Porto
Porto, also known as 'Cidade Invicta' (the Unvanquished City), boasts a rich history dating back to Roman times. The city played a pivotal role during the Age of Discoveries and later during the Liberal Wars. Today, Porto is a vibrant cultural and industrial hub, celebrated for its contributions to wine production, particularly the world-famous Port wine.
Porto is a paradise for food lovers, offering a variety of traditional dishes that reflect the city's rich culinary heritage. Be sure to try the iconic 'Francesinha', a hearty sandwich layered with meats, cheese, and a spicy sauce, or 'Tripas à Moda do Porto', a dish with deep historical roots. Of course, no visit to Porto is complete without tasting the region’s famous Port wine, produced in the stunning Douro Valley.
For breathtaking views of the city, visit some of Porto’s iconic landmarks. Walk across the Dom Luís I Bridge for panoramic views of the Douro River and the picturesque Ribeira district. Don’t miss the chance to explore the Livraria Lello, one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, or climb the Clérigos Tower for a bird’s-eye view of the city. The Crystal Palace Gardens also offer serene landscapes and stunning vistas over the Douro.
Useful Information
Official Language
Portuguese is Latin in origin and the third most spoken European language in the world. It is native for about 200 million people. In Portugal a considerable number of people can understand and communicate in other languages, such
as English, French and Spanish.
Climate
Due to the influence of the Atlantic Ocean, Portugal has a pleasant climate throughout the year. Temperatures may fall
somewhat in the autumn and winter months, but the country has around 250 sunny days per year.
Credit Cards
Visa, Maestro, Master Card and American Express are accepted in the country.
In Portugal you will find a cash dispenser easily.
Time
GMT +1.
VAT Refund
Visitors from countries outside the EU may obtain a refund of VAT (Value Added Tax) on goods purchased in Portugal and carried as personal luggage. Only individuals can have access to this refund.
Practical Information
Telephone access code: Portugal + 351 Emergency contact: 112
Tourism Police: +351 222 081 833
Tourism Office: +351 223 326 751
Currency
The currency unit in Portugal is the euro. Foreign currency may be exchanged.
Entry and Exit Formalities
Passports and Visas: Citizens of the European Union, Andorra, England, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland need only an identity card to enter Portugal.
For visits of less than 90 days, a passport valid for at least three months after the end of their stay is necessary for visitors from Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Australia, Bahamas, Barbados, Bermuda, Bolivia, Brazil, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Croatia, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Israel, Japan, Macedonia, Malaysia, Mauritius, Mexico, Monaco, Montenegro, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Saint Kitts and Nevis, San Marino, Serbia, Seychelles, Singapore, South Korea, United States, Uruguay, Vatican, Venezuela and Special Administrative Regions of the People’s Republic of China in Hong Kong and Macao.
Citizens from countries not mentioned above need a visa to enter Portugal, which may be requested at the Portuguese Embassy or Consulate of their country for stays of up to 90 days. To find more information please check the website from the Ministry Of Foreign Affairs of Portugal: Visa (mne.gov.pt)
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CONTACTS
EXECUTIVE SECRETARIAT
AIM Group International – Porto Office
Edifício Brasília, Praça Mouzinho Albuquerque 113, 5º
4100-359 Porto
+351 213 245 040
+351 965 033 674 - Nélia Marques da Fonte
