The Prime Minister of Portugal Antonio Costa condemned the Russian invasion of Ukraine on Thursday, adding that any Ukrainians who have family, friends, and acquaintances in Portugal are welcome in Portugal. Instructions to facilitate visas to those feeling the Russian invasion have been given to embassies in Ukraine, as well as neighboring countries. The Portuguese Embassy in Ukraine is also urging Portuguese citizens in Ukraine to leave through European Union borders, particularly in route to Romania or Moldova.
Portugal is not alone in this decision. Poland is welcoming Ukranian refugees as well, as tens of thousands arrived at the border on Friday. Many are calling out Poland’s hypocrisy as it has a strict refugee policy for Afghan and Middle Eastern refugees. In contrast, the UK has stopped accepting visa applications from Ukrainians stuck in the country. Therefore, there is no legal route to seek asylum in the UK, unless Ukrainians have British relatives.
#Portugal stands ready to support Member States neighbouring Ukraine to ensure international protection to those in need and to welcome Ukrainians who wish to continue their lives here. pic.twitter.com/vc7nVXtXne
On Tuesday, March 1st, the government announced the creation of a task force that will focus on helping Ukrainian refugees with employment and housing, according to CNN Portugal. Ukrainian refugees will be automatically given a national health service number, a social security number, and a VAT identification number (NIF).
While refugees are usually allowed in Portugal through a case-by-case analysis of the danger each applicant faces, the government acknowledges that all refugees from Ukraine are facing dangerous conditions. The only reason someone might be denied asylum is if they have committed crimes against humanity or serious crimes, according to the Minister of Internal Administration and Justice, Francisca Van Dunem.
What is Portugal doing about the Russia-Ukraine war?
The Prime Minister announced on Thursday that 174 military soldiers are ready to be sent to Romania in the next few weeks. NATO mobilized over 40,000 soldiers on Friday, including Portuguese military that could be ready to move during the next 2 to 3 days. However, the Prime Minister has made it clear that NATO will not intervene in Ukraine, and that Portuguese forces with NATO will be deployed in deterrence missions, predominately in NATO countries bordering Ukraine.
Portugal has also enacted sanctions on Russia, to which the Foreign Affairs Minister has stated that he does not believe Portugal will suffer direct consequences. PSD President Rui Rio argues that although sanctions may lead to difficulties in Portugal, they are worth going through to ensure peace and security.
There have also been discussions on social media about the Portugal Golden Visa, as MEP Ana Gomes argues that Russian citizens under the Golden Visa in Portugal should face sanctions. In the tweet below, she criticizes the Prime Minister, arguing that Golden Visa holder Roman Abramovich, a Russian oligarch should have his citizenship revoked and his assets frozen.
It is unclear whether any changes will be made to the Portugal Golden Visa. However, the war in Ukraine is likely to affect Portugal’s state budget for 2022. The Prime Minister said it was too early to assess whether this is the case, however, some Portuguese economists have stated that it will, directly and indirectly, impact the state budget. Oil and natural gas prices will continue to skyrocket as Russia is one of the main energy suppliers to European countries which could impact the budget. GDP is also likely to decrease in Portugal and there could be increased military spending attributed to the budget, depending on the course of the conflict.
Ukrainians in Portugal Protest Russian Invasion
The second-largest foreign community in Portugal, Ukrainians in Portugal are living in fear for their family and friends back home. There have been protests in Lisbon, Porto, and Algarve with the largest having taken place in front of the Russian Embassy in Lisbon on Thursday. The protests call for military support from European countries in Ukraine, as well as urge the Portuguese to not purchase products from Russia.
Six political parties are also planning a protest on Sunday in front of the Russian Embassy, created by the youth organizations of the Socialist Party (PS), the Social Democratic Party (PSD), CDS- People’s Party, Livre, the Liberal Initiative (IL), and People Animals Nature (PAN). It is uncommon that parties across the political spectrum come together for a protest. However, it is unlikely that all parties will agree on the way to reinstate peace in Ukraine.
Over 90% of Portuguese territory is facing a severe or extreme drought. The last dry spell of this scale occurred in 2005 and it seems that the current drought is even more severe, threatening agricultural production and water supplies in mainland Portugal.
The lack of rainfall is affecting the whole of the Iberian Peninsula, leading to drought not only in Portugal but also in Spain. The month of January 2022 was the second-dryest month in Portugal since 2000.
In the past, droughts like these have caused massive fires throughout the country, particularly in the summer. Droughts are not completely uncommon in Portugal but have been increasing in the past 30 years, as the wider issue of climate change worsens globally.
The drought is predominantly impacting the northeast and southern regions of Portugal. Farmers in these regions are being hit the hardest financially and have requested aid from the government because of the damage done to grass which is necessary for the livestock industry. The government has done what it can to save water for the Portuguese, restricting the use of reservoirs for hydroelectric power production.
Portugal is one of the best places to live in the world. Internationals move to Portugal for the weather, culture, low cost of living, and all around high quality of life. Many seek to find a job and work in Portugal to enjoy all that the country has to offer. Recently, there has been a growth of foreigners working in Portugal, making up 3.2% of the working population in Portugal. This is still quite low in comparison to other European countries.
If you’re looking to work in Portugal, this is the guide for you. From how to find a job in Portugal, to labour rights, and taxes, we’ll equip you with all the information you need. Just keep in mind that the job market is highly competitive and salaries are quite low, particularly for young people. In 2020, youth unemployment reached over 25%.
How to find a job in Portugal?
If you would like to work in Portugal, the first step is to look for a job. Portugal is still recovering from the 2008 economic crisis so finding a job isn’t always easy breezy. However, if you have the right academic qualifications and past work experience, you can find a good job in Portugal.
Do keep in mind that most jobs in Portugal require you to speak Portuguese. Learning Portuguese will make it easier to find a job, as well as live in the country. However, there are many jobs out there, particularly in larger companies, that also tend to pay better salaries, that are English speaking. You can also live and work in Portugal remotely as many companies offer this opportunity.
To find a job in Portugal we suggest searching on the following websites:
Once you’ve found your dream job in Portugal, you need to make sure your application is solid. A lot of companies will prefer to choose a Portuguese candidate instead so that they do not have to go through the hassle of applying for a visa (if you are a non-EU citizen). Therefore, make sure you put all your effort into an application that makes you stand out.
The application process in Portugal is pretty straightforward. Usually, you will send your CV with a motivation letter. In your motivation letter, do not just repeat what is written in your CV. Speak about the skills that you developed throughout the years and your motivations for applying for the job. Along with letting your personality shine through, your future employer must understand why they should hire you and what you will contribute. Therefore, your motivation letter shouldn’t just reflect why you want the job, but why the company needs you in particular.
If you are selected for an interview, bring with you a copy of your CV and any educational certificates that could be beneficial. Before the interview, do your research on the job role and company. Nothing looks worse than you being caught not knowing enough about the company you are applying to. Since Portuguese people are warm and welcoming, be prepared to make small talk and engage in informal conversation. Your personal interaction with the interviewee means more than in other countries and could make or break a job offer. You might also need to take psychometric and psychological tests, particularly in a large company.
If the interview goes well, expect that HR will ask you for a few references such as previous employers or university professors. Speak with these beforehand to avoid an awkward phone call.
Photo by Cytonn Photography (Unsplash)
Portugal Work Visa: Do I need a visa to work in Portugal?
EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens
If you are an EU/EEA/Swiss citizen, you do not need a work visa to work or live in Portugal. But if you want to work in Portugal for longer than six months, you will need to get a Certificado de Registo (Residence Certificate). You can find out how to get a Residence Certificate here.
Non-EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens
If you are a non-EU national, you will need a work visa to work in Portugal. To get a work visa, you need to find a job in Portugal first. After you have found a job, your employer will apply for a Portuguese work permit by contacting the Portuguese Labor Authorities. If you are planning to work in Portugal for less than six months, you will get a short-term work visa. However, if you plan on working in Portugal long-term, for more than six months, you will then have to apply for a long-term work visa. Once the visa is secured, you must apply for a Portuguese residence permit.
Work Culture & Etiquette in Portugal
Like other Southern European countries, Portugal has a unique work culture, often times deemed to be too relaxed by internationals. Deadlines are often quite lenient and punctuality is often not at its best. The dress code will depend on the company and industry. In larger companies, the dress code will be formal, with men and women wearing suits and traditional workwear. However, in the last decade, many companies have adopted a more relaxed dress code. Even the ones with a formal dress code tend to have a casual day on Fridays.
