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Public holidays (Bank Holidays) in
Portugal are far more frequent than the United Kingdom. In Portugal
public holidays are provided for a variety of reasons including the
celebration of the various instigations of republics, Saints' Days
and of course other religious festivals.
Most commercial venues including
supermarkets, cafes, restaurants and service stations in Portugal
will respect these religious dates and of course the Saints' dates
and will remain closed, though this does vary from region to region.
However in addition to the mandatory
holiday dates each town or city in Portugal also has it's own
municipal holiday date, where most commercial outlets will
automatically close for the day and these dates are listed separate.
*see Town Public Holidays in
Portugal.
Unlike the United Kingdom where a Bank
Holidays are moved forward to the following Monday (Segunda Feira),
in
Portugal
fall on the respective day. This can cause
disruption to the working week, in
Portugal,
the day a public holiday falls is the day it is taken. For those
working
in Portugal though, this can be an excellent way
to gain an extra weeks' holiday by simply taking an extra 'bridging'
day off, which many do ensuring the wheels of commerce in Portugal
turn slowly throughout the year. However for anyone visiting
Portugal, either as a holiday or on business, it can cause untold
chaos.
If you are planning a holiday; weekend
away; considering a organising a property viewing trip,
or are already
living in Portugal, it is
worthwhile noting down these dates as it could save you time, money
and effort visiting attractions, shops or companies which will be
closed (fechado) on them. |
