Welcome to another guide to Portugal, where we answer frequently asked questions on a range of topics, from general information to culture, history, and everything in between.
Located on the Iberian Peninsula, Portugal offers a rich variety of landscapes, from its stunning coastline to its historic cities and lush countryside.
Whether you're interested in the country's culture and fascinating history, planning a trip, monthly rentals, or looking into Portugal's economic and political situation, we offer information that may be useful to you.
Dive in and get to know Portugal better.
- General information
- Geography
- Travel and Tourism
- Culture and History
- Food and Drinks
- Politics
- Economy
- Money
General information
What is Portugal known for?
- Portugal is known for its rich history, beautiful beaches, delicious cuisine, and stunning architecture.
When is the Portugal independence day?
- Portugal's Independence Day is celebrated on December 1st.
Does Portugal have a World Cup win in the bag?
- Portugal has not won the FIFA World Cup.
What is the national animal of Portugal?
- The national animal of Portugal is the Iberian Wolf.
What are the different ways to travel to Portugal?
- Traveling to Portugal can be done by air, land, or sea.
What are the most famous Portugal animals?
- Some of the most famous animals in Portugal include the Iberian Lynx, the Barbary Macaque, and the Portuguese Water Dog.
What is the national bird of Portugal?
- The national bird of Portugal is the Barcelos Rooster.
Are there wild animals in Portugal?
- Yes, Portugal is home to various wild animals, including deer, wild boars, and various bird species.
What is Portugal National Day?
- Portugal National Day, also known as Portugal Day or Dia de Portugal, is celebrated on June 10 to commemorate the death of Luís de Camões, a famous Portuguese poet.
What is the Portugal drinking age?
- The drinking age in Portugal is 18 years old.
Where do Portugal city names come from?
- Portugal's city names have various origins, including Latin, Arabic, and Celtic influences.
What is the country code for Portugal?
- The phone code for Portugal is +351.
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What is the format of phone number Portugal?
- The format of a phone number in Portugal typically consists of nine digits, including the country code.
Can I use my Portugal number for WhatsApp?
- Yes, you can use your Portugal phone number for WhatsApp and similar apps.
What is the police number Portugal?
- The police emergency number in Portugal is 112.
What is the official currency of Portugal?
- The official currency of Portugal is the Euro.
What is the Portugal driving side?
- In Portugal, vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road.
How can I get Portugal driver's license?
- To obtain a Portugal driver's license, you will need to pass a driving test and fulfill other requirements set by the Portuguese authorities.
Do I need a Portugal driving licence to drive in Portugal?
- If you are visiting Portugal from another country, you may be able to drive with your foreign driver's license for a limited period, depending on your nationality.
What are the Portugal flag colors?
- The colors of the Portugal flag are predominantly red and green, with a coat of arms featuring gold and white elements in the center.
What does the Portugal flag represent?
- The Portugal flag has two main colors, green and red, chosen by the flag committee. They chose red to represent the sacrifice of those who fought for Portugal's republic, while green symbolizes hope. This means the flag reflects both the past and optimism for the future.
What are the most important Portugal facts?
- Some important Portugal facts include its role in maritime exploration, its rich cultural heritage, and its diverse landscapes.
What is the main religion in Portugal?
- The main religion in Portugal is Roman Catholicism.
Is Portugal in the EU?
- Yes, Portugal is a member of the European Union (EU).
What is the Portugal national anthem about?
- The Portugal national anthem, "A Portuguesa," is about the country's resilience and struggle for independence.
Is Portugal in NATO?
- Yes, Portugal is a member of NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization).
Is Portugal a third world country?
- No, Portugal is considered a developed country.
What is the gist of Portugal national anthem lyrics?
- The Portugal national anthem, "A Portuguesa," celebrates the country's history, resilience, and fight for freedom.
What is the Portugal timezone?
- Portugal follows Western European Time (WET) during standard time and Western European Summer Time (WEST) during daylight saving time.
How is the quality of life in Portugal?
- The quality of life in Portugal is generally considered high, with factors such as healthcare, education, and safety contributing positively.
Is it easy to drive in Portugal?
