Your Ultimate Guide: Unforgettable Portugal Travel Tips for First-Timers
Welcome to The Travel Tinker, your trusty co-pilot for crafting the perfect getaway. So, you’re going Portugal, but are in the need for some tips, etc! You’re in luck, because this guide is born from that love of being prepared and, let’s be honest, a few first-timer mishaps I made so you don’t have to! Think of me as your friend who’s already been, ready to spill all the secrets. We don’t gatekeep here. Let’s get you prepped for a trip without the stress! 🇵🇹
Essential Portugal Travel Tips for a Flawless First Visit
When to Go: Timing is Everything ✈️
Deciding on the best time to visit Portugal can totally make or break your trip. While this gorgeous country is a year-round destination, let’s simplify things so you can pick the perfect season for your vibe.
Spring (March to May): Honestly, this is my favourite time. It just works for me! The country is in full bloom, the weather is beautifully mild, and you get to explore the cities and coastlines without the intense summer crowds. It’s pure bliss.
Summer (June to August): Hello, sunshine! ☀️ If you’re dreaming of lazy beach days and soaking up the heat, this is your season. Just be prepared for peak crowds and prices. June is also fantastic for local festivals, especially the Feast of St. Anthony in Lisbon!
Autumn (September to October): Another golden window to visit. The summer heat mellows, the crowds thin out, and the ocean is still delightfully warm. It’s a wonderful time for wine tasting in the Douro Valley.
Winter (November to March): Looking for a cosy, budget-friendly city break? Winter is your answer. It can be rainy, particularly in the north, but the Algarve in the south remains quite mild. You’ll feel like you have the place all to yourself.
🔹 Tinker’s Tip: I always tell people to aim for the “shoulder seasons” of May, June, and September. You get the best of both worlds: lovely weather and fewer people.
🗺️ Guide to Portugal: The Best Time To Visit Portugal: A Seasonal Guide
Flights from Trip.com (I use these regular)
Getting Around: Navigating Like a Pro 🚆
Portugal’s public transport is fantastic and makes exploring a breeze. You can easily hop between major cities without needing a car. I was so impressed with how clean and efficient everything was.
Here’s a quick rundown of your best options:
Trains (Comboios de Portugal)
Best For: Travelling between major cities like Lisbon, Porto, Coimbra, and Faro.
Pro Tip: 🎟️ Book your tickets online in advance for massive discounts! The scenic journey between Lisbon and Porto is super relaxing and a personal favourite.
Buses (Rede Expressos, Flixbus)
Best For: Reaching smaller towns and pretty much everywhere else in the country.
Pro Tip: 🚌 The buses are modern, comfy, and often have Wi-Fi. It’s my go-to for getting off the beaten path without a car.
City Transport (Metro, Trams, Buses)
Best For: Zipping around the cities of Lisbon and Porto.
Pro Tip: 💳 In Lisbon, grab a Lisbon card. Best for transport and free museums.
Ride-Sharing (BlaBlaCar)
Best For: Reaching remote rural spots and connecting with locals.
Pro Tip: 🚗 It’s not always cheaper than the bus or train, but it offers amazing flexibility if you’re heading somewhere public transport doesn’t quite reach.
💡 A Tip I Wish I Knew Sooner: Validate Your Ticket!This is a big one! For many public transport systems, especially the metro in Lisbon and Porto and some urban trains, you must “validate” your ticket or travel card. This means tapping it on the yellow or green card readers before you go down to the platform or get on board. Forgetting to do this can lead to a fine, even if you’ve paid for the ride. It’s a super common mistake for first-timers, so get into the habit of tap-on, tap-off
Do you really need a car?
If you’re sticking to the main cities, no. But if you’re like me and crave the freedom to explore hidden beaches along the Costa Vicentina or the winding roads of the Douro Valley, then renting a car in Portugal is absolutely the way to go.
