Over 38,000 fines were attributed in the first 30 days of the new speed radars in Lisbon. These new 41 speed radars across the city generated at least 5.1 million euros in fines. The fines range between 120 and 1,500 euros.
Most drivers going above the speed limit were caught in Avenida Lusiada, Avenida Padre Cruz, and Avenida Infante Dom Henrique. There were 38,018 fines attributed, representing an average of 1,267 speed infractions a day in the capital.
Of all fines in Lisbon, 34,745 were considered serious and 3,456 very serious.
A serious infraction can lead to a fine between 120 to 600 euros, with a driving sanction between one month to a year. A serious infraction refers to going above the speed between 20 to 40 kilometers an hour above the speed limit.
A very serious infraction can lead to a fine between 300 to 1,500 euros, with a driving sanction that can lead up to two years. Driving between 40 to 60 kilometers an hour above the speed limit, this is considered a very serious infraction.
With these values, CNN Portugal predicts that the minimum amount the new speed radars generated in less than a month is 5.1 million euros. This calculation was made with the minimum fine amount of 120 euros (serious) and 300 euros (very serious). Therefore, it is very likely that the fine value is way above this prediction.
However, the municipality of Lisbon did not want to publicize the amount generated from the fines. The entity also reminded the public that some of these infractions might belong to ambulances or police vehicles in emergencies.
The largest infraction recorded was in Segunda Circular near the gas station Repsol, with an infraction of 240 kilometers an hour recorded. This speed is 120 kilometers an hour over the maximum speed allowed on Portuguese highways.
From Jazz to Rock, Fado is not the only genre of live music to enjoy in Lisbon. While the typical melancholic genre of music is heard all around Lisbon, particularly in Amalia Rodrigues’ birthplace of Alfama, the city has a versatile music scene.
Whether you are looking to enjoy some dinner with live music or sit in a less crowded bar listening to up-and-coming artists, we have selected our favorite spots throughout Lisbon. Here are the 9 best live music spots in Lisbon, Portugal, a city filled with outstanding musical experiences.
1. Ze dos Bois Gallery
A leader in the Lisbon music scene for almost three decades, Ze dos Bois Gallery, known as ZDB, is not just a music hotspot, but also a place for exhibitions and events. ZDB hosts over 150 art events per year, as well as groundbreaking music and dance performances.
ZDB is one of the best places in the city to grab a drink and listen to live music, surrounded by an alternative crowd. The space features an outdoor terrace for warm summer nights, as well as an indoor space with a large seating area.
Whether you’re looking to dance the night away or sit quietly while enjoying some Jazz, ZDB has a night for you. Make sure to check out their program online to find the live music night that fits your taste the best.
Photo provided by establishment.
2. Fabrica Braco de Prata
Located in the building that was once the War Material Factory, Fabrica Braco de Prata open in 2007. It was one of the first places to kickstart a new cultural environment in Oriente, Lisbon.
Although Fabrica Braco de Prata is known for its live music shows, it also features a restaurant, bar, and even a bookstore. The likes of Salvador Sobral, the Portuguese winner of Eurovision in 2017 regularly perform here.
Fabrica Braco de Prata is home to 12 rooms that host all kinds of cultural events. From live music concerts, dance classes, and even raves, you can find all kinds of musical events here. Make sure to check out their online program.
3. MusicBox
Located in Cais do Sodre on the iconic Pink Street, MusicBox is one of the best spots for live music in Lisbon. Inaugurated in 2006, this club has music playing every day of the week, of which many include live music performances.
Hosting DJs and live bands, Music Box is an integral part of the cultural life of the capital where guests can enjoy live music from 0:00 to 6:00 in the morning. Check out their program on their website. You can actually filter between clubbing and concerts.
MusicBox has recently also become involved in other music projects, such as the Jameson Urban Routes, the first indoor festival in Portugal boasting urban music.
4. Ma Lingua
A relatively recent bar in Graca, a trendy neighborhood in Lisbon, Ma Lingua is owned by Megan and Fabio. The bar features a basement with high ceilings where jam sessions and acoustic concerts are hosted, as well as readings and cinema circles. This place aims to become a cultural hotspot, also featuring art and photography exhibitions, PubQuizzes, and more.
If you’re looking to enjoy some live music over dinner, this is the spot for you. Ma Lingua serves delicious bites such as fresh ceviche and burrata in a homemade tomato sauce.
Recently, the bar has also started a weekly comedy night called “Bad Tongue Comedy”, as well as an open mic night for the brave ones to showcase their talent. Ma Lingua is open until 2 am on weekend nights.