- Driving in Portugal can be straightforward in many areas, but it's important to be aware of local traffic laws and road conditions.
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Is Portugal dangerous to live in?
- Portugal is generally considered a safe country to live in, but like any place, it's important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
Is Portugal a Schengen country?
- Yes, Portugal is a member of the Schengen Area, allowing for visa-free travel within participating countries.
Is Portugal LGBT-friendly?
- Yes, Portugal is known for being LGBT-friendly, with legal protections for LGBTQ+ rights.
What religions can you find in Portugal?
- The main religion in Portugal is Roman Catholicism, but you can also find other faiths such as Protestantism, Islam, and Judaism.
When is Portugal Freedom Day?
- Portugal Freedom Day, also known as April 25, commemorates the Carnation Revolution of 1974.
What are the most important Portugal information that I should know?
- Some important information about Portugal includes its history, culture, and landscapes.
What is the national symbol of Portugal?
- The national symbol of Portugal is the Portuguese coat of arms, which features various elements including the armillary sphere and the cross of the Order of Christ.
What is the Portugal emergency number?
- The emergency number in Portugal is 112, which can be dialed for police, fire, or medical emergencies.
Is Portugal a Muslim country?
- No, Portugal is not a Muslim country; the majority of the population is Roman Catholic.
What is the longest river in Portugal?
- The longest river in Portugal is the Tagus River (Rio Tejo), which flows from Spain through Portugal before emptying into the Atlantic Ocean.
What is Portugal like?
- Portugal is a country in southwestern Europe known for its beautiful beaches along the Atlantic Ocean, historic cities like Lisbon and Porto, and delicious cuisine featuring seafood and pastries. It has a warm Mediterranean climate and is famous for its production of port wine in the Douro Valley. Portugal's rich history, from its Moorish and Roman influences to its Age of Discovery, is evident in its architecture and cultural landmarks.
How can you get Portugal nationality?
- You can obtain Portuguese nationality through birth, descent, marriage, or naturalization.
What are the main Portugal natural resources?
- The main natural resources in Portugal include fish, cork, minerals, and renewable energy sources like wind and solar power.
Is Portugal safe?
- Portugal is considered a safe country for citizens, residents, digital nomads, and travelers.
What are the names of Portugal rivers?
- Some of the major rivers in Portugal include the Tagus, Douro, and Guadiana rivers.
What is the name of the Portugal national park?
- The only national park in Portugal is Peneda-Gerês National Park, known for its stunning natural beauty and biodiversity.
Is there only one national park in Portugal?
- Yes. Located in the northwest region of Portugal, the Peneda-Gerês National Park is the country's only national park.
How many national parks are there in Portugal?
- Portugal has only one national park: Peneda-Gerês National Park.
Where is the national casino Portugal?
- The Casino Estoril, located in Estoril near Lisbon, is one of the most famous casinos in Portugal and often referred to as the "national casino."
What are the key facts about the National Museum of Contemporary Art Portugal?
- The National Museum of Contemporary Art Portugal, also known as the Museu do Chiado, is located in Lisbon and houses a significant collection of Portuguese contemporary art.
Where is the national library of Portugal?
- The national library of Portugal, known as the Biblioteca Nacional de Portugal, is located in Campo Grande, Lisbon.
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What is the name of the national library of Portugal?
- The national library of Portugal is called the Biblioteca Nacional de Portugal.
What is the national sport of Portugal?
- The national sport of Portugal is association football (soccer).
What are the main characteristics of a good Portugal guide?
- The main characteristics of a good Portugal guide include comprehensive knowledge of the country's history, culture, attractions, and local customs, as well as excellent communication and organizational skills.
Does Portugal have gift cards?
- Yes, Portugal does have gift cards available for purchase, which can be used at various retailers, restaurants, and online stores across the country.
Does Portugal have Uber?
- Yes, Portugal does have Uber operating in various cities across the country.
What is the national flower of Portugal?
- The national flower of Portugal is the Lavender Heath, scientifically known as Erica lusitanica. The Lavender Heath is a species of flowering plant native to Portugal and other regions of the Iberian Peninsula.
Who are the most Portugal famous people?