Gift giving is common in a business environment in Portugal, particularly to customers and partners. This is not seen as a bribe in Portugal, but rather, a sign of respect. Do not reject gifts and do send a thank you note later on. Although much of the world no longer does this, Portuguese businesspeople commonly exchange business cards and are prone to networking in informal settings, such as long lunches with wine. However, in a professional setting, grabbing drinks socially with your coworkers is not common. As employees tend to work long hours, usually only getting home by 6:30 to 7:00 PM, they tend to prefer going home to their families. Still, you will occasionally be invited over to someone’s house for dinner. Make sure to bring a dessert or wine, this is common courtesy in Portugal.
Photo by Marten Bjork (Unsplash)
Labour Rights in Portugal
Even if you are not a Portuguese citizen, you have the same rights as a worker in regard to salary, working conditions, and social security.
New Labour Laws 2021
In November 2021, Portugal made global news by announcing a change to the labour law that makes it illegal for bosses to contact employees outside work hours. No texts, calls or emails. The new labour laws include other policies that were not as mediatized. For example, employers must now contribute to work from home expenses, such as internet bills. These new laws to tackle exploitation during the COVID pandemic only apply to companies with more than 10 employees. But these are relatively new. What are the other labor laws in Portugal?
Working Age, Working Hours & Holidays in Portugal
The minimum working age is 16 years old, but you can only get an employment contract without finishing school at 18.
The law states that the maximum working week in Portugal is 40 hours and the daily working period cannot exceed 8 hours. Workers also have the right to at least one day of rest per week. If a worker is working at night, they must be paid an increase of 25%. If a worker is working on a rest day or public holiday, they have the right to a 50% hourly wage increase.
Workers in Portugal are entitled to 22 working days of holidays, plus 12 mandatory public holidays and 2 optional ones. All of these days are paid. All workers also receive a Christmas allowance, essentially a 13th month salary that is equal to a month’s wage that must be paid by the 15th of December.
Parental Leave in Portugal
All workers have the right to parental leave, including paternal and maternity leave for men and women. In Portugal, you have initial and extended parental leave. With initial leave, a woman must take 90 days of her leave after childbirth and the remainder may be used before or after childbirth, totaling 120 days paid at 100%. Mothers MUST take at least six weeks off right after childbirth.
Fathers are entitled to 20 mandatory working days leave after birth where they get paid. The first five days can be taken right after birth and the other 15 must be taken within six weeks of the birth. The latter does not have to be taken consecutively.
After initial parental leave, parents can extend the leave to 180 days by adding three months, a period which is shared between the two parents at a rate of 83% of total pay. On the other hand, parents can also choose to extend the maternity leave alone to 150 days with no shared period at a rate of 80% total pay.
Do adoptive parents get parental leave in Portugal?
Yes. Adoptive parents can take adoptive leave if the child is under 15 years of age. The government states that each parent is entitled to 120 to 150 consecutive days of leave, which can be taken at the same time. If it’s a multiple adoption, the leave period is 30 days for each adoption.
Do same-sex parents get parental leave in Portugal?
Same-sex parents have the same rights as heterosexual ones concerning adoptive leave. It is unclear whether they are legally entitled to parental leave if they have a child through surrogacy, unfortunately.
Photo by Kelly Sikkema (Unsplash)
Salaries in Portugal
Portugal is one of the best countries to live in the world due to the warm weather, 300+ days of sun a year and overall high quality of life. However, Portuguese salaries are low. In 2020, the average grossmonthly salary in Portugal was €1,314, around €18,000 a year. And yes, this does include holiday bonuses. Considering the average salary in the US is at least €50,000 and in the UK, it’s around €40,000, Portugal falls behind. It’s important to note that the cost of living is a lot cheaper, around 40% cheaper than both to be exact.
Photo by Mathieu Stern (Unsplash)
What’s the minimum salary in Portugal?
In 2021, the national minimum wage in Portugal was €775.80 per month, and €9,310 per year (with 12 payments per year). Keeping in mind that Numbeo states that a single person’s estimated monthly costs in Portugal are €529.17 without rent and that a one-bedroom apartment costs around €460.15 to rent, the national minimum wage is low.
The minimum wage has risen in the last few years. The minimum wage was increased by €35 a month from 2020 to 2021, at a rate of 4.72%. In 2010, the minimum wage in Portugal was less than €550. Parties on the left have been fighting to raise it even further, while liberal and right-wing parties want it to remain the same and leave it up to the free market.
The Best Paying Jobs in Portugal
Although most of the population struggles financially, some find high paid jobs. The highest salaries are attributed to managerial positions in operations general management (Tourism), medical management, legal counsel, purchasing management, and industrial boardroom positions. Many in top management positions, particularly in Lisbon, are making over 6 figures. Here are some of the top salaries in the capital:
General Manager (industry): €110,000 – €170,000
Legal Manager: €148,000 – €160,000
Associate lawyer: €120,000
IT Director: €40,000 – €100,000
The Portuguese Tax System: Taxes in Portugal
The Portuguese tax system can get confusing. We will go through everything you need to know, income taxes, property and wealth taxes, company taxes, and goods and services taxes. But first, we discuss the NHR program, which provides tax relief for foreigners moving to Portugal for the first 10 years, if they are eligible.
Tax Incentives for Foreigners Moving to Portugal: Non-Habitual Residency (NHR) Program
The non-habitual residency (NHR) program was created in 2009 to attract foreigners with high value-added potential. We’ll go through the conditions to be eligible in a moment, but this fiscal regime grants a 20% flat tax rate for certain professions or even total exemption on income tax for expats living in Portugal for 10 years. At the end of the 10 years, you will be taxed under the general rules of the Portuguese Income Tax (IRS) regulation.
Conditions for NHR Status
You cannot have been taxed in Portugal during the five years before the application.
You must request a tax residence certificate which means you must live in Portugal for more than 183 days (doesn’t need to be consecutive) for 12 months, lived in Portugal for less than 183 days, but has bought property during those 12 months, or performs public functions in the name of the Portuguese state.
You must have the right to be in Portugal through a work visa, Portugal Golden Visa or by being an EU/EEA/Swiss citizen.
What professions are eligible for the 20% flat tax rate in Portugal?
Professions that are considered as a high added value to Portuguese society are granted the 20% flat tax rate. The high added-value activities are activities of a scientific, artistic or technical nature. The main professionals and activities are:
General directors and executive managers of companies
Directors of commercial and administrative services
Directors of production and of specialised services
Directors of hotels, catering, commerce and other services
Doctors, dentists and stomatologists
University and higher education teachers
Specialists in the physical sciences, mathematics, engineering, information and communication technologies (ICT), among others
Authors, journalists and linguists
Creative artists and performing artists
Science and engineering technicians and professionals (intermediate level)
Information and communication technologies technicians and professionals
Market-oriented farmers and qualified agriculture and animal production, forestry, fishing and hunting workers
Qualified industrial, construction and crafts workers
Plant and machine operators and assemblers
How can you pay zero tax for 10 years while living in Portugal?
To be completely exempt, your country of origin must have a Double Taxation Agreement (DTA) with Portugal. This way, you do not pay income in Portugal for 10 years, but instead, pay it in your country of origin.
The following countries have a DTA with Portugal: Algeria, Austria, Andorra, Bahrain, Barbados, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Cape Verde, Chile, China, Colombia, Croatia, Cuba, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, East-Timor, Estonia, Ethiopia, Finland, France, Germany, Georgia, Greece, Guinea-Bissau, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Ivory Coast, Japan, Kuwait, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macau, Malta, Mexico, Moldova, Montenegro, Morocco, Mozambique, Netherlands, Norway, Oman, Pakistan, Panama, Peru, Poland, Romania, Russia, San Marino, São Tomé and Principe, Saudia Arabia, Senegal, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Qatar, Sweden, Switzerland, Tunisia, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, United States of America,United Kingdom, Ukraine, Uruguay, Venezuela, and Vietnam.
Income Taxes in Portugal (IRS)
At the end of the 10-year period, you will be taxed under the general rules of the Portuguese Income Tax (IRS) regulation. If you work for a company you will be taxed by the IRS automatically, but you must still complete an annual tax return in the Portal das Finanças.
If you are self-employed (freelancer) you pay income tax, not company tax, unless you register as a company, which is not necessarily beneficial to all. If that’s the case, you need to do your taxes yourself, for which you can hire an accountant. Other incomes are taxed under income tax rates such as investment income, rental income from Portuguese properties, capital gains, and pensions. If you qualify for the NHR as a foreigner, this might not be the case for you, but we’ll get to this soon.