Photo provided by establishment.
5. Fado in Chiado
With over a decade of experience, Fado in Chiado was one of the first places to host a daily live traditional fado show, accompanied by a guitar and viola, with two singers, a feminine and masculine voice for a full Portuguese experience.
The show is a little less than an hour in the Chiado district and you will get to experience the melancholic vibes of the traditional musical genre of fado. Book this ticket to skip the line to this iconic cultural experience. Drinks are not included in the ticket price, but we recommend ordering a classic Port wine.
Located in Santo Amaro, Cafe Dias is conveniently situated only a 10-minute walk from Lx Factory. An epicenter for Jazz, the bar regularly hosts jam sessions and live concerts in a cozy but modern environment.
But what makes this one of our favorite places goes beyond the music. Cafe Dias has some delicious petiscos (Portuguese tapas), such as croquettes and Portuguese empanadas. They also serve the traditional Portuguese ham and cheese toastie which is to die for.
Cafe Dias also features a lovely outdoor terrace where performances take place, making it the perfect place for a summer night.
Photo provided by establishment.
7. Alface Hall
Located in the center of Bairro Alto in a building from the 18th century, Alface Hall is a bar and hotel. There are few places left in Bairro Alto that still have live music, unfortunately. Alface Hall is one of the last spots that keeps the live music scene alive in Bairro Alto, a neighborhood known for its nightlife.
Alface Hall’s bar is quite small, offering a cozy and inviting atmosphere. You can find all kinds of live music performances, from jazz to rock and soul.
If you are lucky enough to be staying at the hostel, you can enjoy daily live music right at your footsteps. The hostel features shared dormitories at an affordable price, as well as private rooms.
8. Pharmacia Musical
Hugo Fernandes, the cellist that founded Pharmacia Musical says that the live music bar seeks “transformation through art”. The founder opened the bar in a laundromat in Rua Damasceno Monteiro.
The space is inspired by a pharmacy from Penha de Franca, with furniture and jars that represent it. While the space is quite small, this actually makes the bar more inviting as you will feel like you are listening to live music in a friend’s apartment.
The live music concerts are free of charge and there are multiple music genres performed every day, from jazz to classical music. You can check out their daily program online.
9. Tokyo
Tokyo is a Cais do Sodre classic that has been around for decades. Founded in 1968 by the name of Tamisa, what is known today as Tokyo is a live music hotspot from Tuesdays to Saturdays.
The bar is full of interesting musical history. In the late 70s, it became one of the most popular spots for live music, with iconic Rock singers taking its stage. In 2012, Tokyo underwent a revamp, with the colors, logos, and bar being altered to improve the customer experience.
However, the rock & roll environment of the previous decades remains. Still, along with rock live music, Tokyo now also hosts Quizomba nights and other nights will a larger diversity of music genres.
Publico reported on Wednesday that Roman Abramovich is not the only Russian oligarch that obtained citizenship through the Jewish Law of Return. The billionaire Andre Rappoport has also received a Portuguese passport.
Russian oligarch Andre Rappoport received his Portuguese passport on December 30, 2019, after being certified as a Sephardic Jew by the Israeli Community of Porto (CIP).
With a 1.2 fortune evaluated by Forbes, Rappoport was born in the ex-soviet republic of Ukraine in 1963. In the 90s, he managed Alfa-Bank, and in the early 2000s, he supervised the state energy companies in Russia, eventually becoming president of the Federal Grid Company.
Six years later, Rappoport took over Energostroyinvest-Holding, at the time the largest construct of electric grids in Russia. He sold his company to Abramovich.
Abramovich also received a Portuguese passport through the Jewish Law of Return in 2015.
Russian oligarch and ex-vice-president of the World Jewish Congress, God Nisanov, and Lev Leviev, known as the “king of diamonds,” are awaiting their Portuguese naturalization.
Nisanov was honored in July of 2014 by Putin at the Kremlin with the Order of Friendship. He requested naturalization through the Jewish Law of Return in Portugal on June 26, 2020.
What is the Jewish Law of Return in Portugal?
Under the Jewish Law of Return, the Portuguese government grants Portuguese citizenship through naturalization to the descendants of Portuguese Sephardic Jews who were expelled from Portugal during the Portuguese Inquisition.
By January 2022, there were over 50,000 cases granted, with around 80,000 pending. Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich got Portuguese citizenship through this law.
