Details for Portugal

The best time to visit Portugal is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasant, and there are fewer tourists. Summer can be quite hot, especially in the interior, while winter is mild but rainy, particularly in the north.

Must-see places in Portugal include Lisbon with its historic neighborhoods like Alfama and Belém, Porto known for its port wine and the Douro River, the stunning beaches of the Algarve, the fairytale-like Sintra, and the historic university town of Coimbra.

In Portugal, try bacalhau (salted cod), pastel de nata (custard tart), caldo verde (kale soup), and francesinha (a hearty sandwich from Porto). Don't miss the fresh seafood, especially grilled sardines and octopus, and pair your meals with local wines like Vinho Verde or Port.

A well-rounded trip to Portugal can be enjoyed in about 10 to 14 days. This allows time to explore Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve, with day trips to places like Sintra, Évora, and the Douro Valley. Shorter trips can focus on either the north or south of the country.

Portugal has a reliable public transportation system including trains, buses, and trams, particularly in Lisbon and Porto. Renting a car is a good option for exploring rural areas and the Algarve. Domestic flights are available for longer distances, such as from Lisbon to Madeira or the Azores.

US travelers can enter Portugal for up to 90 days without a visa for tourism or business purposes. A valid passport is required, and it must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date from the Schengen Area.

The local currency in Portugal is the Euro. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, especially in urban areas, but it's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments, markets, and rural areas. ATMs are widely available throughout the country.