Portugal
Travel Guide
Diverse landscapes, cuisine of rich flavors, vibrant music, and coastal views. Nature, gastronomy, heritage, and more!
Experience a diverse offering of excursions for travelers seeking adventure, relaxation, and gastronomy. Portugal is a country rich in history, explore its UNESCO World Heritage sites, and taste world-class wines. Whether you're drawn to the energy of city life or more peaceful trips to more rural landscapes, Portugal has it all!
We will share everything you need to know about the main destinations, top attractions, hotels, food, transportation, travel requirements, comprehensive travel guides, and more!
What You Need To Know
Language
Portuguese is the main language of Portugal. While language barriers may arise, English is frequently well-understood in Portugal, especially among larger metropolitan cities.
Currency
The main currency used in Portugal is the Euro (€). The most common denominations of Euro banknotes used in Portugal are €5, €10, €20, €50, and €100.
Outlets
The power plugs used in Portugal are Type C and type F. Type C plugs have two round pins, while Type F plugs have two round pins with two grounding clips on the sides. You can opt for the universal travel adapter which has many plug-type variations great for international travel.
Entry Requirements
Canadians or Americans can enter Portugal visa-free for up to 90 days (3 months). The list of Visa-free countries not located in the EU can be found here.
Those a part of the EU and the Schengen area can stay 90 days in any 180 days within the Schengen area. The Schengen area is composed of the following countries:
Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Czechia, Croatia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Liechtenstein, Luxemburg, Malta, Norway, The Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.
If you’re a non-EU resident shopping in Portugal, you may be eligible for a VAT (Value Added Tax) refund on your purchases. To qualify, simply look for stores displaying the Tax-Free Shopping logo and spend a minimum of €61.35 (including VAT) in a single receipt. When making your purchase, ask the retailer for a Tax-Free Form, which you’ll need to present at customs when leaving the EU. Be sure to bring your passport, receipts, and the unused items for verification. Once approved, you can claim your refund in cash at the airport or have it credited to your credit card. For more details, visit Global Blue or the Portuguese Tax and Customs Authority. Don’t miss this opportunity to save on your shopping while exploring Portugal’s vibrant markets and boutiques!
Tipping in Portugal is appreciated but not obligatory, as service charges are often included in restaurant bills. In restaurants, it’s common to round up the bill or leave 5-10% for good service. For taxi drivers, rounding up to the nearest euro is a polite gesture, while hotel staff (such as housekeeping or porters) typically receive €1-2 per service. In cafés and bars, leaving small change is sufficient. Remember, tipping is a way to show appreciation, so feel free to adjust based on the quality of service. By understanding Portugal’s tipping culture, you can navigate these situations with confidence and respect for local customs.
In Portugal, tap water is generally safe to drink and meets high-quality standards, especially in urban areas like Lisbon and Porto. However, the taste and mineral content can vary depending on the region, so some travelers prefer bottled water. If you’re unsure, look for signs indicating “água potável” (drinking water) or ask locals for advice. Bottled water is widely available and affordable, with both still (água sem gás) and sparkling (água com gás) options. Staying hydrated is essential, especially during Portugal’s warm summers, so whether you choose tap or bottled water, you’ll have no trouble quenching your thirst while exploring this beautiful country.
When is the best time to visit Portugal?
The best time to visit Portugal varies by region.
In general:
Lisbon and Central Portugal: Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to October) offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds.
Porto and Northern Portugal: Similar to Lisbon, Spring and Fall are ideal, although Summer (June to August) can be busy but also vibrant with festivals.
Algarve and Southern Portugal: Summer (June to August) is popular for its warm weather and beach activities, but Spring and Fall are also pleasant with milder temperatures and fewer tourists.
Azores: Spring and Fall are recommended due to mild temperatures and fewer visitors, although Summer can also be enjoyable for outdoor activities.
Madeira: The year-round mild climate makes it suitable for visits at any time, but Spring and Fall are particularly pleasant with fewer tourists.
Consider the specific activities you’re interested in when planning your visit to Portugal’s regions.
Travel Guides
Best of Porto
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Portugal
Photo Gallery
Discover the world through our lens and uncover the most Instagram-worthy photo spots! Get ready to be inspired for your next vacation as you browse through our curated gallery photos!