“Coimbra is the land of fado, love, and saudades, those who come here take Coimbra in their heart. Coimbra is a love for life, a lesson”, says Bia. Saudade represents a feeling of longing and nostalgia, one that is untranslatable and is often a recurring theme in fado.
Born and bred in Coimbra, Bia and Kikas are a couple in their 50s that started their Portuguese blog “Amar Viajar e Petiscar” 8 years ago on a summer day in August, after becoming empty nesters. Since then, they have shared their Portuguese travel experiences with their 50,000+ followers on Instagram.
Too often forgotten, Coimbra is located in Central Portugal but has been making waves as a city to look out for. It is no surprise that Bia and Kikas chose Coimbra as their chosen city for a perfect day off in Portugal.
To start the day off right, the couple heads to the historic Cafe Santa Cruz for breakfast in the center of the old town. Located next to a 12th-century monastery, the cafe has been around for over 500 years and was honored with Coimbra’s Gold Medal in 2013.
If the sun is shining, they enjoy a signature tosta mista with an orange juice on the terrace, offering views ofPraça 8 de Maio, an emblematic square. They also order an espresso, calling the quality of the coffee “excellent”.
With full hearts and bellies, they decide to take a walk through the city. Bia and Kikas start their stroll at the University of Coimbra, one of the oldest universities in the world, founded in 1537. Along with Alta (the uptown), the University of Coimbra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Photo by Henrique Macedo (Unsplash)
The couple visits the Joanine Library, which they deem the “crown of the university”. Built in the early 18th century at the orders of King John V to house the vast book collection of the University of Coimbra, the library feels like a page out of a Harry Potter book. Containing over 50,000 books, many dating back as far as the 16th century, the library is free to visit.
The exterior of the library features stone walls with gold accents and a roof covered by clay tiles. The interior was intricately ornamented by painters and craftsmen, decorating the stone floor with geometric motifs and the ceilings with trompe-l’oeil paintings.
Bia warns me that you are not allowed to take photographs inside Joanine Library. Instead, enjoy your surroundings without technology.
Joanine Library. Photo by Xiquinhosilva (Flickr)
But if you are looking for Insta-worthy shots, their next stop doesn’t disappoint. Bia and Kikas walk up the 180 steps to the University Tower to enjoy “a majestic view of the Mondego River and the university”.
The University Tower holds a bell that has always played a central role in the daily life of university students. The daily activities of the university were once organized according to the bell and even today, the bell still marks specific hours of the daily life of students.
They then head to the Sala dos Capelos, the most important room in the university where major ceremonies are held. Multiple kings of the first Portuguese Dynasty stepped foot through these doors and celebrated marking events in this very same room.
Featuring classic paintings of Portuguese kings, glass-stained ceilings, and luxurious red carpets, this room is bound to leave a mark. A series of traditional azulejo tiles line the lower part of the walls, all produced in Lisbon.
Bia and Kikas’ next stop – the Botanical Garden. While the garden of the University of Coimbra was founded in 1772, it was developed mostly by botanist Luis Carrisso in the 20th century. Carrisso enriched the Botanical Garden with exotic African plans, many coming from Angola.
Botanical Garden. Photo by Marco Varisco (Flickr)
The Botanical Garden is considered one of the most beautiful in all of Europe. Bia and Kikas spend time taking photographs at the site which occupies 13 hectares. Featuring greenhouses with tropical plants, an area for cultivation for botany students, and a valley with a small stream, this place feels like a breath of fresh air in nature.
A 10-minute walk away, Bia and Kikas head to Sé Nova, a 1600s cathedral that features statues of four Jesuit saints in the Baroque style. The cathedral is free to enter and features beautiful gold-covered altarpieces from the 18th century.
Sé Nova de Coimbra. Photo by Vitor Oliveira (Flickr)
They then head down the Escadas do Quebra Costas, an “idyllic” stairway that is a “must-see”. Bia says that “you will find various little houses with memorabilia, bars, and restaurants” in a quaint environment.
The couple makes a stop at Chocolataria Equador, a chocolatier shop that features the best chocolate in Coimbra. They order the truffles like always and accompany the dessert with a Port wine or a Ginja, a Portuguese liquor.
After all that walking, it’s time for lunch. The couple walks a short distance to Italia, a restaurant in the Docks of Coimbra. The Italian restaurant brings the couple back to fond memories and the price tag is worth it. With the Mondego River at their feet, they feast on mouth-watering pizzas and pasta of all kinds.
Restaurante Italia, Coimbra.
Bia left us with other appetizing restaurant recommendations such as Cordel Maneirista near the S. Francisco Convent. This place services traditional Portuguese food such as cabrito no forno as well as brunch menus with vegetarian options.
