Portugal travel tips for first-timers: What to know

Portugal looks small on the map, but don’t be fooled – it punches way above its weight. You’ll juggle centuries-old cities, wild surf beaches, and enough vinho verde to forget what day it is. Lisbon’s where most trips kick off: it’s hilly, gritty, and full of energy. But don’t just hang around the capital. Go north for port wine and tiled churches in Porto, east for medieval towns and cork forests, or all the way south if you’re chasing sun, cliffs, and grilled sardines by the sea.

Buses are cheap, trains are scenic, and English is widely spoken – but that doesn’t mean you won’t need to think fast when your Uber can’t find your alleyway apartment. And Portuguese food? It's not all pastel de nata. Think slow-cooked stews, spicy chicken, and seafood straight from the Atlantic.

To help you skip the tourist traps, eat like a local, and avoid rookie errors (like assuming dinner starts at 7 pm – it doesn’t), these Portugal travel tips will keep you two steps ahead.

When is the best time to visit Portugal?

The best time to visit Portugal depends on what you’re after. This is a country built for long lunches, late sunsets, and last-minute detours – and the seasons shape it all. From beach weather in October to fog rolling through Porto in March, Portugal doesn’t play by northern rules. Here’s what to know.

• Summer (June to August) is for the coast. Days are long, hot, and packed – especially in the Algarve, where beaches fill up and prices spike. Lisbon bakes in the heat, but evenings cool off just enough for sardines and cold beer by the river. It’s fun, but it’s busy – book ahead and don’t expect peace.
• Spring and autumn (April to June, September to October) are the sweet spots. The crowds thin out, the sun still shines, and you can explore cities, hike trails, or drink wine without sweating through your shirt. This is the time to hit the Douro Valley, road trip through Alentejo, or surf the uncrowded beaches near Ericeira.
• Winter (November to March) is the low season, but not a write-off. The north gets rain, the south stays mild, and the cities are quieter – ideal if you like your culture with a side of melancholy fado and fog. Christmas lights in Lisbon, steaming bowls of caldo verde, and moody mornings in Porto? Yes, please.

What to pack: Portugal is a layering country. Even in summer, sea breezes and old stone buildings can chill you fast. Bring walking shoes – those tiled sidewalks are no joke – and something smarter for dinner. A compact umbrella doesn’t hurt either.

Is Portugal expensive?

Portugal can be a good value, but it’s not the bargain it used to be. Prices have climbed, especially in hotspots like Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve. Still, compared to most of Western Europe, it’s a solid deal if you know where to spend and where to save.

Some of the best stuff is cheap – public transport, wine, pastries, and those long lunches in local tascas where you get soup, a main, and wine for under €10. Museums and sights are affordable too, with most tickets around €5-10. But head to the touristy center, and a coffee can double in price just by crossing the street.

On a tight budget (€40-60 per day), you’ll survive just fine. Stay in hostels or budget guesthouses, eat at bakeries or small local spots, and use buses, metros, or trains. Cities have budget passes – use them.

Mid-range (€80–120 per day) gets you charming B&Bs, great meals, maybe a guided tour or two, and the freedom to rent a car and explore further, like hilltop towns in Alentejo or wild stretches of the Vicentine Coast.

Splurging? Portugal does luxe well. Think converted palaces, wine estates with infinity pools, and private boats cruising down the Douro. You’ll pay for it – but not as much as in France or Italy. And it’s often worth it.

Is Portugal safe for travelers?

Portugal is consistently ranked as one of the safest countries in Europe, and for good reason. Crime rates are low, locals are welcoming, and solo travel, including for women, is generally smooth. You’ll feel it in the rhythm of daily life – cafés left open, kids playing late, and people who stop to help if you look lost.

Petty theft is your main concern, mostly in urban areas like Lisbon, Porto, and tourist-heavy parts of the Algarve. Pickpockets work the usual spots – trams, metro stations, and outside major sights like the Jerónimos Monastery or Livraria Lello. They’re fast, discreet, and usually after your phone or wallet.

Rural Portugal? It’s a different world. Quiet villages, slow pace, and a strong sense of community. Crime is practically nonexistent, and locals tend to look out for visitors, especially in less-touristy regions like the Alentejo or the interior north.