Tax on Wealth & Inheritance in Portugal
People are charged a tax on assets or sales of properties. The tax rate for individuals is 28% and for companies and non-residents, it’s 25%. Residents are only taxed on 50% of their gains.
The Portuguese inheritance tax was removed years ago. However, you will pay stamp duty at 10%. You must pay this within three months of the date of death or risk a fine.
Property Tax in Portugal
If you buy a house in Portugal, you must pay three types of property taxes, even if you apply for a Portugal Golden Visa. The three types of property taxes are Municipal Property Tax (IMI), Property Purchase Tax (IMT), and Stamp Tax (IS).
1. Municipal Property Tax (IMI)
The IMI translates to Imposto Municipal Sobre Imóveis and will be different in each municipality. This money is used to maintain public infrastructures in municipalities. The IMI rates usually range from 0.3% to 0.45%. To calculate the IMI, you multiply the value of the tax asset with the IMI rate. You must pay the IMI every year. For example, if your property is valued at €500,000 and you live in the municipality of Cascais with a rate of 0.34%, then your yearly IMI is €1,700. You can be exempted from the IMI if your annual taxable income of the whole household does not surpass €15,295.
2. Property Purchase Tax (IMT)
The IMT is also known as the Imposto Municipal sobre as Transmissões Onerosas de Imóveis. This tax is paid when a house is bought in Portugal, so it is a one-time payment for buying a house. The rate of the IMT will depend on the type and value of the property, as well as whether this property is a principal or secondary residence. You must pay this before you buy a house. This is how you calculate the IMT = value of the deed or net worth tax (the larger amount) x rate – tax reduction. You won’t have to pay IMT if you buy a house in mainland Portugal and the price doesn’t exceed €92,407. IMT usually will range between 2% to 8%, depending on the case. However, properties acquired by companies located in a “blacklisted jurisdiction” pay 10% for IMT.
3. Tax on Stamps (IS)
You’ll also need to pay an Imposto de Selo, a stamp tax, contracts, loans, documents, and more. The rate also changes depending on the property and task, but it is usually between 0.4% and 0.8%. For example, for a mortgage of five years, the stamp duty tax is 0.6%.
To find out more about how you can buy property in Portugal and property tax, read our full guide on buying a home in Portugal.
Company taxes in Portugal
Companies pay corporate tax, not income tax, at a flat rate of 21% on taxable profits. If you own a small and medium company, you pay a lower flat rate of 17% on your first €15,000 of taxable profit. If your company makes less than €200,000 a year, you can choose to pay corporate tax differently, where you pay tax on your turnover, rather than your profit.
Companies in Portugal with a turnover of more than €10,000 on goods and services must pay VAT, which we will talk about in the next section.
Portuguese VAT: Taxes on Goods and Services in Portugal
VAT, also known as IVA in Portugal began in 1986. Three different rates apply to goods and services. You will see the IVA in any receipt when you purchase a good or service. First, there’s a general rate of 23% for most goods and services. This is the IVA rate that most people know. Second, there’s an intermediate rate of 13% for food and drink. Third, there’s a reduced rate of 6% on essential items and services such as books, newspapers, medicine, and even specific foods like vegetables. These three VAT rates are much lower in Madeira and the Azores.
Cost of Living in Portugal
Is Portugal a good place to work and live in? Your decision might also depend on the cost of living. Portugal probably has the lowest cost of living in Western Europe, although rent prices are rising exponentially and the average annual salary is under €20,000. Let’s go through the average cost of living in the two most populated cities, Lisbon and Porto.
According to Numbeo, the estimated monthly costs for a family of four in Lisbon are €2,024.31 without rent. A single person’s estimated monthly costs are €579.70 without rent.
Three-course meal for 2 people at mid-range restaurant €35
McMeal at Mcdonalds €7
Domestic Beer (0.5 liter draught) €2
Water €1.12
Marlboro cigarettes (20) €5
Monthly transportation pass €40
Gym membership €35
International primary school €8,995.47 yearly (anywhere from €5,000 to €15,000)
Rent for 1 bedroom in city center €865.95
Rent for 3 bedrooms in city center €1,091.41
Buying a house, price per square meter in city center €4,728.21
According to Numbeo, the estimated monthly costs for a family of four are €1,938.31 without rent. A single person’s estimated monthly costs are €552.88 without rent.
Three-course meal for 2 people at mid-range restaurant €34
McMeal at Mcdonalds €6.50
Domestic Beer (0.5 liter draught) €2
Water €0.90
Marlboro cigarettes (20) €5
Monthly transportation pass €30
Gym membership €30
International primary school €6,277.57 yearly (anywhere from €4,200 to €7,500)
Rent for 1 bedroom in city center €670.59
Rent for 3 bedrooms in city center €1,184.06
Buying a house, price per square meter in city center €2,935.25
Over 150,000 votes by Portuguese immigrants in Europe were made invalid in the last General Election. Over 190,000 people voted in European countries, meaning that 80% of the votes were made invalid. The Constitutional Court decided on Tuesday that Portuguese voters in Europe will have the right to vote again on March 12 and 13. Voting by post is allowed with a copy of an ID and must be received by March 23.
The official forming of the new government by President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa was set to occur on February 23, but it seems this will probably be pushed back by a month as Portuguese immigrants in Europe will have to vote once again. However, the repetition of Portuguese elections in European countries will not impact the absolute majority of the Socialist Party.
The decision by the Constitutional Court has come after four parties brought the issue up to the court – Livre, Chega, PAN, and Volt. So, why were over 150,000 votes considered invalid? When counting these votes, it was found that there were “abnormal procedures” going on, such as some ballots having the absence of an ID photocopy. Invalid votes such as these were mixed with valid votes in the voting boxes, which made it so that entire boxes of votes had to be classified as invalid as it was impossible to distinguish between them.
In Europe, the Socialist Party (PS) was the most voted party (39.63%), with the Social Democratic Party (PSD) coming second (27.05%), and Chega coming third (11.01%). This of course does not count the European votes that were made invalid.
Outside of Europe, such as in the United States and Canada, 10.86% of eligible voters went to vote, the largest rate since 2019. Thankfully, only 2.95% of votes were made invalid outside of Europe, a large contrast in comparison to Europe where figures reached 80%. Outside of Europe, the Social Democratic Party (PSD) was the most voted party (37.09%), with the Socialist Party (PS) coming second (29.57%), and Chega coming third (11.01%). Portuguese voters outside of Europe will not be voting again, only European voters.
If you have not already, take a look at the full results of the Portuguese General Election below.
The center-left Socialist Party (PS) won 117 seats, one seat above the necessary to win a majority.
The center-right Social Democratic Party (PSD), led by Rui Rio loses 1 seat. In the polls, PSD and PS were incredibly close so this is a surprise.
The far-right Enough (Chega) becomes the third-largest political party in Portugal. In 2019, only the leader, Andre Ventura was elected into the assembly. This has now increased to 12.
The Liberal Initiative (IL) a center-right liberal party increases its seats from 1 in 2019 to 8 and becomes the fourth-largest party in Portugal.
The Left Bloco (BE) suffers a major loss. From 19 seats in 2019 to 5. Arguably, leftist voters are punished BE for voting against the state budget.
Similarly, the Unitary Democratic Coalition (CDU), a coalition between the Portuguese Communist Party (PC) and The Greens, lost half of their seats, from 12 in 2019 to 6.
CDS-PP, a center-right party with a conservative ideology loses all of its 5 seats. The party’s president Francisco Rodrigues dos Santos aka “Chicão”, quits.
PAN, a center-left ecological party loses 3 seats.
FREE (Livre) elects its left-wing leader Rui Tavares to the assembly, the main goal of the party’s campaign.
⬇️Do you think this will change the results of the Portuguese election? Let us know in the comments below ⬇️
Alentejo is a Portuguese region situated on the South of the Tagus River and North of the Algarve region, the far-south of the country. It covers about a third of the country and is very sparsely populated, known for its olive oil and cork production, as well as its beautiful architecture. However, it is one of the main wine producing regions of Portugal. [Read our full guide to Portuguese Wine covering all 14 wine regions]
While not thought of as traditional wine country, due to its hot and dry climate and the landscape usually thought as filled with olive trees, there are many parts of the region that produce great quality wines that are now on the maps of the best Portuguese and even world wines!
Any wine produced in the region can use the ‘Vinho Regional Alentejano’ (Alentejan Regional Wine) seal, but some areas are also classified as a DOC (‘Denominação de Origem Controlada’ or Controlled Origin Denomination).