Praxis is another restaurant with quality artisanal beer and a “good steak with fries”, a Portuguese staple.
After lunch at Italia, they enjoy an afternoon stroll to Parque Verde do Mondego. With the Mondego River as the main protagonist, this park is over 400,000 meters squared. The park features walking paths, a skate park, and a volleyball area.
Snap a photo with your loved one of the Mondego River and for an unusual one, find the large green bear sculpture, made of grass.
The couple then heads to Baixa, the historical center of Coimbra and where the student life comes alive. They walk through the Praça da República, a main square surrounded by restaurants, bars, and students rushing to class.
By now, it’s time for lanche. You read that right, not lunch! The Portuguese have four meals a day, and lanche is one of the most important. It’s more than just a snack in between lunch and dinner.
Bia and Kikas head to O Croissant in Praça 8 de Maio, a restaurant serving pancakes, bowls, and unique salted croissants such as the avocado croissant with cherry tomatoes and a fried egg.
For a more traditional Portuguese lanche, the couple recommends Moinho Velho, a bakery serving quality bread of all kinds, perfect for a torrada com manteiga (toast with butter), as well as delicious pastries.
Bia and Kikas then head to a bar called Passaporte. They order a cocktail on the terrace and enjoy the stunning view of the sun setting on the Mondego River.
Passaporte bar in Coimbra.
After the sun has set, the couple heads to a new restaurant that has only recently opened up but has already become one of the most popular in the area. Santa Sede is located in Celas, serving appetizing cuisine in a sophisticated environment with live music.
They also recommend Solar do Bacalhau, a restaurant that serves codfish in various different ways, from bacalhau com natas to bacalhau à brás. As the Portuguese say, there are 1001 ways of cooking cod.
Alternatively, Refeitro da Baixa combines Mediterranean gastronomy with the art of pottery. This place serves elaborate dishes and has pottery displays that visitors can purchase. Pottery workshops are also available for those looking to get their hands dirty after lunch.
After dinner, Bia and Kikas meet up with friends for coffee on the terrace of Cafe S. Jose, a coffee shop that is open until midnight. Although the cafe might not have views of the river or a large cathedral, the laughter of friends marks the perfect ending for a perfect day.
Check out Bia and Kikas’ Instagram @amarviajarpetiscar to follow their travel and gastronomy experiences all over Portugal.
Bia and Kikas’ Top Hotel Picks in Coimbra
Quinta das Lágrimas: “Full of history and refinement – where the love of Pedro and Ines flourished”
A couple over 70 years old was found dead on Monday inside a carbonized car in the village of Penabeice, in Murça. The couple was involved in a car accident after an attempt to drive away from a major fire.
The Civil Protection is investigating incident but has said that while driving away from a fire, the car went off the road and then turned over.
The commander of the Civil Protection, Andre Fernandes said: “We are sorry for the death of these two victims. It’s an area where the fire was developing, but the operationals are on the field, including the GNR, so we can be sure of how the accident occurred”. When more information is available, it will be made public.
CM Portugal reports that the victims were at home when the fire spread close to their property, leading them to drive away and have an accident.
The couple’s names are unknown, but they were 70 and 72 years old. They were Portuguese emigrants in France who had returned to the village of Penabeice for a vacation.
The fire in Murça began during the weekend and is worsening. The authorities evacuated people from dangerous areas, but this was difficult as many did not want to leave their homes, according to SIC Noticias.
There are over 258 operationals fighting the fire, supported by 86 vehicles and five aircrafts.
One of the oldest countries in Europe, it is no surprise that Portugal features hundreds of stunning castles and palaces. All around the country, along rivers, in islets, and mountains, Portugal’s palaces and castles represent the beautiful cultural heritage of Portugal. Each building has an interesting history behind it, dating back centuries, many of which have been proclaimed UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Let’s take a look at our 8 most beautiful castles and palaces in Portugal.
1. Pena Palace
A romanticist castle in Sintra, the Pena Palace stands on top of a hill in the mountains, overlooking the town of Sintra. The 19th-century palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Wonders of Portugal.
Visitors can wander around the castle, painted in multiple colors, and visit the beautiful greenery that surrounds it. Known for its Disney-like appearance, the Pena Palace is one of the most beautiful landmarks in all of Portugal.
Dating back to the middle ages, the palace was severely destroyed by the Great Lisbon Earthquake of 1755. The ruins of the palace were left destroyed for decades until King Ferdinand II acquired the monastery and restored it. After that, the Pena Palace became a summer residence for the Portuguese royal family.
