Portugal

The best time to visit Portugal is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) months when the weather is pleasant and the landscapes are at their most beautiful. Spring brings mild temperatures and blooming flowers, while autumn offers warm days and fewer tourists, making it ideal for sightseeing. The summer months (July to August) are warm and popular for beach holidays, though they can be crowded. Winter (December to February) is milder than in northern Europe and is perfect for exploring cities like Lisbon and Porto without the crowds.

The local currency in Portugal is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted in most cities, including Lisbon, Porto, and Faro, but it’s always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases or in more rural areas. ATMs are readily available, and mobile payments are commonly used in urban areas.

The official language is Portuguese, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas, especially in major cities and along the Algarve coast. It’s helpful to learn a few basic phrases such as "Obrigado" (Thank you) and "Bom dia" (Good morning), as locals appreciate when visitors make an effort to speak the language.

Portugal has an efficient and affordable public transportation system, including metro, buses, and trams in major cities like Lisbon and Porto. The train system is well-connected for traveling between cities and regions, especially to coastal areas and the wine regions. Renting a car is recommended for exploring the countryside, including the Algarve, Douro Valley, and the Azores or Madeira Islands. Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Uber are also widely available.

Tap water in Portugal is safe to drink, particularly in urban areas, and can be refilled from fountains in many public places. Bottled water is available everywhere for those who prefer it.

SIM cards – Consider purchasing an E-SIM or a local SIM card from providers like MEO, NOS, or Vodafone. Free Wi-Fi is commonly available in cafes, restaurants, hotels, and some public spaces, especially in larger cities and tourist areas.

The emergency number in Portugal is 112 for police, fire, and medical services.

Tipping in Portugal is customary but not mandatory. In restaurants, a tip of around 5-10% is appreciated if service is not included in the bill. Tipping taxi drivers and hotel staff is also common, but the amount is flexible depending on the service.

Portugal is becoming more eco-conscious and offers numerous eco-tourism opportunities. Visitors are encouraged to minimize plastic waste, recycle, and opt for sustainable travel practices. Portugal is home to numerous eco-friendly accommodations and green spaces, especially in national parks like Peneda-Gerês and the Alentejo region.

Portugal is one of the safest countries in Europe for tourists. As with any destination, it’s always wise to keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas. Avoid leaving valuables unattended at the beach or in cars.

Food – Portuguese cuisine is renowned for its seafood, with dishes like bacalhau (salt cod), grilled sardines, and octopus. Don’t miss trying pastéis de nata (custard tarts) or enjoying the famous Portuguese wines, particularly port wine from the Douro Valley. Festivals – Portugal hosts a variety of cultural events, including the Lisbon Fado Festival (April), Festa de São João in Porto (June), and the Madeira Flower Festival (April). There are also numerous food festivals dedicated to local specialties like the Oporto Wine Festival (July). Etiquette – Portuguese people are generally warm and welcoming. When meeting people, a handshake is the most common greeting. Be mindful of dress codes when visiting churches or attending formal occasions. It is considered polite to greet people with "Bom dia" (Good morning) or "Boa tarde" (Good afternoon). Personal space is respected, but Portuguese people are generally very friendly and open to conversation.