This is a region with millennia of wine making history, and with traditions that go back to that same period. The traditional ‘Vinho de Talha’ is made the exact same way as the Romans used to do it more than two millennia ago.
Now with much more technology and with a troubled history, this wine has become one of the most liked wines in the country. So check it out and if you become interested, have a try.
History
The history of wine production in the Alentejo region is thought to have been started by the Romans. We can still find leftovers of the traditional winemaking processes used by the Romans in the Alentejo winemaking way, like the fermentation being made in clay pots.
The region is filled with history from then on. It’s in this region (together with Algarve) that you can see the biggest influence of the Arab occupation, be it in the names of the villages, in their traditions, arts, culture and, obviously, in the architecture of Alentejo.
However, for its wines, it was in the 17th century that they first started to get famous and considered prestigious in Portugal. This bothered the Marquis of Pombal, at the time probably the most powerful person in Portugal, assuming the role of basically a prime-minister.
The Marquis had an interest in the Douro wine region, so the rise of Alentejo would pull the Douro wine price down. That’s why he ordered all of the vines in Alentejo to be ripped from the ground, practically destroying the region’s vines.
Thankfully, from then on, several measures were put in place to help recover the area, like the creation of the first Social Winery in Portugal and the Winemaking Project of Alentejo (PROVA). These projects are usually supported by the local wine commission, the Comissão Vitivinícola Regional Alentejana (CVRA), and other organs connected to the wine trade.
The CVRA, created in 1989, is the association responsible for promoting the Alentejo wines, both in the national markets and in the international ones. It’s also responsible for controlling and protecting the wines with the DOC Alentejo symbol, as well as the IG Alentejo symbol. All of the wine producers in the region that want to use the DOC or IG seal on their wines, have to ask for certification from the CVRA. It is a great organism to maintain the quality and tradition of the regions wines.
Vinho de Talha
This traditional process that still exists in Alentejo is millennia old, coming from the Romans. And it hasn’t changed a lot in more than 2000 years.
It involves a clay pot, or concrete as many of the more recent ones are, that’s used to both produce and store the wine (yes, made and stored in the same pot). Generally, what happens is the grapes are put inside the pots and then the fermentation happens spontaneously.
Vila de Frades, a small Alentejan village, is considered the capital of ‘vinho de talha’, even hosting an event dedicated to this wine on the second weekend of December, with a visit to the typical wineries of the village and winetasting included on the last day.
It’s been planned by the City Hall of Vidigueira to apply this winemaking method to the level of UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Subregions
The region is divided in 8 subregions, that you can find on the label together with the name of the region as a whole, ‘Alentejo’ (Alentejo-Portalegre, for example).
Together, these regions count with more than 250 wine producers and more than 20.000 hectares of total vineyard land (11.000, if we just count the DOC region). This is 10% of all the wine area in the country!
These subregions were, at first, created as separate IPR regions (‘Indicação de Proveniencia Regulamentada’, or Indication of Regulated Origin). Then, some of these were elevated to DOC regions until, in 2003, all of the region’s DOCs and remaining IPRs were grouped together in the Alentejo DOC.
This way, these are the Alentejo DOC subregions:
Portalegre
Borba
Redondo
Évora
Reguengos
Granja-Amareleja
Vidigueira
Moura
Climate and Soil
The Alentejo soils are very diverse! We can find clay, schist, granite, marble or limestone in the various soils. This diversity makes it perfect for vine production and wines with different properties. However, they are also the poorest soils in the country, due to them being very dry.
The terrain is much more flat than on most of the other regions, except in Portalegre, where hilly terrains are mostly used.
As for the climate, it’s also ideal for winemaking. It’s a very hot climate with a lot of sunlight in the summer, and a dry cold in the winter. This creates extraordinary grapes, with a combination of maturity and freshness!
A few years back, most of the Alentejo vineyards started using ‘integrated protection’ of the vines, reducing significantly the pesticides it uses and, when it has to use, selecting the least toxic ones and only using what’s necessary.
But of course, to make it the great wine that it is, the wisdom of the local winemakers is needed, so that we can have that unique and traditional wine.
Grape and Wine Types
In Alentejo, besides all the native grape types that already print in the region’s wines a strong regional character, there are other foreign varieties that have been more recently introduced. These are grapes that have a lot of value in the international markets and to the connoisseurs, strengthening Alentejo’s wine leadership.
White Wine Grapes: Antão Vaz; Arinto; Roupeiro; Fernão Pires
The region produces white, red rosé and sparkling wines:
White Wines: They have a firm structure, low levels of acidity, highly aromatic in flavor (with citrus hints) and are full-bodied.
Red Wines: Being usually made from different grape types blended together, these wines are also full-bodied, with a rich color and the perfect level of acidity. They have an amazing balance between tannins and alcoholic levels.
Rosé Wines: unique wines with a strong aroma, very smooth and well rounded. They can be enjoyed while young but also age in an incredible good way.
Suggestions
If you’re looking to try out some of this Southern Portuguese wine, here are some of the many brands that you can trust to give you a good experience (among many others):
Visit the capital of the ‘Vinho de Talha’, Vila de Frades, in this amazing tour that will take you to the Talha de Honrado Vineyards for a taste of 4 different wines from the Alentejo DOC region. Compare them and learn more about this ancestral technique!
This cellar-museum with centuries of history will immerse you into the best of the history, culture and tradition of this old and interesting tradition.
Leave the wonderful city of Évora (just for a while) to explore the historic village of Monsaraz! Its breathtaking views from the hilltops will leave you in awe and roaming through its streets will make you travel back in time.
On the way there, why not stop at a small village with a family-owned pottery and learn more about the regions ceramics while talking to the charming locals?
Starting from Lisbon, go to this incredible region south of the Tagus River to experience the historical beauty and culture of Évora. Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site and all of its landmarks.
Then, enjoy a traditional Alentejan lunch and finish the day with a visit to a wine cellar, complete with wine tasting. Tour around the vineyards and try the famous Alentejan wines before returning to Lisbon to rest from this full day.
The Portuguese love pets, with more than 50% of households owning one. If you’re worried you’ll miss your dog too much on your next trip to Portugal, bring them along! From public parks and beaches, your pet will be free to roam around and explore the Portuguese landscapes. After booking your flight to Portugal and making sure your pet is ready to fly, where will you stay? Luckily, Portugal has a variety of pet-friendly hotels. We have selected our favorite hotels in Lisbon, Porto, the Algarve, the Alentejo, as well Madeira and the Azores.
Near the Lisbon Zoo Metro Station, Corinthia Lisbon is a 5-star hotel that offers stylish rooms with private bathrooms and free luxurious toiletries. The hotel features the Soul Garden Restaurant, where many go to enjoy meals and drinks outdoors. Corinthia Lisbon also features a large spa with swimming pools, a gym, and hot tubs. On the 24th floor, you can find the Sky Lounge a bar that features a panoramic view of the city.
A 5-minute walk from Chiado and Liberdade Avenue, this 5-star hotel is located in a historical building with retro-style rooms, some with views of Lisbon. The hotel offers luxurious services such as laundry, dry cleaning, and a car rental service. The Rossio Gastrobar has dishes curated by Chef Joao Rodrigues and a buffet breakfast is served on the 7th floor of the building, offering a 360 view of the city.
For a more affordable option, Home Lisbon Hostel features 4 dorm rooms with air conditioning and a shared bathroom. The communal kitchen has a large dining area and equipped kitchen where guests can cook meals, as well as a library and a living area to relax. Home Lisbon Hostel is only 400 meters from the iconic Rossio and 7 km from the airport.
Mercure Porto is a 4-star hotel near Aliados Avenue that has a large outdoor swimming pool, a gym, and a bar. Each room has air-conditioner, a safety deposit box, a private bathroom, and a flat-screen TV. The hotel also offers a lovely continental breakfast.
A 5-star hotel, Pestana Porto is less than a 5-minute walk from Aliados Avenue. Each room is decorated elegantly with modern furnishing, featuring a private bathroom and a flat-screen TV. The hotel has a restaurant that serves a buffet breakfast every morning and Portuguese meals.
Close to Clerigos Tower, Rosa Et Al Townhouse offers large suites with views of the garden and city with a vintage feel. The townhouse has a library, an outdoor dining area, and even dry cleaning services. A gourmet restaurant is located on-site, serving meals made from organic products from the property. You can also rent a car or bicycle at the concierge.