Located on a hilltop in Santa Maria Maior, Castelo de Sao Jorge is a medieval castle that overlooks the historical center of Lisbon. The occupation of the castle dates back to at least the 8th century BC.
The castle’s construction has an interesting history. First, a small fortress was built by the Visigoths during the fifth century. It was made larger by the Moors in the eleventh century, who invaded the Iberian peninsula.
During the reign of Afonso I of Portugal in the twelfth century, it was altered and made into an official Royal Palace. It was then completely restored in 1938 by the dictatorship of Salazar as part of a commemoration of Portuguese patriotism and independence.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sintra, Quinta da Regaleira is a romantic palace and chapel, featuring a royal-like park with lakes, wells, fountains, and more. Designed by Italian architect Luigi Manini in the 1800s, the design includes enigmatic buildings that are related to alchemy, masonry, and the Knights Templar. The design evokes, Roman, Gothic, Renaissance, and Manueline styles.
Also known as the Palace of Monteiro the Millionaire, the palace is nicknamed for its former owner, Antonio Augusto Carvalho Monteiro. However, it has had multiple owners across times. In 1997, the property was acquired by the Sintra Town Council after it had been owned by the Japanese Aoki Corporation which kept it closed to the public for over a decade.
Also known as the Convent of Mafra, the Palace of Mafra is a Baroque and Neoclassical palace in Mafra, 40 minutes away from Lisbon. The palace was made a National Monument of Portugal in 1910.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the palace was built during the reign of King John V in 1717. The King wanted to build a convent for his wife, Queen Mariana if she gave him children. After the birth of his first daughter, the construction of the palace began.
The construction lasted over a decade and more than 1,000 workers died during the build. The Palace contains a library with over 30,000 books, a large basilica, and more. The whole building covers 37,790 m2, featuring over 1,000 rooms.
Guimaraes Castle is a military fortification built in the 10th century to defend the monastery from attacks by the Moors. The castle is associated with the origins of Portugal as a nation and is one of the most emblematic in the whole country. The castle is located in Guimaraes, the birthplace of Portugal’s first sovereign, Afonso I of Portugal.
The small hill that the castle sits on is formed from garlic and surrounded by a small forest park which you can only access through pedestrian trails. On the Southern tower, you will find a bronze medallion of D. Afonso I. Close by you will also find a stunning Romanesquece Church and the Palace of the Dukes of Braganca.
Head to the hilltop fortress to visit the grounds. The castle is also one of the best places in Guimaraes, Portugal to take selfies and its surroundings are nice for walking and communing with nature
The history of Monserrate Palace begins in 1540 when Friar Gaspar Preto order the build of a hermitage dedicated to Our Lady of Monserrate. Throughout the centuries, the palace fell into the hands of many such as the Mello e Castro family.
However, it was when Francis Cook, a 19th-century British industrialist visited the palace, he fell in love and transformed Monserrate Palace into what it is today. A palace representing romantic architecture with luxurious gardens with exotic species from all over the world, the Monserrate Palace was made a World Heritage Site in 1995.
In 1949, the Portuguese government acquired the property. In 2000, the management of the palace was handed over to Parques de Sintra. The property reopened in 2010, but was later restored and only reopened to visitors in 2016.
Located in the middle of the Tagus river on top of a tiny islet of Almourol, the Castle of Almourol is one of the most special castles in Portugal. The reconstruction of the castle began in 1171, but the castle was already present in 1129 when the Christians arrived in Portugal.
The castle was built over a granite that is 18 meters in height and has an irregular rectangular plan. The interior of the castle features masonry doorways that link the various parts of the castle. It also features inscription stones that represent the history of the castle and its Christian mark.
Access to the castle and the islet of Almourol is free, but visitors must pay for an affordable boat ride across the river, the only way to reach the Castle Almourol.
Photo by Vitor Oliveira (Flickr)
8. Castle of the Moors
A hilltop medieval castle in Sintra, the Castle of the Moors was built by the Moors in the 8th and 9th centuries as an important strategic location during the Reconquista. In 1147, it was taken by Christian forces.
The Castle of the Moors offers panoramic views of Sintra and allows you to see Mafra and Ericeira. The castle is built along a 450-meter permit on top of a cliff and is surrounded by vegetation, leading to a Romantic feel. The Moorish castle includes a chapel with an arched doorway that once was a place of worship for the Muslim population. Today, the chapel is decorated with animal motifs.