📍Recommended City Cards for attractions and transport: Best City Cards in Portugal
🗺️ Portugal Related: 3 Days in Lisbon Itinerary: Sun, Seafood, History
Portugal Google Maps Legend
Get lifetime access to our endless hours of research and time spent on the ground finding the best places to eat, drink, relax and explore in the area. You simply open the Google Map on your device and all our pins are at the touch of your fingertips.
Money Matters: Let's Talk Euros 💶
Portugal uses the Euro (€). Cards are accepted almost everywhere in cities and towns, but I always keep some cash on hand. It’s perfect for that coffee from a tiny kiosk, a trinket from a local market, or in small villages where card machines might be rare. Contactless is pretty much used widely!
ATMs (Multibanco): You’ll see these everywhere. My advice is to use ATMs attached to a bank (like Santander or Novo Banco) to dodge the extra fees from private tourist-focused machines.
Currency Conversion: When you pay with your card, you might be asked if you want to pay in Euros or your home currency. Always, always choose Euros! Your bank will give you a much better exchange rate.
Budgeting: You’ll be pleasantly surprised! Portugal offers incredible value. You can eat like royalty and enjoy amazing experiences without emptying your wallet, especially compared to its neighbours.
✨ Good to Know: Here’s a tip I wish I knew sooner. The “Multibanco” ATMs in Portugal are more than just cash machines; they’re a cornerstone of daily life for locals. You can do almost anything on them! While you probably won’t be paying your utility bills, you can often use them to top up a Portuguese mobile phone SIM card 📱 or even purchase train tickets. It’s a super-efficient system and a cool little insight into how advanced Portuguese banking is.
🗺️ More Guides to Portugal: Visit Porto: The Ultimate Travel Guide
Tipping Etiquette: Clearing Up the Confusion
Tipping in Portugal is a kind gesture of appreciation for great service, but it isn’t expected in the same way it is in other countries. Pretty much the same as the UK… Let’s simplify this:
Restaurants: If the service was fantastic, leaving a 5-10% tip in cash is a lovely way to say thanks. You can also just round up the bill.
Cafes and Bars: Leaving your small change on the table is a nice gesture.
Hotels: €1-2 per bag for the person helping you is great. I usually leave a small tip for housekeeping at the end of my stay.
Taxis: Rounding up the fare is common practice.
🔹 Pro Tip: Tipping in cash is always preferred. It ensures the money goes directly to the staff who gave you that wonderful service. 😉
🗺️ Recommended Read: Travel Cards vs Cash: Which One Should You Carry?
Finding Your Perfect Portuguese Stay: Accommodation Tips 🏡
Okay, so you know when you’re going and what to pack. But where will you be resting your head after a day of exploring? Finding the right place to stay is key to a great trip, and luckily, Portugal has options for every style and budget. I’ve stayed in everything from chic city apartments to rustic countryside guesthouses, and each offers a unique window into Portuguese life.
Let’s break down your main choices:
Hotels: From slick, modern hotels with rooftop pools to classic, grand dames, you’ll find a full range. They’re reliable and great if you’re looking for amenities like a 24-hour reception and daily housekeeping.
Guesthouses (Alojamento Local): This is where the real charm is! Keep an eye out for the “AL” sign. These are often family-run guesthouses or private homes with rooms to rent. They offer a more personal, local experience. I’ve gotten some of the best restaurant recommendations from hosts at these places!
Apartments & Villas: Perfect if you’re staying for more than a few days, travelling with family, or just want to feel like a local. Having a kitchen to whip up breakfast with goodies from the local market is a game-changer.
Pousadas de Portugal: For a truly unforgettable splurge, you have to look into staying at a Pousada. These are luxury hotels, often located in stunningly restored historic buildings like castles, monasteries, and palaces. Seriously, you can sleep in a castle! 🏰 It’s a bit of a treat, but an experience I’ll never forg
🔹 Pro Tip: Book Well in Advance! If you’re travelling during the peak summer months or holidays, I can’t stress this enough: book your accommodation as far in advance as possible. The best spots get snapped up quickly, especially in popular areas like Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve.