Located near Olhao, Vila Monte Farm House is a member of the Design Hotels Group that features a garden and 2 heated outdoor swimming pools. This place is divided into 4 buildings among an organ grove. Each room has a colorful decor and a flat-screen TV, a safety deposit box, a coffee machine, and a private bathroom. Farm House’s restaurant offers meals made from fresh produce from local markets, featuring a sharing concept.
Casa da Horta, a gorgeous holiday home, is located in Alcacer do Sal and features an outdoor swimming pool and a terrace area with views of the lake. Each home has 2 bedrooms, a private bathroom, as well as a fully equipped kitchen, a fireplace, and a living room area.
Pestana Churchill Bay is a 4-star hotel with a terrace that provides a panoramic view of the Camara de Lobos. Each room is equipped with a flat-screen TV, a private bathroom, air conditioning, and some even have a balcony with views of the city. Pestana has an on-site restaurant that serves regional dishes, as well as vegan options.
Located on the island of Santa Maria, Quinta do Falcao is an 8-hectare farm with townhouses in Almagreira that has everything you need for a luxurious stay. The farm has sea views from the garden which guests can enjoy. Every unit comes with a kitchen equipped with a dishwasher and a private bathroom, as well as a patio.
If you’re worried about flying with your pet, take a look at our detailed guide on traveling with pets. From required documents to whether your dog can travel in the cabin with you, we don’t leave any questions unanswered.
Want to take your best friend with you on your next trip to Portugal? We’re talking about your pet! Whether you’re looking to fully relocate or just spend a weekend in the capital of Lisbon, Portuguese airlines allow you to bring your dog, cat, or ferret with you. Take a look at this detailed guide to find out how to do so. From required documents to whether your dog can travel in the cabin with you, we don’t leave any questions unanswered.
Pet Travel Documents & Requirements for Portugal
First of all, you can only travel to Portugal through commercial flights without quarantining your animal with dogs, cats, and ferrets. Portugal has set up a number of requirements that you need to make sure you follow. You will need a Pet Passport, issued by your vet that will also track vaccinations. If you are not in the EU, including the UK, you cannot get an EU pet passport, instead, you will just get an animal health certificate which is valid for 4 months.
Your pet needs to be vaccinated against rabies, either with the one, two, or three-year vaccine. Rabies vaccines must be administered at the same time or after your pet is microchipped. This is another requirement. The microchip must be ISO-compliant! Pets must also wait at least 21 days after receiving the rabies vaccine before arriving in Portugal. There are no other mandatory vaccinations. You will also need to fill in a health certificate prior to the flight and then one within 10 days of arrival, signed by a veterinarian.
Also, pets that are less than 15 weeks old are not allowed to travel.
Let’s recap! To travel to Portugal you will need:
Cabin or Hold: Where Will My Pet Travel
Knowing that your pet needs to travel in the hold, rather than in the cabin with you, can be stressful. This will depend on the airline, but for the most part, dogs and cats in soft container up to 8 kilograms can be carried in the cabin. If your pet is an assistance dog, they can travel with you in the cabin at any weight. Pets in containers up to 32 or 45 kilograms will travel in the hold. The container or crate must be suitable for transporting animals.
Tips for Traveling with Pets to Portugal
Traveling with a pet can be stressful. There are plenty of things to consider from required documentation to the comfort of your pet. Here are our top tips for traveling with pets to Portugal:
First, talk to your vet to make sure your pet is in good health to travel.
If your pet is a dog or a cat weighs over 32 kilograms, make sure to purchase a suitable crate. Add their favorite toys and blankets to make them feel comfortable. However, do not overdo it by taking up what little room your pet already has in a crate.
Make sure you have all the necessary paperwork and that vaccinations are up to date.
Vets suggest not feeding your pet on the day of travel. We know, this is tough, but stress diarrhea is a common occurrence, as well as motion sickness.
Hydrate your pet! Depending on the airline, you should include a bowl with water to the inside of the crate.
Check whether their are restrictions on your pet’s breed. In Portugal, it can be harder to send these breeds: Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Dogo Argentino, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Rottweiler, and Tosa Inu.
Book your pet’s ticket in advance and check out the airline’s website for information on traveling with pets.
Let your pet get used to the crate at home by feeding them inside it for weeks before the flight.
DO NOT give your pet a tranquilizer, this can be dangerous as it can interfere with a pet’s ability to control body heat at high altitudes.
Photo by Charles Deluvio (Unsplash
Is Portugal Pet-Friendly?
Portugal is definitely a pet-friendly country with more than half of Portuguese households owning a pet. The abundance of public parks and beaches are perfect for taking dogs on walks and allowing them to explore nature, without being stuck in an apartment. Some shops and restaurants are even marked as “pet friendly,” allowing you to bring your pet in on a leash. However, most restaurants do not allow pets inside, but due to the warm weather, you can also enjoy a meal alongside your pet on a terrace. There are a number of pet-friendly hotels in Portugal.Pets are not allowed on specific beaches during the summer, but you will always find beaches where this is not the case. In most public transports pets are not allowed, except trains and buses where they must wear a muzzle. Animals are also protected under Portuguese law and in 2014, the mistreatment or abandonment of pets became punishable with fines or even prison.
Frequently Asked Questions about Traveling with Pets to Portugal
What documents do I need to take my dog to Portugal?
In order to fly with a dog (or a cat or ferret), you will need the following documents:
Pet passport issued by a vet with up-to-date rabies vaccine
Proof of ISO-compliant microchip
Health certificate filled out before flying
Can I take my dog on holiday to Portugal?
Yes. You will need to purchase an extra pet airline ticket and figure out whether your pet will go in the hold or cabin with you. This will depend on the airline, but for the most part, dogs and cats in soft container up to 8 kilograms can be carried in the cabin. If your pet is an assistance dog, they can travel with you in the cabin at any weight. Pets in containers up to 32 or 45 kilograms will travel in the hold. You will also need to gather the following documents: an EU pet passport issued by a vet with up-to-date rabies vaccine, proof of an ISO-compliant microchip, and an animal health certificate filled out before flying. If you are not in the EU, including the UK, you cannot get an EU pet passport, instead, you will just get an animal health certificate which is valid for 4 months.
How much does it cost to take a dog to Portugal?
The cost of taking a pet to Portugal will depend on the airline. For TAP, the Portuguese airline, it can cost anywhere between €70 and €180 for a pet ticket depending on where you’re flying from. For flights from Europe, Morocco, Tunisia and flights between Accra and São Tomé it costs €70. For most intercontinental flights, it will cost €150. The only exception to the latter is if you’re flying from the Dominican Republic where it costs €180.
Don’t forget about other costs, such as the pet crate, the microchip, vaccine, and the EU pet passport. If you are an EU resident, an EU pet passport alone can cost around €150 but lasts the whole lifetime of your pet. Expect to pay at least €300 to €500 for all this, including an EU pet passport. However, prices will depend on your location and veterinarian of choice.
Do I need to microchip my pet to travel to Portugal?
Yes. All pets traveling to Portugal (only dogs, cats, and ferrets allowed) must have a microchip implanted that is linked to an EU pet passport or a health certificate completed by a veterinarian for non-EU citizens. The microchip must be implanted before the rabies vaccination is given.
What kind of pets can you take to Portugal?
Only dogs, cats, and ferrets can fly to Portugal through commercial flights. If you want to relocate another animal such as a bird, the rules are much different and these usually involve quarantining your animal. A bird will need:
To have a health certificate by a licensed vet and be in isolation in the original country for 30 days before import OR
The bird must quarantine in Portugal for 30 days after entering the country OR
Within the last 6 months and not before 60 days before the trip, your bird was vaccinated against avian influenza using a H5 vaccine OR
The bird must isolate for 10 days before the trip and take a test for the Avian Influenza H5N1
We know that when you think of the most famous Portuguese people, only one man comes to mind. But there are plenty of famous artists, actors, footballers, and politicians to come out of Portugal, both dead and alive. We’ve decided to stick to alive on this one. Many have Portuguese descent, others were born and bred in Portugal. Some might even come as a surprise. Regardless, the Portuguese have made a mark on the world and accomplished some remarkable feats.
1. Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo is the most famous person to come out of Portugal, as well as the most followed person on Instragam with 395 million followers. Born in Madeira, Ronaldo for many is the best football player of all time, having won a record of five Ballon d’Or awards. Ronaldo was awarded the world’s most famous athlete by ESPN from 2016 to 2019 and was also ranked the world’s highest-paid athlete by Forbes in 2016 and 2017. However, Cristiano Ronaldo does not come from money. He was born in the Sao Pedro parish of Funchal and is the fourth and youngest child of an impoverished Portuguese family. His mother was a cook and his dad was a gardener who struggled with alcoholism.
