Portugal travel checklist
Power, visa, eSIM, packing rules, and weather in one fast page.
Currency
EUR
Language
Portuguese
Power
Plug types C, F, 230V / 50Hz.
Time zone
WET (UTC+0)
Power banks
Under 100Wh allowed in carry-on; 100-160Wh needs airline approval; Up to 2 units.
Portugal travel checklist overview
What this page covers
The Portugal travel checklist highlights the key rules that affect most visitors: power standards, entry requirements, SIM options, carry-on rules, and weather expectations.
Who it helps
Use this checklist if you want a fast pre-flight scan before diving into the full tools. It is designed for first-time visitors and quick repeat trips.
Local context
Expect walkable historic centers, coastal escapes, and a slower dining pace in smaller towns.
Local essentials
What locals use
- Transit card: Viva Viagem (Lisbon)
- Main airports: LIS, OPO
- Emergency number: 112
- City climate notes: Lisbon is mild with ocean breezes; Porto is cooler and wetter; the Algarve is hot in summer.
- Voltage differences: Voltage is consistent nationwide at 230V / 50Hz.
Local insight
Portugal is compact and easy to explore by train, but coastal towns often need a car for day trips. In Lisbon and Porto, hills mean comfortable shoes are essential. Summer in the Algarve is hot and crowded, while spring and fall are ideal for city breaks. Many cafes are cash friendly, so keep small coins for coffee stops.
Entry essentials
đ Visa & entry
- Schengen rules apply for most travelers
- Passport should be valid for the full stay
- Proof of onward travel may be requested
đ Power & charging
- Type C/F plugs, 230V power
- Most devices support 100-240V input
- Bring a Type C adapter for hotels
đą eSIM & data
- 4G/5G coverage is strong in cities
- EU-wide plans work across borders
- Activate eSIM before arrival for instant data
đŗ Payments
- Cards accepted in most restaurants
- Cash helpful for small bakeries
- Contactless payments are common
Getting around, safety, and best seasons
đ Transportation
- Trains connect Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve
- Metro and trams are easy in Lisbon and Porto
- Driving is best for coastal road trips
đĄī¸ Safety
- Emergency number is 112
- Watch for pickpockets on trams
- Keep valuables secure at viewpoints
đ¤ī¸ Best seasons
- April-June is warm and bright
- September-October is mellow and sunny
- July-August is hot in inland regions
Planning checklist
Portugal travel checklist tools to use
Power bank rules
Under 100Wh allowed in carry-on; 100-160Wh needs airline approval; Up to 2 units.
Open tool âVisa and entry snapshot
| Passport | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| United States | visa-free | Schengen 90 days in 180-day period. |
| Japan | visa-free | Schengen 90 days in 180-day period. |
| United Kingdom | visa-free | Schengen 90 days in 180-day period. |
| Australia | visa-free | Schengen 90 days in 180-day period. |
Best eSIM picks for Portugal
Airalo
5GB for 30 days âĸ $13 âĸ 4G/5G
Nomad
10GB for 30 days âĸ $18 âĸ 4G/LTE
Weather and packing advice
Best weather months around Lisbon:
- May: 23°C / 15°C, 40mm rain
- June: 27°C / 17°C, 20mm rain
- September: 27°C / 19°C, 35mm rain
FAQ
Portugal is in the Schengen Area. Many passports enter visa-free for up to 90 days, while others need a visa.
Portugal uses type C and F plugs with 230V / 50Hz power.
Yes, but they must be carried in the cabin and stay within airline watt-hour limits.
Other destinations
Last updated: 2025-02-01. Always confirm critical rules with official sources.