Portugal Travel Guide

Portugal shares the Iberian peninsula with Spain, and is located on the western part bordering the Atlantic Ocean. The Portuguese are known as sailors, having explored the world in the time of Columbus and beyond. Brazil, South America's largest country, was a Portuguese colony, as well as the Cape Verde islands, Angola and Mozambique in Africa, Goa in India, Timor in Indonesia and Macau in China.

The golden ages are over though, and Portugal now is one of the poorer countries in Western Europe. But with its rich cultural heritage, beautiful cities and splendid beaches, it is a country very much worth a visit.

Its capital Lisbon is an interesting mix of old and new, with large squares with elegant buildings and narrow cobblestone streets winding through the old centre. It's a great city to stroll through, full of surprises. Just west of Lisbon is the town of Cascais, famous for its colonial villas, castles and casinos. Portugal's second largest city, Porto, is located in the north of the country and shares the relaxed atmosphere of the capital. Porto is famous for its iron bridge over the Duero river and of course the drink that has been named after it.

The south is the most touristic area of the country, known as the Algarve. The region's capital Faro is the starting point for tourists flying here. The best way to explore the Algarve and the rest of the country is by rental car, although if you're just going for a beach holiday you might prefer the ease of a pre-arranged package tour.

Websites:

• Visit Portugal
• Portugal.org