PORTUGAL
TRAVEL GUIDE
Discover the Essence of Portugal: Your Complete Travel Companion to Exquisite Beaches, Historic Cities, and Culinary Delights. Uncover the Rich Tapestry of Culture, Savor Authentic Flavors, and Immerse Yourself in Timeless Traditions. Let Our Guide Lead You Through an Unforgettable Journey Across the Beauty and Charm of Portugal.
Top 5 Things To See & Do In Portugal
Need To Know - Portugal Travel Guide
- Portugal is a safe country to travel in with a low crime rate however do apply common sense when travelling.
- Portugal has a train network servicing the coastal towns and a reasonably good bus system to get around the country. It is important to understand while a relatively small country Portugal has large areas that are sparsely populated and remote and as such if travelling on PT you will need to have a bit of a plan. If you are wanting to explore the Portuguese interior hiring a car might be the best idea. See Getting Around Tab for more information
- English is spoken in main cities and tourist areas however inland and in less populated areas English is not as common. As always it is polite to learn a few basic works of the language.
- Portugal is part of the Schengen Visa Area. See the Visa Tab for further details.
- Health in Portugal is good so by exercising a normal hygiene regime, staying away from stray animals and eating well the risk to health while travelling in Portugal is low (although always have travel insurance just in case).
Portugal is a great place to travel to at any time of the year. Here is a guide to the different seasons and times of year.
High Season (July & August)
- The weather is hot.
- The Algarve and beach areas are heaving with people.
- Prices increase for accommodation.
Shoulder Season (April to June & September to November)
- Milder weather
- Wildflowers are in bloom in spring.
- Busy but less crowded.
Low Season (November to March)
- Cold rainy weather with freezing temperatures in the mountains.
- Fewer people around and no crowds.
- Some attractions are open shorter hours or are closed.
Portugal Currency
The currency in Portugal is the Euro which is the currency of the 24 other EU member states plus Andorra, Kosovo, Monarco, Montenegro, San Marino and the Vatican.
ATMs can be found throughout Portugal. It is advisable to always carry a small amount of cash as no all eftpos maching accept foreign cards.
Portugal Visa Policy
Portugal is part of the Schengen Area Visa Policy.
Nationals / Citizens from Schengen States have right of movement and entry without a visa but will need a passport as proof of identity.
The policy applies to the Schengen Area which is 22 E.U member states and 5 non E.U states which are part of the EFTA – Iceland, Liechenstein, Norway and Switzerland. Bulgaria, Cyprus, Croatia and Romania are not part of the Schengen Area but have visa policies based on Schengen acquis.
For more information on travelling in the Schengen zone read our in depth article here
Train
Portugal has a limited train network. Areas around Lisbon and Porto have good services and the coast is serviced by a high speed train as shown in the below photo.
Trains also run from Lisbon and Porto to Spain.
Portugal Train Route
Bus
The main intercity bus company is Rede Expresso which has buses running between main towns and cities and into more remote villages.
What To Pack In Portugal
Packing List
Clothing
1 pair jeans – I know they are heavy and take ages to dry but I wear them constantly and find them comfortable
1 pair black travel type pants – Black pants are little smarter than jeans so good if going somewhere a little dressier. Mine is the lightweight fabric in the style of jean,
2 x pair of shorts. 1 denim and one lightweight travel fabric
2 x singlets – good for layering and sleeping in
4 x short sleeve cotton shirts, lightweight and breathable
1 x long sleeve sloppy joe.
1 x zip-up shell jacket
1 x lightweight raincoat – packable version that packs down into a small bag.
5 x socks
5 x underpants
2 x bras
Shoes
1 x pair walking or hiking shoes.
1 x pair slip on flats
1 x pair flip flops (great for hostel showers)
Toiletries
Shampoo & Conditioner
Bar of Soap
Deodorant
Razor
Tweezers
Brush / Comb
Hair Ties
Electronics
1 x Earbud headphones.Light and small,
1 x IPad
1 x 6S iPhone
Charging leads for above
2 x USB
1 x power bank
1 x Cable organiser which keeps everything tidy
1 x 14” laptop – we run a business so this is essential for us.
Photography
This year I have left behind my DSLR and lenses to travel only with a GoPro and a LUMIX TZ80. At the end of the day it came down to weight when travelling a long way and having to carry a pack – so let’s see how we go….
1 x GoPro Hero 5
2 x Spare GoPro Batteries
1 x LUMIX TZ80
Spare micro SD Cards
Other Stuff
1 x padlock
1 x headlight or torch
1 x Swiss knife
1 x medical kit
Ziplock bags
Portugal Snapshot
Travelling to Portugal
Portugal, located on the Iberian Peninsula in Southern Europe, is a country known for its rich history, stunning coastline, and vibrant culture. Visitors flock to Portugal for its charming cities, picturesque villages, and beautiful beaches along the Atlantic Ocean. Lisbon, the capital city, boasts historic neighborhoods, vibrant street life, and iconic landmarks such as São Jorge Castle and Belém Tower. Porto, famous for its port wine, offers a blend of medieval and modern architecture along the Douro River. The Algarve region entices with its golden sands and dramatic cliffs, perfect for sunbathing and water sports. Travel within Portugal is convenient, with a well-developed network of trains, buses, and highways connecting major cities and tourist destinations.
How to Plan a Trip to Portugal
Planning a trip to Portugal involves several considerations to make the most of your experience. Start by determining the duration of your visit and the cities or regions you wish to explore. Lisbon and Porto are popular starting points, but don’t overlook smaller towns like Sintra and Évora for their historical charm. Consider the time of year, as Portugal enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers. Booking accommodations in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, ensures you have a comfortable stay. Explore Portugal’s diverse cuisine, from seafood delicacies to hearty stews and pastries, and plan to indulge in local flavors during your trip.
Portugal Food
Portuguese cuisine reflects the country’s maritime heritage, with a focus on fresh seafood and Mediterranean ingredients. Bacalhau, or salted codfish, is a national delicacy prepared in countless ways, from fritters to stews. Grilled sardines, often enjoyed during festivals like Santo António, are a summertime favorite. Portuguese cuisine also features hearty meat dishes such as cozido à portuguesa, a mixed meat and vegetable stew. Don’t miss out on pastéis de nata, delicious custard tarts with a crispy pastry shell, a sweet treat enjoyed any time of day. Pair your meals with local wines like Vinho Verde or port wine for a truly authentic culinary experience.
Culture and Religion
Portugal’s culture is a blend of influences from its rich history of exploration, trade, and colonization. The Portuguese are proud of their maritime heritage, which is evident in their seafaring traditions, music, and literature. Catholicism is the dominant religion, with beautiful churches and cathedrals found throughout the country. Festivals and celebrations are an integral part of Portuguese culture, with events like Carnaval and Festa de São João bringing communities together in lively street parties and parades. Traditional Fado music, known for its soulful melodies and emotional lyrics, is a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, offering a glimpse into the Portuguese soul.
Safety and Dangers
Portugal is considered one of the safest countries in Europe for travelers. Violent crime is rare, but petty theft, particularly in crowded tourist areas, can occur. Visitors should exercise caution with their belongings and be vigilant on public transportation. When driving, be aware of aggressive drivers and narrow roads, especially in older city centers. While Portugal is relatively safe from natural disasters, wildfires can occur during the dry summer months, so be mindful of any local advisories. Overall, Portugal offers a welcoming and hospitable environment for travelers, with friendly locals ready to assist visitors in need.
