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Travel Tips

Arriving in Portugal: What to Expect at Lisbon and Porto Airports

If you’re traveling to Portugal this spring or summer, knowing what to expect upon arrival at the airport can make the arrival experience much smoother—especially during the high travel season.

In case you’re landing at Lisbon Airport (LIS) or Porto Airport (OPO), this article will leave you feeling informed and empowered for your arrival.

Passport Control: Who Needs It and What to Expect

If you’re arriving from outside the Schengen Area (such as the United States, Canada, or the UK), you’ll need to go through passport control. The process is generally efficient, but during busy months (May–September), lines can be long.

Types of Passport Control Lines at Lisbon and Porto Airports:

  • Electronic Passport Gates – For US, Canadian, UK, Australian, and some other eligible passport holders.
  • EU Electronic Passport Gates – For EU passport holders, the same for passengers aged 18+.
  • Priority Line – For families with young children (under 2 years), seniors over 75 years, or special needs travelers. You will be subject to a manual search by a border officer.
  • EU Manual Check – Standard passport control for EU travelers not using electronic gates.
  • All Passports Line – Required for travelers with children under 18 or passports not eligible for e-gates. This is typically the slowest line.

USEFUL TIP: If you’re eligible for the e-gates and traveling without kids, always choose this line—it’s the fastest by far!

Baggage Claim and Customs: Next Steps

After passport control:

  • Head to baggage claim if you have checked bags.
  • If carry-on only, go straight to customs.
  • Portuguese customs is a breeze. You’ll have two lines:
    • “Nothing to declare” → Utilized by the majority of travelers
    • “Items to declare” → For expensive items or items exceeding duty-free allowance

No paperwork in most cases—you simply walk through.

Leaving the Airport: Getting to Your Destination At Lisbon Airport:

As you exit customs, you will arrive at the Arrivals Hall. From here:

  • Right → Rental Car desks
  • Straight ahead → Official taxi rank
  • Pay directly in the local currency
  • Left → Uber & Bolt pick-up area

Lisbon tends to use buses too to move passengers from the plane to the terminal, especially during high seasons—so don’t worry if you don’t walk off the plane directly into the gate.

At Porto Airport
Porto’s layout is more compact. After exiting the terminal, everything—taxis, rideshares, rental cars—is located in the same general area, making it easy to navigate.

When Is the Busiest Time to Get There?

The busiest times are:

  • May through September
  • Early morning international arrivals
  • Holiday weekends and local festivals

Be prepared for queues and delays at passport control during these peak periods, especially if you’re ineligible for e-gates.

Last-Minute Tips for a Smooth Arrival

  • Keep your passport and flight documents handy.
  • If you’re traveling with children, factor in extra time for manual checks.
  • Have some euros on hand for taxis or snacks, as not all services accept foreign cards.
  • If possible, travel light—carry-on only saves time at baggage claim.

Want to Experience Portugal Like a Local?

We offer private, authentic Portugal tours, focused on culture, local history, and off-the-beaten-path secrets other visitors miss.

Need travel inspiration? Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Youtube for insider tips, stunning travel photos, and exclusive deals!

#Useful_Tips #Portugal_Unplugged #PortugalTravel #VisitPortugal #LisbonAirportArrivalGuide #TravelGuide #TravelHacks #PortoAirportArrivelGuide

October 19, 2025 Desirable Portugal Blog, Travel Tips , , , , , , , ,

The Regulations and Exceptions of Road Signs Tourists Should Know in Portugal

Hiring a car in Portugal is the best means to explore the country on your terms — from hilltop medieval villages to seaside hideaways. Yet, driving and comprehending signs and local driving rules can be confusing, especially when signs appear in Portuguese. This guide will provide you with a general awareness of some of the most essential road signs and regulations so you can drive around safely and not get caught for it.

Commonly Misunderstood Portuguese Road Signs

“Estacionamento Proibido” (No Parking)

  • Appearance of sign: A red circle containing one red diagonal line.
  • Meaning: No parking at all times.
  • Penalty: Fines or your car being towed.

“Paragem e Estacionamento Proibidos” (No Stopping or Parking)

  • Appearance of the sign: Blue circle with red border and two red diagonal lines forming an X.
  • Meaning: You are not allowed to stop or park at any time.
  • Penalty: Enormous fines or even wheel clamping.

“Zona de Estacionamento Pago” (Paid Parking Zone)

  • Sign Appearance: A white or blue sign typically with a pay-and-display symbol.
  • Meaning: You may be required to pay to park at certain times. Check on the additional panel for information. Sometimes the additional panel say, for example, “Paid from Monday to Friday, from 9AM to 7PM”

“Zona de Cargas e Descargas” (Loading and Unloading Zone)

  • Appearance of the sign: Generally a rectangular sign below a major no-parking sign.
  • What it means: Only permitted vehicles may pull in here to pick up or deliver merchandise — normally commercial or delivery trucks.

