foreign travel advice portugal

Search Smartraveller

Latest update

Exercise normal safety precautions in Portugal.

Portugal (PDF 730.35 KB)

Europe (PDF 2.62 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies, advice levels.

• The national terrorism alert for Portugal is 'significant' (level 3 out of 5). Always be alert to terrorism. Terrorists have targeted European cities, including transport hubs and places visited by travellers. Take official warnings seriously.
• Strikes and public demonstrations are common. These can cause street congestion, disrupt public services, and affect transport services, including buses, trains, metro, ferries and flights. Most demonstrations are peaceful but could become violent. Avoid demonstrations and public protests, monitor the media and follow the advice of local authorities.
• Bag snatching, pickpocketing and theft from cars occur. Keep valuables out of sight. Pay attention to your belongings at beaches, tourist spots, and public transport. Incidents of physical assault associated with pickpocketing have been reported to the police. Violent crimes, such as robberies and assaults, happen. Drink spiking is also a risk. Don't accept drinks from strangers or leave drinks unattended.
• Be aware of accommodation scams. These are on the rise. Use official websites when booking accommodation.
• People have drowned at Portuguese beaches and in rivers. Obey lifeguard warnings. A red flag means 'danger, don't enter the water'. Pay attention to signs about cliff erosion.
• High temperatures and bushfires regularly impact mainland Portugal during the summer months. Localised flooding can occur during the winter months, particularly in cities. Monitor the media and follow the advice of local authorities.

Full travel advice:  Safety

• If you need urgent medical assistance, call 112.
• The Portuguese health system is experiencing ongoing staffing shortages and strikes, particularly for non-urgent medical care. You may experience delays in accessing public health care services, particularly for non-urgent care.
• Large private medical facilities in major cities are comparable to Australia's standards. Standards in public facilities and rural areas vary but are generally of a lower standard than in Australia. 
• Private medical facilities provide good quality care but may require payment upfront. Medical treatment is expensive. There is no reciprocal health care agreement between Australia and Portugal.

Full travel advice:  Health

• Gambling is legal in official casinos and licensed venues. It's illegal elsewhere. Check that you're entering a licensed venue.
• You must always carry photo identification.
• Don't ride an e-scooter or e-bike under the influence of alcohol. You can be fined.

Portugal recognises dual nationality.

Full travel advice:  Local laws

• Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Portugal for the latest details. 
• Portugal is part of the  Schengen area . This allows you to enter Portugal without a visa in some circumstances. 

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  details what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
• If you're a victim of crime, get support from Portugal's Victims of Crime support unit,  APAV.   English-speaking services are available. 
• For consular help, contact the  Australian Embassy  in Lisbon.
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the embassy's social media accounts:  Facebook ,  X   and  Instagram .

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Petty crime.

Bag snatching, pickpocketing and theft from cars can occur, especially in tourist areas.

Pay particular attention to your belongings at:

• tourist attractions and museums
• railway stations and cruise terminals
• public transport, especially on trams in heavily frequented tourist areas
• bars, nightclubs, restaurants and hotel foyers

Criminals target cruise ship passengers at the terminals. Pay attention to your belongings when leaving cruise ships or transferring to buses and local transport.

To keep your valuables safe:

• keep your passport and other identity documents separate
• use ATMs in banks, shops and shopping centres, not on the street
• don't leave your bag on the back of the chair or at your feet in restaurants or cafes

Put a card with your contact details in your wallet. Tourist police will contact you if someone hands in your lost or stolen property.

More information:

• Going on a cruise

Theft from vehicles 

Thieves target vehicles with foreign licence plates and rental car stickers. 

To protect your belongings in your vehicle:

• keep car doors locked and luggage out of sight at all times
• use a secure parking facility, especially overnight
• don't leave your vehicle unattended for long periods
• avoid hiring cars with rental company stickers. 

Violent crime

Robberies  and assaults on foreigners occur, particularly in Lisbon, Porto and the Algarve area at popular tourist locations and nightclubs/bars. Incidents of pickpocketing and physical assault have been reported to the police. 

To reduce your risk of violent crime:

• avoid walking in quiet and poorly lit streets, especially at night
• monitor the media for updates on safety and security risks

Scams and fraud

Accommodation scams, particularly in Lisbon and the Algarve, are on the rise. Book accommodation using secure payment platforms and trusted websites.

Don't agree to compensate drivers for alleged damage to their vehicles. Always contact the police.

Be wary of scams relating to ATM cards and the 'MB way' money transfer app.

Cyber security 

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:  

• Cyber security when travelling overseas  

Civil unrest and political tension

Strikes and public demonstrations are common. These can cause street congestion, disrupt public services and affect transport services, including buses, trains, metro, ferries and flights.

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

To stay safe during periods of unrest:

• avoid crowds, protests and demonstrations
• check local sources for information on possible strikes or unrest
• follow the advice of local authorities
• contact your travel or tour operator about disruptions to travel
• Demonstrations and civil unrest

While there have been no recent terrorist attacks in Portugal, they can still happen.

The national terrorism alert for Portugal has been raised from 'moderate' to 'significant' (level 3 out of 5) as a precaution due to the situation in the Middle East and several security incidents in other European countries.

In recent years, terrorists have staged attacks in several European cities.

Targets have included:

• public transport
• transport hubs
• public places popular with foreigners.

European security services have disrupted some planned attacks.

To protect yourself from terrorist threats:

• be alert to possible threats in public places
• exercise caution in locations that could be terrorist targets
• report suspicious activity or items to the police
• monitor local news for new or emerging threats
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the instructions of local authorities

If there's an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe. Avoid the affected area in case of secondary attacks.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

More information

Tours and adventure activities

Deaths by drowning occur regularly at Portuguese beaches, including riverside beaches, and in swimming pools. If you disobey lifeguard warnings or flags, you could be fined.

Take coloured warning flags on beaches seriously:

• red - danger, don't enter the water
• yellow - you may paddle at the water's edge but not swim
• green flag - safe to swim
• chequered - lifeguards not present

Seas can be rough, particularly during the winter months. Beaches aren't patrolled during this period. Exercise caution if entering the water. 

Pay attention to signs about cliff erosion. Remain behind the barriers at viewing spots. Falling rocks are a hazard, particularly in the Algarve. You can be fined if you ignore warning signs.

Follow local advice if jellyfish are present, as they can cause serious injury.

Never leave belongings unattended on the beach or in vehicles parked at beach car parks. Youth gangs meet along the beaches between Lisbon and Cascais and have robbed beach-goers.

Climate and natural disasters

Portugal experiences  natural disasters  and  severe weather , including earthquakes, fires and localised flooding.

During a natural disaster or severe weather, monitor the media and other sources, such as the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System , and follow the advice of local authorities.

• Floods and fires
• Portuguese Institute for the Sea and Atmosphere (Portuguese)
• Portuguese National Civil Protection Authority

Earthquakes

Portugal is in an active earthquake zone and experiences regular  seismic activity,  particularly on the islands of the Azores.

Bushfires and forest fires

High temperatures and bushfires are common in the warmer months, including near coastal and tourist areas.

Large forest fires have caused many deaths and injuries in recent years. In addition to the immediate risk posed by forest fires, the smoke produced may affect those with sensitive respiratory systems. 

Causing a bushfire is an offence, even if it's an accident.

Check the  Portuguese Meteorological Service  and  Portuguese National Civil Protection Authority  for warnings and updates.

Localised flooding

Localised flooding can occur in Portugal during winter, particularly in urban areas. Exercise caution around affected areas, and don't attempt to cross flooded areas. 

Check the  Portuguese Meteorological Service  and  Portuguese National Civil Protection Authority  for warnings and updates.

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave. 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

You may have to pay thousands of dollars up-front for medical care if you're not insured.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away (including stopovers on the way to your destination)

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. Many public hospitals in Portugal are full and under strain.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Not all medications available over the counter or by prescription in Australia are available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Portugal. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

You can carry prescription medicines for personal use into Portugal.

To receive medications by post, you may require an import permit.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

Portuguese pharmacies usually carry medications similar to those in Australia. They may be a different brand or dosage. You may need a prescription from a local doctor.

Health risks

Health risks are broadly similar to those in Australia.

Medical care

Medical facilities.

The Portuguese public health system is experiencing ongoing staffing shortages. You may experience delays in accessing health care services, particularly for non-urgent care.

Large private medical facilities in major cities are comparable to Australia's standards.

The standards of public facilities vary and are generally lower than in Australia, even in major cities. 

Treatment costs are high, especially at private facilities.

You may need to pay before doctors and hospitals treat you.

You may need to confirm insurance or guarantee payment before a private hospital will admit you.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Possession and use of illegal drugs are administrative offences and can attract large fines. Selling or trafficking illegal drugs is a criminal offence. Penalties are severe and can include jail sentences.

• Carrying or using drugs

Gambling is legal in venues licensed by the government, such as official casinos.

Gambling is illegal in unlicensed venues. Organisers, players and anyone on the premises may be charged, fined or jailed.

Check you're entering a licensed gambling venue.

You must carry photo ID in Portugal.

You can be fined if you ride an e-scooter or e-bike under the influence of alcohol.

You may be required to pay IVA (VAT/GST) and/or customs fees to receive international parcels via mail in Portugal, including online shopping and gifts. Fees may seem high relative to the value of goods, and you may be asked to attend a customs facility or pay an agent to release goods. 

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

Authorities consider a dual citizen living in Portugal to be Portuguese.

• Dual nationals

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Portugal is part of the  Schengen area . This allows you to enter Portugal without a visa in some circumstances. In other situations, you'll need a visa.

Get a clear entry stamp on your passport when you first enter the  Schengen area , including Portugal.

Airlines might refuse boarding if you don't have proof of entry or have overstayed your Schengen visa.

Carry your passport when crossing borders, even within the  Schengen area .

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. For details about visas, currency, customs and other travel requirements, contact:

• the  Portuguese Immigration and Border Service
• an  embassy or consulate of Portugal

Entry into Portugal

If you plan on entering Portugal on a non-Australian passport, consult that country's website, embassy or consulate.

If you're arriving from a non-European Union country, you may be subject to longer than expected delays for entry processing, particularly at Lisbon airport.

Check the requirements for  arriving  in Portugal, including the islands of  Madeira  and the  Azores . 

Portuguese Government websites, including the official Tourism Agency ( Visit Portugal ), Border Agency ( AIMA ) and COVID response (' Estamos On' ), particularly English-language versions, are often out of date or inaccurate.  Contact the embassy or consulate of Portugal for current information .

Departure from Portugal

Check the re-entry or quarantine arrangements of any country you're travelling to or transiting through. Be aware that requirements can change at short notice. Contact your airline, travel agent or insurance company.

Travelling with children

Under Portuguese law, foreign minors under 18 years of age entering or exiting Portugal must have an authorisation letter of parental consent to travel if travelling without their parent/s or legal guardian/s. Check the  legal requirements  for a letter.

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Carry copies of the photograph page of your passport in case you're stopped by local authorities.

Lost or stolen passports

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible and obtain a local police report.

• In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with 'X' gender identifier 

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing an 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

• LGBTQIA+ travellers  

The local currency is the euro (EUR).

Declare amounts over 10,000 euros or the same amount in another foreign currency. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

This applies if you're travelling between Portugal and any non-European Union country. You don't need to declare currency if you're travelling to or from another European Union country.

You'll be fined if you don't declare or give incorrect information.

Foreign bank cards may not be accepted in smaller shops, restaurants, towns or rural areas. You can use Australian credit cards at larger hotels and shopping centres.

Local travel

Check border conditions through local news sources and transport providers.

Driving permit

You can drive in Portugal using a valid Australian driver's licence. 

If you hold a residence permit for Portugal, you can continue to use your valid Australian driver's license as long as you meet certain  conditions . 

• Driving or riding
• Visit Portugal

Road travel

Portugal has a high rate of motor vehicle accidents and road fatalities.

Dangers include:

• unpredictable local driving habits
• driving under the influence of substances
• vehicles travelling at excessive speed on motorways
• poorly marked secondary roads and narrow cobblestone streets
• blind corners
• poor lighting
• livestock in rural areas, including in the Azores

Occasional rock falls occur on regional coastal roads.

You must report traffic accidents to the police.

There are large on-the-spot fines for:

• drink-driving
• using a mobile phone while driving

E-scooters are becoming an increasingly popular mode of transport, particularly in major cities. The number of incidences involving e-scooters is on the rise. Wear a helmet and be alert to the road traffic around you. 

Taxis are usually reliable. However, there are reports of taxi drivers overcharging, threatening and harassing passengers at Lisbon airport. There are no fixed taxi transfer fees at airports.

Ride-sharing services are available and legal.

Official taxis are usually identifiable as black and green. 

To stay safe in taxis:

• ask the taxi driver to use the meter
• ask for a receipt, which taxi drivers must provide if requested

There are no taxi meters in the Azores. Confirm the fare before your trip starts.

Tuk-tuks are common in popular tourist areas.

Check your insurance covers you in the event of an accident in a tuk-tuk.

Always use a seatbelt.

Thieves may try to snatch your possessions when travelling by tuk-tuk, particularly in tourist areas.

Public transport

Public transport is usually safe and reliable.

You can top up rechargeable tickets at metro and train stations. Use these tickets on most public buses, ferries, trams, trains and the metro.

Strikes and public demonstrations are common. These can cause street congestion and affect transport services, including buses, trains, metro, ferries and flights.

• Transport and getting around safely

If you arrive via sea, including on a  cruise , visa and other entry requirements, including Schengen, apply. This applies regardless of how long you stay. See the information on visas above. 

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check  Portugal's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

For non-urgent criminal issues, contact the nearest police station.