Photo by Dominik Dancs (Unsplash)
⬇️Please share your favorite castles and palaces in Portugal in the comments⬇️
The Portuguese restaurant Belcanto of chef José Avillez remains among the 50 best restaurants in the world. It is the only Portuguese restaurant in the World’s 50 Best Restaurants, ranking at 46th place.
Located in Lisbon, Belcanto holds two Michelin stars and first made the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list in 2019.
José Avillez took to Twitter to celebrate: “It is with great happiness that we receive the news that Belcanto has once again been chosen as one of the 50 best restaurants in the world”.
“We will keep working better and harder and always with a passion and responsibility for being lucky enough to represent Portugal. It is a distinction of the whole Belcanto team, from our whole group and every kitchen and waiter team of all Portuguese restaurants, in Portugal and the world”, he said.
The World’s 50 Best Restaurants wrote: “A legendary Lisbon establishment that opened its doors as a men’s club in 1958, Belcanto took on a new life when chef José Avillez took the helm in 2012. Under his culinary navigation, the restaurant has progressed to become the finest in Portugal”.
The panel of over 1,000 culinary experts that make up The World’s 50 Best Restaurants chose the following plates as their favorites: “the shore prawn with nut cream, veal loin with artichoke millefeuille and truffle sauce, and the whimsically named “The garden of the goose that laid the golden eggs”.
The World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2022 took place in London on Monday, 18 July, sponsored by S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna. 2022 marked the 20th year of the list.
A country best explored by car, Portugal allows tourists from the EU and US to drive with their local driving licenses. However, it might seem daunting at first to figure out how to drive in Portugal due to the various signs in Portuguese and road safety rules. Luckily, this guide to driving in Portugal has everything you need to know. From getting a driving license to insurance costs and renting a car in Portugal, we have got you covered!
Who can drive in Portugal?
To drive a car in Portugal, you must be over the age of 18. However, to rent a car you must be over the age of 21. If you are an EU or American national, you can drive in Portugal with your driving license.
If you are staying longer than six months, an International Driving License is required. If you do not have an EU or American license, you should obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) before you arrive.
You can apply for one online by paying an application fee and submitting your current driving license.
Make sure you have these in your car when driving in Portugal:
Reflective danger vest
Red reflective warning triangle
Spare wheel and tools
Getting a Driving License in Portugal
If you are a first-time driver, to obtain a driving license in Portugal you must attend both practical and theory lessons and pass these two tests.
To be eligible for a driving license in Portugal, you need to be at least 18 years old, have lived in Portugal for at least 185 days, and not be forbidden from driving.
If you get a driving license in Portugal, you cannot hold one in another EU country. There are multiple types of driving licenses in Portugal, take a look at the graph below.
In the theoretical test, you will have to answer 30 multiple choice questions in 35 minutes and can only get 3 answers wrong. This exam tends to be harder than the other exams. The practical driving exam takes 40 to 50 minutes.
Foreign Driving License in Portugal
If you want to exchange your foreign driving license for a Portuguese one, instead of getting a whole new Portuguese one, this process is simple. You can submit an application online and will have to pay a small fee, less than 40 euros.
However, exchanging some driving licenses from certain countries in Portugal obliges you to take a practical driving test.
Road Safety Rules in Portugal
Let’s go through the basic road safety rules in Portugal. The list is pretty long, but the rules are pretty much the same as in other European Union countries.
Cars drive on the right and can only overtake other cars on the left
Cars already in the roundabout have the right of way (or priority)
At a crossing, if there is no stop sign or traffic light, cars from the right have priority
You cannot cross a white line or double white lines
You need to stop at stop signs and red lights, even if there is no one coming
You can only use your phone in hands-free mode
Seatbelts are mandatory
Photo by João Barbosa (Unsplash)
Alcohol Limits
Make sure to not drink and drive. Police regularly stop drivers and check their blood alcohol levels with a breathalyzer, particularly in places such as the Algarve in the summer where clubbing is common.
In Portugal, the driving alcohol limit is 0.5 grams of alcohol for 1 liter of blood (0.5 g/l). Although this will depend on your weight and gender, it’s said that drinking more than a beer could get you in trouble. Let’s take a look at the alcohol limits and consequences for each.
€250 to €1250 fine for 0.5 g/l to 0.8 g/l
€500 to €2500 fine for 0.8 g/l to 1.2 g/l
Loss of driving license for 1.2 g/l. This alcohol level is considered a crime and can be punished with up to 1 year in prison.
Speed Limits
The speed limits in Portugal vary depending on the location but there are three main speed limits.
