Portugal Traveler Essentials
- Capital
- Lisbon
- Currency
- EUR (Euro)
- Best time to visit
- April–October. Spring and autumn offer ideal weather without summer crowds.
Visa requirements
EU citizens travel freely. Non-EU can stay up to 90 days in Schengen zone without a visa.
Getting around
Comboios de Portugal trains and Rede Expressos coaches link Lisbon, Porto and the Algarve efficiently, with fast Alfa Pendular services on the main line. Lisbon and Porto have metros, trams and buses on rechargeable cards, and taxis plus apps like Uber and Bolt are widely used.
Safety
Portugal is one of Europe's safest countries. Pickpocketing occurs in Lisbon's Alfama area.
Tipping customs
Tipping is modest and not obligatory. Round up or leave about 5–10% in restaurants for good service, round up taxi fares, and a euro or two for hotel porters and housekeeping is appreciated.
Travel tips
Pastel de nata is mandatory. Explore beyond Lisbon — Sintra, Porto, and the Alentejo are stunning.