To contact tourist police stations in Lisbon, Porto, Portimão and Cascais:

• call 342 1634 or 342 1623.
• email  [email protected]

You can email to ask for a police report after leaving Portugal.

Support for victims of crime

If you're a victim of crime, get support from Portugal's Victims of Crime support unit, APAV. English support services are available.

Rua José Estévão, 135 A, Pisos 1/2

 150-201 Lisbon

Phone: 21 358 7900

Email:  [email protected]

Website:  APAV Victim Support

Free Phone Victim Support Helpline: 116 006

Infovictims  (a European platform to support victims of crime) has information about criminal proceedings, victim's rights and support services available.

The  National Immigrant Support Centre (CNAI)  supports expats.

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular assistance, contact the Australian Embassy in Lisbon.

Australian Embassy, Lisbon

Victoria Building Avenida da Liberdade 200 – 2nd Floor 1250-147 Lisbon Phone: (+351 21) 310 1500 Fax: (+351 21) 310 1555 Email:  [email protected] Website:  portugal.embassy.gov.au Facebook:  Australia in Portugal

X:  @AusAmbPT

Instagram: @ausembpt

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

You need an appointment for passport and notarial services. Book via the  Embassy website .

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

Travelling to Portugal?

Sign up to get the latest travel advice updates..

Be the first to know official government advice when travelling.

• Print Edition
• Classifieds

Subscribe to our newsletter

Read today's Portuguese stories delivered to your email.

New travel to Portugal rules now in force

By TPN/Lusa, in Tourism , COVID-19 , Portugal · 07 Feb 2022, 10:09 · 10 Comments

Now, to enter the country, “only the presentation of the Covid Digital Certificate of the European Union in its three modalities or other duly recognised proof of vaccination is now required”, according to the office of the Minister of the Presidency.

The Council of Ministers also approved changes regarding the Covid digital certificate and adjustments to proof of vaccination to be presented for access to certain establishments.

Now, the digital certificate requires that rapid antigen tests be performed within the previous 24 hours, instead of the 48-hour deadline, and in the case of a molecular nucleic acid amplification test (TAAN), the deadline is 72 hours.

Regarding vaccination, the Covid-19 digital certificate now attests to the completion of the primary vaccination programme for more than 14 days and less than 270 days since the last dose, or the booster dose.

The rules regarding the recovery certificate remain unchanged.

For further details about travel rules for Portugal, please visit here.

Share this article: Share

More in Tourism

New Milan route announced

In Tourism , Europe , Madeira & Azores - 07 Jun 2024, 09:02

The Red Chalet: redefining outdoor luxury

In Tourism , Business , Algarve - 31 May 2024, 10:01

Where is the Algarve's most picturesque beach?

In Tourism , Algarve - 04 May 2024, 17:02

Support The Portugal News

We are proud to provide our readers from around the world with independent, honest and unbiased news for free – both online and in print. Our dedicated team supports the local community, foreign residents and visitors of all nationalities through our newspaper, website, social media and our newsletter.

We appreciate that not everyone can afford to pay for our services but if you are able to, we ask you to support The Portugal News by making a contribution – no matter how small .

You can change how much you give or cancel your contributions at any time.

Does the acceptance of a EU Covid test certificate for entry to PT apply to UK ones as well

By RICHARD MCKENZIE from UK on 07 Feb 2022, 15:30

The detail on the third line of the first paragraph appears to be incorrect and misleading. It is inconsistent with the rules given on the official Visit Portugal website. Your article says UK citizens can enter with just proof of vaccination but in reality it would appear you still need a negative test or a recovery certificate?

By Alan Booth from Algarve on 07 Feb 2022, 15:43

What time on 7th because my husband came back from the UK today and they were still issuing fined

By Linda from Porto on 07 Feb 2022, 16:18

Once again, this applies only to EU (and recognized third countries). It does NOT apply to North America and the rest of the world. Your article does not indicate this important fact.

By David White from USA on 07 Feb 2022, 16:50

I’m still waiting for someone to explain why vaccinated travellers, who can still contract and transmit the virus, are allowed to enter without testing. Why are they free to spread it? This is discrimination purely to coerce people who do not want to be vaccinated to get injected.

By SS from Algarve on 07 Feb 2022, 19:43

We are a bit confused, Fly on Monday the 21st my second dose was in September and had my booster today. My Wife had second dose in April and also having booster today. that takes us over the 14 days by one/two days! our 13 year old has had no vaccinations for medical reasons we decided it wasn't worth the risk..... Still don't know who has to test prior who can get into venues! We would like to eat in local restaurants as I'm sure they need the business after the last 2 years, rather than just go to Lidl and eat from Apartment

By Stephen from UK on 08 Feb 2022, 12:09

Would you kindly published a corrected version of this story as it is very confusing/inaccurate. It suggests that a test is not needed and then goes on to say that it is. The Visitportugal website suggests that a valid Vaccination Certificate or Test Certificate or Recovery Certificate. The use of "or" appears to indicate that only one of of these options is required. The statement "Or a valid vaccination or recovery certificate issued by a third country, under reciprocal conditions" and listing several countries including UK suggests the NHS vaccine passport is acceptable. Allowing fully vaccinated travellers into Portugal without a test means that Portugal and the EU has moved on. It is a decisive action that it is now time to live with Covid (as per colds, Flu and other viruses).

By Paolito from Algarve on 08 Feb 2022, 13:12

Could this Newspaper please call the Government and update this article. Some of the information does not match what the official rules state. Also check for North American traveler requirements and UK. Do we test or not if vaccinated and current? Will a USA CDC Vac Card Paper form work?

By Bob Jay from Lisbon on 08 Feb 2022, 15:08

UK fully vaccinated residents can enter Portugal without a test as long as they are fully vaccinated and can show their certificate and complete the Passenger Locator Card online BEFORE check in at the airport as you will be asked for this. The gov uk website has this information https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/portugal/entry-requirements

By Margo from Porto on 08 Feb 2022, 15:55

Suddenly as of 12 February 2022, fully vaccinated Canadians can no longer enter mainland Portugal except for "essential travel". This happened 3 days before we were to depart for the Algarve for 6 weeks vacation; we had to cancel all our plans and bookings? Why are Canadians banned?

By Bal Kakaria from Other on 15 Feb 2022, 11:26

Related articles

Reopening borders

In Asia , World - 28 Dec 2022, 15:01

Dropping Covid-19 vaccine rules

In Europe , COVID-19 , World - 01 Nov 2022, 11:31

Final Covid-19 travel rules lifted

In Europe , World , COVID-19 - 25 Oct 2022, 09:31

Algarve “reaping the fruits of our labour”

In Portugal , COVID-19 - 07 Jun 2022, 10:01

EC recognises three more digital certificates

In Tourism , World , Europe - 12 May 2022, 11:05

Masks on flights and at airport no longer recommended

In COVID-19 , Tourism , Europe - 11 May 2022, 12:06

New books to read this week

In Lifestyle , Entertainment , Education - 14 Jun 2024, 17:05

Police reinforcements for summer begin

In News , Portugal , Tourism , Crime - 14 Jun 2024, 17:05

Support for new bridge and airport

In News , Portugal , Lisbon - 14 Jun 2024, 16:02

Other Tourism Articles

Major tourism investment for central Portugal

In Tourism , News , Central - 04 May 2024, 15:02

Tourism Oscars crowns Mondego Walkways

In Tourism , News , Porto & North - 08 Mar 2024, 17:03

Best island destination announced

In Tourism , Madeira & Azores - 07 Mar 2024, 11:02

Azores tourism continues to thrive

In Tourism , Madeira & Azores - 05 Mar 2024, 17:01

Optimistic Easter for tourism

In Tourism , News , Algarve - 05 Mar 2024, 09:02

Top cars from 2023

In Tourism - 30 Dec 2023, 17:01

Send us your comments or opinion on this article.

Available languages

You are using an outdated browser. Upgrade your browser today or install Google Chrome Frame to better experience this site.

Portugal Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

There are no notices currently in effect for Portugal.

⇧ Top

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Consider hepatitis A vaccination for most travelers. It is recommended for travelers who will be doing higher risk activities, such as visiting smaller cities, villages, or rural areas where a traveler might get infected through food or water. It is recommended for travelers who plan on eating street food.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Portugal. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Portugal.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Dogs infected with rabies are not commonly found in Portugal.

If rabies exposures occur while in Portugal, rabies vaccines are typically available throughout most of the country.

Rabies pre-exposure vaccination considerations include whether travelers 1) will be performing occupational or recreational activities that increase risk for exposure to potentially rabid animals and 2) might have difficulty getting prompt access to safe post-exposure prophylaxis.

Please consult with a healthcare provider to determine whether you should receive pre-exposure vaccination before travel.

For more information, see country rabies status assessments .

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil
• Avoid floodwater

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites.

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite
• Avoid Bug Bites
• Mosquito bite
• An infected pregnant woman can spread it to her unborn baby

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Portugal, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the  Department of State Country Information Pages  for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Although Portugal is an industrialized country, bug bites here can still spread diseases. Just as you would in the United States, try to avoid bug bites while spending time outside or in wooded areas.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Consider using permethrin-treated clothing and gear if spending a lot of time outside. Do not use permethrin directly on skin.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Portugal include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip:

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in the heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if you are driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately.  Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance for things your regular insurance will not cover.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medicines you take.
• Bring copies of your prescriptions for medicine and for eye glasses and contact lenses.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Portugal’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Make sure there are seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Portugal, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Portugal for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

Other Destinations

If you need help finding travel information:

Message & data rates may apply. CDC Privacy Policy

File Formats Help:

• Adobe PDF file
• Microsoft PowerPoint file
• Microsoft Word file
• Microsoft Excel file
• Audio/Video file
• Apple Quicktime file
• RealPlayer file
• Zip Archive file

Exit Notification / Disclaimer Policy

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) cannot attest to the accuracy of a non-federal website.
• Linking to a non-federal website does not constitute an endorsement by CDC or any of its employees of the sponsors or the information and products presented on the website.
• You will be subject to the destination website's privacy policy when you follow the link.
• CDC is not responsible for Section 508 compliance (accessibility) on other federal or private website.

• Skip to main content
• Skip to "About this site"

Language selection

Search travel.gc.ca.

Help us to improve our website. Take our survey !

COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Portugal travel advice

Latest updates: Editorial change

Last updated: June 4, 2024 08:03 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, portugal - take normal security precautions.

Take normal security precautions in Portugal

Back to top

Heightened threat of terrorism

On October 23, 2023, Portugal’s Internal Security System raised the national terrorism threat level to 3, “significant”, on a 5-step scale. This decision follows recent terrorist attacks in Europe and the Middle East.

Due to the raised threat level, security forces will increase their presence in public places and near government buildings.

If you are in Portugal:

• be aware of your surroundings
• follow the instructions of local authorities
• expect heightened security measures and an increased police and military presence

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, occurs. Thieves are very skilled and often work in groups. Be particularly vigilant in these public areas:

• all tourist sites and attractions
• restaurants
• hotel lobbies
• transportation hubs, including bus and train stations

While crime occurs mostly in larger cities, thieves can strike anywhere, including in small towns popular with tourists and, in particular, towns along the coast. Be particularly careful in the greater area of Lisbon:

• Sintra and Queluz
• Costa da Caparica beaches
• Guincho beach
• Cabo da Roca and Boca do Inferno

Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents are secure at all times. Pay attention to your surroundings, avoid wearing or carrying expensive watches, jewellery, cameras, etc. and don’t carry large sums of cash. If possible, carry only the documents, cash and belongings you will need for the day; leave all other items in a hotel safe.

In Lisbon, exercise caution at all train, bus and underground stations, and particularly on electric trams numbered:

• E28, to Castelo de São Jorge (São Jorge castle)
• E25, to Prazeres
• E15, to Belém

In Porto, don’t walk alone after dark, especially along the Douro River Waterfront.

If you are robbed, go to the nearest police station to report the crime and obtain a police report. There are tourist police stations in Lisbon, Porto, Praia da Rocha (Portimão) and Cascais. Local establishments, such as hotels will be able to direct you to the police station.

Violent crime targeting tourists is rare in Portugal.

Parked vehicles and vehicles on the road

Vehicle break-ins are frequent. Rented vehicles are a target of choice.

• Leave nothing in view in the vehicle
• Ensure that your belongings, including passports and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• Use secure parking facilities
• Be particularly vigilant when renting automobiles
• Beware of any person who waves at you to stop on the highway

Official assistance and road monitoring vehicles are present on Portuguese highways. They will come to your assistance. When possible, wait for these service providers to arrive or if you are in sight of an SOS phone (which are located along the highways), use it to call for help.

Home break-ins

Tourists staying in rental homes have been the victims of break-ins and burglaries. Choose well-secured homes and avoid unsavoury neighbourhoods. Whether you are staying in private or commercial accommodations, make sure you lock windows and doors securely at night and when you are away.

There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorists have carried out attacks in several European cities and further attacks are likely.

Targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. Be particularly vigilant if attending sporting events and during religious holidays and other public celebrations, as terrorists have used such occasions to mount attacks.

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Demonstrations and strikes

Demonstrations and strikes can occur in larger urban centres. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Water activities

Always obey warning flags at beaches, lakes and rivers. The main warning flags used in Portugal are:

• Green: calm waters, swimming allowed
• Yellow: agitated waters, no swimming allowed
• Red: dangerous waters, it is forbidden to swim or enter the water
• Checkered blue and white or checkered black and white: life guard is temporarily off duty

The flags are there for your own safety. The Portuguese Maritime Police could fine you for disobeying a flag warning.

In marine areas, coral, jellyfish and other ocean life found along reefs can poison, sting or cause infection if touched or stepped on.

