15 Portugal travel tips you need to know for a smooth trip

Planning a trip to Portugal? This is one of Europe’s oldest nations, packed with medieval castles, dramatic walled towns, and a coastline that stretches for over 1,100 miles. The beaches alone could keep you busy for weeks, but there’s more to Portugal than sun and sand. From dodging tourist traps to making the most of your euros, these 15 Portugal travel tips will help you explore smarter.

1. Visit Portugal in the off-season

Lisbon and the Algarve get packed in peak summer, making sightseeing a sweaty, slow-moving affair. But visit in the off-season, and you’ll find quieter streets, cheaper accommodations, and still plenty of sunshine.

Why autumn is the best time for the Algarve:

• Beaches are uncrowded, with plenty of space to stretch out.
• October sea temperatures hover around 70˚F — still warm enough for a swim.
• Expect around seven hours of sunshine daily.

Portugal’s beach season peaks in July and August, but if you want a more relaxed experience, aim for spring or fall.

2. Escape the crowds and explore a lesser-known Portugal

Portugal isn’t just Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve. Step away from the tourist hotspots, and you’ll find medieval towns, rolling vineyards, and wild Atlantic coastlines — without the crowds. 

• Spring: Head inland to the border region and explore fortified towns like Marvão and Estremoz, where cobbled streets and hilltop castles feel untouched by time.
• Autumn: Visit the Douro Valley during the grape harvest and experience traditional winemaking at its source.
• Summer: Skip the packed Algarve beaches and head to Alentejo or the Centro region for quieter stretches of sand. The lesser-known west coast of the Algarve also has hidden gems worth seeking out.

Portugal rewards those who venture beyond the obvious.

3. Plan your itinerary wisely

Portugal may look small on a map but don’t underestimate travel times — especially if you’re relying on public transport or exploring rural areas.

• Don’t rush Lisbon and Porto. Each city deserves at least three days to soak up its sights, neighborhoods, and food.
• Factor in travel time. Train routes are great for major cities, but buses or rental cars are better for reaching remote spots like the Alentejo coast or Douro Valley.
• Avoid overpacking your schedule. Portugal’s charm lies in its slow pace — rushing between too many places means missing out on long lunches, hidden cafés, and spontaneous detours.
• Mix cities with nature. Balance urban energy with a trip to the beaches, mountains, or wine country. Sintra, Serra da Estrela, and the Azores all offer a change of scene.

Plan your Portugal itinerary realistically, and you’ll have time to actually enjoy the country, not just tick off a list of sights.

4. Portugal travel tips to eat and drink like a local

Portugal’s food is simple, high-quality, and surprisingly affordable. Stick to local dishes, and you’ll eat well without overspending. Fresh fish and seafood are everywhere, but don’t overlook the excellent pork, cheese, and regional specialties.

House wine is usually great value, and local beers and spirits won’t break the bank. Ordering wisely means you can enjoy Portugal’s culinary scene without any surprises.

Don’t assume the starters are free

Portuguese restaurants often bring starters — anything from olives to seafood — before you’ve even ordered. But don’t assume they’re complimentary.

• If you eat them, you pay for them. Prices vary, so check the menu or ask.
• Some restaurants charge a per-person cover, usually including bread. Others bill for each item separately.
• Starters are usually cheap, but seafood can be pricey — better to ask than be surprised.
• Don’t want them? Just say não, obrigado (no, thank you) when they arrive.

Vegetarians, beware the soup

Caldo verde may look like a harmless vegetable soup, but it almost always contains sausage. Vegetarian options in traditional Portuguese restaurants can be limited, so expect lots of salads, omelets, and simple veggie dishes. Bigger cities have plenty of vegetarian-friendly spots, but in smaller towns, choices can be slim.

Tipping: when and how much

Tipping in Portugal isn’t expected but is appreciated. Here’s what to know:

• Restaurants: Locals often don’t tip or just round up the bill. In touristy places, leaving around 10% is more common. Some restaurants add a service charge, so check before tipping extra.
• Cafés and bars: No tip needed, but rounding up small bills is a nice gesture.
• High-end dining: In fancy restaurants, tipping is more common — around US$1.05 (€1) per cocktail or 10% for a meal.
• Taxis and rideshares: Rounding up the fare is the usual practice.

No one will chase you down for a tip, but if you’ve had great service, a little extra is always welcome.

5. Choose your transport wisely in Portugal

The Portuguese love their cars, but that doesn’t mean you have to rely on one. Sometimes, the best way to explore is on foot.

• Walk a little further. Step away from the car parks, wander up a quiet track, or take a detour down a country lane — you’ll often find a quieter beach, hidden viewpoint, or an unexpected gem.
• Public transport works well in cities. Lisbon and Porto have reliable metro, tram, and bus networks, so you don’t need a car to get around.
• Trains are great for long distances. Major cities and regions like the Algarve and Douro Valley are well connected. Just book in advance for cheaper fares.
• Rent a car for rural adventures. If you’re heading to the Alentejo countryside or remote coastal areas, a car is your best bet. Just be ready for narrow roads and enthusiastic local drivers.

Mix and match transport based on where you're going — sometimes, walking a little off-route is the best way to see Portugal.

6. Budget travel tips for Portugal

Portugal is already one of the best-value destinations in Western Europe, but a few smart choices can stretch your euros even further.

Eat your main meal at lunchtime

Restaurants often have better deals at lunch than dinner, and portions are just as generous. If you want to try a pricier spot, go for lunch and save money without missing out.

Look for midday set meals with wine and coffee

Many traditional restaurants offer prato do dia (dish of the day) or full set menus, which usually include soup, a main, wine, and coffee for a bargain price. Keep an eye out for these deals, especially in smaller towns.