Portugal has been home to numerous notable individuals throughout history. Here are some famous people from Portugal:
- Ferdinand Magellan: A world-famous explorer and navigator, Magellan led the first expedition to circumnavigate the globe.
- Cristiano Ronaldo: Widely regarded as one of the greatest football players of all time, Ronaldo hails from Madeira, Portugal.
- Vasco da Gama: Another celebrated explorer, da Gama was the first European to reach India by sea, opening up lucrative trade routes.
- José Saramago: A Nobel Prize-winning author, Saramago's literary works are celebrated for their unique style and social commentary.
- Amália Rodrigues: Known as the "Queen of Fado," Rodrigues was a highly influential singer and ambassador of Portuguese culture.
- Luís Figo: A former professional footballer, Figo achieved great success playing for both club and country, earning numerous accolades throughout his career.
- Mariza: A contemporary fado singer, Mariza has gained international recognition for her powerful voice and modern interpretations of traditional Portuguese music.
- Fernando Pessoa: A prolific writer and poet, Pessoa is celebrated for his complex and innovative literary works, often written under various pseudonyms.
- Eusébio: Considered one of the greatest footballers of all time, Eusébio was known for his exceptional skill and prolific goal-scoring ability during his career.
- Maria João Pires: A world-renowned classical pianist, Pires has captivated audiences worldwide with her exceptional musical talent and interpretations of classical repertoire.
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Who is the most famous person from Portugal?
While opinions on who the most famous person from Portugal is may vary depending on individual perspectives, Cristiano Ronaldo is undoubtedly one of the most widely recognized figures. Here are some key points about Cristiano Ronaldo's fame and influence:
- Cristiano Ronaldo is a football player who has achieved immense success throughout his career.
- Born on February 5, 1985, in Madeira, Portugal, Ronaldo began his professional football journey at a young age.
- He gained prominence during his time with Sporting Lisbon in Portugal before moving on to play for top clubs such as Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus.
- Ronaldo's incredible skill, athleticism, and goal-scoring prowess have earned him numerous awards and accolades, including multiple FIFA Ballon d'Or awards, which recognize the world's best player.
- Beyond his achievements on the field, Ronaldo's global fame extends to his massive social media following, endorsement deals with major brands, and philanthropic efforts.
- He is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time and has played a significant role in elevating the profile of Portuguese football on the world stage.
- Ronaldo's impact transcends the sport of football, making him a cultural icon and a symbol of Portuguese pride for many people around the world.
What are people from Portugal called?
- What do you call someone from Portugal? Here’s the answer: The term "Portuguese" is used to describe people who are native to or citizens of Portugal.
What language do people speak in Portugal?
In Portugal, the primary language spoken is Portuguese. Here are some key points about the language spoken in Portugal:
- Portuguese is the official language of Portugal and the most widely spoken language in the country.
- It belongs to the Romance language family and shares similarities with other Romance languages such as Spanish, Italian, and French.
- The Portuguese language has evolved over centuries, influenced by various cultures and historical events.
- Standard Portuguese, known as "European Portuguese," is the variety of the language spoken in Portugal, while Brazilian Portuguese is the predominant variety spoken in Brazil.
- Portuguese is also spoken in other countries and regions, including parts of Africa, Asia, and the Americas, due to Portugal's historical colonial influence.
- The language is characterized by its phonetic spelling, with each letter generally corresponding to one sound, and its distinct nasal vowels.
Do they speak English in Portugal?
- Yes, English is spoken in Portugal, particularly in tourist areas.
Is Portugal a Spanish-speaking country?
- No, Portugal is not a Spanish-speaking country; its official language is Portuguese.
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Do they speak Spanish in Portugal?
- Portuguese is the official language of Portugal, but Spanish is also understood by some people, especially in border regions.
What languages are spoken in Portugal?
- The main language spoken in Portugal is Portuguese, although English and Spanish are also understood by many people.
Is it easy to find accommodation in Portugal?
There are various online rental platforms, such as Flatio, where you can easily and securely rent flexible accommodation in different parts of Portugal, including:
- Accommodation in Porto
- Accommodation in Lisbon
- Accommodation in Faro (Algarve)
- Accommodation in Funchal (Madeira)
Geography
What is the capital of Portugal?
