seasonal. You may also want to try Feijoada which is a casserole style dish containing dry beans, bacon, tomatoes and many herbs and spices.
A traditional desert to try is Pasteis de Belem; this platter gives you the opportunity to taste a range of different Portuguese sweets. Â Another popular dish is figs stuffed with chocolate and almonds; this is an extremely rich desert and is usually served with Madeira or Portuguese port.
Popular Attractions
The Church of St. Maria in Sintra is an ancient Gothic temple and its classical architecture and traditional interiors have proved to be popular examples of Portugal’s past and religion. The Church of S. Martinho is another famous site; the original parish was destroyed during 1755 and Gothic elements of this building still remain. A 14th century stone plaque and three 16th century paintings can be found within the interior areas.
The Pena Palace is a great example of Portuguese architecture during the Romantic era. The regal and majestic exterior alongside its backdrop of forestry and crags create a breathtaking site that many enjoy. The Monserrate Palace is a small romantic palace built during 1858; the great circular tower and exotic decoration draw tourists to the building each year. There are also some great islands and beaches to visit across the land. Such places as Cape Roca, Azenhas do Mar and The Sea Coast are great for water sports and a relaxing break away.
Climate & Weather
The Portuguese climate changes between regions as an area is influenced by its proximity to the sea. The winters tend to be colder inland; however they are still mild in comparison to the majority of Europe. The inner regions also tend to have hotter summers and the coastal regions are milder throughout the year due to sea breezes.
The island of Azores has mild temperatures all year round. The temperature of the sea is pleasant during both the summer and winter months, making it an ideal spot for water sports. Madeira has aspects of a subtropical climate yet the average temperatures of both the land and sea are still mild and pleasant all year round.