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Portugal
Portugal enchants with its stunning beaches, historic cities, and delicious cuisine. Visitors can explore Lisbon's vibrant neighborhoods, the picturesque streets of Porto, and the beautiful Algarve coastline. Known for its rich culture and warm hospitality, Portugal is a must-visit destination.
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Summary
Overview
Months
03. March, 04. April, 05. May, 06. June, 07. July, 08. August
Vacation type
Nature, Party, Couple, Family, Beach, Sightseeing, Hiking
Expenses
<150€, <200€, Over 200€
Temperature
10-20°C, 20-25°C, 25-30°C, Over 30°C
Rainfall
0-50mm, 50-100mm
Safety
Very safe
Continent
Europe
Currency
Euro
Languages
Portuguese, Mirandese
Currency Converter
When to visit
The best time to visit Portugal is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to October). These seasons offer mild temperatures and fewer tourists, making it ideal for exploring Portugal's cities, beaches, and countryside.
- Spring (March to May): Features pleasant weather with blooming flowers and moderate temperatures, perfect for sightseeing in cities like Lisbon and Porto, and enjoying outdoor activities.
- Autumn (September to October): Provides warm temperatures and clear skies, making it a great time for exploring the country’s historical sites, coastal regions, and vineyards, with fewer crowds compared to summer.
- Summer (June to August) is also a popular time, especially for beach vacations along the Algarve coast. However, this period can be hot, particularly in inland areas, and more crowded with tourists.
- Winter (November to February) can be mild along the coast but colder and wetter in the north and inland areas. This period is ideal for experiencing Portugal’s festive season and exploring the cities with fewer tourists.
Weather, Crowds and Costs
Per one person
Tourist Season: June-August (Summer)
Budget Vacation ($30-70/day)
Accommodation: $10-30/night (budget hostels, local guesthouses).
Food: $10-20/day (local food, cafes).
Activities: $10-20/day (beach activities, sightseeing).
Transportation: $5-10/day (local buses, metro).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (souvenirs).
Mid-Range Vacation ($70-150/day)
Accommodation: $30-70/night (mid-range hotels, boutique stays).
Food: $15-30/day (restaurants, Portuguese cuisine).
Activities: $15-50/day (cultural tours, guided activities).
Transportation: $10-20/day (private taxis, rental cars).
Other Costs: $10-15/day (souvenirs, shopping).
Luxury Vacation ($150+/day)
Accommodation: $60+/night (luxury hotels, private resorts).
Food: $30+/day (fine dining).
Activities: $30+/day (private tours, exclusive experiences).
Transportation: $20+/day (private transport, rental cars).
Other Costs: $15+/day (luxury shopping).
Off-Peak Season: November-April (Winter)
Budget Vacation ($20-50/day)
Accommodation: $10-25/night (budget guesthouses, hostels).
Food: $5-15/day (local food, street food).
Activities: $5-15/day (sightseeing, museums).
Transportation: $5-10/day (local transport, metro).
Other Costs: $5/day (souvenirs).
Mid-Range Vacation ($50-100/day)
Accommodation: $20-50/night (mid-range hotels, local stays).
Food: $10-25/day (local restaurants).
Activities: $10-30/day (city tours, wine tasting).
Transportation: $5-10/day (private taxis).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (shopping).
Luxury Vacation ($100+/day)
Accommodation: $50+/night (luxury resorts, villas).
Food: $20+/day (fine dining).
Activities: $20+/day (private tours, luxury experiences).
Transportation: $10+/day (private taxis).
Other Costs: $10+/day (luxury shopping).
Best Regions to visit
Cities
1. Lisbon
- The capital city, known for its historic neighborhoods such as Alfama and Bairro Alto, vibrant cultural scene, iconic landmarks like the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, and scenic tram rides.
2. Porto
- Famous for its picturesque riverside setting along the Douro River, historic architecture, the Livraria Lello bookstore, and its renowned Port wine.
3. Funchal
- Located on Madeira Island, Funchal is known for its stunning landscapes, botanical gardens, and the vibrant Mercado dos Lavradores. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
4. Coimbra
- Home to one of Europe’s oldest universities, Coimbra is known for its historic university buildings, beautiful libraries, and charming old town.