- The capital of Portugal is Lisbon.
What is the Portugal main city?
- Lisbon is the main city in Portugal.
What continent is Portugal in?
- Portugal is in Europe.
Where is Portugal located?
- Portugal is located in southwestern Europe.
Where is Portugal on the map of Europe?
- Portugal is situated on the western edge of the Iberian Peninsula in Europe.
What are the largest cities in Portugal?
The largest cities in Portugal are:
- Lisbon
- Porto
- Vila Nova de Gaia
- Amadora
- Braga
What is the largest city in Portugal?
- The largest city in Portugal is Lisbon.
What are Portugal major cities?
Portugal's major cities include:
- Lisbon
- Porto
- Braga
- Coimbra
- Faro
What do Portugal towns typically look like?
- Portugal's towns often feature narrow winding streets, whitewashed buildings, and historic architecture.
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What is the 2nd largest city in Portugal?
- The second largest city in Portugal is Porto.
What are the top 5 small towns in Portugal?
According to many travel experts, the top 5 small towns in Portugal are:
- Óbidos
- Sintra
- Tavira
- Evora
- Aveiro
What do the main cities of Portugal typically look like?
- Portugal's main cities feature a mix of historic architecture, modern amenities, and lively cultural scenes.
How big is Portugal?
- Portugal has a total area of approximately 92,090 square kilometers (35,560 square miles).
Is Portugal Hispanic?
- No, Portugal is not considered Hispanic; it is a European country with a distinct cultural identity.
What is the population of Portugal?
- As of February 2024, the population of Portugal is approximately 10.3 million people.
Is Portugal Mediterranean?
- Yes, Portugal is considered a Mediterranean country, with a climate, cuisine, and lifestyle characteristic of Mediterranean regions.
What is the Portugal population density?
- The population density of Portugal is approximately 113 people per square kilometer.
What are the advantages of the location of Portugal?
- The location of Portugal provides advantages such as access to the Atlantic Ocean, strategic trade routes, and a mild climate conducive to agriculture and tourism.
What region is Portugal in?
- Portugal is located in southwestern Europe on the Iberian Peninsula.
What are the main characteristics of Portugal landscape?
- Portugal's landscape features diverse terrain, including mountains, rolling hills, coastal cliffs, and fertile plains.
Are there states in Portugal?
- No, Portugal is not divided into states; it is divided into administrative regions called districts.
How many Portugal districts are there?
- Portugal has 18 districts, each with its own administrative center and local government.
How many Portugal provinces are there?
- Portugal does not have provinces; instead, it is divided into districts and municipalities.
What are some of the most important Portugal national holidays?
- Important national holidays in Portugal include Carnaval, Portugal Day (Dia de Portugal), and Christmas.
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What is the famous island off of Portugal?
- The famous island off the coast of Portugal is Madeira, known for its lush landscapes, wine production, and annual Flower Festival.
What is the best island in Portugal?
- The best island in Portugal is subjective, but Madeira and the Azores are popular choices for their natural beauty and outdoor activities.
What are the countries near Portugal?
- Spain and Portugal share a border, while Portugal is also near the Atlantic Ocean.
What countries border Portugal?
- Portugal is bordered only by Spain, with no other countries sharing a land border with it.
How long is the Portugal border with Spain?
- The Portugal-Spain border extends for approximately 1,214 kilometers (about 754 miles).
What is the highest point in Portugal?
- Torre, situated in the Serra da Estrela mountain range, holds the distinction of being the highest point on mainland Portugal. However, it is the second-highest point in the entire country, with Mount Pico in the Azores surpassing it in elevation.
Travel and tourism
What are the most famous landmarks in Portugal?
Some of the most famous places in Portugal include:
- Belém Tower (Torre de Belém) in Lisbon
- Jerónimos Monastery (Mosteiro dos Jerónimos) in Lisbon
- Pena Palace (Palácio da Pena) in Sintra
- São Jorge Castle (Castelo de São Jorge) in Lisbon
- Batalha Monastery (Mosteiro da Batalha) in Batalha
- Ribeira District in Porto
- Porto Cathedral (Sé do Porto) in Porto
- Capela dos Ossos (Chapel of Bones) in Évora
- Palácio da Bolsa (Stock Exchange Palace) in Porto
- Cabo da Roca (Cape Roca) in Sintra, the westernmost point of continental Europe
What are the most popular cities in Portugal?