Photo by Ludovic Péron (Flickr)
2. Shawn Mendes
This might come as a surprise, but yes, Shawn Mendes is part Portuguese. Although he was born in Ontario, Canada, his father, Manuel Mendes, was born in Lagos, Algarve. His mother, Karen Mendes is from England. He was raised in a religious family, perhaps because of his Portuguese descent. Fun fact, Shawn Mendes’ first ever live show occurred in the Algarve in 2012. His father wanted to bring the family back to their Portuguese roots and took them to the Algarve, one summer. Shawn was at a busy street in Lagos when he decided to sing a Bruno Mars song for the passer byers.
Photo by Walt Disney Television (Flickr)
3. José Mourinho
The current manager of A.S Roma, José Mourinho is known as “the special one” and as one of the best managers of all time. Mourinho has managed clubs like Porto, Chelsea and Real Madrid and has an impressive track record with each team. Mourinho was born in Setubal in 1963 in a middle-class to professional football player José Manuel Mourinho Félix and his wife, primary school teacher Maria Júlia Carrajola dos Santos. He initially set out to study business as his mother wished, but he then chose to drop out and follow his dream of studying sports science.
Photo by Aleksandr Osipov (Flickr)
4. Bernardo Silva
The footballer player for Manchester City and the Portuguese national team, Bernardo Silva was born in Lisbon in 1994. Silva started his career at Benfica’s youth academy and then played for Benfica B in 2013. Since then, he has evolved into one of the best Portuguese footballers. In 2015, Silva made his debut on the Portuguese national team, and in the 2019 Nations League, was named the Player of the Tournament. He was signed to Manchester United in 2017 for over 40 million pounds. In 2019, Silva was listed among 30 footballers for Ballon d’Or shortlist. He played an important role in the EUFA Champions League, where Manchester City reached the final in 2020.
5. Daniela Ruah
Known for playing Kensi in NCIS: Los Angeles, Daniela Ruah is actually Portuguese-American. Ruah was born in Boston, but moved back to Portugal with her family at the age of 5 where she attended St Julian’s School, one of the best international schools in the country. Ruah began acting in Portuguese telenovelas at the age of 16 and later moved to London and New York to study acting. In 2009, the show NCIS: Los Angeles aired, skyrocketing her fame. In January 2018, it was announced that she would co-host the Eurovision Song Contest, bringing her back to her roots. In January 2021, Ruah made her directing debut with the 11th episode of the new season of NCIS: Los Angeles.
Photo by Jyns Magazine (Flickr)
6. António Guterres
Born in 1949 in Lisbon, António Guterres is the current Secretary General of the United Stations and the first Portuguese person to hold the title. He took charge in 2017, as the 9th person to hold the title of Secretary General. Guterres is a member of the Portuguese Socialist Party and served as Prime Minister of Portugal from 1995 to 2002. He resigned in 2002 after the Socialist Party was defeated in the 2001 local elections. The party then lost to PSD, a social democratic party that leans centre-right. Nevertheless, Guterres was ranked the best Prime Minister of Portugal of the previous 30 years by the public in 2012 and 2014.
Photo by Faces Of The World (Flickr)
7. Paula Rego
The iconic Portuguese visual artist Paulo Rego was born in Lisbon in 1935. She is probably the most famous Portuguese artist of all time and her paintings are worth millions. Rego studied art at the University College London and was a member of the London Group, along with artists such as David Hockney. She was the first artist-in-resident at the London National Gallery and today has been featured at the Tate and the Louvre. Her art has always represented her political beliefs and feminism, particularly her anger toward the anti-abortion movement. She uses pastels, rather than oils to produce her art and also reflect on Portuguese folk themes.
8. Nelly Furtado
Born in Canada in 1978, Nelly Furtado is known for her two top 10 singles that made the Billboard Hot 100, “I’m Like a Bird” and “Turn Off the Light”. Furtado’s parents, António José Furtado and Maria Manuela Furtado, were actually born on São Miguel Island in the Azores. They immigrated to Canada in the late 1960s, as many other Azoreans did. Despite her songs being in English, she began singing in Portuguese at the age of 4. Her first actual public performance was in church with her mother on Portugal Day.
Photo by Lunchbox LP (Flickr)
9. Mariza
Mariza is one of the most famous fadistas in Portugal and the world, having sold over 1 million records. She was born in Portuguese Mozambique in 1973, to a Portuguese father and Mozambican mother. She moved to Alfama, Lisbon an iconic fado neighborhood when she was 3 years old. At first, she sang in various styles such as jazz and soul. However, her dad encouraged her to sing fado, the traditional Portuguese music so that the Portuguese community would accept that she was half-Mozambiquan.
Photo by Eric van Nieuwland (Flickr)
10. Salvador Sobral
Salvador Sobral is best known for winning the Eurovision Song Contest in 2017 for Portugal with the song “Amar pelos Dois”. Portugal had not won the Eurovision since 1964, a record time of 53 years for a European country. Salvador Sobral was born in 1989 in Lisbon to a formerly noble family and he is related to the politician Hermano Jose Braamcamp de Almeida Castelo Branco. Sobral’s first TV debut was in the programme Bravo Bravissimo when he was 10. However, his success started at the age of 20 when he was one of the ten finalists of Idols, the Portuguese version of American Idol. Sobral studied psychology in Lisbon, but he later abandoned the degree to pursue one in music. Today, he is one of the most famous musicians in Portugal. He has also used his platform to advocate for refugee rights in Europe.
On the northeast corner of Portugal, right on the border with Spain stands a little town that bears a great significance.
With just a population of 6,466 people, the so-called “Museum City” is a fortified town that sits overlooking the Douro River, the perfect combination between nature, culture, and history.
Miranda do Douro is home to one of the 3 official languages of Portugal, Mirandese, unique to the town and the surrounding regions, it is known for its special dances and music, as well as its amazing food, which will leave you begging for more!
From all of these curiosities to the wonderful monuments and villages you will see around the town and surrounding it, you will love your trip to the deep interior of Portugal!
Getting to Miranda do Douro
This interior city, unfortunately, doesn’t have a train station, so the best way to get there is either by renting a car or by bus.
The cheapest way to get to Miranda do Douro is probably by bus. You can get tickets from Rede Expressos or Rodonorte, for around 16€.
However, I would advise you to go by car. You would take around 3 hours from Porto or Braga or, if you are on the Spanish side, you can get there in just one around 1 hour from Zamora or Salamanca.
The long trip by car would be worth it since many things in the surroundings are only accessible by car. This region has lots of villages and towns spread out through the territory and sometimes there aren’t public transportations available. With a car, you would have much more freedom to visit whatever you want.
The town is great to visit throughout the whole year, as you will get different perspectives of it. During summer, you will get dry and hot days and cool nights, while in the winter you will get a lot of rain, really cold weather and very frequently snow.
Miranda is mostly visited by lots of tourists (overwhelmingly Spanish) on the weekends, but this shouldn’t be an impediment! You will still be able to have a great time and explore the amazing region.
Where to eat
Miranda do Douro is a land of food. You have so many dishes to choose from!
To start off, why not a ‘Sopa Transmontana’, a soup typical from the region of Trás-os-Montes made with chestnuts? It will get you ready for the upcoming meal.
The famous “Posta Mirandesa”, a typical steak from the city, will leave any meat lover in awe! If you prefer other types of meat, you have lamb, pork and other meats, all in a typical Mirandese cooking way. You can also try the ‘tabafeia’, a kind of smoked sausage made out of pork and bird meat, regional wheat bread, olive oil, all with salt, garlic, paprika or pepper and parsley. It is guaranteed that you will like it!
If you are more of a fish person, this wouldn’t be Portugal if it didn’t have a specific codfish dish! ‘Bacalhau à Mirandesa’, a new gastronomic dish, can be found all over the city’s restaurants.
As for sweets, you will have so many that the hard thing will be to pick one! There are roscos, sodos, dormidos, bola doce (sweet ball), and many more!
And to push all of this food down, what better than a glass of wine made directly in the region on the Douro riverbanks?
You will see that the prices are quite reasonable, with a good meal staying for around 10€, and if you didn’t really like any of these options, that’s also ok! You can find food from all over Portugal in the region, as well as international food, such as pizzas or hamburgers.
Culture in Miranda do Douro
Standing right on the border with Spain, you would think that the city’s identity would be divided between the two countries. However, the opposite happened and it has a great unique and individual cultural identity!