• Ask local authorities about the presence of such species and whether they are dangerous
• Immediately seek medical assistance if you get hurt

In the fall and winter months, be cautious when walking along beaches close to the water’s edge as waves can be unpredictable in size and may come onto shore further than expected.

• Don’t visit beaches or coastal areas during periods of severe weather warnings
• Look out for signs warning of cliff erosion and falling rocks
• Don’t dive into unknown waters, as hidden rocks or shallow depths can cause serious injury or death
• Exercise caution and follow the advice of the local authorities

Useful links

• Ports and beaches weather conditions – Portuguese Institute for the Sea and Atmosphere
• Water safety abroad

Road safety

Excessive speeds, tailgating, unpredictable driving habits and reckless motorcyclists pose hazards. Slow-moving machinery can also pose a hazard and you may come across them in both rural and national roads.

When walking around in the cities, be careful with the uneven and often slippery pavement “calçada”. Cross only at pedestrian cross walks. Always be alert and make sure vehicles have stopped before crossing.

Public transportation

Public transportation is generally safe.

When using taxis, particularly from the Lisbon Airport into the city, negotiate fares in advance, or insist that the driver use the meter, as you may be overcharged. Baggage fees and toll charges are added to the final bill.

Take note of the number or licence plate of the taxi in case you need to report unsatisfactory service, reckless driving or if you leave items behind by accident.

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Portuguese authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

• Schengen area

Portugal is a Schengen area country. Canadian citizens do not need a visa for travel to countries within the Schengen area. However, visa-free travel only applies to stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Stays are cumulative and include visits to any Schengen area country.

If you plan to stay in the Schengen area for a longer period of time, you will need a visa. You must contact the high commission or embassy of the country or countries you are travelling to and obtain the appropriate visa(s) prior to travel.

• Foreign Representatives in Canada

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the date you expect to leave the Schengen area.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Automated e-passport gates

If you are 18 and over and travelling with a Canadian e-passport, you may use the automated e-passport gates for entry into Portugal.

Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 90 days* Business visa: not required for stays up 90 days* Work visa: required Student visa: required

* The 90-day period begins upon initial entry into any country of the Schengen area. Stays are cumulative and include visits to any Schengen area country within any 180-day period.

Registration

If you arrive in Portugal from a Schengen area country and you are staying in private accommodations, you must register your presence in the country within 3 business days of arrival. You can register at any immigration office or police station.

Other entry requirements

Customs officials may ask you to show them proof of a return ticket.

• Children and travel

Minors, under the age of 18, who are travelling alone or with adults other than their parents or legal guardian must carry an authorization letter from the parent or parents not travelling. The letter must indicate who will be taking care of the minor during their stay in Portugal, and specific dates of travel.

Travelling with children

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

In this destination, rabies  may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. 

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife. 

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Health care is very good. Services are available throughout the country but may be limited in rural areas. Many private hospitals and clinics require advance payment prior to treatment. Keep all receipts of payment to reclaim expenses from your travel insurance company.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Transfer to a Canadian prison

Canada and Portugal are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in Portugal to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Portugal authorities.

This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

Identification

You must carry photo identification when in Portugal. To minimize the risk of your passport getting lost or stolen, carry a photocopy of your passport or other form of valid photo ID with you. Leave your passport in a safe location. If required, the police may escort you to retrieve your passport from safekeeping.

If you carry your passport as official ID, keep a photocopy or digital copy in a separate, safe place, should the original be lost or seized.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect fines, administrative sanctions or jail sentences.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Portugal.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Portugal, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Portugal.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Portugal, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Portuguese court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Portugal to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• The Hague Convention – Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

You must be at least 18 years old to drive a car in Portugal.

You can drive using a Canadian driver’s licence for up to 185 days, as long as you are not a resident of Portugal.

Penalties for drinking and driving are severe. Convicted offenders can expect heavy fines, car seizure and a jail sentence.

In some areas, traffic radar registers violations and municipalities send tickets to the offender by mail. This includes out-of-country offenders. Fines for traffic violations are substantial. If you are stopped by a police officer, you must pay the fine on the spot or the vehicle may be impounded until the fine is paid.

The use of mobile telephones while driving is illegal, unless the phone is fitted with a hands-free device.

The use of a seatbelt is mandatory for the driver and all passengers in a car. Children up to 135 cm tall or under 12 years old must ride in appropriate car seats.

You must use low-beam headlights at all times.

If you are involved in an accident, you must not move the vehicle and you must immediately report the accident to the police.

In case of car trouble or an accident, you must immediately wear the reflective vest that should be found in all vehicles and set up and place the warning triangle up to 30 metres behind the vehicle. These items are mandatory in all vehicles.

Driving in Portugal - European Commission

The currency of Portugal is the euro (EUR).

If you are carrying €10,000 or more, or the equivalent in other currencies, you must make a declaration to customs when you enter or leave the European Union. It includes sums in:

• banknotes and coins
• bearer negotiable instruments such as cheques, travellers’ cheques, promissory notes and money orders
• bonds, shares
• gold coins with a gold content of at least 90 %
• gold bars, nuggets or clumps with a gold content of at least 99.5 %
• any other convertible asset

This does not apply if you are travelling within the European Union or in transit to a non-EU country.

EU cash controls - European Commission

High temperatures can create dry conditions, which can lead to large fires throughout continental Portugal. Fires can cause disruptions to communications and transportation networks. They can also cause road (including major highway) closures.

The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke and affect travellers with respiratory ailments.

Causing a forest fire is treated as a criminal offence, punishable by heavy fines or imprisonment.

In case of a major fire:

• stay away from affected areas, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments
• monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation
• follow the advice of local authorities
• Wildfire risk - Portuguese Institute for the Sea and Atmosphere
• Protect yourself in case of wildfire - Portuguese Civil Protection (available in English)

Seasonal risks

Extreme weather changes result in heavy rain and wind storms in the fall and winter months. Rogue waves pose a hazard along the entire west coast.

Seismic activity

Portugal is located in an active seismic zone. While seismic activity is rare, it can be devastating.

Information about active events   - Portugal’s National Authority for Civil Protection (primarily in Portuguese)

Local services

Dial 112 for emergency assistance.

Consular assistance

Azores, Madeira

For emergency consular assistance, call the embassy of Canada in Lisbon and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

• Go to main Content
• Go to Search
• Navigation menu
• Ir para Suporte
• Ir para Feedback
• Ir para Assistente Virtual

Travelling to Portugal

On this page you will find the following information:

• Documents required to enter and exit Portugal

Entry and exit of minors in Portugal

• Rights and obligations while traveling to Portugal  

Documents required for entering and leaving Portugal

Although you do not need to present your national ID card or passport to travel between two countries in the Schengen area , you should bring these documents with you as you may need to present them when traveling by plane, for example. 

If you are traveling from a non-Schengen country, you will need to present an ID card or passport. 

Expired or lost ID card or passport

Foreign citizens should immediately contact their respective embassy or consular office in Portugal if their documents have expired or have been lost.

When not accompanied by whoever has parental responsibility for them, national or foreign minors must have written authorisation which allows them to enter or leave national territory. If the minor is travelling with one of their parents, for example, they need not have the authorisation with them.

Such written authorisation must be signed by the person who has parental responsibility and must bear the date of signature. The authorisation may identify other persons who have been given the right to accompany the minor.

If the minor does not have the respective authorisation with them, the Portuguese authorities may refuse to allow them to enter or leave.

Documents required for minors to leave Portugal

Template/draft authorisation document.

Download the template authorisation document for a Portuguese minor to leave national territory .

Download the template authorisation document for a foreign resident minor to leave national territory .

The authorisation document must be legally certified

• In Portugal the authorisation document may be certified by notaries, chambers of commerce and industry, record-keepers, solicitors or lawyers.
• Abroad , the authorisation document may be certified in Portuguese embassies or consulates.

The authorisation document has a period of validity

The authorisation document may be used as often as required within the time limit mentioned in the document, which may not exceed a period of one calendar year.

If no time limit is referred to, the document is valid for six months from the date of signature.

Opposition to the departure of a minor from national territory

If any of the persons who have parental responsibility for the minor oppose their departure from national territory, they may communicate their wishes to the Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras (SEF) [Aliens and Borders Service].

Find out how to present an opposition to the departure of a minor from national territory .

Rights and obligations while traveling to Portugal

In cases where trips are delayed or canceled, citizens benefit from a set of rights, regardless of the means of transport:

• train travel
• travel by bus

For more information or if you need help, please contact the SEF Contact Center:

• phone: (+351) 217 115 000, at working days from 8h to 20h
• phone: (+351) 965 903 700, at working days from 8h to 20h
• e-mail: [email protected]

Did you find what you were looking for?*

Rate your experience*

We appreciate your opinion!

An error has occurred

Please try again later

Feedback successfully submitted.

Would you like to answer a survey regarding your experience?

Was the information accurate?

Was the information comprehensive enough?

Was the language easy to understand?

Was the date of the last update (publication) indicated on the page?

Was the name of the authority responsible for the content published on the page?

Did the page include references or links to legal acts?

Was the information available in English?

Phone contact

Email contact

Schedule video call

Scheduling request submitted successfully.

You have 15 minutes to access your email to complete the scheduling.

If you have just made a contact request, you will have to wait about two minutes until it is possible to send a new request

We're processing your request...

Please wait.

Tell us what you think about this page

You'll be forwarded to the ePortugal's contacts form.

6.4.6 - 20/02/2024

• COUNTRY INFORMATION
• LATEST NEWS
• OUTBREAK SURVEILLANCE
• TOPICS IN BRIEF
• FACTSHEETS & RESOURCES
• WORLD OVERVIEW

Capital City: Lisbon

Official Languages: Portuguese

Monetary Unit: euro (€)

See also:  Azores (Portugal)  |  Madeira (Portugal)

• General Information
• Vaccine Recommendations
• Other Risks

TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS ARE IN PLACE FOR THIS COUNTRY

There are entry requirements for anyone who plans to travel to England from this country. Please check here for further information. Advice may vary in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

The information on these pages should be used to research health risks and to inform the pre-travel consultation.

Due to COVID-19, travel advice is subject to rapid change. Countries may change entry requirements and close their borders at very short notice. Travellers must ensure they check current Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) travel advice in addition to the FCDO specific country page (where available) which provides additional information on travel restrictions and entry requirements in addition to safety and security advice.

Travellers should ideally arrange an appointment with their health professional at least four to six weeks before travel. However, even if time is short, an appointment is still worthwhile. This appointment provides an opportunity to assess health risks taking into account a number of factors including destination, medical history, and planned activities. For those with pre-existing health problems, an earlier appointment is recommended.

All travellers should ensure they have adequate travel health insurance .

If visiting European Union (EU) countries, carry an European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or a Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) as this will allow access to state-provided healthcare in some countries at a reduced cost, or sometimes for free. The EHIC or GHIC, however, is not an alternative to travel insurance. Check the GOV.UK website for guidance.

A list of useful resources including advice on how to reduce the risk of certain health problems is available below.

• Food and water hygiene
• Insect and tick bite avoidance
• Personal safety
• Sexually transmitted infections
• Sun protection

Details of vaccination recommendations and requirements are provided below.

All travellers

Travellers should be up to date with routine vaccination courses and boosters as recommended in the UK . These vaccinations include for example measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine and diphtheria-tetanus-polio vaccine.

Country-specific diphtheria recommendations are not provided here. Diphtheria tetanus and polio are combined in a single vaccine in the UK. Therefore, when a tetanus booster is recommended for travellers, diphtheria vaccine is also given. Should there be an outbreak of diphtheria in a country, diphtheria vaccination guidance will be provided.

Those who may be at increased risk of an infectious disease due to their work, lifestyle choice, or certain underlying health problems should be up to date with additional recommended vaccines. See the individual chapters of the 'Green Book' Immunisation against infectious disease for further details.

Certificate requirements

There are no certificate requirements under International Health Regulations.

Most travellers

The vaccines in this section are recommended for most travellers visiting this country. Information on these vaccines can be found by clicking on the blue arrow. Vaccines are listed alphabetically.

Tetanus is caused by a toxin released from Clostridium tetani bacteria and occurs worldwide. Tetanus bacteria are present in soil and manure and may be introduced through open wounds such as a puncture wound, burn or scratch.

Travellers should thoroughly clean all wounds and seek medical attention for injuries such as animal bites/scratches, burns or wounds contaminated with soil.

Tetanus vaccination

• Travellers should have completed a tetanus vaccination course according to the UK schedule.
• If travelling to a country or area where medical facilities may be limited, a booster dose of a tetanus-containing vaccine is recommended if the last dose was more than ten years ago even if five doses of vaccine have been given previously.

Country-specific information on medical facilities may be found in the 'health' section of the FCDO foreign travel advice pages.

Tetanus in brief

Some travellers.

The vaccines in this section are recommended for some travellers visiting this country. Information on when these vaccines should be considered can be found by clicking on the arrow. Vaccines are listed alphabetically.

Rabies (Bat Lyssavirus)

Although rare, bat lyssaviruses (bat rabies) can be transmitted to humans or other animals following contact with the saliva of an infected bat most often by a bite. The disease can also be transmitted if the saliva of an infected bat gets into open wounds or mucous membranes (such as on the eye, nose or mouth). Bat lyssaviruses can cause disease in humans that is indistinguishable from rabies.

Symptoms can take some time to develop, but when they do the condition is almost always fatal.

The risk to most travellers is low. However, it is increased for certain occupations for example bat handlers and veterinarians, or certain activities such as caving.

Bat Lyssavirus in Portugal

Rabies has not been reported in this country; therefore most travellers are considered to be at low risk. However, bats may carry bat lyssavirus (bat rabies).