Heads-Up: The City Tourist Tax
Don’t be surprised if your accommodation in Lisbon, Porto, or other major tourist areas adds a small “city tax” (taxa turística) to your bill. It’s a local tax, usually just a couple of Euros per person per night, that’s paid directly to the hotel or host. It’s completely normal, so just factor it into your budget.
Use Booking.com to find your perfect Portuguese stay!
Savouring Portugal: A Foodie's Paradise 😋
Let’s be honest—for many of us, travel is all about the food, and Portugal delivers in a big way. The cuisine is fresh, hearty, and unbelievably delicious. Prepare your tastebuds!
You simply have to try:
Bacalhau: The national obsession. They say there’s a different recipe for this salted cod for every day of the year. I’ve tried a few, and they’ve all been amazing.
Pastel de Nata: These little custard tarts are pure magic, and only cost around €1! My mission on every trip is to find the best one. It’s a tough job, but someone has to do it!
Sardinhas Assadas: If you’re here in summer, the smell of grilled sardines will follow you, especially in Lisbon. Eat them on a slice of bread, local style.
Bifana: Oh, the bifana. This marinated pork sandwich is simple perfection and the ultimate cheap eat.
Caldo Verde: A comforting kale and potato soup. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl.
Dining Out:
Mealtimes: Portuguese life runs on a later schedule. Don’t be surprised to see locals sitting down for dinner at 9 pm or even later.
Couvert: That bread, olives, and cheese that magically appears on your table? It’s not free. If you don’t want it, just give a polite “No, thank you” (Não, obrigado/obrigada). It’s not a scam, just a cultural custom.
Pace Yourself: Meals are meant to be savoured, not rushed. Relax, enjoy the conversation, and soak in the atmosphere.
Recommended Tours and Tickets
Portugal Google Maps Legend
Get lifetime access to our endless hours of research and time spent on the ground finding the best places to eat, drink, relax and explore in the area. You simply open the Google Map on your device and all our pins are at the touch of your fingertips.
Speaking the Lingo: Your Secret Superpower 💬
While you’ll find English spoken in most tourist areas, trying out a few Portuguese phrases is like a secret key. It unlocks smiles, shows respect, and can lead to some wonderful, authentic moments. The effort is always appreciated.
Give these a go:
Olá (oh-LAH) – Hello
Bom dia (bom DEE-ah) – Good morning
Por favor (por fah-VOR) – Please
Obrigado/Obrigada (ob-ree-GAH-doo/dah) – Thank you (‘o’ ending if you’re male, ‘a’ if you’re female)
Desculpe (desh-KOOL-peh) – Excuse me / Sorry
Quanto custa? (KWAN-toh KOOSH-tah) – How much is it?
💡 Fact: My favourite Portuguese word is saudade. It’s a beautiful, untranslatable feeling of deep, nostalgic longing for something or someone. You’ll feel it for Portugal once you leave!
Cultural Know-How: The Little Things ❤️
Portuguese people are incredibly warm, polite, and helpful. Understanding a few social graces will make your interactions even more pleasant.
Greetings: A simple handshake is fine, but don’t be surprised to see friends greet each other with a kiss on each cheek.
Politeness: Always say “bom dia” (good morning) or “boa tarde” (good afternoon) when you walk into a shop, cafe, or restaurant. It’s a small thing that makes a big difference.
Patience: Life moves at a more relaxed pace here. Embrace it! There’s no need to rush.
Beyond the Obvious: Discovering Hidden Gems ✨
I’m obsessed with venturing off the main tourist trail, and Portugal is full of incredible spots that many visitors miss. If you have the time, you’ve got to check these out:
Évora: A stunning UNESCO city in the Alentejo region. It has a Roman temple and a fascinating, slightly spooky Chapel of Bones.
Aveiro: Known as the “Venice of Portugal” with its charming canals and colourful moliceiro boats. It’s ridiculously photogenic.