5. Évora
- A UNESCO World Heritage city famous for its well-preserved Roman Temple, medieval architecture, and historic center.
6. Braga
- Known for its rich history, religious sites, and vibrant city life. Key attractions include the Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary and the historic city center.
7. Aveiro
- Often called the "Venice of Portugal" due to its picturesque canals, colorful boats, and charming art nouveau architecture.
8. Sintra
- Located near Lisbon, Sintra is famous for its romantic architecture, including the colorful Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle, set amidst lush forests.
Lisbon
Islands
1. São Miguel
- Known as the "Green Island" for its lush landscapes, São Miguel features stunning volcanic scenery, including the Sete Cidades and Furnas crater lakes, hot springs, and botanical gardens.
2. Terceira
- Famous for its well-preserved historical architecture in Angra do Heroísmo, a UNESCO World Heritage site, as well as its vibrant culture and local festivals.
3. Pico
- Known for its imposing volcanic peak, Mount Pico, which is the highest point in Portugal. The island offers unique landscapes, vineyards, and picturesque towns.
4. Madeira
- Often referred to as the "Island of Eternal Spring" due to its pleasant climate, Madeira boasts rugged coastlines, lush forests, and a charming capital, Funchal.
5. Porto Santo
- Known for its beautiful sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, Porto Santo is ideal for relaxation and enjoying outdoor activities.
6. Santa Maria
- The southernmost island in the Azores, Santa Maria is known for its warmer climate, beautiful beaches, and historic sites.
Madeira
Things to see
Natural Attractions
1. Douro Valley
- Explore this picturesque wine region known for its terraced vineyards along the Douro River, offering scenic boat cruises, wine tasting, and beautiful landscapes.
2. Azores Archipelago
- Discover these stunning volcanic islands in the Atlantic Ocean, known for their lush landscapes, geothermal hot springs, and diverse outdoor activities such as hiking and whale watching.
3. Madeira
- Visit this lush island known for its rugged coastline, mountainous terrain, and botanical gardens, including the famous levadas (irrigation channels) offering scenic hiking trails.
4. Sintra
- Explore this enchanting town known for its fairy-tale palaces and lush gardens, including the colorful Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle, set against a backdrop of dense forest.
5. Ria Formosa Natural Park
- Discover this coastal lagoon in the Algarve region, a haven for birdwatching and enjoying diverse wetlands, salt pans, and sandy islands.
6. Arrábida Natural Park
- Enjoy the beautiful landscapes of this park near Setúbal, featuring stunning coastal cliffs, sandy beaches, and lush forests, ideal for hiking and nature walks.
Cultural Attractions
1. Belém Tower
- Visit this iconic 16th-century fortress in Lisbon, which once guarded the entrance to the city’s harbor and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site.
2. Jerónimos Monastery
- Explore this magnificent monastery in Lisbon, a masterpiece of Manueline architecture, known for its intricately decorated façade and historical significance.
3. Porto’s Ribeira District
- Wander through this charming historic area of Porto, a UNESCO World Heritage site with narrow streets, colorful houses, and lively riverside cafes.
4. Palácio da Pena
- Admire the whimsical architecture of this 19th-century palace in Sintra, characterized by its vibrant colors, eclectic design, and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
5. Fado Music
- Experience Portugal’s traditional music genre, Fado, characterized by its melancholic melodies and poetic lyrics, often performed in intimate venues in Lisbon and Coimbra.
6. Batalha Monastery
- Discover this impressive Gothic monastery in Batalha, known for its elaborate architecture and historical significance related to the Portuguese Reconquista.
How to get around
1. Trains
- Trains are a great way to travel between major cities and regions. Comboios de Portugal (CP) operates services connecting cities like Lisbon, Porto, Coimbra, and Faro. High-speed trains, such as the Alfa Pendular, offer faster journeys on popular routes.
2. Domestic Flights
- Domestic flights are useful for covering long distances quickly. TAP Air Portugal and Ryanair provide flights connecting major cities and islands, including Lisbon, Porto, Funchal (Madeira), and Ponta Delgada (Azores).
3. Car Rentals
- Renting a car is ideal for exploring Portugal’s diverse landscapes, including the Alentejo, Douro Valley, and Sintra. It offers flexibility to visit both popular and remote locations. Be aware of local driving conditions and parking availability.
