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Your guide to Portugal

Since 2011, Portugal.fr has been helping travellers discover Portugal, explore its hidden gems and plan unforgettable trips. But there’s more to Portugal than a holiday. Whether you’re dreaming of a new life here, looking to settle down or considering an investment, we’re here to help you discover everything the country has to offer.

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Explore Portugal and its regions

From vibrant cities and historic towns to wild coastlines and peaceful countryside, Portugal is a country of remarkable contrasts. To help you find your way around, we’ve divided our guide into six distinct regions: Porto and Northern Portugal, Lisbon and its surroundings, Central Portugal, Alentejo, Algarve, and the Portuguese islands of Madeira and the Azores. Each has its own character, landscapes and traditions waiting to be discovered.

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  • Porto and Northern Portugal: From the lively streets of Porto to the historic cities of Braga and Guimarães, Northern Portugal is widely regarded as the birthplace of the Portuguese nation. A region rich in history, breathtaking scenery and centuries-old traditions.
  • Lisbon and its surroundings: Lisbon is all about the art of living well. Colourful neighbourhoods, Atlantic beaches, delicious food and a vibrant cultural scene make the capital and its surroundings an essential part of any Portuguese adventure.
  • Central Portugal: Discover the canals of Aveiro, the historic university city of Coimbra and the spectacular mountains of Serra da Estrela. A region where culture, heritage and unspoilt nature come together.
  • Alentejo: Stretching across southern Portugal, the Alentejo invites you to slow down. Endless rolling plains, whitewashed villages, medieval towns and some of the country’s most beautiful wild beaches make this region a world of its own.
  • Algarve: Famous for its golden beaches, dramatic cliffs and year-round sunshine, the Algarve has long been a favourite among travellers. But venture beyond the resorts and you’ll discover traditional villages, beautiful countryside and a rich local culture.
  • Madeira and the Azores: Far out in the Atlantic, these two archipelagos reveal another side of Portugal. From Madeira’s lush mountains and dramatic coastal scenery to the volcanic landscapes and crater lakes of the Azores, the islands offer extraordinary experiences for nature lovers and curious explorers.


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Beyond the clichés: Portuguese culture, traditions and everyday life

Portugal often brings to mind a few familiar things: the Portuguese language, Port wine, grilled sardines and, of course, Cristiano Ronaldo. And while these are all part of the country’s identity, there’s so much more to Portugal than its most famous symbols. From regional traditions and local customs to food, history and the little details of everyday life, we take you beyond the clichés to explore what makes Portugal truly unique.

gastronomie Lisbonne
  • Portuguese food and gastronomy tell the story of a country shaped by the Atlantic, centuries of tradition and a love of good food. From the irresistible pastéis de nata to freshly caught seafood, hearty stews and regional specialities, there’s always something new to taste. Every corner of Portugal has its own flavours, recipes and culinary traditions, making food an essential part of discovering the country.
  • Portuguese culture is a rich blend of history, local traditions and influences from around the world. It’s in the soulful melodies of fado drifting through Lisbon’s old neighbourhoods, the colourful festivals of rural villages and the warmth of everyday gatherings. From remarkable architecture and celebrated literature to deeply rooted customs and lively celebrations, Portugal’s cultural heritage is as diverse as its landscapes.

Of course, travelling is also about getting the practical details right. That’s why we’ve put together a collection of guides covering travel requirements, the Portuguese language, getting around the country and plenty of useful local tips. Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning to explore somewhere new, you’ll find helpful advice, things to do and experiences worth adding to your itinerary.

Practical information
Travel advice & entry requirements
Hiking & day trips
Things to do
Events & festivals

Living and investing in Portugal

Portugal is more than a wonderful place to visit. For many people, it’s also somewhere to build a new life, start a business or enjoy a change of pace. Whether you’re considering a permanent move, buying a property or planning your retirement, our guides explore the opportunities and practical realities of living and investing in Portugal. From finding a home to understanding the local property market, we’re here to help you make informed decisions.

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  • Buying property in Portugal: From traditional village houses and countryside retreats to modern apartments in Lisbon or Porto, Portugal offers a remarkably diverse property market. Whether you’re looking for a permanent home, a holiday escape or a rental investment, understanding local prices, legal requirements and purchasing procedures is essential. Our guides help you navigate the Portuguese property market and make sense of the opportunities, costs and challenges involved.
  • Investing in Portugal: Portugal attracts international investors with opportunities across property, tourism, technology and entrepreneurship. Its connections to European and global markets, growing business ecosystem and distinctive lifestyle make it an interesting place to explore new ventures. From launching a company to investing in real estate, we look at the economic landscape, regulations and practical considerations you should understand before taking the plunge.
  • Retiring in Portugal: With its mild climate, welcoming communities and relaxed pace of life, Portugal has long appealed to people looking to spend their retirement abroad. Whether you prefer the cultural energy of Lisbon, the coastal charm of the Algarve or the quieter rhythms of the countryside, there are plenty of possibilities to explore. But a successful move involves more than choosing the perfect location. Healthcare, residency requirements, taxation and everyday living costs all deserve careful consideration before making Portugal your new home.

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Portugal Map

Le Portugal, situé à l'extrême ouest de l'Europe, offre une grande diversité géographique et culturelle à découvrir. De la région verdoyante du Minho au nord aux plages dorées de l'Algarve au sud, chaque région dévoile une facette unique du pays. La carte du Portugal est une invitation à explorer ses multiples paysages, entre montagnes, plaines et côtes spectaculaires. Traversé par le fleuve Douro et baigné par l'océan Atlantique, le Portugal se divise en plusieurs régions, chacune ayant son identité propre. Lisbonne, la capitale, rayonne au centre du pays, tandis que Porto, au nord, séduit par son charme historique. Les Açores et Madère, archipels atlantiques, enrichissent également la carte avec leurs écosystèmes exceptionnels.

Explore all our maps of Portugal

Want to get a better sense of Portugal’s geography? Explore our dedicated maps of Portugal, featuring useful and interactive resources to help you plan your travels, discover lesser-known places and find your way around the country. From its rugged northern mountains to the sun-soaked southern coast, there’s always somewhere new to explore.

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