• Travellers should avoid contact with bats. Bites from bats are frequently unrecognised. Rabies-like disease caused by bat lyssaviruses is preventable with prompt post-exposure rabies management.
• Following a possible exposure, wounds should be thoroughly cleansed and an urgent local medical assessment sought, even if the wound appears trivial. Although rabies has not been reported in other animals in this country, it is sensible to seek prompt medical advice if bitten or scratched. It is possible, although very rare for bats to pass rabies like viruses to other animals including pets.
• Post-exposure treatment and advice should be in accordance with  national guidelines .

Rabies vaccination

• A full course of pre-exposure vaccines simplifies and shortens the course of post-exposure treatment and removes the need for rabies immunoglobulin which is in short supply world-wide.
• Pre-exposure rabies vaccinations are recommended for those who are at increased risk due to their work (e.g. laboratory staff working with the virus and those working with bats).
• Pre-exposure vaccines could be considered for those whose activities put them at increased risk of exposure to bats.

Rabies in brief

There are some risks that are relevant to all travellers regardless of destination. These may for example include road traffic and other accidents, diseases transmitted by insects or ticks, diseases transmitted by contaminated food and water, sexually transmitted infections, or health issues related to the heat or cold.

Some additional risks (which may be present in all or part of this country) are mentioned below and are presented alphabetically. Select risk to expand information.

Biting insects or ticks

Insect or tick bites can cause irritation and infections of the skin at the site of a bite. They can also spread certain diseases.

Diseases in Southern Europe

There is a risk of insect or tick-borne diseases in some areas of Southern Europe. This includes diseases such as Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever , leishmaniasis and West Nile virus .

• All travellers should avoid insect and tick bites day and night.
• There are no vaccinations (or medications) to prevent these diseases.

Further information about specific insect or tick-borne diseases for this country can be found, if appropriate on this page, in other sections of the country information pages and the insect and tick bite avoidance factsheet .

Seasonal influenza is a viral infection of the respiratory tract and spreads easily from person to person via respiratory droplets when coughing and sneezing. Symptoms appear rapidly and include fever, muscle aches, headache, malaise (feeling unwell), cough, sore throat and a runny nose. In healthy individuals, symptoms improve without treatment within two to seven days. Severe illness is more common in those aged 65 years or over, those under 2 years of age, or those who have underlying medical conditions that increase their risk for complications of influenza.

Seasonal influenza in Portugal

Seasonal influenza occurs throughout the world. In the northern hemisphere (including the UK), most influenza occurs from as early as October through to March. In the southern hemisphere, influenza mostly occurs between April and September. In the tropics, influenza can occur throughout the year.

All travellers should:

• Avoid close contact with symptomatic individuals
• Avoid crowded conditions where possible
• Wash their hands frequently
• Practise ‘cough hygiene’: sneezing or coughing into a tissue and promptly discarding it safely, and washing their hands
• Avoid travel if unwell with influenza-like symptoms
• A vaccine is available in certain circumstances (see below)*

*In the UK, seasonal influenza vaccine is offered routinely each year to those at higher risk of developing of severe disease following influenza infection, and certain additional groups such as healthcare workers and children as part of the UK national schedule (see information on vaccination ). For those who do not fall into these groups, vaccination may be available privately.

If individuals at higher risk of severe disease following influenza infection are travelling to a country when influenza is likely to be circulating they should ensure they received a flu vaccination in the previous 12 months.

The vaccine used in the UK protects against the strains predicted to occur during the winter months of the northern hemisphere. It is not possible to obtain vaccine for the southern hemisphere in the UK, but the vaccine used during the UK influenza season should still provide important protection against strains likely to occur during the southern hemisphere influenza season, and in the tropics.

Avian influenza

Avian influenza viruses can rarely infect and cause disease in humans. Such cases are usually associated with close exposure to infected bird or animal populations. Where appropriate, information on these will be available in the outbreaks and news sections of the relevant country pages. Seasonal influenza vaccines will not provide protection against avian influenza.

Avian influenza in brief

Outdoor air quality.

Poor air quality is a significant public health problem in many parts of the world. Exposure to high levels of air pollution over short time periods (e.g. minutes/hours/days) and longer time periods (e.g. years) is linked to many different acute and chronic health problems. These effects are mainly on the respiratory (lungs and airways) and cardiovascular (heart function and blood circulation) systems.

Current information on world air quality is available from the world air quality index project .

Travellers with health problems that might make them more vulnerable to the effects of air pollution who are travelling to areas of high pollution should:

• discuss their travel plans with their doctor, and carry adequate supplies of their regular medication.
• take sensible precautions to minimise their exposure to high levels of air pollution.
• check local air quality data and amend their activities accordingly.
• take notice of any health advisories published by the local Ministry of Health and Department for Environment, and follow the guidance provided.

It is unclear if face masks are beneficial at reducing exposure and may make breathing more difficult for those with pre-existing lung conditions. Those who choose to use one should make sure that the mask fits well and know how to wear it properly.

Outdoor air quality in brief

COVID-19 disease is caused by the coronavirus SARS-CoV2. The main symptoms of COVID-19 are a new continuous cough, a high temperature, and a loss of, or change in, normal sense of taste or smell. Symptoms range from mild to life-threatening. Older people and  those with underlying health problems  are more likely to develop severe disease.

COVID-19 is spread through close contact with people who have the virus. It is mainly transmitted from person to person by breathing in droplets produced when someone infected with the virus breathes, speaks, coughs or sneezes. It is also spread by touching the infected droplets on surfaces, then touching the eyes, nose or mouth.

COVID-19 vaccines provide high levels of protection against severe illness, hospitalisation, or dying from the virus. Vaccination against COVID-19 reduces, but does not eliminate the risk of infection, so social distancing and personal and respiratory hygiene remain important interventions, particularly during overseas travel.

Travellers should always check the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) travel advice and their  country-specific pages  for the latest COVID-19 travel advisories which may include information on travel restrictions, quarantine, COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements. This includes considering the recommendations and requirements for any transit countries.

Travellers should be aware that COVID-19 case numbers in individual countries/areas can increase rapidly, and healthcare capacity and country requirements can change at short notice.

COVID-19 in Portugal

Most countries worldwide present a risk of exposure to COVID-19. The risk of COVID-19, public health policy, and travel advice or restrictions may change quickly, therefore travellers should ensure they have access to up to date information on COVID-19 and be prepared for rapid changes in guidance both before and during travel.

All travellers should check the FCDO travel advice and carefully consider their personal situation and risks of COVID-19 before travel to this country. This is particularly important in those at higher risk from COVID-19 who may wish to seek medical advice before travel.

Individuals entering or returning to the UK may be required to follow additional  UK border measures .

If travelling to this country, travellers should:

• Consider the risk at all destinations including any transit countries, and the risk during travel itself.
• Check with the airline/tour operator about preventive measures in place to reduce risk during travel.
• Follow the latest guidance on social distancing and face coverings, including any local requirements and maintain good hand, respiratory, and personal hygiene at all times. This may be particularly important if staying with friends and family.
• Ensure they are up to date with their COVID-19 vaccination courses and boosters as recommended in the UK vaccination programme.

See  guidance on factors to consider when assessing the risk of COVID-19 for travellers .

If travellers develop COVID-19 symptoms while abroad, they should:

• Follow local guidelines on self-isolation, testing and avoiding travel.
• Contact their travel insurance provider.
• Seek medical advice if needed.

COVID-19 in brief

Using information collated from a variety of sources, we regularly review and update information on overseas disease outbreaks and other health issues that may affect the UK traveller.

Please note that not all cases of disease or outbreaks are reported ; some diseases may only be reported if they occur outside of the usual recognised risk area or season, or they have been reported in greater than usual numbers.

Further information on the Outbreak Surveillance section.

Foreign travel advice

FEEDBACK SURVEY

Personal information:, successfully submitted .

UK Health Security Agency

Hospital for Tropical Diseases

Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine

London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine

University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

18 Portugal Travel Tips That Are Actually Useful

Embarking on a journey to Portugal? Prepare to be captivated! This charming country, with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and delightful cuisine, offers an experience like no other. But, as with any new adventure, a bit of insight can elevate your trip from good to unforgettable. That’s where my travel tips come in, guiding you to navigate Portugal like a seasoned traveller.

I have travelled to every part of Portugal. That’s right! From north to south, east to west. I’ve also visited Madeira and every single one of the 9 islands in the Azores. Based on all of that, here’s some of my top tips for making the most of your time in Portugal.

If you love it, you can move here

Did you know that Portugal is one of the easier places in Europe to move to? That’s right! Portugal offers a number of residency visas for retirees , digital nomads or remote workers , and entrepreneurs .

A lot of people who come to Portugal fall in love with the warm weather, beautiful buildings, and feeling of safety. Well, don’t just make it a travel destination: consider making it your forever home.

Want to know more? Check out my book Moving to Portugal Made Simple .

Try to Avoid Visiting in July & August

I don’t want to say avoid July and August completely because this is often the only time some people can travel. I’ve also travelled around a lot of Portugal during these months and it hasn’t been too hot, too crowded, or too expensive.

That said, it is the hottest and most expensive time of the year, particularly in places like Lisbon and the Algarve. If you’re visiting these places, consider visiting a little out of season (for example: September or June). Accommodation will be cheaper and the cooler weather is much better for sightseeing.

I personally love the shoulder months (June and September) or even to visit parts of Portugal, like the Algarve, in winter.

Avoid Speaking Spanish

While Spanish is widely understood, it’s important to remember that Spanish and Portuguese are different languages and that this distinction is important to the Portuguese. Saying ‘gracias’ instead of ‘ obrigado (for men) or obrigada (for women)’ can offend some people as it insinuates you see Portugal as just a part of Spain.

That said, Spanish is widely understood. If it’s your first language or you’re fluent in it, don’t be afraid to speak it. Many Portuguese people will reply to you in Spanish or in a Portuguese-Spanish hybrid that people often refer to as Portuñol .

Always Carry Some Cash

Although more and more places accept foreign bank cards, a lot still don’t (particularly outside of places like Central Lisbon and the Algarve). It’s even common for some machines in metro stations or on the toll roads to not accept foreign bank cards.

Basically, it’s always a good idea to carry some cash on you, just in case.

Watch Our For Euronet ATMS

These ATMs typically charge you between 7.5% and 20% of whatever you’re withdrawing, so avoid at all costs. They’re appearing all over Portugal, and are easily identifiable by their bright blue and yellow colouring. 

If you can, look out for ATMs that have the word ‘ multibanco ‘ on them as these are an easy way to identify the normal Portuguese ATMs.

Of course, if you don’t mind paying a big fee for convenience, feel free to use these ATMs. They’re located all over the country and it’s often easier to find one of these than it is a ‘normal’ ATM.

The ‘Couvert’ isn’t free but it’s cheap

At the start of a meal, the waiter will probably bring over bread, butter, and maybe cheese. This is known as the couvert . It’s normally quite affordable and will usually only add a few euros to your meal, but you don’t have to take it if you don’t want it.

Tip: You can check the prices inside the menu before deciding. 

Many Places Won’t Have AC

AC isn’t as common in Portugal as it is in other parts of the world, like North America and Asia. This means that if you rent an Airbnb or stay in a hotel, you should check that it has AC if this is a priority for you. Summer temperatures can get close to 40°C (around 104°F), particularly in the south of the country.

Similarly, most properties don’t have heating (or an AC with a heating option). This means that properties can be quite cold during the winter months, particularly if they don’t have an AC unit with a heating option.

Sunscreen is Cheaper in Lidl

Sunscreen (and most branded or medical products) is really expensive in Portugal, but you can get a bottle of sunscreen for around €3-4 in Lidl. Otherwise, expect to spend around €10 in supermarkets like Continente and Pingo Doce.

Tipping Isn’t the Norm But Is Always Appreciated

Tipping isn’t particularly common in non-touristy parts of Portugal but, as with anywhere, it’s always appreciated. Portugal has the lowest wages in Western Europe and with a cost of living that’s continuously increasing, every little helps.

There is a standard amount to tip if you decide that you want to, but most people either tip 10% or round up. Of course, if you want to tip the standard American 20%, that’ll definitely be appreciated.

Look Out for Restaurants with a Menu do Dia

To save on dining costs in Portugal, embrace the local custom of enjoying your main meal at lunch. Many restaurants offer a menu do dia (menu of the day) or “prato do dia” (dish of the day), which typically includes 2-3 courses.

More often than not, these lunch deals include a starter, a main course, and a dessert, sometimes even accompanied by coffee or a glass of wine as well. Remarkably, these complete meals often come at a cost of around €10, offering a substantial saving compared to evening dining prices.

Carry Photo ID

In Portugal, it’s a legal requirement to carry photo identification at all times, although you’re unlikely to be asked for it.

Of course, carrying your passport everywhere poses the risk of losing it, which can lead to a host of complications while travelling. A practical solution to this is to leave your passport securely in your hotel safe and instead carry a photocopy of it with you when you’re out and about.

Train Tickets Are Cheaper in Advance

Trains can be booked through cp.pt and can be very affordable, especially when compared to other European countries. Some of the longer routes have discounts of around 40% if you book in advance.

There are lots of Places to Store your Bags

If you don’t have somewhere to leave your bags for the day (i.e. your hotel), there are lots of apps (like Luggage Hero and Bounce) which allow you to store your bags in bars, restaurants, and cafes for a small fee.

These apps don’t operate everywhere in the country, but are common in popular locations like Lisbon and Porto .

Say Yes to the Toll Transponder

When you rent a car in Portugal, you’ll be asked if you want a toll road transponder. Say yes! Although you don’t need to have one, if you want to pay your tolls on the electronic toll roads you’ll most likely need to queue up in the post office and that can be quite time-consuming.

