17 Reasons Why Portugal Is The Best Country In Europe

Summary

This video highlights 17 compelling reasons why Portugal stands out as one of Europe’s best countries. From its sunny climate, stunning beaches, and charming cities to the breathtaking countryside, Madeira, and the Azores, the country offers diverse experiences for travelers. Portugal is praised for its safety, affordability, vibrant nightlife, great coffee and wine, and welcoming locals. Football fans will appreciate Cristiano Ronaldo, while road trippers and hostel-goers enjoy accessible travel and comfort. With less tourist saturation than neighboring countries and world-class surf spots, Portugal combines culture, adventure, and relaxation, making it an unforgettable destination for all kinds of travelers.

Takeaways

• ☀️ Portugal enjoys a fantastic climate with over 200 days of sunshine per year and Lisbon being the sunniest capital in Europe.
• 🛡️ Portugal is a very safe country, ranking as the third most peaceful country in the world.
• 🏘️ The country is full of charming cities and towns, from Porto and Lisbon to Coimbra and Sintra, offering both cultural and scenic experiences.
• 🌴 Madeira is a stunning island destination known as the 'Floating Garden' with diverse plant life and scenic landscapes.
• 💶 Portugal offers great value for money, with lower living costs, affordable dining, transportation, and travel options.
• 🏄 Portugal's beaches and surf spots are world-class, attracting surfers from around the globe and offering lessons for beginners.
• 🌄 The countryside of Portugal is breathtaking, with tiny villages and welcoming locals providing an authentic experience.
• 🌃 Portugal has a vibrant nightlife, including a growing interest in Afro-house music and lively clubs in Lisbon and Porto.
• 🌅 West-facing beaches offer incredible daily sunsets over the Atlantic Ocean.
• ☕🍷 Portugal is known for excellent coffee and wine, benefiting from its historical connections to coffee-producing countries.
• 🌍 The country is small enough to travel across easily but large enough to offer a diverse range of experiences.
• ⚽ Portugal is home to Cristiano Ronaldo, one of the greatest European footballers.
• 🗣️ The Portuguese speak excellent English, making communication easy for travelers.
• 🏝️ The Azores offer pristine islands with authentic Portuguese living, activities like hiking, scuba diving, surfing, and whale watching.
• 🛣️ Portugal is ideal for road trips with well-maintained roads, respectful locals, and affordable car rentals.

Q & A

What makes Portugal the oldest country in Europe?

Portugal is considered the oldest country in Europe due to its continuous borders, which have remained largely unchanged since 1139 when King Afonso I declared himself king of Portugal.

How is Portugal's climate beneficial for tourists?

Portugal boasts more than 200 days of sunshine per year, with an average temperature of around 20°C. Lisbon, the sunniest capital city in Europe, enjoys 2,800 hours of sunshine annually, making it an attractive destination for those seeking good weather.

Why is Portugal considered a safe country?

Portugal ranks as the third most peaceful country in the world according to the Global Peace Index. This reflects the country's emphasis on safety and common respect among its citizens.

What are some examples of charming cities in Portugal?

Portugal is home to several charming cities such as Porto, Lisbon, Coimbra, and Sintra. These cities are known for their beautiful cobbled streets, historical sites, and aesthetically pleasing architecture.

What makes Madeira a unique destination in Portugal?

Madeira, known as the 'floating garden' or 'pearl of the Atlantic,' is famous for its stunning valleys, mountains, and diverse plant life. It's especially popular among British tourists and offers a peaceful retreat with luxurious weather.

How does Portugal offer great value for money?

Portugal has one of the lowest costs of living in Western Europe. For tourists, this means cheaper accommodation, food, and activities. Rental car prices and flights to Portugal are also relatively affordable compared to other European countries.

What are Portugal's beaches and surf like?

Portugal boasts nearly 500 miles of coastline with some of the best beaches in Europe. It's known for its ideal surf conditions, highlighted by the world's largest wave caught off its coast. Surfers can also find affordable surf accommodations with on-site instructors.

How does Portugal's countryside compare to its cities?

Portugal’s countryside is just as breathtaking as its cities, featuring small villages and lush landscapes. The people are known for their hospitality, making it an inviting area for tourists looking to explore rural Portugal.

What is Portugal's nightlife scene like?

Portugal has a vibrant nightlife, especially in Lisbon and Porto, where you can experience a mix of traditional and modern clubbing scenes. The country is also seeing a rise in Afro-house music, which has gained popularity in Lisbon's clubbing culture.

Why is Portugal great for road trips?

Portugal offers well-maintained roads, clear signage, and respectful locals, making it a perfect country for road trips. Renting a car is affordable, and driving from Lisbon to Faro along the coast can reveal diverse landscapes, making for a scenic and enjoyable journey.