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Portugal: Travel Guide

Discover the sunny beauty of Portugal, where history meets nature.

Summary

Prepare your trip to Portugal

Portugal, located in the far southwest of Europe, is an enchanting destination that offers a wealth of stunning landscapes, from the golden beaches of the Algarve to the rolling vineyards of Porto. The country is renowned for its rich history, warm culture and delicious cuisine. Whether you want to explore historic cities, relax on idyllic beaches or taste world-famous wines, Portugal promises an unforgettable experience.

Portugal travel guide
Lisbon
port
Port

PORTUGUESE

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When to go to Portugal?

The best time to visit Portugal depends on your climate and activity preferences. Here is an overview of the seasons and the benefits of each period:

  1. Spring (March to May) : Spring is a pleasant time to visit Portugal. The temperatures are starting to warm up, the gardens are in bloom, and the landscapes are lush. It's a great time to explore historic towns without the summer crowds and to enjoy outdoor activities.

  2. Summer (June to August) : Summer is peak tourist season in Portugal, especially on the Algarve coast. The days are warm and sunny, perfect for enjoying the beaches. However, expect large crowds in popular tourist areas. June is also the month of the Santo António festivities in Lisbon and the São João festivities in Porto, offering a unique festive atmosphere.

  3. Fall (September to November) : Autumn is an ideal time to visit Portugal. Temperatures remain pleasant, crowds thin after peak season, and accommodation prices can be more affordable. This is the perfect time to discover the vineyards in full harvest in the Douro Valley and to explore the more rural regions.

  4. Winter (December to February) : Winters in Portugal are mild, particularly on the coast, but temperatures can be cooler in the north of the country. It's a less touristy time, which means less crowded attractions and lower accommodation rates. Some regions, such as the Algarve, remain lively with festive events during the Christmas and New Year period.

In summary, spring and fall offer a perfect balance between pleasant weather and fewer tourist crowds. However, whatever time period you choose, Portugal promises an enriching experience with its rich heritage, delicious cuisine and enchanting landscapes.

Idea for trips to Portugal

The best flights to Portugal

What to do, what to see: Top 5 of Portugal

Gastronomy in Portugal

Portugal is a food lover's paradise, offering a variety of delicious dishes using fresh local produce. Discover our selection of renowned restaurants that will awaken your taste buds.

BACALHAU

PASTEIS DE NATA

FRANCESINHAS

CALDO VERDE

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Transport in Portugal

Plane

Portugal has several international airports, including Lisbon, Porto, Faro and Funchal (on Madeira). National and international airlines offer regular flights to major European capitals and other international destinations.

Bus

Buses are an economical way to travel between cities and more remote areas of Portugal. Bus companies offer regular schedules and connections to many tourist destinations.

Train

The Portuguese rail network is well maintained and offers fast connections between major cities such as Lisbon, Porto, Coimbra, and Faro. Trains offer a comfortable and convenient way to travel while admiring the country's picturesque landscapes.

Taxi

Taxis in Lisbon are a convenient and popular way to get around the city. They offer a reliable and accessible service for travelers and locals who want to move quickly and comfortably from one place to another.

Car

Renting a car is a popular option for exploring rural areas, remote beaches and sites less accessible by public transport. Portugal's highways are in good condition, but smaller roads can be narrow and winding.

Metro & tram

The cities of Lisbon and Porto have modern metro systems that make urban travel easier. Lisbon also offers a network of scenic trams that will take you through the city's historic neighborhoods.

The cost of living in Portugal

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Average Salary in Portugal
Average cost of living 50%

Before leaving for Portugal, it is essential to have an idea of the cost of living in this sunny country. Here is an overview of the expenses to plan for your stay.

Accommodation

The cost of accommodation in Portugal varies depending on the region and the type of accommodation chosen. Larger cities like Lisbon and Porto offer a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget hostels. In more touristy areas, prices may be slightly higher during the peak summer season, while outside tourist areas accommodation may be more affordable.

Food

Portuguese cuisine is delicious and affordable. You can taste traditional dishes in local restaurants for a reasonable price. Meals in restaurants can be very affordable, especially if you opt for the daily menu. Local markets also offer a wide variety of fresh produce at great prices if you want to self-cater.

Transportation

Public transport in Portugal is generally affordable and well developed. The cost of bus, metro and train tickets is reasonable, making it easy to travel between cities and tourist sites. Taxi prices vary depending on distance and city, but are generally reasonable.