Although it’ll cost you a few extra euros, it’ll be much less time-consuming than queuing to pay the toll fees. It also means that if, for whatever reason, the post office doesn’t have a record of the toll usage when you go to pay, they’ll be able to charge your credit card later on.

Take advantage of Solo Travel Discounts

Traveling solo can be an enriching experience, and it also offers unique opportunities for savings, particularly when it comes to accommodation.

When using hotel booking platforms like Booking.com, it’s important to specify that you are traveling alone by selecting the “1 guest” option. This simple step can sometimes unlock discounted rates for solo travellers, which are slightly more affordable compared to rates for couples or groups.

Ask permission to take a photograph

A lot of Portugal is incredibly photogenic, and many of the things that make a great photo are of Portuguese people going about their daily life for example shopping in the markets, sitting on benches, and sitting at cafés (yes, there’s a lot of sitting down in Portugal).

It’s polite to ask people before taking a photograph. Most people, if you ask them, are more than happy to oblige, and even more happy if you support their business in someway (for example buying something from their stall).

Dress in layers

In Portugal, you’ll notice that the temperature can drop significantly in the evening. You might start the day in shorts and a t-shirt but while you’re having dinner, the temperature will drop to the point where you wish you were wearing at least another light layer. This happens in both summer and winter.

To get around this, be sure to pack a few layers. Pack trousers and a light top for the summer and warmer wear for the winter time.

Wear Practical Footwear

Most Portuguese streets are cobbled and don’t lend themselves well to high heels. In fact, they don’t lend themselves well to anything that isn’t practical and that doesn’t have a good amount of grip, particularly in hilly places.

Forgo the fashion demands and go for practical instead.

Spotted a mistake? Suggest a correction

Are there any walking tours through the vintage/second hand shopping neighborhood of Lisbon? Thanks 🙂

ok so on your “Don’t speak Spanish” comment is it better to speak English? I am Spanish and traveling to Portugal and feel i can communicate better speaking Spanish as some of the words are similar. I don’t know how to speak Portuguese only a few phrases and common words. Is speaking Spanigh frowned upon in Portugal?

Hi Find your love of Portugal inspiring We are looking to get an apartment in Faro City ( maybe even the old town ) but don’t seem to find much on traditional web sites even airbnb.any other ideas.please Katharine

Just discovering your site and finding it so helpful. Great tip on not trying to use my Spanish (I def would have done that). On the same token- I read your article about pesticos and it really had me wondering if the Portuguese have a similar social culture to the Spanish- I love how common it is for people to go out for tapas w friends any time any day. We would also be traveling w our 1 year old and hoped it is culturally acceptable to bring with to bars and restaurants.

Thanks for any insight!

I am holidaying in Tavira 23rd August until 4th September to celebrate my 60th Birthday. I would like to know about any events,festivals during that time. Also I would like to have a lovely birthday dinner somewhere extra special,can you recommend somewhere.

Kind Regards Karen

Definitely need a lot of HELP!! How many questions am I allowed? Is 1000 too many just asking.!!! Selling everything , moving to Portugal. Either by myself or with my sweetheart. Sent question previously re: visit and then apply for visa awaiting reply. Thanks in advance.

Going to Portugal for the first time in October. Actually first trip to Europe ever. You mentioned to carry cash, but not everywhere takes foreign bank cards. What is the best way to get cash in Portugal?

Hi. We would like to visit Portugal for New Years, is it a good idea for about 10 days? We’d like to start from the North…Porto, Douro, Algarve, Lagos, Lisbon, Sintra and Faro. Visiting the Bengali caves is high on the itinerary and may give Portugal a miss if it’s not possible. Need genuine advice and any other must-dos that you suggest. Which could include high adrenalin sports. TIA, all help is much appreciated.

Ola, We will be a party of 5 adults traveling via train from CoimbraB to Lisboa Oriente and on to Sintra. Can you advise whether tis best to take Uber (would probably need 2 of them) rather than dealing with our suitcases on an urban train? Not a ton of luggage (3 of the 5 are carry on only, but still – could be stressful situation). Obrigada

Hi, We are 6 adults visiting Portugal in first week November. We have planned 4 nights each in Lisbon & Porto and 2 nights at serra de Estrela or Duoro valley. After this we push off to Seville. Since we are not self driving, can you please suggest the best way to travel from Estrela or Duoro to Seville (chauffered vehicle too expensive?). Or do you think we should spend 2 days in Lagos/Tavira (instead of Estrela) and onwards to Seville (better connections). Also, will the boat rides in Benagil caves be operational in mid November? Pooja

Just discovered Portugalist. Love it. What’s the weather like in September?- we are visiting Lisbon/Coimbra/Fatima/Porto. Any tips regarding the weather and choice of clothes? obrigada Will appreciate a reply when you can.

I have medical condition concerning my eye. The treatment requires an injection into the eye every 6 weeks. How would I find a qualified Retina specialists to perform this procedure. I speak English only. I’m positive my specialists in the US would coordinate if I could point him in the right direction.

We are keen to spend 5-6 days relaxing and visiting vineyards in the Douro Valley in August (staying in one or two places). We could either rent a car or use trains or busses from Porto. Any suggestions of areas to stay, vineyards to visit and how to get around would be welcome. Thank you

Love your site! We are visiting Porto for a week in September. In much of Europe we were advised to dress conservatively and to wear pants, not shorts. What do you advise?

Also I usually get euros at the airport atm on arrival. Good idea in Portugal or not?

Thank you! We are so excited!

I am flying with my family into Lisbon this Friday We are renting a car. Due to the petrol tanker strike have you or anyone heard of any difficulties vis a vis how the rental companies are dealing with this and how bad is the rationing(empty petrol pumps) is. Planning to drive to Colares.

thanks Michael

I am 70 years old do I get the senior discount if I buy the ticket at the orients station in Lisbon on the day before I travel to Porto? I will be traveling there in late October.

Many thanks James,

Yes, mixed results from rental company. Standard quick reply pointing me to their FAQs page instead of giving an answer to my specific questions.

Hi James, My wife and I will be traveling to Lisbon and Porto in October. We will be staying at Hotel Riverside Alfama in Lisbon and The House Ribeira Porto in Porto (walking distance from the Sao Bento station). Can you recommend train station from Lisbon closest to our hotel with the shortest travel time? Also, would reserving train tickets online save any money? thanks, Ed

Hello James

We are a party of 6 visiting Portugal this October and are based in Albufiera for a couple of weeks. Can you suggest any 1 – 2 day trips in and around this area and possibly to Seville and/or Gibralter. Thanks Brian

We are a family of 12 ages 5y to 75y that get together once a year and June 2020 it will be Portugal. My family of 4 plans to arrive in Lisbon then travel by train to Porto for 2 day then we will meet the rest of the crew somewhere in the southern region. There we are looking for a place (on AirBnB) we can get around to restaurants/sites without a car, is not “touristy,” has access to a beaches, and where the grandparents and kids can then travel to Spain for a few weeks while my husband and I return to work. Any ideas of this perfect town to relax and enjoy our family – so far I have searched around Lagos, Alvor, Conceição de Tavira (this one seemed very remote), Santa Luiza. Thank you in advance – any help narrowing down the search would be greatly appreciated.

I just discovered this site today and am wishing I had known about it a while ago. I leave on the 5th of Sept., heading to Porto/Amarante and Lisbon for a day. First part of the trip is for Habitat for Humanity and I’ll be in Amarante. Then my husband is joining afterwards for a week of sightseeing, around Porto, a train trip down to Lisbon for a long day, etc.

Of course we plan on wine/port tasting, the more the merrier. I guess my main question is: Do you have any idea how much port or wine we are allowed to bring back to the States? It would be for personal use, not for sale.

2nd question – where is the best place to exchange dollars for euros, as soon as I get there. (Am actually there 2 days early before joining Habitat people) Thanks for any input!! Really excited about this trip! Kristin

Thanks James!!

Hi, we are considering a Spring 2020 holiday at Vila Gale Praia in Albufeira, any comments welcomed. Thanks Mike

hello we are flying into porto airport on sept 14, an have 3pcs of luggage with us, the hotel we are staying at is AC PORTO. how far away is the hotel from the airport, i heard uber taxis is the cheaper taxis to take,also we have a flight on sept 16th to barcelona an it is at 630am what time should we be at the aiport for this flight. thank you

hi i forgot to ask if we go with uber should we book it now from canada or wit until we get into porto airport thank you

Just read your site and glad to learn the travel tips. Three of us will travel to Portugal for a couple weeks on next Thursday. We will rent a car and visit Lisbon, Sintra, Evora, Algarve, Obidos, Alcobaca, Fatima, Coimbra, Guimaraes and Porto. Do you think our itinerary is too aggressive? After leaving Evora, we are debating if we should visit the coastal route of Atlantic Ocean to reach to Lighthouse of Cabo de São Vicente or just take N125 highway. Your help is greatly appreciated. Obrigada.

I just discovered your blog and it’s been super helpful!

I’m going to be in Porto the first week of October. I would be interested in doing some hiking while I’m there. Can you recommend any hiking trails near Porto?

Hi James – – thank you for the fantastically useful site! We will be in Lisbon the first week of October (staying right near Alfama) and are planning to visit Sintra as a day trip. Should we expect Sintra to still be super touristy/crowded? what would be the best travel strategy (train, bus) and should we plan this to be a full day? Thank you so much!

Hi James. Great website!!! very helpful for us, as first time travelers to Portugal.

My boyfriend and i are going to Portugal in december, and we’re not too sure about the weather… what kind of clothes to pack.

Also we planning on staying in Porto for a few days… where is the best place/area to stay in?. looking for more of a vibe, party area thats central to the main spots as well as the train station.

Hi Sevania,

For Porto, I would assume it would be cold and damp. You might get lucky and get a bit of winter sun, but it’s normally quite grey and it can rain during December. Hope for the best but plan for the worst 🙂

I really like Porto in December, but it’s always good to be prepared.

As for areas to stay in, Porto really isn’t that big. The last time I was there, I stayed at Vibrant Porto Apartments which I really liked and it was roughly a 20-minute walk from most of the city centre.

Hi James, My family are traveling to Lisbon over Christmas/New years. I noticed you said it will be grey and wet in Porto. Is that typically the weather in Lisbon as well? Also any suggestions what to do New years eve? Not looking for a big bash as we are not big partiers, but would like an enjoyable evening. Children are 19 and 21. thanks!

Hi Jennifer,

It is impossible to predict whether or not the weather will be good, unfortunately, but Lisbon definitely gets much better weather than Porto. Last year was quite mild and didn’t rain.

As for things to do, I’ve written about NYE a little bit in this article: https://www.portugalist.com/new-years-eve-lisbon/

I would suggest going out for dinner and then going to Praça do Comércio to see the fireworks.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Find Portugalist on Facebook | X | Instagram FR | DE | ES | PT

Introducing Portugal

About portugal.

• Images of Portugal
• History, language & culture
• Weather & geography
• Doing business & staying in touch

Plan your trip

• Travel to Portugal
• Where to stay

While you’re there

• Things to see & do
• Shopping & nightlife
• Food & drink
• Getting around

Before you go

• Passport & visa
• Public Holidays
• Money & duty free

Book your flights

• Faro Airport
• Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport
• Madeira Cristiano Ronaldo Airport
• Porto Francisco Sá Carneiro International Airport
• Albufeira beaches
• Alvor beaches
• Cascais beaches
• Estoril beaches
• Porto Santo beaches
• Vilamoura beaches

Cruise Locations

• Ponta Delgada

Portugal travel guide

Like the Atlantic Ocean that laps upon its shores, Portugal throws up one or two surprises. A rich and varied land of vibrant cities and traditional villages, visitors are astounded by the country’s stunning beaches, rolling countryside and cornucopia of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which range from prehistoric drawings at Foz Coa to the 15th-century port of Angra do Heroísmo.

The country’s lively capital, Lisbon, and its vibrant northern sibling, Porto, are a joy to discover. They are cities where trams rattle up and down hills and along promenades, trundling past narrow side streets and majestic plazas, bohemian cafés and pumping nightclubs, eye-catching boutiques and restaurants both hip and homespun.

It’s not all about Lisbon and Porto, though. Sintra plays host to the stunning National Palace, a Moorish castle and the dramatic villa of Quinta da Regaleira, while the cities of Coimbra, Guimarães, Braga and Évora all boast beautifully preserved medieval quarters. Unusually, the latter is home to a chapel made exclusively of human bones, which is a tad creepy.

Travellers in search of a rural respite can wander around ancient vineyards, trek to stone villages perched in the mountains and take full advantage of the country’s warm and sunny weather on the magnificent southern shoreline. Drop in on sleepy sulphur spas and hop around the Pousadas – a collection of exquisite convents and monasteries, which have been lovingly converted into off-beat accommodation.

Imposing cliffs and secluded beaches line the Portuguese coast, a dazzling stage for all manner of outdoor adventure. Visitors can ride horses, surf waves, paddle rivers, dive shipwrecks, hike hills and explore Moorish castles and Roman ruins between rounds of golf. Madeira and Berlenga Islands beckon off shore, while the elusive remains of Atlantis await discovery in the Azores Archipelago.

Those seeking a more unique slice of Portuguese culture can discover the melancholic music of fado (Portugal's answer to the blues), study the captivating detail of Manueline architecture, get involved in a traditional festival or quaff port wine along the meandering Douro river.

92,345 sq km (35,655 sq miles).

10,304,434 (UN estimate 2016).

117.2 per sq km.

President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa since 2016.

Prime Minister Luís Montenegro since 2024.

Travel Advice

This travel advice also covers Madeira, Porto Santo and the Azores. 

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide and any specific travel advice that applies to you:

• women travellers
• disabled travellers
• LGBT+ travellers
• solo and independent travel
• volunteering and adventure travel

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of the current rules for the most common types of travel.  