50 kilometers per hour in residential areas
90 kilometers per hour on rural roads
120 kilometers per hour on motorways
Whenever the speed limit is not one of these three, it will appear on a white and blue sign.
Car maintenance in Portugal
Portugal enforces mandatory inspections of vehicles, called Inspecao Periodica Obrigatoria (IPO). Your car will be inspected for any issues and these will be fixed if necessary. An IPO is mandatory every two years after the car’s fourth birthday and every year after the car’s seventh birthday.
Car maintenance is generally affordable, but it depends on the kind of car you have. These can range anywhere between €10 to €50.
Driving Costs: Taxes, Tolls, Fuel, and Car Insurance in Portugal
Circulation Tax in Portugal
If you are importing or registering your car, you will have to pay Vehicle Import Tax (ISV). However, there is also an annual tax all car owners need to pay.
The Circulation Tax (IUC) is paid annually and the rate will depend on the type of vehicle and its age. For a regular-sized car registered after 2007, this should cost you around €70 a year.
Tolls in Portugal
On highways all over Portugal, you will find toll systems. Nowadays, many have electronic toll roads with a radar where you don’t even spot to pay the toll. It will be mailed to your address or the car rental company. You will get fined if you don’t pay these.
However, most tolls in Portugal have traditional toll roads where you pay on a machine or with a worker, as well as roads with Via Verde. Translating to Green Lane, these toll lanes are marked with a large green V.
To purchase Via Verde, you buy an electronic transponder that will debit your toll fee every time you drive through the lane. If you do not have a Via Verde transponder, do not drive through this lane.
Prices vary depending on the type of vehicle, but for long trips, they are not incredibly cheap. For example, the tolls for a Class 1 car from Lisbon to Lagos in the Algarve costs around €25.
Fuel Prices in Portugal
Fuel prices in Portugal are consistently changing due to the war in Ukraine. As the European Union sanctions Russia, countries lose access to the world’s third-largest petroleum producer.
As the average tank carries around 50 liters of fuel, it now costs around €100 to fill up a tank.
Car Insurance in Portugal
All vehicles are required to have car insurance in Portugal, at least a minimum coverage of third-party insurance. This means that the insurance must cover the costs of any damage you might make to other vehicles. You can get better insurance that also covers damage to your own car.
Car insurance costs will differ by the age of the vehicle, your driver profile (such as any history of accidents), and more.
Third-party insurance starts at €150 a year, while full insurance coverage that includes your own car costs around €350 a year.
Photo by Manuel Palmeira (Unsplash)
Driving Fines in Portugal
There are multiple reasons you could be fined in Portugal. A distinction is made between, minor, serious, and very serious traffic offenses. A fine is only imposed for minor traffic offenses, while serious to very serious offenses could lead to a driving ban.
Fines must be paid within 15 days and many are paid immediately as police carry pin machines.
From speeding to not having car insurance, let’s take a look at what could get you in trouble.
Speeding fines can range anywhere from €60 to €2,500 or having your license suspended for up to two years, depending on the infraction.
A drunk driving fine could cost you up to €1,250 and is considered a crime if your alcohol level is 1.2 g/l or above which could lead to prison.
Driving under the influence of drugs is fined between €500 and €2,500.
Driving through a red list or crossing a solid line could cost you anywhere between €120 to €600.
Parking on a sidewalk or zebra crossing could lead to a fine of up to €300.
Not granting priority to another vehicle on the motorway could cost you between €250 to €1,200.
Using a cellphone will driving could cost you anywhere between €120 and €600 in Portugal.
Driving without a seatbelt could cost you €120 to €600.
Parking in Portugal
Compared to places like the United Kingdom and the Netherlands, Portugal has some affordable parking. Many places will actually have free parking, although in major cities like Lisbon and Porto this is becoming less frequent.
In most streets, you will need to purchase a parking ticket and place it inside your car on the window so it is visible. Don’t try to not pay your ticket, there is a high likelihood you could get fined and your car could be towed, costing you even more money.
Residents can also buy a parking sticker, this is super important if you live in Lisbon particularly, as parking is more expensive and some areas are even off-limits for non-residents. You get your first parking sticker for free. The second and third tickets cost between €50 to €150.
Importing a Car to Portugal
If you’re thinking of importing a car to Portugal, you will need to pay a fee at customs. To import your car you need to go through the Portuguese Tax and Customs Authority.
The costs will depend on the country of origin. The Vehicle Import Tax (ISV) is usually no more than 10%. You will also need to pay VAT which is 23%.
