An exceptional state which managed to preserve its customs and country design being a part of modern Europe with all the benefits of advanced science is Portugal. It seems as time held up there to delight its splendid scenery. State is placed in Southwestern Europe on the Iberian Peninsula, which it shares with Spain. Portuguese is the official language here, nevertheless the second legalese, used in a few regions of the state is Mirandese. Portugal map, neighbors Spain on the Iberian Peninsula and Atlantic Ocean by equally west and south shoreline. State is considered to be the tourist’s paradise due to sunlit climate, long and interesting coastline and splendid small towns. The metropolis of Portugal is Lisbon.

Fall and spring are truly the best times of the year to visit Portugal. Winter begins in November or December and lasts to February or March. Especially in the north and central regions, together with Lisbon, the winter is showery and frosty. The weather habitually remains warm from May to September. Being one of the hottest countries in Europe, Portugal has hot and waterless summers. As any other state, Portugal has its own traditions. It is habitually to tip up to 15 percent in eateries and up to 10 percent in taxi. Inhabitants clothe casually here. Smoking is forbidden in cinemas, theatres and buses, but allowed after meals in restaurant.

Many international airlines like GB Airways and Monarch Airlines, bmibaby, Easyjet, Flyglobespan, MyTravelLite, British Airways, Jet 2, Flybe and SATA provide services for those, who like more to fly. Lisbon International Airport is the biggest airport, located at about 4. 5 miles north of the city. Two chief airlines, accomplishing flights from Europe are Portugalia Airlines (NI) and the state airline of Portugal is TAP Air Portugal (TP). The last one offers flights to such routes as Faro, Lisbon and Porto from such countries as Canada, France, Spain, the UK and USA.

By Sea – The chief ports for international clients are Leixes (Oporto), Lisbon, Funchal (Madeira) and Portimao (Algarve), served by Olympia, Cunard, Italia, Linea C, P&O and Union Cas By Rail – If arriving from UK, the speediest method is to get on Eurostar train to Paris and from Paris to Portugal by Sud-Express. Road – Spain is the only country dividing border with Portugal. The main border posts are unlocked the majority of time now. From the UK by train, fastest way to reach Portugal is to get on Eurostar train to Paris and from Paris to Portugal by Sud-Express. Portugal map and Europe maps you will find on Europe Map the oficial site.