To stay safe, use these Portugal travel tips:

• Keep your bag closed and in front of you on public transport.
• Don’t leave phones or bags on café tables near the street – yes, even for a minute.
• Watch your pockets in tram 28 in Lisbon – it’s beautiful and packed with pickpockets.
• In nightlife areas like Bairro Alto or Cais do Sodré, stay alert late at night – it’s lively but can get rowdy.
• Use Uber, Bolt, or official taxis – they're safe and cheap.

Do you need a visa for Portugal?

For most travelers, no. Portugal is part of the Schengen Zone, so entry is simple if you’re coming from the EU, UK, US, Canada, Australia, or many other countries. But don’t get caught out – here’s what to know.

Visa-free entry for most travelers

Citizens from visa-exempt countries can enter for up to 90 days in any 180-day period for tourism. You’ll need a passport valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure date. There’s usually no paperwork – just a stamp at the airport.

Planning to stay longer?

That’s where it gets tricky. You can’t extend your tourist stay beyond the 90 days unless you apply for a national visa – and that’s a whole process.

Some travelers try “border hopping” into nearby countries like Spain or Morocco, but Schengen rules still apply, and overstaying can lead to fines or bans. Don’t risk it.

If you're planning to work, study, or volunteer, you’ll need the correct visa, and it has to be arranged before you arrive.

How to stay healthy while traveling in Portugal?

Staying healthy in Portugal is pretty straightforward – safe water, good food hygiene, and reliable healthcare across the country. You’re not battling tropical diseases or food poisoning every other day here. Still, don’t underestimate the Portuguese elements: strong sun, steep hills, and more pastéis de nata than your body knows what to do with. The right prep – and a bit of common sense – goes a long way.

Medical care and pharmacies

Portugal’s healthcare system is solid, especially in Lisbon, Porto, and other major cities. Pharmacies are everywhere (look for the glowing green cross), and many are open late or have 24-hour service on rotation. Pharmacists are helpful, and most speak enough English to sort out basic issues.

For emergencies, head to a public hospital or private clinic – both are well equipped, but you’ll be seen faster in a private one. Travel insurance is a smart idea – especially if you want to avoid long waits or need specialist care.

What to bring:

• Any prescription meds you need, plus a copy of your prescription.
• Basics like painkillers, antihistamines, and meds for motion sickness or an upset stomach.
• Sunscreen – pharmacies have it, but it costs more than packing your own.
• Blister plasters – Lisbon’s cobbled hills are a menace to your feet.

Vaccinations and health prep

You don’t need any special vaccinations to visit Portugal. Just make sure your routine shots – tetanus, measles, hepatitis A – are up to date.

• Tetanus: Always useful if you’re hiking or doing outdoor activities.
• Hepatitis A: Low risk, but still recommended for some travelers, especially if you’ll be eating in remote or rural areas.

Food, water, and stomach safety

Tap water is safe to drink everywhere – straight from the faucet. Some older pipes can affect taste in rural areas, but it’s not unsafe. Bottled water is widely available if you prefer.

Food is one of Portugal’s best parts – and it’s usually very safe. From seafood stews in coastal towns to pork sandwiches in inland cafés, you’re unlikely to get sick unless you really push your luck with street snacks left out in the sun.

If you’ve got a sensitive stomach, go easy on rich dishes at first – and don’t underestimate the power of bacalhau (salted cod) to throw off your digestion if you’re not used to it.

Cultural etiquette to know before visiting Portugal

Portugal is easygoing on the surface, but there’s an undercurrent of formality, quiet pride, and unspoken social rules. You don’t need to master the language or memorize traditions, but a bit of cultural awareness helps you avoid awkward moments – and makes locals far more likely to warm to you. These Portugal travel tips will keep things smooth, respectful, and genuinely local.

Dress: neat, not flashy

Portuguese people tend to dress simply, but well. No need for designer labels, but do avoid sloppy looks. Flip-flops, gym gear, or swimwear outside the beach will make you stand out for the wrong reasons, especially in Lisbon or Porto.

In churches, monasteries, and smaller towns, modest dress still matters – cover shoulders, avoid short shorts, and leave the beachwear for, well, the beach.

Even in surf towns or rural villages, people take quiet pride in looking presentable – think clean, coordinated, and calm, not loud or showy.

Greetings and social norms: polite and reserved

Portugal is friendly, but more reserved than some of its Mediterranean neighbors. A handshake is the standard greeting between strangers. Friends or family usually exchange two-cheek kisses, starting on the right. Don’t worry if you mess this up; it’s forgivable.

Always greet with a polite “Bom dia” (good morning), “Boa tarde” (good afternoon), or “Boa noite” (good evening). Not saying anything when entering a shop or café is seen as rude – a quick hello earns you better service.

