10 Practical Tips for Traveling in Portugal
Practical Tips
2026-10-02
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From table manners to theft prevention and avoiding slips, these details will make your trip to Portugal smoother.
- Bread, olives may be charged: Bread, olives, and cheese served at the start of a meal may be added to your bill if consumed. If you don’t want them, you can politely decline.
- Book popular attractions early: Landmarks like Pena Palace, Livraria Lello, and Douro Valley wineries often require advance reservations during peak season, and walk-ins may find no tickets available.
- Watch out for pickpockets: The No. 28 tram, Praça do Comércio, and the Belém district are crowded—wear your backpack in front and keep phones out of outer pockets.
- Wear non-slip shoes: Lisbon and Porto have many steep cobblestone streets that get especially slippery when wet; dragging luggage is less convenient than carrying a backpack.
- Bring a light jacket: Coastal areas and Cape Roca are windy, and evenings can be cool even in summer—a windproof jacket is useful.
- Carry small cash: Markets, pastelaria shops, and some small restaurants prefer cash—bring a few euros in small bills.
- Tipping is optional: Not mandatory. Leaving small change or rounding up the bill is fine if you’re satisfied.
- Note alcohol limits for bringing home: When taking port wine or wine back to your country, follow customs duty-free regulations—exceeding allowances may incur taxes.
- Bring the right plug adapter: Portuguese outlets are 220V with two round holes (European standard)—bring your own adapter.
- Use a transport card: In Lisbon, get a Viva Viagem card for easier travel on metro, trams, and ferries.
- Meal times are later: Lunch is usually around 1 PM, dinner often after 8 PM—eating slightly off-peak helps avoid crowds.
- Seafood is sold by weight: Seafood restaurants typically price by the kilo—ask for the per-kilo price before ordering.
- Internet and phone: Buy a local SIM card or eSIM at the airport, or use an EU roaming plan if you have one.
- Emergency numbers: The EU-wide emergency number is 112 for police, fire, and medical services.