The authorities in Portugal set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Portuguese Embassy in the UK .

COVID-19 requirements

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Portugal.

Passport validity requirements

Portugal follows Schengen area rules . Your passport must:

• have a ‘date of issue’ less than 10 years before the date you arrive – if you renewed your passport before 1 October 2018, it may have a date of issue that is more than 10 years ago
• have an ‘expiry date’ at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave the Schengen area

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

You can travel without a visa to the Schengen area , which includes Portugal, for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. This applies if you travel:

• as a tourist
• to visit family or friends
• to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events
• for short-term studies or training

The requirements for working in Portugal are different.  

If you’re travelling to other Schengen countries as well, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day visa-free limit. Visits to Schengen countries in the 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days.

Make sure you get your passport stamped on entry and exit.

If you’re a visitor, border guards will look at your entry and exit stamps to check you have not overstayed the 90-day visa-free limit for the Schengen area.

If your passport is missing a stamp, show evidence of when and where you entered or left the Schengen area (for example, boarding passes or tickets) and ask the border guards to add the date and location in your passport.

At Portuguese border control you may need to show:

• an onward or return ticket
• proof you have enough money for your visit

Staying longer than 90 days in a 180-day period

To stay longer, you must meet the Portuguese government’s entry requirements (in Portuguese).

If you’re in Portugal with a residence permit or long-stay visa, this does not count towards your 90-day visa-free limit.

Read about passport stamping if you live in Portugal .

Travelling with children

Non-resident children travelling to portugal.

Children aged 17 and under travelling to Portugal alone, or with a person who is not their parent or legal guardian, must either:

• be met at the airport or point of entry by their parent or guardian
• carry a letter of authorisation from their parent or guardian

The letter must include:

• the child’s dates of arrival and departure
• the address where they will be staying
• the name of the adult in Portugal who will be responsible for them during their stay
• the full names, dates of birth, passport numbers and contact details of the parent or guardian
• signature and date from the parent or guardian

If you bring a child to Portugal without a letter of authorisation, your entry may be delayed.

Teenagers aged 17 and under who travel alone, or with friends of the same age, and who are not being met, may be refused entry if they do not have a letter of authorisation.

Non-resident children leaving Portugal

Non-resident children aged 17 and under who leave Portugal alone, or with a person who is not their parent or guardian, must have a letter of authorisation unless they are returning to their country of origin.

Resident children leaving Portugal

A child aged 17 or under who is resident in Portugal must carry a legally certified letter of authorisation if travelling without their parent or legal guardian. See more details in the Living in Portugal guide .

Vaccine requirements

For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s guides for Portugal , The Azores , Madeira and Porto Santo.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that can be brought into and taken out of Portugal . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Taking food into Portugal

You cannot take meat, milk or products containing them into EU countries . There are some exceptions such as powdered baby milk, baby food and special foods or pet feed required for medical reasons.

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times. 

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad .

Terrorism in Portugal

Terrorist attacks in Portugal cannot be ruled out.

Protecting yourself and your belongings

Crime rates are low but pickpocketing, bag-snatching and theft from holiday properties are common in major tourist areas. Foreign-registered and hire cars are often targeted by thieves. Thieves may use threats or violence. To reduce your personal risk:

• keep sight of your belongings at all times
• beware of thieves using distraction techniques
• avoid carrying all your valuables together in handbags or pockets
• leave spare cash and valuables in a safe place
• avoid leaving items in an unattended car

Public transport

Pickpocketing is a risk. Take care on public transport and at busy stations and crowded bus and tram stops.

Holiday accommodation

Check your holiday accommodation is secure. Lock all doors and windows at night and when you go out.

If you’re worried about security at your accommodation, speak to your tour operator or the owner, or contact the:

• Polícia de Segurança Pública (PSP) – the public security police force that covers cities
• Guarda Nacional Republicana (GNR) – the national guard that covers smaller towns and rural areas

Drink spiking, alcohol and sexual assault

Attacks or assault, including sexual assaults, are rare but do occur. The risk is highest late at night around popular nightlife locations. To reduce your personal risk:

• save the location of your accommodation on your maps app, so it’s easier to find at the end of the night
• set up a WhatsApp group to keep in touch with others in your group
• keep an eye on each other’s drinks to make sure they do not get spiked
• always use pre-arranged taxis and do not accept lifts from unmarked vehicles or with strangers
• do not let a friend walk back to their hotel alone
• do not give a drunk person more alcohol

Alcohol and drugs can reduce your vigilance, making you less in control. If you drink, know your limit. Drinks served in bars in Portugal are often stronger than those in the UK.

Report anything that does not feel right to local authorities or hotel or club management.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal id.

You must show some form of identification if asked by the police or judicial authorities. Sometimes a copy of the photo page of your passport could be enough, but you may be asked to produce the original document.

Gambling is only legal in places licensed by the government, such as official casinos. Games of chance, including bingo, are illegal if they’re held on unlicensed premises.

The police may act on reports of illegal gambling in unauthorised premises without warning. You could be arrested, charged and fined or given a prison sentence. If in doubt, ask if the venue is licensed.

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

Selling or trafficking drugs is illegal and can have severe penalties.

Outdoor activities and adventure tourism

Beaches and swimming.

Every year, people drown in the sea and in swimming pools in Portugal.

Take care when walking close to the water’s edge, especially along unsupervised stretches of beaches. Waves can be unpredictable and have a strong undertow. Do not:

• swim at beaches that connect to or from rivers as they can have strong undercurrents
• swim at any beach without lifeguards
• dive into unknown water as hidden rocks or shallow depths can cause serious injury or death

Beware of rip tides, which can cause drowning. If you are caught in a rip tide, do not try to swim against it. Swim parallel to the coastline until you no longer feel the current, then try to swim towards the shore.

Follow any lifeguard instructions and warning flags:

• red means danger: do not go into the water
• yellow means caution: you can walk in the water, but you cannot swim

See water safety on holiday from the Royal Life Saving Society.

Cliff erosion

Look out for signs warning of cliff erosion. Falling rocks are a hazard, particularly in the Algarve. The authorities can fine people who ignore warning signs.

Walking the levadas in Madeira

Walking the levadas (ancient irrigation channels) can be challenging. Choose paths that suit your fitness and experience.

Be prepared for narrow, uneven paths and heights. Wear suitable clothing and walking boots. Take extra care if it has rained, as the ground may be slippery and unstable. Check with your tour guide or local organiser that it is safe before you set off.

Leave details of where you are going with your hotel reception and take a phone with you. Reduce the risk by walking with a group or following a guide.

See more information about walkway closures and access restrictions on Visit Madeira .

Transport risks

Road travel.

If you are planning to drive in Portugal, see information on driving abroad and check the rules of the road in the RAC’s Portugal guide . The guide lists driving regulations and other legal requirements you need to be aware of. 

You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in Portugal. If you still have a paper driving licence, you may need to update it to a photocard licence or get the correct version of the international driving permit ( IDP ) as well.

You can bring your own vehicle to Portugal for up to 183 days in any 12-month period. You must not use your vehicle for any other purpose than tourism or loan it to anyone else.

If you want to stay longer, you must apply to the Portuguese Customs authority to have the car legally imported. You’ll be fined if you leave the country without your car.

Check if you need a UK sticker to drive your car outside the UK .

Check how long you can use your UK licence if you live in Portugal .

Make sure you understand the toll system in Portugal and how to pay toll charges. If you think you may have used a toll road without paying, check the Toll Payment Portal .

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards .

Wildfires can start anywhere in Portugal. Risk of fires is higher when the weather is hot and dry. Fires have become more common due to drought and high temperatures during the summer months. 

Wildfires are highly dangerous and unpredictable. The Portuguese authorities may evacuate areas and close roads for safety reasons. You should:

• familiarise yourself with local safety and emergency procedures
• follow the advice of the Portuguese authorities
• call the emergency services on 112 if you see a wildfire

Starting a wildfire, even if it is by accident, is illegal and you could get a fine or a prison sentence. 

For information about active wildfires and forecasts, visit the Portuguese Met Office website for information on Portugal and Madeira .

Earthquakes

Earthquakes are a risk in Portugal. For more information, see the Portuguese Met Office (for mainland Portugal) or the Earthquake Information and Surveillance Centre (for the Azores).

The US Federal Emergency Management Agency website has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake .

Extreme weather warnings

For severe weather warnings, go to the European Meteorological Services website .

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Dial 112 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance or medical assistance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

If you’re feeling unwell, but it’s not an emergency, call:

• Mainland Portugal: (+351) 808 24 24 24, press 9 for English
• Madeira and Porto Santo: (+351) 800 24 24 20
• Azores: (+351) 808 24 60 24

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

• check the latest vaccine information for Portugal
• see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

See what health risks you’ll face in Portugal .

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro .

UK prescriptions are not recognised in Portugal. Carry enough medication for your visit.

If you need a repeat prescription, go to the nearest health centre or hospital A&E. You may have to pay for your medication.

You will need to go to a pharmacy to get most medicines, though some non-prescription medication is sold at health stores in supermarkets and shopping centres. Find a pharmacy on the Pharmacy Association website .

Healthcare in Portugal

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Portugal, where some staff will speak English.

Health insurance cards

To get medically necessary state healthcare in Portugal, you need a Global Health Insurance Card ( GHIC ) or a European Health Insurance Card ( EHIC ).   

The NHS’s getting healthcare abroad has details about:

• how to apply for a GHIC
• how to get temporary cover if you lose your card or it does not arrive in time
• who qualifies for a new EHIC instead of a GHIC
• what treatment counts as medically necessary

A GHIC or EHIC is not an alternative to travel insurance. You may have costs your GHIC or EHIC does not cover, including:

• changes to travel and accommodation bookings
• additional standard costs for treatment
• medical repatriation to the UK
• treatment that is ruled non-urgent
• private healthcare
• private clinics

There is also guidance on healthcare if you’re living in Portugal .

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health and mental health support for UK nationals in Portugal .

There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro .

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in Portugal

Telephone: 112 (ambulance, fire, police)

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans , including:

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from FCDO

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

• finding English-speaking  lawyers , funeral directors  and  translators and interpreters in Portugal
• dealing with a  death in Portugal
• being  arrested in Portugal
• getting help if you’re a  victim of crime
• getting help if you’re a victim of rape or sexual assault
• what to do if you’re  in hospital
• if you are affected by a crisis , such as a terrorist attack

Contacting FCDO

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.

You can also contact FCDO online .

Help abroad in an emergency

If you are abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the British Embassy in Lisbon .

FCDO in London

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)

Find out about call charges

Risk information for British companies

The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating in Portugal on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.

Related Articles

City Highlight: Lisbon

With its colourful tiles, cobbled streets and crystal-clear skies, Portugal’s capital Lisbon enchants - and don’t forget to try its famous custard tart

Paradise isle: Madeira

Off the coast of Portugal lies one of the prettiest destinations this side of Europe. Here’s what to do in the gorgeous island of Madeira

Book a Hotel

© Columbus Travel Media Ltd. All rights reserved 2024

Top 20 Portugal Travel Tips Every Visitor Should Know

• Share on Facebook
• Share on LinkedIn
• Email this Page

Visit Portugal

Travelling to Portugal is exciting and intriguing because the culture and the language might not be what you are used to. Here you will find the 20 most useful tips for planning your trip to Portugal. I’ll give you tips on moving around the country or the city, what to do and what to eat, staying safe and what to do when you have to sadly leave the country.

• Top 20 Portugal travel tips

When and where to go

1. avoid july and august.

Due to Portugal’s mild climate and proximity to the ocean, the summer vacation season is by far the most popular among travellers. You can clearly witness this in July and August, especially in Lisbon and in the Algarve, as the city centres get packed to the point that it is almost impossible to pass through the narrow Portuguese sidewalks (“calçadas”). A good time to travel to Portugal is around May, June, September and October, when the sun is not excessively hot, but the weather is warm enough to go to the beach or simply visit the historical sites without overheating. Moreover, the amount of tourists will be significantly lower and you will be able to enjoy the sights without having to queue up for ages.

2. Book accommodation and flights in advance

Partially due to the previously discussed reasons, but also due to the size of the main attraction points, such as Lisbon, Porto and the Algarve, the number of accommodation options is rather limited compared to the amount of visitors, especially during the peak season. Therefore, we highly recommend you to arrange a place as much in advance as possible. You will also save money by booking a rare and affordable find which is usually occupied throughout the year. The same go for long-distance transport and international flights to Portugal . Momondo , the travel comparison website, offers an insight tool that indicates the cheapest periods to travel to Lisbon (or any other worldwide destination), how many days in advance you should book and what’s the best day of the week to travel. The website is available in several languages and from different destinations by changing the settings on the bottom right corner of the page.

3. Ask for a ventilator (fan) in the summer and a heater in the winter

While this might seem like an obvious add-on for any tourist accommodation, don’t take this for granted when visiting Portugal! Most of the houses were built to stay cool in the summer and keep the heat in the winter, therefore it’s not customary to have central heating or air-conditioning installed in most buildings. Usually modern hotels will include this service, though if you’re staying in a rented apartment it is best to double-check with the landlords if air-conditioning or a ventilator are provided during the hot months and a heater is available during the winter months. This way you will avoid unpleasant stays in overly hot or cold apartments!

4. There is more to Portugal than Lisbon

We know, we know… Lisbon is highly spoken of on many media channels and strongly recommended by almost anyone who visits it. However, it is not the only great place that Portugal has to offer. Other very worthwhile destinations in the north of Portugal are:

• Guimarães ;
• Vila Real ;
• Bragança ; and

For the south, you should try:

• Costa Vicentina; and

And of course not forgetting the stunning archipelagos of Madeira and the Azores in the Atlantic Ocean. Since these alternatives are usually smaller cities compared to Lisbon, you could opt for organising a multi-city trip with one day stays, rather than spending an entire week in the same place. Continental Portugal is well-connected with smooth highways as well as long-distance train and bus routes. However, there are some hard to reach places such as Gerês and Costa Vicentina, for which we suggest renting a car or a van . The same goes for the archipelagos, which do not have a well developed public transport system, though would require at least three days for visiting.