Use “Senhor” or “Senhora” with last names in formal settings, especially with older people or professionals. Titles matter here.

Public behavior: respectful and low-key

Portugal values personal space and calm. People speak softly in public, queues are respected, and loud or attention-grabbing behavior isn’t appreciated, especially in smaller towns or rural areas.

Drunken antics, shouting, or being too loud on public transport will get you disapproving looks. Save the party vibes for festivals or private gatherings.

Public affection is fine – handholding, light kisses – but nothing over the top.

Eating customs: slow, sociable, and traditional

Meals in Portugal are for connection, not rushing. Even a quick café snack involves sitting down, not walking around with coffee in hand. Breakfast is light, lunch is important, and dinner rarely starts before 8 pm.

• Say “Bom apetite” before eating.
• Don’t start until everyone’s been served – especially in someone’s home.
• Use a knife and fork – even for sandwiches or pastries in formal settings.
• If invited over, bring a small gift – wine, sweets, or something thoughtful.
• Punctuality is appreciated, but arriving 5-10 minutes late for a social meal won’t offend anyone.

Religion and local customs

Portugal is traditionally Catholic, though not particularly pushy about it. You’ll see churches everywhere – and they’re still part of daily life for many people. Dress respectfully inside, speak quietly, and avoid photography unless signs say it’s allowed.

Many festivals have religious roots, like Festa de São João or Semana Santa processions. These are deeply meaningful to locals. Join in if invited, but be respectful and follow the lead of those around you.

Shrines and roadside crosses are common in the countryside – treat them with quiet respect, even if you don’t understand the meaning.

Tipping and small gestures

Tipping in Portugal is subtle and appreciated, but not expected.

• In restaurants, round up or leave 5-10% if the service was good.
• Taxis don’t require tips, but rounding up is polite.
• Hotel staff and guides appreciate small tips, especially for carrying bags or sharing local insights.
• Say “Obrigado” (if you’re male) or “Obrigada” (if you’re female) – it goes a long way. And don’t skip “Por favor” and “Com licença” – manners matter here.

Is Portugal a good destination for families?

Absolutely – if your idea of a family trip includes castles, cable cars, trams, beaches, and pastries for breakfast. Portugal with kids is low-stress, welcoming, and packed with variety – you can be castle-hopping one day, beachcombing the next, and riding a vintage tram through Lisbon in between. It’s not theme-park central, but it’s fun, safe, and full of little moments that kids love.

Where to go with kids in Portugal

• Lisbon – Trams, elevators, and the Oceanário (aquarium) are big hits. Parque das Nações has cable cars and space to roam.
• Sintra – Fairy-tale palaces, forests, and towers to climb. Easy for day trips, magical for kids.
• The Algarve – Some of the best beaches in Portugal and family-friendly resorts. Tavira and Lagos are great for younger kids.
• Porto – Douro boat rides, riverside cafés, and walkable streets with fewer crowds.
• Madeira – Volcanic pools, cable cars, and easy hikes. Great for active families – just expect hills.

Getting around Portugal and where to stay

Getting around Portugal is mostly easy and family-friendly. Trains are clean, affordable, and kids under 4 usually travel free (discounts apply for older kids too). Trams and buses work well in cities, though they can get crowded during rush hours. If you’re venturing beyond Lisbon or Porto, renting a car gives you more flexibility, especially for exploring rural beaches, castles, or hilltop villages that public transport doesn’t reach.

Strollers work in most places, but the cobbled streets and steep hills in Lisbon and Porto can be a challenge. A baby carrier is a smart backup, especially for older towns, scenic viewpoints, and places where wheels just don’t cut it.

Portugal accommodations are diverse and often well set up for families. You’ll find everything from family-sized Airbnbs and serviced city apartments to relaxed beach resorts and countryside quintas. Many hotels and guesthouses offer extras like cribs, high chairs, or adjoining rooms – just be sure to ask ahead. If you’re traveling with kids who need space to run or a kitchen for picky meals, having your own place can make a big difference.

Food, supplies, and eating out with kids

Portuguese food is a win for families – it’s fresh, simple, and built around familiar staples like grilled chicken, rice, bread, and fries. Kids love pastéis de nata, bifanas (pork sandwiches), and arroz de marisco if they’re feeling brave.

