Planning
a trip to Portugal? Discover key travel information, visa details,
best times to visit, and insider tips to make your journey smooth and
unforgettable across this beautiful European destination.
Country: Portugal
Continent / Region: Europe / Southern Europe / Iberian Peninsula
Capital City: Lisbon
Government Type: Semi-Presidential Republic
Population: Approx. 10.3 million
Official Language(s): Portuguese
Percentage of Population Who Speak English: ~60% (very high in tourist areas)
Currency: Euro (EUR)
Time Zone (GMT): GMT / GMT+1 (summer)
Driving Side: Right
Electric Plug Type / Voltage: Type C/F – 230V
Adapter Needed: UK travellers require a plug adapter
Emergency Numbers: 112 (all services)
Travel Time from the UK (London): 2.5–3 hours (direct)
Best Time/Months to Travel: March–June and September–October
Main International Airports:
- Visa Requirements: Part of the Schengen Area - The Schengen Area is a zone of 29 European countries that have abolished internal border controls, allowing for passport-free travel.
- Visa Needed for UK Citizens: Not required
- Visa Duration / Cost: Up to 90 days in a 180-day period
- Vaccinations Needed: Routine vaccines recommended
Embassy Information (UK Embassy in Portugal):
Average Daily Costs: £50 / £100 / £180+
Tipping Culture: Not mandatory; 5–10% appreciated
Public Transport Options: Metro, buses, trams, trains, ferries
Approx. Cost of Single Fare: €1.50–€2.00 (metro/bus)
Internet / SIM Availability: Excellent 4G/5G; MEO, Vodafone, NOS
Main Climate Type: Mediterranean
Average Temperature: Winter 10–16°C; Summer 25–35°C
Major Cities: Lisbon, Porto, Faro, Coimbra, Braga
Natural Attractions: Algarve cliffs, Douro Valley, Azores volcanic landscapes, Madeira mountains
Popular Destinations: Lisbon, Porto, Algarve, Madeira, Azores, Sintra
Main Religions: Predominantly Roman Catholic
Cultural Etiquette / Customs:
Cuisine Highlights: Pastéis de nata, bacalhau dishes, grilled sardines, caldo verde, peri-peri chicken, port wine
Local Festivals:
Famous Landmarks: Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, Pena Palace, Douro Valley vineyards, Benagil Cave
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
Common Scams: Overpriced taxis, restaurant upselling, pickpocketing in busy tourist zones
Health Risks: Heatwaves in summer; strong UV exposure
Recommended Clinics: Private clinics in Lisbon, Porto, Algarve
Insurance Recommendation: Standard travel insurance recommended
Internet Speed: Very good 4G/5G; widespread public Wi-Fi in cities
Useful Phrases:
Must-See Attractions: Belém Tower, Sintra palaces, Douro River, Algarve beaches, Porto Ribeira, Madeira’s levada trails
Unique Experiences: Wine tasting in Douro Valley, tram rides in Lisbon, Fado music evenings, dolphin watching in the Algarve
Hidden Gems: Monsaraz, Peneda-Gerês National Park, Praia da Marinha viewpoints, São Miguel hot springs (Azores)
Popular Areas to Stay: Lisbon Baixa/Alfama, Porto Ribeira, Albufeira/Lagos (Algarve), Funchal (Madeira)
Average Hotel Prices: £40 / £80 / £160+
Book A Hotel: You can book your accommodation right here.
Nightlife Areas: Lisbon Bairro Alto, Cais do Sodré, Porto Galerias de Paris, Albufeira Strip
Local Drinks: Port wine, ginjinha, vinho verde, Madeira wine
Entertainment: Beach clubs, wine bars, Fado houses, rooftop lounges
Car Rental: Affordable; useful for rural or coastal exploring
Domestic Flights: Frequent to Madeira, Azores, Porto
Trains: Reliable national network (CP)
Taxi / Rideshare Costs: Uber and Bolt widely used; fares low to moderate
Best Markets: Lisbon Time Out Market, Porto Bolhão Market, Loulé Market (Algarve)
Popular Souvenirs: Cork products, ceramics, port wine, azulejo tiles, tinned sardines
Local SIM Card Providers: Vodafone, MEO, NOS
Typical Business Hours: 9 a.m.–7 p.m. (Mon–Sat)
Tap Water Safety: Safe across the country
Local Apps to Download:
Did You Know?
Portugal is the oldest country in Europe with the same defined borders since 1139 — and home to the world’s oldest bookstore (Bertrand, Lisbon).