Activities

Portugal offers a variety of leisure activities, from cultural tours to outdoor activities. Entertainment prices can vary, but many tourist attractions are accessible at a reasonable cost. Local festivals and events, meanwhile, can often be enjoyed for free.

Practical Information

As with any trip, it is important to take safety precautions in Colombia. Avoid wearing conspicuous valuables and keep an eye on your belongings at all times. Familiarize yourself with areas to avoid and follow the advice of local authorities to ensure your safety.

Travel insurance for Malta

Travel insurance is especially important if you plan to travel to Portugal.

Although the country is relatively safe for tourists, it is always possible to encounter unforeseen situations such as health problems, lost or stolen luggage, or transport delays.

In such cases, travel insurance can help you resolve the issues quickly and efficiently, without having to bear high costs or additional complications. 

Passeport and Visa

To travel to Portugal as a tourist, you will need a valid passport. The remaining validity of your passport must be at least six months from the date of intended entry into Portugal. If your passport expires soon, it is recommended to renew it before traveling.

If you are a national of a European Union (EU) or Schengen Area country, you do not need a visa to stay in Portugal. You can enter and stay in the country with your identity card or passport.

However, if you are a national of a non-EU or Schengen Area country, you will need to check the specific visa requirements for your nationality. Some countries have visa waiver agreements with Portugal, while others might require you to apply for a Schengen visa before your trip.

Health and vaccinations

No specific vaccination is required to enter Portugal. However, it is always advisable to check the health recommendations in your home country and consult a healthcare professional before traveling.

Culture and customs

Portugal's culture is rich, diverse and steeped in deep history. Here are some aspects of Portuguese culture and customs:

Warm Hospitality: The Portuguese are renowned for their warm hospitality and friendly welcome to visitors. They are often open to meeting new people and like to share their culture with foreigners.

Money and finances in Portugal

Cash Management

When traveling to Portugal, it is important to take bank charges into account in order to manage your financial transactions efficiently. The simplest way and the one we recommend is to open an account Revolution Metal.

Here are the advantages of having a Revolut Metal account for your trips

  1. Currency conversion free of charge Revolut enables instant and transparent currency conversions without hidden fees. You can load your Revolut account with your local currency and convert money to Colombian pesos (COP) at the real exchange rate, thus avoiding the costly commissions charged by traditional currency exchange offices.

  2. Use without borders With Revolut, your account is usable worldwide. You can make online and in-store payments, withdraw cash from ATMs, and even use your Revolut card to pay for public transportation and taxis in Colombia. This saves you from carrying large amounts of cash and facilitates your daily transactions.

  3. Security and Control Revolut offers advanced security options to protect your account. You can easily enable and disable your card in real-time through the app if needed. Additionally, the Revolut app allows you to track your expenses in real-time, set spending limits, and receive instant notifications for each transaction, giving you full control over your finances.

  4. Budget and savings Revolut offers budgeting features that help you track your expenses during your trip. You can create budgets for different spending categories such as accommodation, food, and tourist activities. Additionally, you can round up your purchases to save money automatically in a separate savings account.

  5. 24/7 Support In case of any issues, Revolut's support team is available 24/7 to assist you. You can contact them through the app or the website for any questions or concerns related to your account or transactions.

In such cases, travel insurance can help you resolve the issues quickly and efficiently, without having to bear high costs or additional complications. 

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CUSTOM-MADE TOUR FOR PORTUGAL

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Frequently asked questions

Spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) are ideal for mild temperatures and fewer tourists.

Sintra, with its fairytale palaces and magnificent gardens.

Explore Lisbon for a few days, then head to Porto to experience the picturesque atmosphere.

Winter (December to February) is generally cheaper for trips to Portugal.

A classic tour would include Lisbon, Porto, Sintra and the Algarve for its stunning beaches.

Visit the Belém Tower, the Alfama district of Lisbon, the port wine cellars and the beaches of the Algarve.

The Algarve offers a relaxing holiday with its sunny beaches and seaside resorts.

Lisbon is generally the most visited city in Portugal.

Explore Lisbon, Porto, Sintra and add a jaunt to the Douro to taste wine.

The Algarve is renowned for its stunning beaches, including Praia da Marinha and Praia da Falésia.

It all depends on your preferences. The Algarve for beaches, the Douro for wine and the North for nature.

Opt for Sintra, Porto or the romantic beaches of the Algarve for a romantic getaway.

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