There are no formal kids’ menus at most places, but portions are generous, and staff are happy to split meals or adapt dishes. Portugal restaurants are typically casual and welcoming to families, even late at night, and many cafés double as low-key spots to eat with kids in tow.

Supermarkets are well stocked – you’ll find diapers, formula, baby food, and pharmacy sections in most big chains. In rural areas, plan if your kids need something specific.

High chairs are common in mid-range and higher-end Portugal restaurants – less so in tiny tascas or beach bars.

What are the best places to visit in Portugal?

Portugal isn’t just beaches and castles – it’s surf towns, wine valleys, volcanic islands, and tiled cities full of rhythm and history. From the granite hills of the north to the windswept coast of the south, these are the best places to visit in Portugal – and why they matter.

• Lisbon – The capital’s a layered mix of old and new. Ride a tram through Graça, dig into grilled fish in a backstreet tasca, then hit rooftop bars in Bairro Alto. The city wears its wear and tear proudly, and every viewpoint comes with wine.
• Porto – Grittier and cooler than Lisbon, with a slower pace and serious charm. Wander Ribeira’s riverfront, taste port wine in Vila Nova de Gaia, and cross the Dom Luís I bridge for views and photos that actually deliver.
• The Algarve – Beaches, yes – but it’s not just resorts. Go west to Sagres for dramatic cliffs and surf, east to Tavira for quiet coves and salt pans, or inland for olive groves and tiny villages that haven’t changed in decades.
• Sintra – A fairytale of palaces, forests, and mountaintop views just outside Lisbon. It’s touristy – but worth it. Get there early and hike through the mist to the ruins of the Moorish Castle for fewer crowds and better vibes.
• Douro Valley – One of the world’s oldest wine regions – and one of the prettiest. Terraced vineyards climb steep hills above the river, with sleepy villages and family-run quintas offering tastings, boat rides, and slow lunches.
• Madeira – A volcanic island in the Atlantic that feels like Jurassic Park with espresso. Hike the levadas (irrigation channels turned trails), ride a wicker toboggan down a city street, or just sit with a glass of poncha and watch the clouds shift.
• The Alentejo – Vast, hot, and under-visited. This is where you’ll find cork forests, medieval towns like Évora, and slow travel done right. Come for the silence – stay for the food and wine that never get enough credit.
• Azores – Wild and green, these mid-Atlantic islands are for whale watchers, hikers, and anyone who wants nature without crowds. São Miguel is the biggest and easiest to reach – think crater lakes, hot springs, and cows with ocean views.
• Coimbra – Portugal’s old university town, halfway between Lisbon and Porto. Less flashy, more soulful. Wander cloisters, listen to student fado, and duck into bookshops older than your passport.
• Óbidos – A tiny walled town that looks like a movie set – and drinks like one too. Try ginjinha (cherry liqueur) in a chocolate cup, then stroll the ramparts before the tour buses roll in.

How long to spend in Portugal?

Portugal may look small on a map, but it packs a lot into a tight space. Coastlines, cities, islands, mountains, and wine country all compete for your time. And while you can hit the highlights in a week, the country rewards anyone who slows down. How long you stay in Portugal will shape the experience, and rushing through it misses the point.

Ask yourself:

• Are you sticking to the mainland or heading to Madeira or the Azores?
• Do you want culture, coast, food, or all three?
• Are you traveling by train, bus, or renting a car to reach more remote places?

Rough timing breakdown

• 1 week in Portugal – Pick a region or a city combo. Lisbon and Sintra with a dash of Cascais make a great loop. Or go north for Porto and the Douro Valley. Want the beach? Base yourself in the Algarve and take short day trips.
• 10 days in Portugal – The sweet spot. Start in Lisbon, head north to Porto, and add a few days in the Douro or the Alentejo. You’ll have time for coast, cities, and countryside – without spending the whole trip packing and unpacking.
• 2 to 3 weeks – Now you can go deeper. Add the Algarve or take a detour to central Portugal – think Coimbra, Óbidos, or the Serra da Estrela mountains. If you’re up for it, this is also enough time to fly out to Madeira or São Miguel in the Azores and still enjoy the mainland.
• 1 month+ – If you’ve got a few weeks to spare, Portugal is an ideal slow-travel country. Take your time between wine regions, historic towns, and coastal hikes. Linger in markets, learn a few Portuguese phrases, and relax. Portugal’s real charm kicks in when you stop rushing.

What’s the best way to plan a Portugal itinerary?