5. If you still decide to go to Lisbon…

…then be prepared for massive amounts of people in the city centre and the tourist attractions especially in the warmer months and peak season. Lisbon is definitely a must-visit place in Portugal and in recent years it has gone through a lot of changes due to increased tourism, which has also contributed greatly to the local economy. However, the streets and houses weren’t built to host such large crowds, so you will very likely find yourself queuing just to cross the street. How do you escape the tourist crowds? Here are some not so well-known areas where you can enjoy the same cultural spirit of Lisbon. Start from the area called Avenidas Novas with its wide avenues and neoclassical architecture style until you reach Fundação Calouste Gulbenkian , where you can enjoy a beautiful garden and fascinating art galleries; continue walking westbound until you reach the top of the vast Parque Eduardo VII, from where you can admire an endless viewpoint across the city, the river and Almada . Then take the yellow (“amarela”) Metro line from Marquês de Pombal to Rato and walk up to Jardim da Estrela, a lovely oasis in the middle of old Lisbon, and then go to the nearby Basílica da Estrela, one of the most beautiful churches in Lisbon. The next stop is the lookout (“miradouro”) at Panorâmico de Monsanto, a restaurant built in the 1960s on top of a large green hill, then abandoned due to bankruptcy and recently reopened to the public. We recommend taking a taxi up there, the view is really worth it. When you head back down, finish off the day by visiting the Palácio Nacional da Ajuda , which stands at the foot of the hill and is the former residence of the Portuguese royal family. Bonus tip for the tireless ones is the Museu Nacional do Azulejo , also known as the National Tile Museum. It is surprisingly one of the most interesting and beautiful museums in Lisbon, which tells the story of the traditional Portuguese tiles, their production and style over the centuries.

Getting around the country or the cities

6. rent a car if you’re planning a multi-city trip.

This tip is partially related to visiting more than just Lisbon, but it’s also valid if you want to want to organise a road trip across continental Portugal. Those who live here will know that having a car can unlock many hidden gems that would otherwise be hard to reach with public transport. Some of the suggested routes are: A southbound journey along the coast from Lisbon all the way until the Algarve . A city-hopping trip among the northern Portugal cities like the ones mentioned in tip number four. A tour through one of the several natural parks, such as:

• Parque Nacional Peneda-Gerês ;
• Parque Natural do Douro Internacional;
• Parque Natural da Serra da Estrela ;
• Parque Natural da Serra de S. Mamede; and
• Parque Natural do Vale do Guadiana.

Visiting a vineyard for a day in the Setúbal, Alentejo or Douro region. You may need to find a designated driver for this trip if you plan to taste some of the sumptuous Portuguese wines . You can easily rent a car directly from any Portuguese airport, however there are some restrictions which you can check in our article:  Car Rentals in Portugal: Expert Advice to Save You Time and Money

7. Get a rechargeable Metro card if in Lisbon or Porto

If you’re visiting Lisbon or Porto, which happen to be the only two cities in Portugal with a Metro system, we highly advise that you to use local public transport to move around the city rather than driving a car, as traffic can get pretty intense and finding parking may turn into an Odyssey. The main advantage of the rechargeable Metro card is that you can use the same one on the Metro, local trains, buses, trams and even the ferry in Lisbon. The disadvantage is that you can only charge it in specific authorised points, such as newspaper kiosks and Metro stations. However, if you know someone in Portugal, they can charge your card at a Multibanco machine or for Lisbon’s Viva cards, they can charge it at home via the  Viva website. So make sure to top it up with some extra cash or simply pick the daily pass. Just keep in mind that you can use only one card per person and ticket controls are rather frequent. In Lisbon, it is worth buying a  7 Colinas or a Viva Viagem  card, which can be bought in any Metro station. The reusable 7 Colinas card can be purchased for one or five days. Both of these cards are valid for a whole year so hang on to it if you are planning on coming back to Lisbon. Each trip is about Є1.45 by using these cards and an average price per day would be about Є3.15.  

8. Relax and learn how to be patient

This might sounds strange to some of you, but it actually is a very important tip: be patient and do not put other people in a rush. Portuguese people like to take things easy (especially in the countryside) and do not have an elaborate concept of doing things in a fast manner, which might be irritating for some people at first. Instead try to embrace the slow pace of the Portuguese culture and use it as an excuse to unwind from the fast city life rhythm. You’ll find yourself slowly strolling through the streets while embracing the magical light of Portugal, spending three hours at the restaurant finishing off a delicious meal with a glass of Port wine or a brandy (“aguardente”), or simply enjoying an espresso at a viewpoint while gazing into the horizon. One thing is guaranteed: going back to work will be very, very hard upon your return.

9. Pack comfortable shoes

We previously mentioned the sidewalks in Portugal (“calçada portuguêsa”), so here’s a little tip related to it: it’s not the most friendly type of pavement, so pack your sneakers and leave your high heels at home. Pavements in Portugal are usually made of small square cobblestones. The streets are covered in beautiful mosaic patterns symbolising the elements of nature and history of the country. This type of construction has the purpose of being highly resistant to direct sunlight and heat, however, they get extremely slippery when wet or just on a steep hill. We recommend you watch your step and wear your most comfortable pair of shoes while in Portugal.

10. Be careful of the strong sun

This tip is especially directed to the fair skinned traveller, like myself, who easily burn in the sun. Be prepared: the Portuguese sun can be very strong even in the winter! So if you’re one of those who become red as lobsters after five minutes in direct sunlight, we suggest to stay in the shadows, use sunscreen with protection 50+ in the summer, and wear a hat and sunglasses especially if you’re spending the entire day out. You can usually buy sunscreen at any pharmacy, supermarket or night shop, however a flask of 200 ml can cost more than €10, so it might be better to bring some from home in your checked in luggage.

What to do and what to eat

11. museums are free on the first sunday of the month.

Many Portuguese cities have great museums with unique collections of art from ancient history to modern art. We recommend you to check their schedules beforehand as they’re often closed on Mondays and stop admitting visitors between 5 and 7pm. What’s good to know is that many of them are free on the first Sunday of the month, though you should still check this information per museum as they do have exceptions. For visitors to Lisbon, you might like:  Top 15 Museums in Lisbon: For Lovers of History and Art

12. Avoid the tourist trap restaurants

This is particularly true for bigger tourist destinations, such as Lisbon, Porto and the Algarve, however with the increasing amount of visitors, you can notice the prices rising in many parts of Portugal. How do you recognise a tourist trap restaurant? They will usually have a very insistent host who will chase you down the street just to get you to eat at their restaurant, they will have a poorly translated menu with pictures of the food hanging at the door and completely inflated prices for drinks and side dishes or no prices displayed at all. If you’re not sure whether the restaurant that you want to go is a tourist trap or not, always ask the price of anything that you order or is brought to your table and thoroughly check the bill at the end of the meal. Tourists traps are easily spotted in the city centres and crowded streets and squares.

13. Couverts are not for free

As a continuation to the previous tip, you should know that the bread, cheese and olives waiting for you at the table at not for free. Ever! If you decide to touch any of it, it counts as a consumption, so if you don’t want to pay for them, kindly ask the waiter to take them back. Some restaurants will count the couvert per person, so make sure to check the prices on the menu in case you can’t keep your hands away from these tasty little appetisers.

14. Tascas are a lifestyle

Tasca is a Portuguese word for “tavern” or “bar” which is very specific to our country due its distinguishing traits. For example, a Tasca is usually a small family run business with a grumpy, yet charming older lady as the cook and a seemingly rude but caring husband running the front bar. The type of food you can expect is what a Portuguese person eats at their grandmother’s house in a small setting that resembles a living room. Another recognisable element of a Tasca are the incredibly cheap prices. In Lisbon you can easily find a Tasca with a lunch menu for €7 including a main dish, a drink and a coffee! While in Porto and other cities, the price can get as low as €5. Disclaimer: if you’re not a meat or fish lover, then you’re probably going to have to settle with an omelette or a salad!

15. Vegetarians be careful!

As mentioned in the last point, unfortunately there aren’t that many options when it comes to vegetarian (not to mention vegan) food. While this type of cuisine is gradually evolving more and more in the bigger cities, don’t expect to find any vegetarian options in the countryside or small towns. Moreover, be sure to ask for the ingredients of any dish that you order, because even vegetable soups are sometimes made with “chouriço”, a traditional Portuguese sausage used to give flavour. Great vegetarian and vegan options can be found in the supermarket/cafeteria chain “Celeiro” in the main cities. For more on vegan food, you might like:  Being Vegan in Lisbon, Your Plant-based Food Guide for Portugal’s Capital

16. Enjoy the fresh fish and seafood

If you’re ok eating fish and seafood , don’t miss the chance to try them in Portugal! It’s the paradise for foodies thanks to the ample choice of products freshly delivered on the day even to the smallest Lisbon restaurants . The most commonly known dish is “Bacalhau à Brás”, made from shredded salted cod, which is ironically imported from Norway yet considered to be the national Portuguese dish eaten throughout the year and especially on Christmas Eve. Other options include:

• Creamy seafood risotto, usually made with the catch of the day such as shrimps and varieties of fish;
• Orata or bream, known in Portuguese as “dourada”; and
• Snook, called “robalo” by the locals.

If you happen to be in Lisbon around June, you must try grilled sardines, the symbol of the city and typically consumed on a piece of bread during the Popular Saints festivals (“Festas dos Santos Populares”).

Staying safe in Portugal

17. beware of pickpockets.

This is strongly notable in Lisbon, but can also happen elsewhere, that pickpockets are wherever the tourist goes. In order to avoid unpleasant situations, make sure you do not put any valuables in the pockets of your pants or jacket, avoid using open handbags, and keep an eye on your backpack. Pickpockets in Portugal are not likely to be aggressive, but in case you catch one during the act, the best thing to do is not to fight them and simply call for help. In the unfortunate event of losing a valuable belonging, immediately go to the local police. In some cases they might be able to retrieve a stolen wallet with your documents inside (though it will be cashless).

18. Parking helpers expect money

So you decided to rent a car in the city and now you’re on the Odyssey of finding a parking spot. First of all, we wish you the best of luck! Secondly, be careful of the people who volunteer to help you park. They are expecting money in return for their kind gesture. Unless you really can’t find any other place where to park, our personal advice is to give them some coins to avoid any bad reaction from their side, such as a scratched car or a broken window.

When you are leaving Portugal

19. avoid long queues at the airports.

It’s the end of your stay and you’re already starting to miss your vacation in Portugal. Oh, how much “saudade”! Be prepared though, the airport controls are still ahead. Many flights connecting to the Lisbon , Porto and Faro airports are operated by low-fare airlines, which means they’re located in small and not so efficient terminals. If you’re travelling during the high season, make sure to arrive at the airport at least three hours in advance as the queues for the security check in might be extremely long. It often happens that visitors do miss their flight because of this and you definitely don’t want to be one of them (unless you’re subconsciously trying to remain in the county, in which case we totally get you).

20. The best souvenirs are cheese, wine and olive oil

Forget about fridge magnets and bottle openers, the best souvenirs you can bring back home are food and drinks! We strongly recommend you to spend a little extra on the checked-in luggage and go crazy on your food shopping in a local market, rather than buying the same products at the airport for double the price. Make sure, though, that the cheese is vacuum packed as it can be confiscated at the security check. Portugal produces great creamy and curated cheeses. A must-try is Queijo da Serra and Queijo da Ilha, both commonly available in the supermarkets.

Bonus tip: Learn some survival Portuguese

You’ll be positively surprised at the level of English the younger generations of Portuguese people speak. In fact, TV shows in Portugal are not dubbed and therefore their English language education starts at an early age, so you’ll have no problem communicating with the locals. However, they will really appreciate it if you could say at least a few words in their language as it shows an effort of understanding the Portuguese culture. Here are some useful words and sentences for your stay in Portugal: Hello = Olá Good morning = Bom dia Good afternoon = Boa tarde Good evening/night = Boa noite How are you? = Tudo bem? Goodbye = Adeus or Tchau! See you later = Até já Thank you = Obrigado if you are a man or Obrigada if you are a woman You’re welcome = De nada Help me = Ajuda-me Please = Por favor Sorry = Desculpe Excuse me/Pardon me (to ask to pass by someone) = Com licença I don’t speak Portuguese well = Eu não falo bem português I don’t understand = Eu não percebo Do you speak English? = Fala inglês? How much is it? = Quanto custa? Where is…? = Onde é…? Today = Hoje Tomorrow = Amanhã Yes = Sim No = Não One = Um for a masculine object and Uma for a feminine object Two= Dois for masculine objects and Duas for feminine objects Three = Três Breakfast = Pequeno-almoço Lunch = Almoço Dinner = Jantar The bill please = A conta por favor If you would like to learn a few more Portuguese phrases, check out:  Learning Essential Phrases in Portuguese for Your Visit to Portugal

• Portugal is a top European destination

Portugal has become one of the most popular European destinations in the last years thanks to its favourable climate, affordable prices and timeless beauty. With over 23 million visitors in 2017, the main cities have quickly started to adapt for welcoming an increasing amounts of travellers. That’s it for the 20 tips of travelling in Portugal! We truly hope that you will find them useful and enjoy your stay in this beautiful country. Did this article help you plan for your trip to Portugal? Let us know in the comments below if you have any more tips for fellow readers. Be sure to catch all the latest tips and advice from bePortugal for your visit to Portugal by subscribing to our FREE newsletter .

