Destination: Portugal

When traveling with Odyssey, we prioritize coach transportation while occasionally incorporating local options such as trains and ferries as detailed in the tour itinerary. In Portugal, a country of manageable size, air travel between cities is often unnecessary due to the well-connected bus and train network, known for its affordability ranking among the lowest in Europe. The Alfa Pendular, a high-speed train, efficiently links the north and south, serving all the major tourist destinations. Furthermore, navigating Portugal independently is convenient with its well-kept toll roads, facilitating a seamless and enjoyable driving experience.

In urban hubs, Odyssey accommodations are typically well-placed 3-4 star hotels, offering convenient access to public transportation. Meanwhile, in more remote or rustic settings, our preference leans towards charming family-operated hotels or cosy guesthouses. For extended stays, where the duration of the tour is spent in one place, we opt for serviced apartments for a comfortable and homely experience.

Odyssey consistently partners with local guides who possess extensive regional expertise, guaranteeing an authentic and immersive experience. This approach enables travellers to delve deeply into the rich history and cultural tapestry of the destinations they explore.

Portugal, located on the Atlantic coast of the Iberian Peninsula, is bisected by the Tagus River, originating in Spain, flowing across the nation, and meeting the Atlantic at Lisbon. The northern region boasts mountainous terrain while the southern part is defined by gentle, rolling hills.

With a Mediterranean climate, Portugal stands as one of Europe’s warmest nations, with certain areas maintaining an average temperature of up to 28 degrees throughout the year. Despite this warmth, some mountainous areas experience frequent snowfall. The island territories of Portugal, including the Azores and Madeira, feature subtropical climates.

Portugal, despite its size, stands out with a remarkable total of 15 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Each of these sites offers a unique window into the rich history and cultural tapestry of the country. While exploring all of them would be ideal, a few standout highlights include the vibrant medieval castles of Sintra, the impressive Jerónimos Monastery, the iconic Tower of Belém in Lisbon, and the enchanting Alto Douro Wine Region. Each of these sites encapsulates a piece of Portugal’s heritage and is well worth experiencing firsthand. For further details and the complete list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Portugal, refer to the official UNESCO website.

If you’ve ever heard of Carnaval, you might associate it with colorful, scantily clad Brazilians reveling in the streets. However, this lively festival actually has its roots in Portugal.

The most prominent celebration occurs in Lisbon’s Parques Nacoes, where the streets come alive with vibrant street parades, elaborate masks and costumes, floats, and captivating theatrical performances. In Braga, the focal point of Portugal’s Holy Week processions, the streets are adorned with religious symbols, flowers, and illuminating lights, creating a solemn yet captivating atmosphere.

Venturing to the UNESCO World Heritage town of Sintra unveils a unique festival featuring ballet dancers, skilled pianists, and talented chamber musicians, adding a touch of elegance to the cultural festivities. For a distinctive experience, the Cascais Festival of the Sea offers a spectacle where young fishermen vie to dazzle female spectators by bravely facing charging bulls. With such diverse celebrations to choose from, there’s something to cater to every preference.

• The Fat Man and Infinity by Lobo Antunes
• Distant Music by Lee Langley
• The Portuguese: The Land and Its People by Marion A Kaplan
• Portugal: A Companion History by Jose H Saraiva

Portugal, being a coastal nation, boasts a rich culinary tradition centred around seafood. A notable staple is salt cod, though its flavour may not appeal to all palates. Despite this, daring food enthusiasts are encouraged to try it. Furthermore, peri-peri spice plays a significant role in flavouring chicken and shrimp, standing out as one of Portugal’s invaluable contributions to hangover cuisine. Beyond these, the country offers a plethora of other spiced dishes that demand exploration. When it comes to dining experiences, Portugal beckons visitors to meander through its streets, allowing curiosity to guide their culinary journey. This organic approach not only veers off the beaten tourist path but also unveils the authentic flavours of local cuisine, making it a delightful way to savour Portugal’s gastronomic delights.

When exploring Portugal, although generally considered safe, it is crucial to remain vigilant for any unexpected occurrences. In tourist-dense areas, you may frequently encounter alerts about pickpocketing activities; therefore, it is vital to maintain constant vigilance over your possessions to prevent any potential mishaps.

When traveling abroad, it is crucial to bring along a suitable travel adaptor to ensure you can safely use your electronic devices. In Portugal, the electricity operates at 230V and 50Hz, and the plugs typically feature two circular pins, which are similar to those used in many other European countries.