Planning a trip to Portugal isn’t about racing from north to south – it’s about picking the right regions, leaving room for detours, and building in time to slow down. The best Portugal itinerary doesn’t cram – it flows. Think café tables, cliff walks, and long lunches between castle visits. Less is more here.

Start with how long you’ve got

Portugal’s compact size makes it easy to move around, but don’t underestimate how much there is to see. Here’s how your timing shapes the trip:

Under a week – Focus on Lisbon + one region. Lisbon and Sintra pair perfectly, or combine Porto with the Douro Valley. If it’s summer, base yourself in the Algarve for beaches and day trips.

• 7-10 days – A strong, balanced route. Do Lisbon, Sintra, and Porto with a countryside stop in between – like Coimbra or Évora. Or mix coast and culture: Porto, the Douro, and a few nights in the Algarve.
• 2 weeks – The sweet spot. You’ve got time to see Lisbon, Porto, the Alentejo, and the Algarve without rushing. If you want something wilder, fly to Madeira or the Azores and explore without crowds.
• 3-4 weeks – Now you can go deep. Road trip through central Portugal, hike in the Serra da Estrela mountains, or island-hop in the Azores. Stay longer in smaller towns, and you’ll start to feel the rhythm.

Match your route to your travel style

Portugal’s not just beaches and wine – pick the version of it that suits you.

Love cities and culture?

• Lisbon – Music, history, trams, street art, river views.
• Porto – Port wine, tile-covered churches, and that lived-in charm.
• Coimbra – Academic energy, medieval lanes, and serious bookish vibes.

Chasing landscapes?

• The Algarve – Caves, cliffs, and hidden coves.
• Douro Valley – Terraced vineyards and winding river drives.
• Madeira or the Azores – Hikes, hot springs, and volcanic drama.

Into food and wine?

• Alentejo – Slow food, bold reds, olive groves.
• Lisbon – Seafood, petiscos, and city markets.
• Douro Valley – Port tastings and long vineyard lunches.

Want to chill?

• Tavira or Lagos – Coastal towns with a slower pace.
• Comporta – Chic, quiet, and surrounded by rice fields.
• Madeira – Lazy mornings, tropical gardens, sea views.

Getting around Portugal: plan this early

Portugal’s transport is easy – but it pays to be strategic. Here’s what to know:

• Trains and buses cover most of the country. Trains are scenic and comfortable – perfect for Lisbon to Porto or Coimbra.
• Driving opens up harder-to-reach areas like the Alentejo, national parks, or smaller villages in the interior. Roads are good, but watch for narrow lanes and tight parking in historic towns.
• Taxis, Uber, and Bolt are reliable in cities.
• Ferries and flights are your way into Madeira and the Azores. Book early – especially in summer or holiday seasons.

How to slow travel in Portugal?

Portugal was made for slow travel – short distances, long meals, and places where time slips by unnoticed. Skip the checklist and settle in.

In Lisbon, base yourself in one of the best areas to stay – Alfama for history and fado, Graça for local cafés and views, or Campo de Ourique for a quieter, residential feel. Stay a while. Ride trams without a plan. Sit at a kiosk with a coffee or vinho verde and watch the day unfold.

The Alentejo is all about pace. Base yourself in Évora or a hill town like Monsaraz. Drive slow roads lined with olive trees. Lunch lasts hours, and that’s the point.

Porto rewards wandering. Cross the river to Gaia, skip the big-name cellars, and talk to small producers. Find a park, watch the boats, and forget your schedule.

The Douro Valley isn’t a day trip – stay in a vineyard, wake to river fog, and sip slowly.

The Vicentine Coast is rugged and low-key. Stay in towns like Odeceixe or Zambujeira do Mar. Hike, swim, eat grilled fish – repeat.

Tips for slowing down

• Stay longer in fewer places – depth beats distance.
• Take trains and buses – let the scenery set the pace.
• Eat local, eat slow – bakeries, grills, and markets over tourist traps.
• Say yes to small moments – a chat, a side street, a café with no name.

Portugal isn’t in a rush, and you don’t need to be either.

How to handle money and payments in Portugal?

Portugal keeps it simple – but there are still a few things to know if you want to avoid fees, surprises, or awkward “cash only” moments.

The currency is the euro (€), and most places – even small cafés – accept cards. Visa and Mastercard are the safest bets. That said, always carry some cash, especially in rural areas, local markets, or tiny tascas where card machines might mysteriously be “out of service.”

