Portugal

The oldest country in Europe has massive castles, quaint medieval towns and picturesque rocky cliffs on the coastline. Portugal’s rich history and culture stem from the times when it was a powerful nation during the Middle Ages.

Centuries ago Portugal had several famous explorers who opened up trade routes and led Portugal to colonizing dozens of countries around the world. Today nine countries have Portuguese as their official language, including Brazil and Angola.

Aside from history, Portugal is also known for the Catholic pilgrimage site at Fatima, along with its use of renewable energy and its food. Plus, the country is a prime surfing destination. If you are considering a journey to Portugal, check out more details about this nation below. Explore student travel programs in Portugal

Exploring Portugal

Country Basics

Portugal is located on the Iberian Peninsula, bordering Spain and the Atlantic Ocean. It’s about the same size as the U.S. state of Maine. The country has a rocky northern coast and mountainous interior. The south is warm and lush.

Two thirds of the population live in urban centers with most residing in the capital of Lisbon or the city of Porto farther north. Both cities are by the coastline.

The region was settled by Celtic Lusitani around the 6th century B.C. They were later conquered and ruled by the Romans and then the Moors from northern Africa. For about 40 years in the twentieth century, Portugal was ruled by Fascist Dictator Antonio Salazar. In 1974 a peaceful military coup removed him from power. The Portuguese celebrate its Dia da Liberdade – Freedom Day – on April 25.

Today Portugal is a parliamentary democracy, and it is considered one of the most peaceful countries in the world. It was neutral during World War II, though it’s a founding member of NATO. Portugal is also considered one of the most affordable places to live in Europe.

Weather

Portugal has a mild Mediterranean climate with a wet season in winter. Here are the average conditions you’d expect in Lisbon in the summer:

	June	July	August
High Temperature	78.3 F	82.8 F	82.9 F
Low Temperature	61.9 F	64.8 F	65.5 F
Average Daylight	14 hrs. 4 min	14 hrs. 4 min	13 hrs. 4 min
Average Rainfall	0.6 inches	0.2 inches	0.2 inches
Monthly Rainy Days	5 days	2 days	2 days

Explore

Top 10 Places to Visit in Portugal

From castles to hidden coves, see the best places to visit during a journey through Portugal.

Geography Now! Portugal

Learn more about the topography, history and culture of Portugal.

Food

Portuguese Food Tour

Travel through Lisbon to see some of the best dishes on the menu.

Sports

Are These the Largest Waves Ever Surfed?

Nazare, Portugal has the largest surf waves in the world. In 2020, the surfing elite traveled to the beach after Hurricane Epsilon created the “swell of the century.” Watch to see the terrifying waves the surfers tackled.