Costa Vicentina: A protected stretch of coastline with some of Europe’s most wild and beautiful beaches. Perfect for surfing, hiking, and escaping it all.
Peneda-Gerês National Park: The country’s only national park is a paradise for nature lovers, with granite landscapes, hidden waterfalls, and ancient villages.
Safety First: Stay Smart & Secure
Portugal is consistently ranked as one of the safest countries in the world, so you can relax and enjoy your trip. That said, it’s always smart to use common sense, just as you would anywhere.
Pickpockets: They can be an issue on crowded public transport (like Lisbon’s famous Tram 28) and in tourist hotspots. Just keep your bag zipped, phone in your front pocket, and be aware of your surroundings.
Beaches: Never leave your valuables unattended on the sand while you go for a swim.
Taxis: Stick to official, metered taxis or use a trusted ride-sharing app.
🔥 We like to help out at The Travel Tinker: Don’t Get Done! 20 Crafty Travel Scams and How to Dodge Them
What to know How to Plan or Save for a Trip? Here are our best:
And there you have it, all my best-kept secrets and Portugal travel tips to get you ready for the adventure of a lifetime. I’ve poured all my experience into this guide, hoping to make your first trip as smooth, joyful, and magical as possible. What a place! 🌍 ✨
Your Turn! What Are Your Thoughts?
Now it’s your turn! Have you been to Portugal? What’s the one tip you’d give to a first-timer? Share your experiences and advice in the comments below. Let’s create an amazing travel community right here at The Travel Tinker👇🗣️
Adventure on,
The Travel Tinker Crew 🌍✨
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- Unearth Portugal: Top 10 Hidden Gems
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Recommended Websites and Resources:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Portugal expensive for tourists?
I’m happy to report that Portugal is one of the most affordable destinations in Western Europe! You can eat amazing meals, find great accommodation, and enjoy world-class sights without a huge budget. Your money goes a long way here.
Do I need a visa to visit Portugal?
If you’re from the EU, UK, USA, Canada, or Australia, you can visit for up to 90 days without a visa. For all other nationalities, it’s a good idea to check the latest visa requirements before you book your flights.
Can I drink the tap water in Portugal?
Yes, absolutely! The tap water is safe to drink across the entire country, so bring your reusable bottle and fill up.
What are the best souvenirs to bring home?
Oh, the shopping is great! I recommend beautiful hand-painted ceramic tiles (azulejos), products made from cork (purses, placemats, you name it!), gourmet olive oil, and a bottle of authentic Port wine from Porto.
Is English widely spoken?
Yes! In the cities and tourist areas, you’ll have no problem communicating in English, especially with younger people. However, learning a few Portuguese phrases is not only fun but deeply appreciated by the locals.
Travel Planning Resources
Ready to book your next trip? These trusted resources have been personally vetted to ensure a smooth travel experience.
Book Your Flights: Kick off your travel planning by finding the best flight deals on Trip.com. Our years of experience with them confirm they offer the most competitive prices.
Book Your Hotel: For the best hotel rates, use Booking.com . For the best and safest hostels, HostelWorld.com is your go-to resource.
Find Apartment Rentals: For affordable apartment rentals, check out VRBO. They consistently offer the best prices.
Car Rentals: For affordable car rentals, check out RentalCars.com. They offer the best cars, mostly brand new.
Travel Insurance: Never travel without insurance. Here are our top recommendations:
- EKTA for Travel Insurance for all areas!
- Use AirHelp for compensation claims against flight delays etc.
Book Your Activities: Discover walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more on Get Your Guide. They have a vast selection of activities to enhance your trip. There is also Tiqets.com for instant mobile tickets.
Book The Best Trains: Use Trainline to find the most affordable trains or Rail Europe for rail passes!
Need More Help Planning Your Trip? Visit our Resources Page to see all the companies we trust and use for our travels.
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Nick Harvey
Hi, I am Nick! Thank you for reading! The Travel Tinker is a resource designed to help you navigate the beauty of travel! Tinkering your plans as you browse!
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