Portugal, located on the Iberian Peninsula in Southern Europe, is a country known for its rich history, stunning coastline, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine. From the historic neighborhoods of Lisbon to the vineyards of the Douro Valley and the picturesque beaches of the Algarve, Portugal offers travelers a diverse and memorable experience.
Ultimate Portugal Travel Guide
Destinations
Best time to go
The best time to visit Portugal depends on your interests. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to October) offer pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and blooming landscapes, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Summer (June to August) is popular for beach holidays and festivals, but it can be crowded and hot, especially in tourist hotspots. Winter (December to February) is quieter, with opportunities to explore cultural attractions and enjoy outdoor activities with milder temperatures.
Average Temperature By Month
January: 14°C (57°F)
February: 15°C (59°F)
March: 17°C (63°F)
April: 18°C (64°F)
May: 20°C (68°F)
June: 23°C (73°F)
July: 26°C (79°F)
August: 26°C (79°F)
September: 25°C (77°F)
October: 21°C (70°F)
November: 17°C (63°F)
December: 14°C (57°F)
What To Expect
Time Zone:
Western European Time (WET), UTC+0.
Currency:
The official currency of Portugal is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities and tourist areas, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets, especially in rural areas.
Language:
Portuguese is the official language of Portugal, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.
Airport:
Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS) and Porto Airport (OPO) are the main international airports in Portugal, serving as primary entry points for international travelers.
How To Get Around
Public Transport: Portugal has an efficient public transportation network, including trains, buses, trams, and metros. Comboios de Portugal (CP) operates trains connecting major cities and regions, while Rede Expressos provides bus services to various destinations across the country.
Rental Cars: Renting a car is a popular option for exploring Portugal’s countryside and remote areas, offering flexibility and freedom. Roads are generally well-maintained, but driving in historic city centers can be challenging due to narrow streets and limited parking.
Taxis/Uber: Taxis are readily available in major cities and tourist areas, but they can be expensive, especially for longer journeys. Uber operates in cities like Lisbon and Porto, providing an alternative for transportation.
Average Temperature By Month:
January: 14°C (57°F)
February: 15°C (59°F)
March: 17°C (63°F)
April: 18°C (64°F)
May: 20°C (68°F)
June: 23°C (73°F)
July: 26°C (79°F)
August: 26°C (79°F)
September: 25°C (77°F)
October: 21°C (70°F)
November: 17°C (63°F)
December: 14°C (57°F)
Plugs:
Portugal uses Type C and Type F electrical plugs, with a standard voltage of 230V and a frequency of 50Hz.
VPN:
Using a VPN is advisable for secure internet browsing, especially when accessing public Wi-Fi networks.
Safety:
Portugal is generally safe for travelers, but it's essential to be vigilant, especially in crowded tourist areas where pickpocketing can occur. Be aware of your surroundings and follow local guidelines and advice.
Credit Cards and Banks
Credit Cards: Credit cards are widely accepted in Portugal, especially in urban areas, tourist destinations, and larger establishments. Visa and MasterCard are the most commonly accepted cards, followed by American Express and Diners Club. However, it’s always a good idea to carry some cash, especially when traveling to smaller establishments or more rural areas.
Debit Cards: Debit cards, known as “cartão de débito” in Portuguese, are commonly used for purchases and ATM withdrawals in Portugal. Most Portuguese banks issue debit cards to their customers, which are equipped with chip-and-PIN technology for security. Informing your bank of your travel plans is advisable to prevent any issues with card usage abroad and to check for potential foreign transaction fees.
ATMs: ATMs, known as “multibanco” in Portuguese, are readily available throughout Portugal. They can be found in cities, towns, tourist areas, and even in some rural locations. Portuguese banks may charge minimal fees for ATM withdrawals, but foreign banks may impose additional fees for international transactions. Using ATMs affiliated with major banks is recommended for security.
Currency Exchange: The official currency of Portugal is the Euro (EUR). It’s advisable to exchange your currency to Euros upon arrival. Foreign currencies can be exchanged at banks, currency exchange offices (casas de câmbio), some hotels, and at airports. US dollars and British pounds are often accepted for exchange, especially in tourist areas.