Additional Panels You Might Miss

There are usually additional panels on most signs in Portugal that qualify or define the meaning of the main sign. These are significant to understand!

“Exceto tomada e largada de passageiros” (Except pick-up and drop-off)

  • Often placed under a No Stopping/No Parking sign.
  • Translation: Drivers can stop briefly just to pick up or drop off passengers — no waiting or parking.

“Exceto animação turística e TVDE”

  • TVDE is the official term for ride-share applications like Uber or Bolt.
  • Translation: Only vehicles operating under a touristic activity license or registered ride-share services can stop.

“Dístico” (Permit)

  • Indicates only vehicles with a specific permit can park or access that zone.
  • Common Types: Resident permits, handicapped permits, or service access.

These panels are small but very important. Failing them can lead to violations even when you think you’re following the rules!

Consequences of Ignoring These Signs

In case you park where you are not supposed to:

  • You may be issued with a fine (anywhere from €30 to over €150).
  • Your car may be towed or clamped, especially in urban areas.
  • In the event that you are driving a hired car, the company may impose additional charges for processing fines or recovering a towed car.

Final Driving Tips for Portugal:

  • Always double-check for supplementary panels.
  • Download Google Translate — instantly translate signs using the camera function.
  • When in doubt, park in a paid lot or garage to be on the safe side.

Want to Experience Portugal Like a Local?

We offer private, authentic Portugal tours, focused on culture, local history, and off-the-beaten-path secrets other visitors miss.

Need travel inspiration? Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Youtube for insider tips, stunning travel photos, and exclusive deals!

#Useful_Tips #Portugal_Unplugged #PortugalTravel #VisitPortugal #TravelGuide #TravelHacks #PortugalTravelTips #DrivingInPortugal #RoadTripPortugal #PortugalByCar #TravelSmart #PortugueseRoadSigns #VisitPortugal #TravelTipsForTourists #ExplorePortugalByCar

September 11, 2025 Desirable Portugal Blog, Travel Tips , , , , , , , ,

How to Pay in Portugal: Travel Money Tips for Visitors

Visiting Portugal? One of the most important (least planned) parts is how to handle your money while on the go in Portugal. Money still rules from the local bakeries to the street vendors.

Whether you’re coming from the USA, Canada, Germany, Netherlands, Sweden, or Denmark, this guide will help you skip extra fees and feel comfortable when it’s time to pay — whether it’s for a coffee, a tour, or a souvenir.

Do You Need Cash in Portugal? Yes, and Here’s Why

We tend to believe that Portugal is fully digital, but it is not the case. Yes, it is true that many businesses take cards, but cash is still very important in local areas and in small towns.

These are a few of the places where you will find yourself needing euros in your pocket:

  • Traditional bakeries and cafés
  • Street markets or flea markets
  • Small, family-run restaurants
  • Local cabs (especially outside large cities)
  • Rural or remote villages

USEFUL TIP: Always keep €20–€50 in cash handy for small expenses or emergencies.

Using a Foreign Debit or Credit Card in Portugal

Most foreign cards (Visa, Mastercard, and sometimes American Express) can be used in shops, restaurants, and hotels. But remember two things:

  1. Foreign transaction fees – Find out if your bank charges for international purchases.
  2. Currency exchange – When prompted to pay in your local currency or euros, always opt for euros. Paying in your local currency can lead to poor exchange rates and extra fees.

ATM tips in Portugal:

  • Take advantage of Multibanco-branded machines — they’re the official Portuguese network.
  • Steer clear of ATMs that seem very branded (e.g., Euronet), as they tend to have higher fees.
  • Where possible, withdraw more cash less often to save on fees.
  • In case of money withdraw in ATM’s, a PIN number is required. Some cards may require a PIN number for payments as well. Some machines may show up a requirement for 6 digit PIN, if yours only has 4 digits, insert it and press OK.

Best Travel Cards: Revolut, Wise & More

Most Portuguese travelers use Revolut, especially when traveling abroad, as it allows them to:

  • Convert money into different currencies
  • Avoid traditional exchange charges
  • Pay directly in the local currency
  • Use virtual or plastic cards
  • Track spending in real time

North American and Northern European visitors also prefer Wise (formerly TransferWise), which offers:

  • Low-cost and transparent currency exchange
  • Multi-currency accounts
  • A debit card for hassle-free international spending
  • An easy-to-use application interface
  • Both applications are well used in Portugal and can be easily used for contactless payment.

What Do US and Canadian Visitors Use?