The most popular cities in Portugal for tourists include:
- Lisbon
- Porto
- Sintra
- Lagos
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What should I know about Portugal customs?
- When traveling to Portugal, it's important to be aware of customs regulations regarding items that are prohibited or restricted from entering the country, such as certain foods, plants, and animals.
Is it safe to travel to Portugal?
- Generally, Portugal is considered safe for travelers, but it's always wise to exercise caution and follow local advice.
Is it safe to travel to Portugal right now?
- Portugal is considered safe now for travelers, but it's always advisable to stay informed about local conditions.
Is Portugal gay-friendly?
- Portugal is known for being gay-friendly, with legal protections for LGBTQ+ rights.
Is Portugal racist?
- Portugal is not considered racist, with further efforts being made to minimize discrimination and promote inclusivity.
Is Portugal safe for solo female travellers?
- Portugal is generally safe for solo female travelers, but it's important to take usual precautions and stay aware of surroundings.
What activities should I try in southern Portugal?
- In southern Portugal, you can enjoy activities such as sunbathing on beautiful beaches, exploring historic towns, and trying water sports like surfing and snorkeling.
What are the most touristic regions in Portugal?
- The most touristy regions in Portugal include Lisbon and the Algarve in the south, as well as Porto and the Douro Valley in the north.
Whare the best attractions in the south of Portugal?
- Some of the best attractions in southern Portugal include the beaches of the Algarve, historic towns like Lagos and Faro, and natural wonders like the Benagil Sea Cave.
What are the most beautiful south Portugal beaches?
Some of the most beautiful beaches in southern Portugal include:
- Praia da Marinha
- Praia da Rocha
- Praia de Benagil
What are some must-visit destinations in north Portugal?
- Must-visit destinations in northern Portugal include Porto, the Douro Valley wine region, and historic towns like Braga, Guimarães, and Aveiro.
What are some famous northern Portugal beaches?
Some famous beaches in northern Portugal include:
- Praia de Moledo
- Praia da Apúlia
- Praia de Matosinhos
Where are the best places for hiking in Portugal?
- Some of the best places for hiking in Portugal include Peneda-Gerês National Park, the Rota Vicentina trail along the Alentejo coast, and the Azores islands with their volcanic landscapes and lush forests.
Culture and history
What is the oldest city in Portugal?
- The oldest city in Portugal is Braga.
Which are some of the main countries on the list of countries colonized by Portugal?
- Countries colonized by Portugal include Brazil, Angola, Mozambique, and Cape Verde, among others.
What are the most important Portugal culture facts?
- Some important Portugal culture facts include its rich history of exploration, Fado music, and traditional festivals.
What should I know about Portugal culture and traditions?
- It's important to know about Portugal's strong Catholic heritage, love for Fado music, and festive celebrations like Carnival and São João.
What was the Portugal old flag?
- The old flag of Portugal featured a different coat of arms and design compared to the current flag.
What are the most important Portugal traditions?
- Some important Portugal traditions include Fado music, religious festivals, and culinary customs.
What does the Portugal traditional clothing look like?
- Traditional Portuguese clothing varies by region but often includes embroidered garments and colorful patterns.
Who was the last king of Portugal?
- The last king of Portugal was King Manuel II, who reigned until 1910 when the monarchy was abolished.
Food and drinks
What is the Portugal food culture like?
- Portugal's food culture emphasizes fresh seafood, hearty stews, and pastries, influenced by both Mediterranean and Atlantic cuisine.
What is the national dish of Portugal?
- The national dish of Portugal is Bacalhau à Brás, a savory dish made with salted cod, eggs, and potatoes.
What are the main ingredients in typical Portugal dishes?
- Typical Portuguese dishes often feature seafood, olive oil, garlic, onions, and fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro.
What food is Portugal known for?
- Portugal is known for its delicious seafood, especially bacalhau (salted cod), grilled sardines, and seafood rice dishes.