Miranda do Douro is one of the more culturally rich places you will find in the country! We have seen its unique dishes and great wine, but Miranda doesn’t stop there!
For starters, the region has its own language! Mirandese (or Mirandés, in the language), together with Portuguese and Portuguese Sign Language, make the 3 official languages of Portugal. Mirandese is a local variant of the Asturo-leonese Language, that used to be spoken in the Kingdom of Leon and that is still spoken in those areas of Spain. That little corner of Portugal also used to speak that language, but after a year of living side by side with the Portuguese language, it got its own particularities and turned into its own language.
Mirandese is spoken today by around 15,000 people, basically all of them being at least bilingual with Portuguese, with it being taught at schools and there being a big attempt to revitalize it, as it was starting to die out. However, in some villages, such as the village of Picote (or Picuote, in Mirandese), it is virtually spoken by everyone, with Picote even being the first village to have signs in both Portuguese and Mirandese!
The culturally rich region doesn’t stop with this and it has its own special type of music, with bagpipes and traditional drums, as well as dance, with the “Pauliteiros”, or stick dancers, dancing to the tune of the bagpipes!
Further than that, the Mirandese people have their own traditional clothes, like the “Capas de Honra Mirandesa” (Mirandese Honor Capes), made out of pure sheep wool and they are all handmade and require great detail. They have their origin in the region of León (the same where the Mirandese language comes from), dating back to the 9th or 10th century. Today it is only used in certain ceremonies or important acts.
You also have lots of festivals, such as “Festas de Santa Bárbara” (Saint Barbara Festival), which takes place on the penultimate Sunday of August; the “Festival Intercéltico de Sendim” (Sendim Interceltic Festival), a festival that connects Celtic heritages from all over the world, with dancers from Argentina, to Ireland, Galicia or Miranda themselves; and the “Festival L Burro i L Gueiteiro” (Festival of the Donkey and the Bagpiper), that intends to revitalize the relationship between the two characters, which was traditional in Mirandese culture.
What to do in Miranda do Douro?
Antiga Sé de Miranda do Douro (Old Cathedral of Miranda do Douro)
The Old Cathedral of the city was finished at the end of the 16th century, being the biggest religious temple in the whole of Trás-os-Montes and being considered a National Monument. Its greatness will leave you breathless!
One of the most interesting artifacts it has it’s the “Menino Jesus da Cartolinha” (Boy Jesus of the Top Hat), which is a carved statue of a boy who supposedly appeared in the city during the 1711 Spanish siege to the city to rally the Portuguese troops. It was said that he was Jesus and that he wore a top hat, being immortalized in the Church and on display in a glass case.
Historic Center
The best thing you can do to know more about the culture and the life In this amazing place is really to stroll around the Historic Center of the town, hang out with the local people and you will understand much better the history and mentality of the region!
You can go to the Praça D. João III, known for its statue that represents a typical Mirandese couple, and the Solar, an amazing baroque building. The La Costanielha street is the oldest and most traditional in the town and deserves a visit! Then, don’t forget to climb to the castle walls, thought to be from before the Roman times! And finally, eat at a traditional place and have a little snack with the unique pastries.
This is the best way to immerse yourself in the culture you have read about here!
Museu Regional da Terra de Miranda (Regional Museum of the Land of Miranda)
The museum, situated in the aforementioned D. João III Square, is in the old town hall building. It has folk arts from the region of the Land of Miranda (the Mirandese-speaking region) as well as its history and traditions. This is the place you have to go if you want to know more about this unique culture land!
The Castle of Miranda do Douro
The Castle was probably built in some way or another by the peoples who have passed through the region, such as the Suevi or the Moors, but it was Afonso I, the first king of Portugal who rebuilt it to defend the northeastern border of his new kingdom.
However, today only ruins are left, due to a battle in 1762, during the Seven Years War. But they are incredible to visit, as you can still see the tower and the walls.
Ermitério Os Santos
This is a ruined chapel with a panel near the villages of Picote and Sendim. The panel is in a big monolith, where Saint Paul is drawn with many other saints, and it’s dated as of 1553.
The construction of this chapel and many others like it was associated with living a hermitic life, being, therefore, called a “hermitage”.
Go on a Douro Cruise
International Douro River. Photo by Vitor Oliveira on Flickr.
You can travel the International Douro, literally on the border with Spain, and see the amazing views that nature produced there. The cliffs and olive trees all around will take your breath away. Definitely an afternoon well spent!
You can see a part of the Aqueduct of Vilarinho behind the Old Cathedral, the aqueduct that supplied water to the city from the 16th until the 20th century.
Besides this, don’t forget to visit the nearby villages and places! You have Picote, which we mentioned before, that is a beautiful stone village that you are guaranteed to fall in love with and that has an incredible view of the Douro River. You also have Sendim, home to its own variety of Mirandese and to the famous dish of “Posta Mirandesa”, and a place where you can explore the nature in the “Arribas do Douro” Natural Park.
There are so many places to explore in this region! Try to don’t miss out on anything! And don’t forget to talk to the locals to see the best places and to get the best food!
The Land of Miranda is a very beautiful place where you can encounter almost anything you’re looking for in your trip: history, nature, lovely people, culture, peacefulness. The only thing it’s probably lacking is the sea, but the Douro River will definitely do nicely!
In its capital of Miranda do Douro you will find a great base to discover the rest of the region and to get yourself immersed in that amazing culture. Get the most out of this unique place that most people (outside of the Iberian Peninsula) don’t know about!
I hope you have a great time discovering this little diamond in the far interior of Portugal!
⬇️What are your favorite things to do in Miranda do Douro? Let us know in the comments below⬇️
On Sunday, January 30 2022, Portugal held an early general election to elect 230 members to the Assembly of the Republic. The Socialist Party won a majority with 117 seats in the assembly, winning 9 more seats than in the last election. This means that Antonio Costa, the leader of the Socialist Party will remain as Prime Minister. Around 48% of those eligible to vote went to the polls on Sunday, as well as a week before, a large improvement in comparison to recent years. Those in isolation or infected with COVID-19 were also allowed to vote from 6 to 7 PM on Sunday.
Why was an early election called in Portugal?
On October 27 2021, the state budget for 2022 proposed by the Socialist minority government was rejected in the assembly, as all other parties voted against it, even left-wing ones such as the Left Block (BE) and the Communist Party (PCP). The left felt like the state budget plan was too moderate and did not go far enough to tackle inequality and protect workers’ rights. In contrast, right-wing parties such as the Social Democratic Party (PSD) and the Liberal Initiative (IL) felt like the plan would not alleviate the tax burden on individuals and corporations and that there should not be an increase in investment in public services. In turn, in November of 2021, the President of the Republic, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa announced snap elections set for January due to the collapse in the governing center-left/left alliance.
2022 Portuguese General Election Results
The center-left Socialist Party (PS) won 117 seats, one seat above the necessary to win a majority.
The center-right Social Democratic Party (PSD), led by Rui Rio loses 1 seat. In the polls, PSD and PS were incredibly close so this is a surprise.
The far-right Enough (Chega) becomes the third-largest political party in Portugal. In 2019, only the leader, Andre Ventura was elected into the assembly. This has now increased to 12.
The Liberal Initiative (IL) a center-right liberal party increases its seats from 1 in 2019 to 8 and becomes the fourth-largest party in Portugal.
The Left Bloco (BE) suffers a major loss. From 19 seats in 2019 to 5. Arguably, leftist voters are punished BE for voting against the state budget.
Similarly, the Unitary Democratic Coalition (CDU), a coalition between the Portuguese Communist Party (PC) and The Greens, lost half of their seats, from 12 in 2019 to 6.
CDS-PP, a center-right party with a conservative ideology loses all of its 5 seats. The party’s president Francisco Rodrigues dos Santos aka “Chicão”, quits.
PAN, a center-left ecological party loses 3 seats.
FREE (Livre) elects its left-wing leader Rui Tavares to the assembly, the main goal of the party’s campaign.
What does the Socialist Party forming a majority government mean for Portugal?
Since the Socialist Party (PS) won a majority, President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa will soon ask Prime Minister Antonio Costa to form a majority government. PS will not need to form a coalition with other parties in parliament to do so. If PS had not won a majority, it would be close to impossible to pass their proposed state budget since all other parties were against it. Now, with a majority, the same state budget that was once rejected is likely to pass in the Spring.
However, Prime Minister Antonio Costa has stated that despite this victory, “An absolute majority doesn’t mean absolute power. It doesn’t mean to govern alone. It’s an increased responsibility and it means to govern with and for all Portuguese”.
