Portugal has long been an underrated gem in Europe, but in recent years, the world has started to take notice of its charm. Nestled in the western part of the continent, this country offers a unique blend of historical significance, vibrant cities, and stunning natural landscapes. From its fantastic climate to its rich culture, here are 17 reasons why Portugal is the best country in Europe and perhaps even the world.
1. The Weather Portugal enjoys more than 200 days of sunshine each year, with an average temperature of around 20 degrees Celsius. Lisbon, the continent's sunniest capital, boasts an impressive 2,800 hours of sunshine annually, outshining Athens, which has around 2,700 hours.
2. Safety Portugal ranks as the third most peaceful country globally, according to the Global Peace Index. Unlike some of its European neighbors, Portugal feels remarkably safe, making it an ideal destination for tourists.
3. Charming Cities From the cobbled streets of Porto and Lisbon to the historic towns of Coimbra and Sintra, Portugal is filled with aesthetically pleasing cities. Whether exploring national parks in the north or the golden beaches of the Algarve in the south, there's always something beautiful to discover.
4. Madeira Known as the "Floating Garden" or the "Pearl of the Atlantic," Madeira is a must-visit. This island offers luxurious blue skies, imposing valleys, diverse plant life, and unique attractions that draw visitors from around the world.
5. Great Value for Money Portugal is one of the most affordable destinations in Western Europe. From dining out to car rentals, you can enjoy a lot more for less. Flights to Portugal are also relatively cheap from both Europe and North America.
6. Fantastic Beaches and Surf With nearly 500 miles of coastline, Portugal is a beach lover's paradise. It's also famous for its surf, particularly after a Hawaiian surfer rode the world's largest wave at 90 feet in Nazaré. Surf schools and hostels provide budget-friendly accommodation and lessons, enhancing the surf community vibe.
7. Breathtaking Countryside Venturing into Portugal's countryside reveals stunning landscapes and welcoming villages. The locals are known for their hospitality, making your exploration of tiny villages a delightful experience.
8. Vibrant Nightlife Portugal's nightlife is vibrant and diverse. From the bustling streets of Lisbon and Porto to the lively Algarve resorts, the country's nightlife scene is booming. A growing affection for Afro-house music adds a unique touch to Lisbon's clubbing scene.
9. Stunning Sunsets Portugal's west-facing beaches offer breathtaking sunsets over the Atlantic Ocean. With numerous beautiful spots to choose from, you'll never tire of watching the sun dip below the horizon.
10. Great Coffee and Wine Portugal's colonial history has endowed it with some of the world's finest coffee, sourced from former colonies like Brazil, Angola, and East Timor. The country is also famous for its exceptional wines, particularly from regions like Douro and Alentejo.
11. Perfect Size Portugal is small enough to explore easily but large enough to offer a diverse range of experiences. Whether you're planning a day trip or a weekend getaway, there's always something new to discover.
12. Football Icon: Ronaldo For football fans, Portugal is the home of Cristiano Ronaldo, one of the greatest players in the world. This adds an exciting element for sports enthusiasts visiting the country.
13. English Proficiency The Portuguese are known for their excellent English skills, making communication easy for visitors. Portuguese is also the ninth most spoken language globally, thanks to Brazil.
14. The Azores Islands Often referred to as the "Hawaii of Portugal," the Azores offer a pristine, authentic experience. These islands feature world-class beaches, tourism, bike tours, kayaking, golf, scuba diving, surfing, paragliding, and whale watching.
15. Less Tourist Saturation Compared to other European destinations, Portugal is less saturated with tourists, providing a more relaxed and authentic travel experience. However, it's gaining popularity, so visit soon to enjoy its unspoiled beauty.
16. High-Quality Hostels Portugal's hostels, particularly in Lisbon and Porto, are more like boutique hotels. They offer comfort, and cleanliness, and often include breakfast at an affordable price, reflecting the country's renowned hospitality.
17. Ideal for Road Trips Portugal's well-maintained roads and clear signage make it perfect for road trips. Renting a car is affordable, allowing you to explore the diverse landscapes from Lisbon to Faro over a 10-day journey.
In summary, Portugal's combination of natural beauty, safety, affordability, and rich cultural experiences make it a top destination. Whether you're a sun-seeker, surf enthusiast, or history buff, Portugal has something for everyone. So pack your bags and discover why this incredible country is quickly becoming one of the world's favorite travel destinations.
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