Table of Contents

Related posts.

6 Amazing Places To Go Kayaking In Portugal

What is Portugal in Winter Really Like? Does it Snow?

9 Awesome Music Festivals in Portugal for Summer 2020

The European Summit in Cascais: The Best Event for Affiliates in Europe

by Guest Author

Visit Cascais: How to Spend A Perfect Day by The Sea

Stay  up to date

Join our email list to receive weekly updates on webinars, promotions, announcements, social meet ups and more…

About BePortugal

Life in Portugal

Money in Portugal

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with industry insights and latest news.

Copyright © 2024 Expats Portugal

Privacy policy, terms of use.

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. Our

Terms and Conditions

About Cookies

Preferences, unclassified.

Explore 4 summer destinations where locals travel in Portugal

May 27, 2024 • 6 min read

Portugal's Vila Nova de Milfontes is a quiter alternative to the Algarve © Shutterstock

Small, beautiful and historic,  Portugal is a favorite for travelers from around the globe thanks to its fabulous beaches, exciting cities, rich history and mild climate. Yet such popularity can bring throngs to some of the country’s better-known spots. This is why we’ve asked four of our Portugal-based writers to recommend places they love to go for a break – places you might never have heard of before. 

Escape the crowds at these off-the-radar places in Portugal, recommended by our local experts.

1. Serra da Lousã

Daniel James Clarke used to frequently holiday in the Algarve, until one day he decided to stay and call the southern coast home.

Why Serra da Lousã?

When summer brings crowds to the coast , I’m forever drawn to Portugal’s lesser-visited interior. The Serra da Lousã, in the hinterlands of the historic Beiras region , is a bolthole blend of near-forgotten aldeias do xisto ( schist villages), tranquil hiking trails and creative rural hideaways. 

Around 30 minutes from Coimbra , the town of Lousã is the mountain range’s gateway where HI Hostel Lousã ’s modern private rooms are my affordable go-to. For a genuine retreat, however, stay in a renovated rock home at one of the once-abandoned villages, such as 17th-century Talasnal or Candal.

Must-do activities

By night, the Milky Way dazzles, especially in the Dark Sky Reserve of Pampilhosa da Serra, slightly further inland.

Make a reservation at O Burgo or Villa Lausana to enjoy typically hearty dishes such as chanfana (a clay-pot lamb stew), best paired with the local mineral-rich red wines produced from the regional grape, baga .

In fall, with a copper canopy, the serra is equally enchanting, while winter’s occasional sprinkling of snow is perfect for evenings by the fireplace. No matter when you visit, you’ll find a Portugal that time seemingly forgot.

Serra da Lousã tips

The assiduously restored hamlet of Cerdeira, reborn as Cerdeira Home for Creativity , is now an artist’s retreat, offering workshops and idea-generating spaces for those eager to harness nature’s inspiration. What a place it is to disconnect. A soundtrack of birdsong and the much-welcome river beaches at Cabril do Ceira gorge or Praia Fluvial Senhora da Piedade – crowned by Lousã Castle, an 11th-century monument – provide daytime escapes.

Sandra Henriques was born in Portugal’s Azores islands and has called Lisbon home for 20+ years.

Why Corvo? One of the nine islands of the Azores , an archipelago some 1100 miles off the coast of Portugal, this 6.8 sq mile lump of land with under 400 inhabitants remains well off-the-beaten track. Most of the Azores islands have grown in in popularity over the last decade  but the minute you get off the plane on Corvo the peacefulness of this village-like island washes over you (you’ll barely feel the jet lag).

Vila do Corvo, the only municipality on the island, is a minute cluster of houses and narrow streets on cliffs overlooking the ocean, with everything within walking distance. Its main natural attraction – Caldeirão , the lagoon on the the crater of the volcano that formed the island – is a two-hour, 6km/3.7-mile hike uphill. To learn about local history and heritage, visit the museum Casa do Tempo and the old animal-powered grain mill Atafona do Lourenço.

This is where I go to release, recharge and enjoy the outdoors and small-town living. Forget planning or a packed calendar of activities: instead, prepare for days of lazing around, mingling with the locals and dividing your time between mornings hiking and afternoons at the beach.Whatever you plan, rolling with the punches when the weather doesn’t agree with what you had in mind is essential.

Short-term rentals are available on the island, though I recommend staying at the family-owned Hotel Comodoro . This two-star guesthouse offers the comfort of staying with relatives, including a complimentary homemade breakfast. The only restaurant on the island, Restaurante Caldeirão  is right next to the airport and your go-to spot for lunch or dinner with a view. For drinks, casual meals, and laidback chit-chat with the locals, head to BBC – Caffé & Lounge .

3. Trás-os-Montes

Austin Bush is a writer and photographer based in Lisbon.

Why Trás-os-Montes?

I’ll almost always opt for mountains over the beach – and in Portugal, my favorite destination for the former is Trás-os-Montes . Portugal’s northernmost region, “Behind the Mountains” is a relative term: don’t come expecting towering summits or ski resorts (although the area can get snow in the winter), but rather a remote-feeling, rocky area of charming villages and protected natural areas.

Trás-os-Montes is a fascinating region for food. When I’m up there, my guide is Tabernas do Alto Tâmega, a network of 15 eateries across the region. Expect massive, hearty dishes cooked over wood-burning fires; smoked meats; and home-style hospitality. My favorite eatery in the network might be Casa de Souto Velho , a fantastic restaurant in the eastern part of the region where just about every ingredient is grown, raised or produced in-house. 

This sense of time travel is also possible in Pitões das Junias, yet another ancient granite village, this one positioned at the edge of the Parque Nacional da Peneda-Gerês , a protected natural area that spans Portugal and Spain .

A short walk from the village takes in a beautiful landscape that combines an abandoned 12th-century church , jagged granite outcroppings, old-growth oak forests, rushing streams and a waterfall .

Trás-os-Montes tips

The ideal way to approach the region is to rent a car from Porto , only a two-hour drive away. A highlight of Trás-os-Montes is its granite villages, where you feel that you are not only traversing geography but also time. Vilarinho Seco in Boticas, for example, is one of Portugal’s best-preserved granite villages, a place where it feels like the clock stopped somewhere around the year 1500. Locals here still raise long-horned Barrosã cattle, who sleep in ground-floor pens beneath the two-story stone homes.

4. Vila Nova de Milfontes

Joana Taborda grew up in Lisbon and now splits her time between the capital and Madeira . 

Why Vila Nova de Milfontes?

The southern coast has always been a favorite holiday spot for Portuguese families. Most end up in the Algarve  – but lately, many are switching it up for the Alentejo ’s quieter sands.

When I was younger, I spent my summers camping near the beaches of Vila Nova de Milfontes in southern Portugal, and I often return there. It’s one of the many coastal towns in the  Alentejo , a region of sprawling with wild beaches and scenic hikes like the Fishermen’s Trail. This famous walking route crosses a natural park (no high-rise hotels here) and takes you along steep cliffs with ocean views all the way through.

I used to stay at a camping site just above Praia do Malhão , walking down every morning to the beach for a full day of swimming and the occasional surf lesson. These days, I’ve been sticking closer to town and its 16th-century castle. I enjoy grabbing my breakfast croissant from Mabi and catching the sunset from the dunes behind Praia do Farol before ending the night with a cocktail.

Vila Nova de Milfontes tips

There's no bad time to visit. Late spring and early September are beautiful and calm, but even at the height of summer, Vila Nova de Milfontes offers a peaceful seaside vacation away from the crowds.

This article was first published Jul 26, 2023 and updated May 27, 2024.

Explore related stories

Destination Practicalities

Jun 14, 2024 • 4 min read

Porto's calendar is packed with seasonal celebrations. Choose the perfect time for your trip with our guide to the best time to visit.

Jun 12, 2024 • 12 min read

May 30, 2024 • 10 min read

May 23, 2024 • 17 min read

May 21, 2024 • 11 min read

May 20, 2024 • 5 min read

May 3, 2024 • 6 min read

Apr 30, 2024 • 4 min read

Apr 24, 2024 • 5 min read

Apr 19, 2024 • 10 min read

Security Alert May 17, 2024

Worldwide caution, update may 10, 2024, information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents, before you go.

Learn About Your Destination

While Abroad

Emergencies

Share this page:

Crisis and Disaster Abroad: Be Ready

What the Department of State Can and Can't Do in a Crisis

Information for U.S. Citizens about a U.S. Government-Assisted Evacuation

Traveler's Checklist

Safety and Security Messaging

Best Practices for Traveler Safety

Staying Connected

Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)

Traveler Information

LGBTQI+ Travelers

Adventure Travel

High-Risk Area Travelers

Travelers with Dual Nationality

Journalist Travelers

Faith-Based Travelers

Pilgrimage Travelers (Hajj and Umrah)

U.S. Students Abroad

Cruise Ship Passengers

Women Travelers

Travelers with Disabilities

Older Travelers

U.S. Volunteers Abroad

Travelers with Pets

Travelers With Firearms

Travel Agents

Travel Safety - Race and Ethnicity

U.S. Travelers in Europe's Schengen Area

Your Health Abroad

Insurance Coverage Overseas

Driving and Road Safety Abroad

Customs and Import Restrictions

Information for U.S. Citizens in Russia – Travel Options Out of Russia

Lodging Safety

Paris 2024 Olympics and Paralympics

In Europe's Schengen area , your passport must be valid for at least six months at the time of your entry. At present, the Schengen area includes most European Union (EU) countries, except for Cyprus and Ireland.

If you are transiting through Canada or the United Kingdom (UK) enroute to the Schengen area : your passport must be valid for at least six months, even though Canada and the UK do not themselves have the six-month rule. If your passport will expire within six months, airlines may not let you board your onward flight to Europe.

Traveling in Europe

If you plan to travel in Europe, you need to know about the Schengen Borders Agreement, which allows you to move freely within a number of countries without border checks. Tourists, exchange students, and people visiting for business from certain countries, like the United States, can travel in the Schengen area for up to 90 days. The Schengen area includes most EU countries, except for Cyprus and Ireland. It also includes four non-EU countries: Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein.

Before you travel to the Schengen area, we recommend you do the following:

• Check the expiration date on your passport book carefully before traveling to Europe. Ensure your passport book is valid for at least six months when you enter the Schengen area. This is especially important for minors under age 16 as their passports are only valid for five years. In contrast, U.S. citizen adults aged 16 and older receive passports that are valid for 10 years.
• Always carry your passport book with you when traveling to another country in the Schengen area. Even if there is no border check at that time, officials may reinstate border controls without notice.
• Be prepared to explain your purpose of travel.
• Be prepared to provide proof of sufficient financial resources for the visit.
• Comply with other entry requirements for each country you will visit or transit.

On our Country Information pages , you can find passport validity requirements and other important information for your destination country. If your passport does not meet the Schengen requirements, you may be:

• Refused boarding by the airline at your point of origin or while transferring planes.
• Denied entry when you arrive in the Schengen area, regardless of how long you will stay.

An immigration official will determine if you qualify for visa-free entry to the Schengen area when you first cross any external Schengen border. You will have to present your passport at that time. The officer may deny your entry if you do not qualify.

You should also check passport validity requirements if traveling onward from the Schengen area to a country outside the Schengen area. You can find this information in our Country Information pages.

HOW LONG CAN I REMAIN?

• With a valid U.S. passport book, you can stay up to 90 days in the Schengen area for tourism or business during any 180-day period. You must wait an additional 90 days before applying to re-enter the Schengen area.
• If you plan to stay in the Schengen area longer than three months, contact the embassy of the country where you plan to spend the majority of your time and apply for a visa.

Countries in the Schengen area may reinstate temporary internal or external border control without notice. U.S. citizens should carry their U.S. passport book at all times when entering or leaving the Schengen area. They should also bring it when traveling between Schengen countries.

How can the U.S. government help me if border officials do not let me enter?

• We can give you the contact information of foreign embassies of the countries you wish to visit.
• We can provide information about hiring an English-speaking foreign attorney overseas if you choose to do so.
• Note: We cannot influence a foreign government’s decision about allowing you to enter. We cannot intervene in another country’s criminal or administrative procedures.

What countries are members of the Schengen Borders Agreement?

Click on the country name for more information.

Bulgaria (entering in March 2024)

Czech Republic

Liechtenstein

Netherlands

Romania (entering in March 2024)

Switzerland

Enroll in STEP

Subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information and help us reach you in an emergency abroad.

Recommended Web Browsers: Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome.

Learn about your destination

Make two copies of all of your travel documents in case of emergency, and leave one with a trusted friend or relative.

External Link

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

Register to vote Register by 18 June to vote in the General Election on 4 July.

beta This is a test version of the layout of this page. Take the survey to help us improve it

• Help and services around the world
• UK help and services in Portugal

Travelling to Portugal

Includes travel advice and how to get married abroad.

Subscriptions

• Get emails for this topic Travelling to Portugal

Getting married or registering a civil partnership abroad

Requirements, paperwork and processes for weddings and civil partnerships overseas - registration, restrictions, fees

Portugal travel advice

FCDO travel advice for Portugal. Includes safety and security, insurance, entry requirements and legal differences.

Reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad

How to minimise your risk, and what to do if there's a terrorist attack.

Is this page useful?

• Yes this page is useful
• No this page is not useful

Help us improve GOV.UK

Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. Please fill in this survey (opens in a new tab) .

We've detected unusual activity from your computer network

To continue, please click the box below to let us know you're not a robot.

Why did this happen?

Please make sure your browser supports JavaScript and cookies and that you are not blocking them from loading. For more information you can review our Terms of Service and Cookie Policy .

For inquiries related to this message please contact our support team and provide the reference ID below.