Few things beat the excitement of planning your first trip somewhere, especially if it’s Portugal. Historic cities, a rich culture, and delicious food and wine all await. However, a little preparation goes a long way!
The Overland Portugal team has years of experience and expertise in discovering this country. We’ve put this knowledge to good use on our Small Group Tours of Portugal and Portugal Private Tours, helping people embark on their maiden journeys with ease. To help other explorers, we’ve created this selection of Portugal travel tips for first-time visitors so you can prepare for your trip. Keep reading for our insights, and don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions about our tours!
Visa Requirements and Entry Rules for Portugal
Portugal is part of the Schengen Area, which makes entry straightforward for many international travellers. Visitors from the UK, EU, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and several other countries can enter Portugal visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Just make sure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your departure date!
Starting in 2026 onward, travellers from visa-exempt countries will need to apply for ETIAS travel authorisation before arriving in Portugal. While this is not a visa, it is a mandatory pre-travel requirement, so it’s best to check the latest entry rules before booking flights. When you travel with Overland Portugal, our team helps ensure you’re aware of any entry requirements well ahead of your departure!
How to Get Around Portugal with Ease
Portugal has an efficient public transport system, especially in major cities like Lisbon and Porto, where trams, metros, buses, and trains make sightseeing easy. However, many of the country’s most memorable experiences lie beyond city limits — rolling vineyards, coastal villages, and historic towns. Trains will connect most of the major hubs, but buses are better for smaller towns and villages. If you want ideas on where to go, just check out our guide to the Best Places to Visit in Portugal!
If you want to explore freely without the constraints of public transport, you can easily rent a car. Although, this may be a stressful option for first-time visitors as you adapt to unfamiliar roads and systems. This is where guided travel makes a real difference. Overland Portugal’s tours include comfortable transport, expert local drivers, and well-planned routes, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery without worrying about logistics!
When to Visit Portugal
The best time to visit Portugal depends on what you’re after. Shoulder seasons in spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) bring pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and often better prices than summer, which is precisely why Overland organises our tours for these seasons!
The Atlantic coast heats up in summer (June–August), but be ready for peak crowds along popular stretches. Winters in Portugal are mild and quiet, but you can expect more rainy and overcast weather. If you need more details to plan your trip, read our seasonal guide to the Best Time to Visit Portugal!
What to Pack for a Trip to Portugal
Packing for Portugal depends on the season, but some essentials remain constant. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as cobblestone streets and steep hills are common throughout the country. Lightweight layers work well year-round, as mornings and evenings can be cooler even in summer.
Sun protection is important, particularly if you’re visiting between May and September. A reusable water bottle, sunscreen, and a hat will serve you well while exploring cities and countryside alike. For spring and autumn travel, a light rain jacket is useful, especially in northern regions.
Understanding Portuguese Culture and Etiquette
The first thing to know about Portuguese culture before you travel is that the language spoken is Portuguese. While English is widely spoken in the cities and bigger towns, it may be best to come equipped with some basic phrases to help you get around more easily. A friendly “Olá” (hello) or “Bom dia” (good morning) goes a long way, as greetings are highly valued in Portugal.
If you’re dining out, you can expect lunch to be served from 1 pm and dinner starting later in the evening, around 8 pm. Tipping is not obligatory, but rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip for good service is appreciated.
When visiting churches or religious sites, it’s recommended for both men and women to wear modest clothing and cover shoulders and knees where possible.
Money and Data in Portugal
Portugal uses the euro, and credit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas. However, smaller towns, cafés, and local markets may prefer cash, so carrying some euros is advisable. ATMs are easy to find, but it’s best to notify your bank before travelling to avoid any potential card issues.
Most hotels and cafés will have Wi-Fi, but while on the road or in more remote areas, you’ll still want to have access to mobile data. It’s best to purchase a local SIM or an eSIM so you can stay connected and have access to maps, travel updates, documents, and translation apps.
Joining a Guided Tour of Portugal
If you really want to make the most of your first trip to Portugal, you can’t go wrong with joining a guided tour. Our 7-Day Portugal Tour provides the perfect introduction, with an expertly crafted itinerary taking you across the country. You won’t have to worry about navigation, accommodation, or missing out on the best attractions, since we’ve taken all of that into account for you. You’ll also benefit from the cultural knowledge of our local guides, all while enjoying the company of fellow travellers. If you’re interested in learning more, get in touch with our team. We can’t wait to accompany you on your first journey to Portugal.
