Destinations in Portugal
A vacation in Portugal offers a perfect mix of nature, culture, history and relaxation. Whether you want to enjoy the beaches, explore historic cities or sample the local cuisine, the various destinations in Portugal have something for everyone.
The Republic of Portugal is a country in the west of the Iberian Peninsula. As the westernmost point of continental Europe, the country is bordered by Spain and the Atlantic Ocean. The Portuguese territory includes the islands of the Azores and Madeira.
Portugal offers an impressive variety of landscapes, from the breathtaking beaches of the Algarve to the lush, green hills of the Douro Valley. The islands of Madeira and the Azores are known for their spectacular waterfalls, primeval forests and hot springs that delight nature lovers.
The Algarve is famous for having some of the most beautiful and cleanest beaches in Europe. With its golden sandy beaches and dramatic cliffs, it attracts millions of tourists every year. This region offers not only sunbathing, but also numerous water sports opportunities.
Portugal is rich in history and culture, which can be seen in the country’s many historical buildings and monuments. Cities such as Lisbon and Porto offer a mix of traditional and modern architecture, while the Douro Valley is known for its famous port wine.
Portuguese cuisine is another highlight of a vacation in Portugal. From fresh seafood to hearty stews and the famous pastel de nata, there is something for everyone. Enjoying local wine, especially from the Douro Valley, rounds off the culinary experience.
Explore the destinations of Portugal
The destinations in Portugal are wonderfully diverse. In addition to interesting large cities you can find beautiful almost untouched regions.
Die südlichste Region von Portugal ist die Urlaubsregion Algarve. Die Algarve bietet ein mediterranes Klima mit über 300 Sonnentagen im Jahr.
Lisbon is the capital of Portugal, a large colorful metropolis with a multicultural society. A city trip to Lisbon combines culture, history, cuisine and relaxation in a charming and lively atmosphere. Whether you stroll through the old town streets, enjoy the view or sample the local cuisine, Lisbon leaves a lasting impression.
Porto is the second largest city in Portugal after Lisbon and attracts its visitors with narrow old town streets, parks, impressive buildings and, of course, port wine.
Portugal is divided into different regions. The Northern Region or Região do Norte is located in the north of the country and is the most populous region of the country.
Located in the center of Portugal, the Região Centro is the heart of the country and offers interesting destinations for every holidaymaker. It comprises eight sub-regions and forms the transition from the green north to the cultural center of Lisbon.
Sintra is only around 25 kilometers from Lisbon. The cultural landscape of Sintra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The excursion destinations in Sintra are highly recommended for a day trip from Lisbon.
Travel information
Arrival
By car
If you travel to Portugal by car, you have to pass through Spain first.
Attention: There is a toll system in Portugal!
By plane
There are numerous scheduled flights to the major airports in Porto, Lisbon. Many charter flights land in Faro for vacationers in the Algarve region.
The Azores and Madeira, which belong to Portugal, have their own airports.
By train
There are only a few connecting routes to Spain. From the east there is a line from Madrid and Salamanca to Coimbra. From Galicia there is one train in the morning and one in the evening from Vigo to Porto.
By ship
You can reach Portugal directly with several shipping companies, for example from Genoa, Tenerife or from the USA.
Entry and visa regulations
Portugal, as a member of the European Union and the Schengen area, has different entry requirements for EU citizens and non-EU citizens. This guide provides a detailed overview of the current requirements for both groups.
Entry requirements for EU citizens
Required travel documents
EU citizens enjoy the privilege of free movement within the European Union. All they need to enter Portugal is
- A valid identity card or
- A valid passport
It is important to note that the identity document must be valid for the entire duration of your stay in Portugal.
Duration of stay
EU citizens can stay in Portugal for up to 90 days without additional permits. During this time, they can live and work in Portugal without any restrictions.
Visa requirements
EU citizens do not require a visa for short stays in Portugal. This applies to both tourism and business purposes.
Entry requirements for non-EU citizens
Entry requirements for non-EU citizens are more complex and depend on various factors, including the nationality of the traveler and the planned length of stay.
Required travel documents
Non-EU citizens require the following to enter Portugal
- A valid passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the planned date of departure
Visa requirements
Visa requirements for non-EU citizens vary depending on the length of stay and the purpose of the trip:
- Short stays (up to 90 days):
Many non-EU citizens require a Schengen visa for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This visa allows travel within the entire Schengen area and is intended for tourist, business or family visits.
- Long-term stays (over 90 days)
For stays longer than 90 days, a national visa (D visa) is required. This visa is issued for purposes such as study, work or family reunification and allows you to apply for a residence permit in Portugal.
Documents required for the visa application
The following documents must be presented to apply for a Schengen visa:
- Valid passport
- Proof of sufficient financial means for the stay
- Proof of accommodation in Portugal
- Travel or health insurance for the entire period of stay
- Proof of the purpose of the stay (e.g. letter of invitation, employment contract or confirmation of study place)
On the way in...
By car
The major cities can be easily reached by freeways and trunk roads. The highways are mostly toll roads.
Smaller secondary roads are often in poorer condition.
In Portugal, the following traffic rules apply, among others:
- Freeway: 120 km/h (caravans 100 km/h).
- Country road: 90 km/h
- City: 50 km/h
- Driving license newcomers (< 1 year) are allowed to drive maximum 90 km/h on the highway
By train
There are two providers requiring reservations in domestic long-distance transport: Alfa Pendular and Intercidades.
Toll
The system is difficult and complicated.
There are several ways to pay the toll. It depends on the route used.
For example, the Algarve motorway between Lagos and Castro Marim – marked “electronic toll only” – here you have to pre-book and pay for the toll control online with number plate registration.
You can also rent electronic devices that can be recharged with money for a certain period of time at border posts or rest stops. However, these devices can only be returned at the rental location.
There are also payment options in cash or with credit cards.
Best time to visit
Spring (March to May)
In spring, the average temperatures are between 15°C and 20°C. The weather is particularly pleasant in Lisbon and the Algarve, where it is mild and sunny. There is less chance of rain than in winter, but there can still be some rainy days, especially in the north.
Summer (June to August)
The summer months are warm to hot, with average temperatures around 25°C to 30°C, especially in the Algarve and inland. The coastal regions are somewhat cooler due to the Atlantic Ocean. Summer is the driest season in Portugal, with very few rainy days.
Autumn (September to November)
In the fall, temperatures drop to a pleasant 20°C to 25°C. Autumn starts dry, but the chance of rain increases in November, especially in the Lisbon region, where there is an average of ten days of rain.
Winter (December to February)
Winters are mild, with average temperatures between 11°C and 15°C. It can get colder in the northern regions and there can even be snow in the mountains. Winter is the wettest season in Portugal, with more rainy days, especially in the north and center of the country.
Language
The official language is Portuguese. In the holiday regions you can communicate very well with English.
Money
Portugal is one of the countries where payment is made with the euro.
Tip
In Portugal, tipping in restaurants is 10-15% of the bill.
In taxis, the guest is not necessarily expected to round up the amount, but the small acknowledgement is welcome.
Hotel staff are also happy to accept a few coins, about one euro per night or per room order.
Power Plug
German travellers do not need a travel adapter for a holiday in Portugal. Type C and F plugs are used in the country.