Drink at the counter in bars

In Portuguese cafés and bars, drinking at the counter (balcão) is cheaper than sitting at a table. Perfect if you're grabbing a quick espresso or a glass of wine.

Take advantage of free museum days

Most national museums offer free entry on certain days — usually the first Sunday of the month. Some also have weekly free-entry hours, so check in advance to save on admission fees.

7. Be aware of Portugal’s business hours

Outside major cities, business hours can be unpredictable. Shops, cafés, restaurants, and even museums may open late, close early, or shut down completely if there’s little foot traffic.

• Small towns and rural areas have irregular hours. Don’t assume everything will be open when you need it — especially in the afternoon.
• Weather can affect openings. Bad weather? Some places simply won’t bother opening.
• Tourist offices aren’t always reliable. Hours vary, and some close entirely in the low season.

Plan ahead, check opening times where possible, and be flexible — you might need a backup plan if your intended stop is unexpectedly closed.

8. Avoid tourist traps

Portugal has its fair share of overpriced, underwhelming spots catering to tourists — but with a little awareness, you can steer clear.

• Skip restaurants with multilingual menus and pushy staff. The best local spots don’t need to lure people in. Look for places filled with Portuguese diners instead.
• Avoid eating near major attractions. Restaurants right next to landmarks like Lisbon’s Belém Tower or Porto’s Ribeira are usually overpriced and mediocre. Walk a few blocks for better food at lower prices.
• Beware of "Fado dinner experiences." Authentic fado is incredible, but many touristy dinner shows charge high prices for lackluster performances and average food. Instead, catch a live performance in a traditional fado house.
• Don’t overpay for souvenirs. Shops in tourist-heavy areas charge inflated prices for cork products, ceramics, and port wine. Check out local markets or smaller stores for better deals.

Portugal has incredible experiences — just don’t let the tourist traps distract you from them.

9. Explore Portugal’s vibrant markets

Markets are a great way to experience local life, sample fresh produce, and pick up unique souvenirs. You’ll find them all over Portugal, each with its own specialties.

• Olhão Market (Algarve): The best place for fresh fish and seafood, housed in two striking red-brick buildings by the waterfront.
• Estremoz Market (Alentejo): A top spot for fine Alentejan crafts, from hand-painted ceramics to cork products and embroidered linens.
• Barcelos Market (Minho): One of Portugal’s most traditional markets, famous for its folk art, wooden roosters, and regional delicacies.

10. Shop for authentic Portuguese crafts

Portugal is known for its high-quality handmade goods, from ceramics to textiles. If you want to take home something truly local, skip the tourist shops and head to the source.

• Traditional ceramics: The best place to buy them is Caldas da Rainha in Estremadura, home to some of Portugal’s most iconic pottery.
• Arraiolos carpets: These hand-stitched wool rugs from Alentejo are world-famous — and pricey. But even if you're not buying, it's worth visiting Arraiolos to see the craftsmanship up close.

11. Respect the dress code when visiting churches

Save the shorts, mini skirts, and tank tops for the beach — Portugal’s cathedrals (sé) and monasteries expect visitors to dress respectfully. While you won’t always be turned away, it’s best to cover shoulders and knees to avoid any issues, especially in smaller towns or religious sites like Fátima.

12. Learn basic Portuguese and do not hesitate to use it

While many people in Portugal speak English, especially in tourist areas, learning a few basic Portuguese phrases goes a long way. Locals appreciate the effort, and it can make interactions smoother, especially in smaller towns.

• Start with the essentials: Olá (hello), por favor (please), obrigado/obrigada (thank you – masculine/feminine), and a conta, por favor (the bill, please).
• Pronunciation matters. Portuguese sounds different from Spanish — listen carefully and try to mimic the accent.
• Don’t be shy. Even if your Portuguese isn’t perfect, people will usually be patient and happy to help.

Making an effort to speak the language can lead to better service, friendlier interactions, and sometimes even a little local insider knowledge.

13. Take basic precautions

Portugal is one of Europe’s safest destinations, but it’s still wise to take some precautions — just as you would anywhere else.

• Watch out for pickpockets. In busy areas like Lisbon’s Tram 28, Porto’s Ribeira, and tourist-heavy markets, keep an eye on your belongings.
• Use ATMs inside banks. Street ATMs often have higher fees and can be targeted by skimmers.
• Be cautious with taxis. Stick to official cabs or rideshare apps like Bolt and Uber to avoid overcharging.
• Stay aware at the beach. The Atlantic can have strong currents, so pay attention to flags and lifeguard warnings.

14. Don’t miss Sintra

If there’s one day trip from Lisbon you shouldn’t skip, it’s Sintra. This fairytale town is packed with palaces, lush gardens, and dramatic hilltop views. But timing is everything — Sintra gets crowded fast.

• Go early or late. Arrive before 9 AM or after 3 PM to avoid peak crowds at Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira.
• Wear comfortable shoes. The town is hilly, and some of the best sights require a bit of walking.
• Use public transport. Parking is a nightmare, so take the train from Lisbon and use local buses or tuk-tuks to get around.

Sintra’s magic is real — just plan wisely to experience it without the chaos.

15. Carry cash with you - but don't rely on it completely

While Portugal is becoming more card-friendly, cash is still king in many places, especially outside major cities.

• Small businesses prefer cash. Local cafés, markets, and rural restaurants often don’t accept cards — or have a minimum spend.
• Toll roads require a solution. Some motorways only accept electronic payments, so if you're renting a car, ask about an Via Verde toll device.
• ATMs inside banks are safer. Avoid Multibanco machines in tourist areas, which may have high fees or skimming risks.

Most places in Lisbon and Porto accept cards, but having cash on hand will save you hassle in smaller towns.