What are some popular foods in Portugal?
- Popular foods in Portugal include Pastéis de Nata (custard tarts), Francesinha (a hearty sandwich), and Caldo Verde (kale soup).
What is the national drink of Portugal?
- There's no definite answer to this, but some say the national drink of Portugal is either Port or Ginjinha.
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What is the most popular alcohol in Portugal?
- The most popular alcohol in Portugal is wine, particularly varieties such as Vinho Verde, Port wine, and Madeira wine.
What are some Portugal famous dishes?
- Some famous Portuguese dishes include Caldo Verde (kale soup), Polvo à Lagareiro (grilled octopus), and Arroz de Marisco (seafood rice).
What traditional dishes can be found in northern Portugal?
- Traditional dishes in northern Portugal include Tripas à moda do Porto, Francesinha, Cozido à Portuguesa, Feijoada à Transmontana, Arroz de cabidela, Rojões, Bacalhau à Gomes de Sá, and Caldo Verde.
What traditional dishes can be found in south Portugal?
- In southern Portugal, you can find traditional dishes such as bacalhau com natas, pasteis de bacalhau, pataniscas de bacalhau, and arroz de bacalhau.
Politics
Does Portugal have a king?
- No, Portugal does not have a king.
Does Portugal have a monarchy?
- No, Portugal is a republic and does not have a monarchy.
Does Portugal have a royal family?
- No, Portugal does not have a royal family.
What are the main facts about the Portugal government?
- The main facts about Portugal's government include its status as a democratic republic with a President and a Prime Minister.
What type of government does Portugal have?
- In Portugal, politics functions under a unitary multi-party semi-presidential representative democratic republic system, where the Prime Minister serves as the head of government and the President as the non-executive head of state, wielding various significant political powers.
What are the key facts about Portugal politics?
- Key facts about Portugal politics include its multi-party system and participation in the European Union.
What are the main Portugal political parties?
- The main political parties in Portugal include the Socialist Party, Social Democratic Party, and Left Bloc, among others.
Who is the president of Portugal?
- As of February 2024, the President of Portugal is Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa.
Economy
What are the main contributors to the Portugal economy?
- The main contributors to the Portuguese economy include industries such as tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, and services.
Is Portugal poor or rich?
- Portugal is considered a developed country with a mixed economy, but it faces challenges such as low basic income and and public debt.
Is Portugal a developed country?
- Yes, Portugal is classified as a developed country.
Is Portugal socialist or capitalist?
- Portugal has a mixed economy with elements of both socialism and capitalism.
What is the current inflation situation in Portugal?
- Inflation in Portugal is currently moderate, with consumer prices experiencing gradual increases over time.
Money
What should I know about the Portugal exchange rate?
- You should know that the exchange rate of Portugal is determined by various factors such as economic conditions, interest rates, and global market trends. Additionally, Portugal uses the Euro (EUR) as its official currency, which is commonly used for transactions within the country.
How to send money to Portugal?
- You can send money to Portugal through various methods such as bank transfers, online money transfer services, or international wire transfers.
Flatio: Flexible, secure rental accommodation in Portugal
There are many platforms where you can find apartments for rent in Portugal. But not all of them offer flexible, deposit-free, and remote work-friendly options with visa-friendly lease agreements.
If you would like to make your stay in Portugal or your move there even more pleasant and unforgettable, we recommend you take a look at the listings on Flatio, which is considered a good alternative to Airbnb, Vrbo, and similar platforms.
These are some of the features that set us apart from other rental accommodation providers:
- Flexible stays (rooms, flats, houses), starting from 5 days
- Deposit-free policy
- Balanced, legally binding, visa-friendly lease agreement (translated into multiple languages)
- A very attractive cancelation policy
- Online signing of lease agreement
- Utilities and Wi-Fi included
- StayProtection for Tenants, a service package to help tenants deal with emergencies such as internet problems and blocked doors, as well as accidental damage to property
- Move-in Guarantee with a 24/7 emergency line
- 100% money protection
- Customer support available every day of the week
- No hidden fees
- A secure and simple payment system (including the possibility to pay with Bitcoin)