Banks: Portugal has several banks serving its residents and visitors. Some of the major banks in Portugal include Millennium BCP, Caixa Geral de Depósitos (CGD), Novo Banco, and Banco Santander Totta. These banks offer various financial services, including current accounts, savings accounts, loans, and investment products. Many banks also provide online banking services and have extensive branch networks.
Traveler’s Checks: Traveler’s checks are becoming less common worldwide, including in Portugal. While some banks may still cash traveler’s checks, they are not as widely accepted as they once were. It’s recommended to carry cash or use alternative payment methods such as credit/debit cards or ATMs for transactions.
Tips for Banking in Portugal:
- Notify your bank before traveling to Portugal to inform them of your travel plans.
- Keep your PIN and card information secure, especially when using ATMs in crowded tourist areas.
- Familiarize yourself with the current exchange rate to ensure fair transactions when exchanging currency.
- Carry a mix of cash and cards for flexibility, but avoid carrying large amounts of cash for security reasons.
Understanding the banking system in Portugal can help ensure a smooth and convenient financial experience during your travels in the country.
Locations
Portugal
TRAVEL FACTS
US State Dept Travel Advisory
The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens exercise normal precautions in Portugal. Consult its website via the link below for updates to travel advisories and statements on safety, security, local laws, and special circumstances in this country.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html
Passport/Visa Requirements
For the latest passport and visa requirements for this country, please consult the U.S. State Department’s “Learn About Your Destination” search tool, available through the link below.
US Embassy/Consulate
[351] (21) 727-3300; US Embassy Lisbon, Avenida das Forças Armadas, 1600-081 Lisboa, Portugal; conslisbon@state.gov; https://pt.usembassy.gov/
LGBTQIA+ Travelers
Telephone Code
351
Local Emergency Phone
112
Vaccinations
See WHO recommendations
Climate
Maritime temperate; cool and rainy in north, warmer and drier in south
Currency (Code)
Euros (EUR)
Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s)
230 V / 50 Hz / plug types(s): C, F
Major Languages
Portuguese, Mirandese
Major Religions
Roman Catholic 81%, other Christian 3.3%, other (includes Jewish, Muslim) 0.6%
Time Difference
UTC 0 (5 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time); daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March, ends last Sunday in October; note: Portugal h 2 time zones, including the Azores (UTC-1)
Potable Water
Yes
International Driving Permit
Suggested
Road Driving Side
Right
Tourist Destinations
Lisbon (includes Belem Tower, Monument to the Discoveries, Oceanarium, Jeronimos Monastery, Sao Jorge Castle, Ajuda Palace); Palacio Nacional de Sintra; Convento do Cristo (Tomar); Guimaraes Castle
Major Sports
Soccer, tennis
Cultural Practices
In Portuguese culture, people and relationships are considered more important than time, so punctuality is not as emphasized.
Tipping Guidelines
In tourist areas, if a service fee is not included in a restaurant bill, tip 10%. Tip 1-2 euros at the bar for good service. Tipping your tour guide and driver around 5 euros each day is appropriate. Taxi drivers in Portugal will not expect a tip, but if they turn up on time, share information about the country, and generally provide good service, rounding up the fare is common. Tip porters 1-2 euros per bag.
Souvenirs
Hand-painted dishes and ceramic tiles, wood-inlaid items, antiques, port wine
Traditional Cuisine
Bacalhau — dried and salted cod fish usually soaked first in water or milk; typically prepared with a variety of ingredients including potatoes, carrots, cabbage, or eggs and may be baked, boiled, or fried
Please visit the following links to find further information about your desired destination.
World Health Organization (WHO) – To learn what vaccines and health precautions to take while visiting your destination.
US State Dept Travel Information – Overall information about foreign travel for US citizens.
To obtain an international driving permit (IDP). Only two organizations in the US issue IDPs:
American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA)
How to get help in an emergency?
Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate, or call one of these numbers:
from the US or Canada – 1-888-407-4747 or from Overseas – +1 202-501-4444
Central Intelligence Agency.
The World Factbook.
/the-world-factbook
(May 8, 2024)