• ATMs (caixas automáticos) are everywhere, but not all are equal. Stick to machines attached to banks (Millennium, Santander, Caixa Geral) – they offer better rates and fewer fees. Avoid Euronet and standalone ATMs in tourist zones – they charge high fees and offer terrible exchange rates.
• Contactless payment is widely used – even taxis and kiosks often take tap. Mobile payments like Apple Pay and Google Pay also work in most urban areas.
• Tipping is low-key. In restaurants, round up or leave 5-10% if the service was good. No tip is needed for coffee or snacks. In taxis, just round up. Hotel staff and guides appreciate small tips, but there’s no strict rule.

Always choose to be charged in euros, not your home currency, when using a foreign card. Dynamic currency conversion sounds helpful, but it’s a worse deal every time.

What are the most common scams?

Portugal is generally safe and relaxed, but like anywhere popular, it has its share of small-time scams and tourist tricks. Most are low-risk and easy to avoid if you know what to look out for.

• Taxi overcharging – Rare, but not unheard of. In Lisbon and Porto, always ask for the meter to be used. Some drivers may take the “scenic route” or add bogus fees for luggage. If in doubt, use Bolt or Uber – both work well and are usually cheaper.
• Restaurant tricks – That bread, cheese, or olives placed on your table? It’s not free unless stated. You’re charged if you eat it. It’s legal, just sneaky. Want to skip the extras? Just say no – or leave them untouched.
• Fake petitions or street distractions – You might be approached in busy squares by people asking for signatures or donations. It’s usually a distraction for a pickpocket nearby. Keep walking and keep your bag zipped.
• ATM fees – Stick to machines from Portuguese banks like Caixa Geral, Santander, or Millennium. Avoid Euronet or standalone ATMs – they offer terrible exchange rates and high fees.
• Overpriced tuk-tuk rides – Fun but pricey. Agree on the price beforehand – and don’t assume it’s a bargain just because it looks informal.
• Street sellers and counterfeits – Sunglasses, football scarves, “designer” bags – if it’s being sold on the pavement, it’s probably fake. Browse, sure – but buy with your eyes open.

How to travel responsibly and ethically in Portugal?

Portugal is welcoming, but that doesn’t mean you should roll through like you own the place. Responsible travel here means showing respect for local communities, culture, and pace. These Portugal travel tips will help you get it right – and travel with respect.

• Dress with respect – Cities like Lisbon and Porto are casual but tidy. Locals dress well, even at the beach. You don’t need to go fancy – just skip the swimwear in town and the loud hiking gear at dinner.
• Learn a few basics – A “Bom dia” or “Obrigado/a” goes a long way. Don’t expect everyone to speak English – especially in smaller towns – and don’t treat Portuguese like Spanish.
• Support local over generic – Choose small bakeries, markets, family-run hotels, and artisans over chains. From azulejo tiles in Lisbon to pottery in Alentejo, quality local goods are everywhere – and your euros go further when they stay in the community.
• Respect quiet places – Churches, monasteries, and rural towns are often calm and sacred to locals. Speak softly, dress modestly, and skip the selfie stick.
• Tread lightly outdoors – Whether hiking the Rota Vicentina or swimming in natural springs in the Azores, stick to marked paths, take your trash, and avoid disturbing wildlife.
• Tip fairly – 5-10% in restaurants is enough. Don’t overdo it – it skews expectations for locals.
• Ask before photographing people or private homes – Not everything beautiful is yours to document.

Don’t expect air conditioning everywhere

Portugal gets hot, especially inland and in summer, but not all accommodations have AC. Older buildings in Lisbon, Porto, and the Alentejo often rely on thick walls and fans. If you're visiting from June to September, double-check that your stay has air conditioning or at least good airflow. Coastal breezes help, but city apartments can bake.

Sundays shut down – fast

Outside of big cities, Sundays are slow and quiet. Many shops, restaurants, and even supermarkets close for the afternoon or the whole day. In smaller towns, don’t count on finding much open – plan ahead for meals, fuel, or essentials. It’s a great day for a hike, a long lunch, or doing absolutely nothing – just don’t expect retail therapy.

Know your beach flags

Portugal’s beaches are stunning, and the Atlantic is no joke. Lifeguarded beaches use a flag system you need to follow:

• Green = safe
• Yellow = swim with caution
• Red = no swimming
• Checkered = unguarded beach

Even strong swimmers get caught off guard by riptides. Stick to flagged areas and don’t swim alone – especially on the west coast, where the surf can turn fast.