Many North American visitors prefer to use no foreign transaction fee credit cards. Their most popular ones are:

  • Chase Sapphire Preferred / Reserve
  • Capital One Venture or Quicksilver
  • American Express Platinum (not entirely accepted in Portugal)

They primarily possess:

  • Enhanced exchange rates
  • Travel reward and points
  • Travel benefits and insurance

Some complement them with Revolut or Wise to further manage and save fees on withdrawing or exchanging money.

Quick Money Tips for Your Trip to Portugal

  • Carry a small amount of cash in euros
  • Don’t exchange money at the airport — rates are poor
  • Use Multibanco ATMs whenever possible
  • Avoid “pay in your home currency” options
  • Download Revolut or Wise for easier payments
  • Let your bank know you’re traveling
  • Keep receipts, especially for larger purchases

Final Thoughts: Travel Smart, Spend Smarter

Portugal is a beautiful nation filled with tradition and charm. But if you’re buying freshly baked pastries at a village store or booking a planned tour, paying smart will save you money and trouble.

Cash, the appropriate credit card, and travel-friendly apps together on your side will make experience possible, not exchange charges.

Want to Experience Portugal Like a Local?

We offer private, authentic Portugal tours, focused on culture, local history, and off-the-beaten-path secrets other visitors miss.

Need travel inspiration? Follow us on

September 11, 2025 Desirable Portugal Blog, Travel Tips , , , , , , ,

What Over-the-Counter Medications Can You Buy in Portugal? A Helpful Guide for Travelers

As you’re traveling overseas, medical surprises might destroy your holiday in a matter of minutes. Whether it’s a common cold, a scratchy mosquito bite, or sunburn from an enjoyable day at the beach in the Algarve, knowing what’s available to buy at a Portuguese chemist can save your holiday.

Luckily, Portuguese pharmacies (farmácias) are stocked and easily accessible throughout the nation. Most medications in demand are also available over the counter (OTC) without a prescription, and pharmacists are generally very knowledgeable and friendly, often speaking English well enough to assist tourists.

DISCLAIMER: This content is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional advice. Always check with a pharmacist before taking medication.

Below is a handy rundown of what you can typically buy in Portuguese pharmacies without a prescription:

For Colds, Flu & Sore Throats

  • Ben.u.ron or Paracetamol (aspirin-free): For fever and mild to moderate pain.
  • Brufen (aspirin-free Ibuprofen): Anti-inflammatory, headache, body ache, and sore throat.
  • Strepsils or Lizipaina: Sore throat lozenges.
  • Vicks Vaporub: Old-fashioned menthol rub for congestion.
  • Actifed, Cêgripe: Combination cold medications (decongestants, antihistamines, etc.)

For Allergies and Hay Fever

  • Cetirizina, Loratadina: Antihistamines for runny nose, sneezing, watering eyes.
  • Fenistil Gel: Anti-histamine gel for prickly skin or insect bites.

For Insect Bites & Skin Reactions

  • Fenistil Gel or After Bite: To relieve itch and swelling.
  • Bepanthene: For soothing cream of skin irritation, mild rash, or dry skin.

For Sunburns & Minor Burns

  • Biafine or Aloe Vera Gel: To soothe sunburn and minor burns.
  • Uriage Bariésun Repair, Piz Buin After Sun: After-sun creams typically available at pharmacies or supermarkets.

For Motion Sickness, Indigestion & Stomach Issues

  • Vomitop (Dimenhydrinate): Motion sickness prevention (great for boat cruises).
  • Imodium (Loperamide): Travel diarrhea.
  • Motilium (Domperidone): For indigestion and nausea.
  • Gaviscon, Alka-Seltzer, Rennie: For acid reflux and heartburn.

Important Notes

  • Antibiotics require a prescription in Portugal.
  • If in doubt, ASK a pharmacist before purchasing any medication.
  • Pharmacies are open from 9 AM to 7 PM (with lunch breaks), but every region has one rotating 24-hour pharmacy (farmácia de serviço).

Tourist Tips:

  • Look for the green cross symbol to find a pharmacy.
  • You can also ask: “Fala inglês?” (Do you speak English?) — most do.
  • Keep the name of the drug you need in English and ask for an equivalent in Portugal.
  • Carry a small travel health kit with the essentials, but rest assured that local pharmacies are extremely reliable.

Have you ever needed medicine while abroad? What did you find helpful or surprising in Portugal? Share your experience in the comments below — and don’t forget to save this post so you have it when you need it!

Want to Experience Portugal Like a Local?

We offer private, authentic Portugal tours, focused on culture, local history, and off-the-beaten-path secrets other visitors miss.

Need travel inspiration? Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Youtube for insider tips, stunning travel photos, and exclusive deals!

#Useful_Tips #Portugal_Unplugged #PortugalTravel #VisitPortugal #LisbonAirportArrivalGuide #TravelGuide #TravelHacks #healthtips

May 15, 2025 Desirable Portugal Blog, Travel Tips , , , , , , ,