The state budget or Orçamento do Estado in Portuguese that was proposed by the Socialist minority government and rejected is essentially the government’s budget for the year. PS states that their state budget is directed at uplifting the middle-class and young people. They want to invest further in public services such as the National Healthcare Service (SNS) and education, as well as increase the minimum salary, combat climate change, and tackle inequality. The state budget is hundreds of pages long but here are some highlights.
Young People
IRS Jovem (Income Tax for Young People), tax relief for young people starting their careers for 5 years, will now include freelance/self-employment. Those between 18 and 26 (or 28 if they have a doctorate) with at least a Bachelor’s will not have to pay either 30%, 20%, or 10% of their income tax for the first 5 years.
Programa Regressar (Program Return), for the next 4 years at least, this program allows those who have emigrated, particularly young people who are qualified to come back to Portugal until 2023 to get a tax relief of 50% on their IRS for 5 years.
Program to help young people find affordable housing.
Families
To fight child poverty, a financial program for kids. Until 2023:
For every child until 17 years of age, parents will receive €600 a year or €50 a month, be it through tax deduction or allowance.
In the case of families in extreme poverty, for every child until 17 years of age, parents will receive €1,200+ a year or €100 a month.
Free nurseries for kids in families that correspond to the first and second tax brackets in regard to household income (until around €10,700).
Allowances for informal careers all over the country.
Workers
The minimum salary should rise at the average that it has been increasing in the last few years, reaching €750 in 2023 (€702 in 2022).
The unemployment allowance should be a minimum of €500 for full-time workers.
Companies
There will not be an increase in tax for companies.
A fund of over 1 million euros will help those affected by the pandemic and a fund of over 100 million euros to support innovative companies.
Why did the Socialist Party win a majority?
The Socialist Party’s landslide victory came as a surprise to many and theories by commentators on why such a result occurred are circulating the media. The consensus is that voters on the left made use of the voto util (strategic vote) to make sure that a right-wing majority would not happen. The polls prior to the election showed a tight race between the center-right Social Democratic Party and the Socialist Party, as well as an increase in the popularity of Enough (Chega). Although many right-wing parties had stated they would not form a coalition with the far-right party Enough (Chega), others did not give a concrete answer. The left has been increasingly worried about the rise of such a party that goes against anti-fascist and democratic values.
Others on the left have chosen to vote for the Socialist Party to punish the Left Bloc (BE) and the Unitary Democratic Coalition (CDU) for voting against the state budget. These left-wing parties felt that the state budget did not tackle class inequality effectively and that the proposal was too moderate. Although many voters on the left would agree, many argue they are the responsible ones for the political crisis that led to the general election. The Socialist Party had also reminded the left that the state budget was the most left-wing one ever proposed in the history of Portuguese democracy.
However, it is also true that this election had one of the lowest abstention rates in the last few years. Many on the left went out to vote not only out of fear of a stronger right-wing movement but to show their approval of the Socialist Party. The Socialist Party has arguably successfully handled the Covid-19 pandemic which could have added to its success in this general election. For many, a vote for the Socialist Party signifies a vote for stability.
Photo by Element5 Digital (Unsplash)
Impact of Portuguese Election Results for Expats and Internationals
Although not hugely, a PS majority government could impact expats and internationals. Many on the left in Portugal (mostly BE and CDU) have been widely critical of the Portugal Golden Visa and the non-habitual tax regime for foreigners, arguing these provide tax relief to those that are already economically advantaged. The Golden Visa, for example, has also led to an increase in the property market at values much higher than the reality, making it almost impossible for the average Portuguese person to buy a house. We do not know for sure if PS winning a majority will mean a stronger stance against this.
What we know is that the changes to the Portugal Golden Visa have already been established, primarily motivated by the Socialist Party, as well as the Left Block. Since January 2021, those looking to be eligible for a Portugal Golden Visa can no longer purchase property in Lisbon and Porto, only some parts of the interior of the country. Although the state budget for 2022 does not mention the Golden Visa, it is still possible that more restrictions or a total ban could occur. However, this is unlikely to happen in the next year(s). The Left Bloc, for example, are seeking a complete ban of the Portugal Golden Visa as they felt the tax relief and easy path to citizenship was unjust and classist, as well as a ban on NHR status. The party has lost 14 seats in the assembly, leaving them with only 5 so they are unlikely to have much say on the matter now.
Despite this, the program of the Socialist Party has a few other points that could impact those coming from abroad. The party believes that immigration is necessary to sustain the development of both the Portuguese economy and the positive change in demographics. The party states they want to continue with progressive immigration policies that reflect their values of tolerance and openness. One specific policy is to reform SEF, the Portuguese Foreigners and Borders Service so that it does not act as a law enforcement institution, but rather one of an administrative function.
The party also wants to create a digital platform for immigrants to reduce the bureaucracy that Portuguese administrative functions are known for. This platform would make applying for a visa and uploading documents easier. PS also wants to simplify the types of visas out there and the complicated processes for each one, so that the overall immigration process runs more smoothly.
Moreover, the Socialist Party wants to attract international workers and talent. The party wants to start a program called StartUP Visa where foreign workers who want to develop an innovative project in Portugal can do so while living in the country.
The 8 Parties in the Portuguese Assembly of the Republic
1. Socialist Party (PS)
Social democracy, center-left – 117 seats
The Socialist Party was formed in 1973, a year before the Carnation Revolution. PS has won a majority of seats in the Assembly of the Republic on January 30, 2022. The party is a center-left party with social democracy, pro-European and progressive ideologies. PS wants to strengthen the national health service and tackle class inequality. The current Secretary-General of the United Nations, António Guterres was once the leader of the Socialist Party in Portugal.
2. Social Democratic Party (PSD)
Liberal conservatism, center-right – 76 seats
The Social Democratic Party was founded in 1974 and is a center-right party with both conservative and liberal economic ideologies. It is the second-largest party after PS. The party is led by Rui Rio and they campaign to reduce taxes.
3. ENOUGH (CHEGA)
Right-wing populism & national conservatism, Far-right – 12 seats
A far-right and nationalist party, ENOUGH was founded in 2019 by the leader Andre Ventura. This party believes that people living off social benefits are “leeches” of the state who do not want to work. They campaign for life imprisonment (which is not legal in Portugal), as well as chemical castration for child abusers. The party has been accused of racism, misogyny, and homophobia.
4. Liberal Initiative (IL)
Classical liberalism, center-right to right-wing – 8 seats
The Liberal Initiative was founded in 2017 and is the first liberal party in Portugal. Led by João Cotrim Figueiredo, the party focuses on the individual rather than the collective. IL campaigns for right-wing economics such as reducing taxes and promoting a flat income tax for all, as well as less “dependence” on social welfare. The party is unlike other right-wing parties as they are in favor of euthanasia, abortion, and gay rights.
5. Left Bloc (BE)
Democratic socialism, left-wing to far-left – 5 seats
Led by Catarina Martins, the Left Bloc is a feminist, ecosocialist, and anti-racist party that from 2019 until 2022 functioned as an opposition force. BE wants to allow immigrants and residents in Portugal to vote in parliamentary elections, reduce transport prices, as well as fight job insecurity and raise the minimum wage.
6. Unitary Democratic Coalition (CDU)
Marxism-Leninism & Eco-socialism, left-wing to far-left – 6 seats
Led by Jeronimo de Sousa, CDU is a coalition made between The Greens, an ecosocialist party and the Portuguese Communist Party. These two parties always run in elections together. They follow a Marxist-Leninist, communist, and anti-fascist ideology. CDU campaigned to invest in the national health service by increasing the number of medical professionals. They also want to reduce the working week from 40 to 35 days and want free education and public transport for all.
PAN was founded in 2009 and became known for fighting for animal rights, as well as environmental justice. The party holds ecofeminist, animalist, and progressive ideologies. PAN campaigned to invest in the national health service but does believe that the private and public sectors can work together. PAN also believes in free transportation to combat climate change.
8. FREE (LIVRE)
Eco-socialism & pro-Europeanism, center-left to left-wing – 1 seat
FREE, also known as Livre, was founded in 2014 by Rui Tavares. FREE’s ideology is ecosocialist, pro-European, feminist, anti-racist, and progressive. The party became known for supporting a trial of the Universal Basic Income, where every citizen would receive a sum of money to eradicate poverty. The party’s program also included increasing the minimum wage to €1,000, legalizing cannabis, investing in public health, and starting a Portuguese Green New Deal.
Take a look at our article on the Portuguese Political System to find out about the democratic process in Portugal.