4. Buses
- Long-distance buses are an economical option for traveling between cities and towns. Companies like Rede Expressos and FlixBus offer services with various amenities. Local buses are also available for shorter trips within cities.
5. Metro and Trams
- Metro and trams are efficient for getting around major cities. Lisbon and Porto have well-developed metro systems and historic tram networks. Tickets can be purchased at stations or via contactless payment systems.
6. Taxis and Ride-Hailing Apps
- Taxis are readily available in cities and can be hailed on the street or booked via phone. Ride-hailing apps like Uber, Bolt, and Free Now operate in cities like Lisbon and Porto, providing a convenient option with transparent pricing.
7. Ferries
- Ferries are useful for traveling between mainland Portugal and the islands of Madeira and the Azores, as well as for crossing the Tagus River in Lisbon. Services are operated by companies like Transmadiera and Atlântico Ferries.
8. Bike Rentals
- Bike rentals are popular in cities and scenic regions. Cities like Lisbon, Porto, and Funchal have bike-sharing schemes and dedicated bike lanes for exploring local attractions and enjoying the surroundings.
9. Walking
- Walking is ideal for exploring city centers and historic neighborhoods. Cities like Lisbon and Porto have pedestrian-friendly areas where you can enjoy local sights, architecture, and cuisine.
For the best experience, use trains for intercity travel, rent a car for exploring diverse regions, and rely on buses for economical transport. Metro and trams are great for urban travel, while taxis and ride-hailing apps offer convenience in cities. Ferries are essential for island travel, and bike rentals and walking are excellent for exploring urban areas and local attractions.
What to eat
1. Bacalhau à Brás
- A dish made with salted cod, onions, and potatoes, often garnished with olives.
2. Pastéis de Nata
- Creamy custard tarts with a crispy crust, a popular dessert.
3. Caldo Verde
- A traditional soup made with kale, potatoes, and chorizo.
4. Francesinha
- A hearty sandwich made with cured meats, topped with cheese and a rich sauce.
5. Piri Piri Chicken
- Grilled chicken marinated in spicy piri piri sauce, showcasing bold flavors.
Flights
Flight prices are approximate and vary by departure city, airline, and booking time. Check airlines or travel platforms for the latest details.
Main Airport: Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS)
Flight Prices and Seasons:
From Europe
- Average Round-Trip Cost: €50 to €200.
- Cheapest Months: January to March and November to December.
- Peak Prices: June to August and December holidays.
From North America
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $400 to $700.
- Cheapest Months: January to March and November to December.
- Peak Prices: June to August and December holidays.
From Asia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $400 to $700.
- Cheapest Months: January to March and November to December.
- Peak Prices: June to August and December holidays.
From Australia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $800 to $1,200.
- Cheapest Months: January to March and November to December.
- Peak Prices: June to August and December holidays.
From Africa
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $400 to $700.
- Cheapest Months: January to March and November to December.
- Peak Prices: June to August and December holidays.
Visa
1. Visa Requirement
- Citizens of the U.S., Canada, the U.K., and Australia do not need a visa for short stays.
2. Visa-Free Entry
- Travelers from many countries can enter visa-free for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism, business, or family visits.
3. Schengen Visa
- Travelers from countries that require a visa must apply for a Schengen visa at a Portuguese embassy or consulate before traveling.
4. Types of Visa
- Common visa types include a Short-Stay Visa (Type C): Valid for tourism or business for stays of up to 90 days.
5. Processing Time
- Visa processing can take 15 days or longer, so it’s advisable to apply well in advance.
6. Duration of Stay
- Visa-free visitors can stay for up to 90 days; Schengen visa holders can stay for the duration specified in their visa.
7. Health Requirements
- No specific vaccinations are generally required for entry, but travel insurance is recommended.
8. COVID-19 Regulations
- Check for any current COVID-19 entry requirements before traveling, as regulations may change.
Important things to know
1. Payments
- The local currency is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted.
2. Tap Water
- Tap water is generally safe to drink.
3. Electricity
- The voltage is 230V, and plug types C and F are used.
4. Tipping in Restaurants
- Tipping is customary, usually around 5-10%.
5. SIM Cards
- Local SIM cards are available from providers like MEO and Vodafone.
6. Driving Side
- In Portugal, people drive on the right side of the road.