Before
you go.

Euro, cards, and Multibanco.

• Currency: Euro (€)
• Cards: Visa and Mastercard widely accepted — including contactless
• ATMs: Multibanco network is extensive and reliable; use bank-owned machines rather than private ones in tourist areas
• Tipping: Optional. Round up at casual spots, leave 5–10% at restaurants for good service. Not expected in cafés or bars.
• Note: Portuguese card terminals rarely prompt for a tip — carry small cash for this purpose

SIM cards and eSIM.

Portugal has excellent mobile and internet coverage across the mainland and islands. Three main operators — MEO, NOS, and Vodafone — offer prepaid SIMs and eSIMs.

• Prepaid SIM: From €15–20 for 15–25 GB, 30-day validity
• eSIM: Available from all three operators — free for postpaid, ~€10 for prepaid
• Where to buy: Airports, operator stores, kiosks, and supermarkets
• Wi-Fi: Free and common in hotels, cafés, and public spaces

Mild winters, warm summers.

• Summer (Jun–Aug): 20–30 °C on the coast, often exceeding 35 °C inland
• Winter (Dec–Feb): 8–15 °C — mild by northern European standards
• Algarve: ~3,000 hours of sunshine per year — one of Europe's most reliable climates
• Essentials: Sunscreen, light layers, comfortable walking shoes, a light jacket for evenings, and an umbrella for autumn/winter

Schengen and passport rules.

EU citizens can travel freely with a valid national ID or passport. Non-EU visitors may need a Schengen visa depending on nationality.

• Passport validity: At least 3 months beyond planned departure from the Schengen area
• Issue date: Passport must have been issued within the last 10 years
• Blank pages: At least 2 blank pages required
• Schengen visa fee: €90 adults · €45 children 6–12 · free under 6
• Processing time: Typically 10–15 working days

Trains, ride-hailing, and roads.

• Trains: CP (Comboios de Portugal) covers major cities and regions. Book on the CP app in advance for best rates.
• Ride-hailing: Bolt is the dominant app — generally larger and cheaper than Uber locally. FREENOW also operates.
• Taxis: Reliable and metered. Ask for a receipt.
• Public transit: Efficient metro and bus systems in Lisbon and Porto. Day passes available.
• Driving: Modern motorway network. Valid license required. Some motorways use electronic tolls.
• Group travel: For 2–3 passengers, Bolt or Uber often beats public transport on price within cities.

A food lover's country.

• Bacalhau — Salt cod, prepared in hundreds of ways
• Francesinha — Porto's iconic sandwich
• Pastel de nata — Custard tart, best warm
• Port wine — From the Douro Valley, aged in Vila Nova de Gaia
• Alentejo reds — Robust, structured wines from the south
• Ginjinha — Sour cherry liqueur, a Lisbon tradition

When things open.

• Shops: Weekdays 9–13 and 15–19; Saturdays 9–13
• Malls: 10:00–23:00, seven days a week
• Restaurants: Lunch 12:00–15:00 · Dinner 19:00–22:30
• Major holidays: 1 Jan, 25 Apr, 1 May, 10 Jun, 15 Aug, 8 Sep, 5 Oct, 1 Nov, 1 Dec, 8 Dec, 25 Dec
• Ponte: When a holiday falls near a weekend, many businesses close for a long weekend

One of Europe's safest countries.

Portugal consistently ranks among the safest countries in Europe. Petty theft can occur in tourist areas — stay alert in crowded spaces.

• Emergency number: 112 — police, fire, ambulance, 24/7, free
• Health: EU citizens with EHIC; others should arrange travel insurance
• Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance strongly recommended

Small gestures, big difference.

• Greetings: Handshake on first meeting; cheek kisses between friends and acquaintances
• Churches: Dress modestly — shoulders and knees covered. Some provide shawls at the entrance.
• Volume: Keep voices low in public spaces, especially in churches and museums
• Tipping: Optional but appreciated — 5–10% in restaurants
• Bread basket: Often charged as a cover charge — ask if unsure