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.
Discover Porto with Porto CARD, the city's official tourism pass, ideal for exploring Porto in a more affordable and convenient way. Available in flexible durations of 1, 2, 3, or 4 days, this card suits your needs, providing an unforgettable and inexpensive visit. The Porto CARD grants you free access to five museums and discounts of up to 50% at over 150 points of interest, including museums, selected shops, and local restaurants. Enjoy unlimited access to public transport during the card's validity, covering all lines of the Porto Metro, STCP bus networks, and CP urban trains that connect Porto to various locations.
Explore the best that Porto has to offer with the official tourist pass of the City of Porto.
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.
Currency
The currency unit in Portugal is the euro. Foreign currency may be exchanged.
Electricity
The voltage used is 230 Volts. Electric appliances have standard European plug with two round shape metal poles.
Telephone
The telephone prefix for calling Portugal from other countries is: +351.
Useful Contacts
Emergency contact: 112
Tourism Police: +351 222 081 833
Tourism Office: +351 223 326 751
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)
Follow IAPCO on social media
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
