Entry Requirements
Visa requirements for Portugal depend on which passport you hold. Check the Traveller visa tool to see whether your passport needs a visa and, if so, how long you can stay.
Check if you need a visa for PortugalEmergency Numbers
- General
- 112
Currency
- Name
- Euro
- Code
- EUR
- Symbol
- €
Power Outlets
- Outlet types
- Type C, Type F
- Voltage
- 230V
- Frequency
- 50Hz
Time Zone
WET (UTC+0) — WEST (UTC+1) in summer
Madeira: same as mainland. Azores: AZOT (UTC-1) / AZOST (UTC+0) in summer
Best Time to Visit
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Algarve beaches: June–September. Lisbon/Porto: spring and autumn are ideal. Avoid August in Lisbon — very hot and crowded
Tipping Customs
| Venue | Typical | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Restaurants | 5–10% optional | Not obligatory; round up or leave a few euros for good service |
| Taxis | Round up | — |
| Hotels | €1–2 per bag | — |
| Cafes / Pastelerias | Leave small coins on the counter | — |
Dress Code
- Casual throughout
- Modest dress at churches (cover shoulders and knees)
- Smart casual for Lisbon and Porto evening restaurants
- Swimwear stays at beach or pool
Social Etiquette
- Greet with two cheek kisses (women to women and men to women); handshake between men
- Portuguese culture values warmth and sincerity — conversations linger over meals
- Fado music is deeply emotional and sacred to national identity — listen respectfully in a fado house
- Saudade (melancholic longing) is a genuine cultural feeling, not just a tourist concept
Local Laws
Laws change. Verify current rules with your country's official travel advisory before departure.
- Drug possession decriminalised in Portugal since 2001 — possession of small amounts for personal use is an administrative offence (not criminal), but sale remains illegal
- Alcohol purchase age is 18
- Smoking banned in enclosed public spaces
- Many beaches have dangerous rip currents — swim only when green flag is flying
Common Phrases
| English | Local | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello | Olá | oh-LAH |
| Thank you (man speaking) | Obrigado | oh-bree-GAH-doo |
| Thank you (woman speaking) | Obrigada | oh-bree-GAH-dah |
| Please | Por favor | poor fah-VOR |
| Excuse me | Com licença | kom lee-SEN-sah |
Plan Your Trip
Planning a trip to Portugal?
Traveller builds your personalised packing list, checklist, and travel brief in seconds.
Plan this trip with Traveller