However, if you are importing your car from an EU or EFTA country, you will not be charged ISV. If you have owned your car for over six months, you are also exempt from VAT.
To import your car to Portugal you will need:
An IMT form model 9
Certificate of conformity
Transaction declaration
Transportation guide from the transportation company (you can also just drive the car yourself)
If you are visiting Portugal, it’s always recommended to rent a car. Apart from Lisbon and Porto, other major cities and quaint villages are not easily accessible by public transport. Although bus networks are present all over the country, these are incredibly slow and unreliable in some places.
The best way to travel to remote villages, as well as main cities, is to rent a car. You can always rent a car at the airport you fly into and return it when you fly back.
With RentalCars.com, you can also select different pick-up and drop-off locations if that suits your itinerary best. The company also offers flexible rentals where you can cancel or change most bookings for free up to 48 hours before pick-up.
Prices will vary on time of year and type of car. If you do not drive stick, beware that automatic car rentals tend to be more expensive.
Foreigners can buy cars in Portugal if they have proof of address in Portugal, a tax number (NIF), and an identity document.
If you are looking to purchase a brand new car, you can head to a concession of the brand you want such as Toyota or BMW. They will register your car and offer you a maintenance contract.
Alternatively, you can purchase a second-hand car which is more affordable. You can look for these in Olx, Auto-Comercio, and Guia Automovel, as well as in official car stands. In a car stand, all second-hand cards will have a minimum 12-month guarantee.
After purchasing your car, you need to fill in the Declaration of Sale and Purchase with the seller. The document will then be delivered to the Notarial Institute (IRN).
An amphibious aircraft that was fighting the fires in Portugal crashed in the region of Foz Côa. The 38-year-old pilot, André Serra, was killed in the crash. The Civil Protection has said that the artifact was a medium amphibious FireBoss dedicated to fighting rural fires.
The alert was sent out at 8:02 pm, and an INEM helicopter, the Maritime Police, and firefighters were sent to the area. The pilot’s body was found on Saturday morning in Vila Nova de Foz Côa.
The national commander for Emergency and Civil Protection, Andre Fernandes has said that the team “is feeling a sense of loss” and that the accident is being investigated to find out what happened.
Prime Minister Antonio Costa reacted to the death of the pilot via Twitter. Along with sending his condolences, the PM thanked all of those fighting the fires all over Portugal.
Foi com grande consternação que tomei conhecimento do falecimento do piloto que operava uma aeronave que caiu esta tarde no combate ao incêndio em Torre de Moncorvo.
Endereço as mais sentidas condolências à família e amigos.
President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa told CNN Portugal that he would be present for the pilot’s funeral. He also expressed his condolences and solidarity towards the family members of the pilot, saying that “he accompanies the pain of those that admired and respected him.”
Marcelo added that this is a “painful moment,” predominantly because it looked like in “the global panorama of the peak of this week” that there was “an evolution of moderation and stabilization.”
When asked whether the president had any information about the cause of the accident, he said he wasn’t allowed to speak on the issue.
The Civil Protection said on Friday that almost 190 people were injured in the last week due to forest fires in Portugal, reports JN. Four of these cases were seriously injured. 865 evacuations were held in Portugal due to the fires, but those in Santarem and Leiria have returned to their homes.
In Cumeada in the district of Santarem, 28 homes and garages were damaged.
A fire that started in Vale de Pia in Pombal spread to Ansiao in the district of Leiria, damaging at least 12 homes.
In Palmela, 12 buildings, five homes, and other tourism infrastructures were damaged.
In Faro in the Algarve, the large fire damaged four houses, four vehicles, 35 house gardens, and 13 infrastructures of agricultural support.
These are just some examples of the damage caused by the fire, with many more around Portugal.
As of Friday at 7 am, there were 13 active fires in Portugal, with 1,000 firefighters supported by 285 vehicles.
⚠️ Prolongamento da Declaração da Situação de Contingência até às 23h59m de domingo, 17 de julho, em todo o território do Continente. pic.twitter.com/XHrTVFnVH9
The state of emergency in Portugal has been extended until at least Sunday. There is a ban on:
Being in woodland areas, including forest, woodland, and rural trails
Burning garden and agricultural waste
Clearing agricultural land through burning
Using machinery in or near woodland areas (includes garden machinery)
Setting off fireworks of any kind
In case of emergency call 112. The authorities have also recommended drinking at least eight glasses of water daily and wearing loose clothing, as well as avoiding direct sun exposure and physical activity.
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