Visiting Portugal promises a delightful blend of history, culture, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality. Slaney's family live there so we are lucky enough to travel there frequently and LOVE exploring the beautiful country. Some highlights for us are the beaches, the food, the nature and the wonderful charm of the Portuguese people.
Below we answer a lot of the freuqently asked questions about traveling in Portugal so you can plan and Roam with ease.
Access our pinned-for-you map of Portugal.
How to get to Portugal?
Portuguese airports:
Lisbon Airport (LIS) - Humberto Delgado Airport: Located in the capital city, Lisbon. The largest and busiest airport in Portugal. Well-connected with major international destinations.
Porto Airport (OPO) - Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport: Situated in Porto, in the northern part of the country. Handles both domestic and international flights.
Faro Airport (FAO) - Algarve Airport: Serving the southern region of Algarve, a popular tourist destination. Connects to various European cities.
Ponta Delgada Airport (PDL) - João Paulo II Airport: Located on the island of São Miguel in the Azores archipelago.The main airport connecting the Azores to the mainland and other international destinations.
Beja Airport (BYJ) - Alentejo Airport: Serving the Alentejo region. Primarily used for general aviation and pilot training.
Madeira Cristiano Ronaldo Airport (FNC): Renamed in honor of the famous Portuguese footballer Cristiano Ronaldo. Located on the island of Madeira, it is a significant gateway to the region.
Are there entry requirements for Portugal?
Ensure you have the necessary travel documents and check visa requirements based on your nationality.
Best time of the year to visit Portugal?
Portugal enjoys a Mediterranean climate. Spring (April to June) and Fall (September to October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Spring (March to May):
Mild and pleasant.
Temperatures average highs ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) depending on the region.
Rainfall decreases compared to winter, but some regions may still experience occasional showers.
Summer (June to August):
Summer is the peak tourist season in Portugal, characterized by hot and dry weather.
Average temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F) in coastal areas, but inland regions can be hotter.
Rainfall is rare during summer, and sunny days are the norm. This is an ideal time for beach holidays and outdoor activities.
Autumn (September to November):
Autumn brings mild temperatures and decreasing crowds compared to summer.
Average highs range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) in coastal areas.
Rainfall increases gradually, especially towards the end of the season, but overall it's still relatively dry.
Winter (December to February):
Winter in Portugal is mild and damp, especially along the coast.
Average temperatures range from 8°C to 15°C (46°F to 59°F) in coastal areas, but colder temperatures can be experienced in the interior regions.
Rainfall is more frequent, and some regions may experience occasional frosts or even snowfall in the higher elevations of the interior mountains.
Where to visit in Portugal?
Lisbon: Portugal's vibrant capital, known for its historic neighborhoods, Fado music, and iconic landmarks like São Jorge Castle and Belém Tower. Read more about Lisbon here
Porto: Famous for its port wine, explore the charming Ribeira district and visit the historic cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia.
Sintra: A fairy-tale town with colorful palaces, including Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle.
Algarve: Relax on stunning beaches, explore seaside towns like Lagos and Albufeira, and enjoy water sports. Read more about the Algarve here
Alentejo region: The Alentejo region, characterized by vast golden plains, rolling vineyards, and historic whitewashed villages, offers a tranquil escape in Portugal with its rich culinary traditions and renowned wine production.
All our recommended areas are pinned on our google map for you
What to do when visiting Portugal?
Cultural experiences:
Attend a Fado music performance, a soulful Portuguese genre often performed in intimate settings.
Participate in local festivals, such as Lisbon's Saint Anthony Festival (sardine festival) or Porto's São João Festival. Check out our Lisbon guides here.
Historical sites:
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Tower of Belém, Jerónimos Monastery, and the University of Coimbra.
Explore the historic district of Alfama in Lisbon, known for its narrow streets and traditional architecture.
See here for a range of cultural and historical activities and tours in Portugal
Natural wonders:
Discover the Douro Valley, known for its terraced vineyards and scenic cruises along the Douro River.
Explore the beautiful Azores and Madeira archipelagos for volcanic landscapes, lush greenery, and unique flora and fauna.
Cuisine:
Indulge in Portuguese cuisine, including bacalhau (salted cod), pastéis de nata (custard tarts), and hearty stews like caldo verde. Visit local markets, such as Mercado da Ribeira in Lisbon, to savor fresh produce and regional specialties. Check out our guide to the best restaurants in Lisbon.
Wine Tasting:
Explore the wine regions, including the Douro Valley and Porto for port wine, and the Alentejo region for its red wines. Take vineyard tours and tastings to experience Portugal's rich winemaking traditions.
Outdoor Activities:
Enjoy outdoor adventures in Peneda-Gerês National Park, offering hiking trails, waterfalls, and stunning vistas. Engage in water sports along the Algarve coast or try surfing in spots like Nazaré.
Best beaches in Portugal:
There are endless beaches to explore when visiting Portugal. The Algarve, caiscais and Comporta are some of the most popular beach destinations.
See here for a range of activities and tours available in Portugal
Transportation in Portugal:
Portugal has an efficient transportation system. Use trains or buses for inter-city travel, and rent a car to explore remote areas. Consider using trams in Lisbon and historic funiculars in Porto for unique city experiences.
Language in Portugal:
Portuguese is the official language, but English is widely spoken, in tourist areas. Slaney's family live across Lisbon and the Algarve and speak mostly English for work and socialising. In more rural areas, Portuguese is the preferred language, brush up on your basic portuguese or get well acquainted with google translate.
Local Etiquette:
Embrace the friendly and relaxed Portuguese culture. Greet people with "Bom dia" (good morning) and "Obrigado/a" (thank you).
Tipping is customary but not as extensive as in some other countries.
Immerse yourself in Portugal's charm, whether you're exploring historic sites, enjoying local cuisine, or relaxing on the picturesque coastline. Portugal's rich culture and warm atmosphere make it a destination that leaves a lasting impression.
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