Europe – Portugal

Portugal

What to Expect from the Land of Discoveries

Traveling to Portugal means immersing yourself in a country where every street tells a story and where the art of living blends seamlessly with cultural richness.
From the cobblestone alleys of Lisbon to the banks of the Douro in Porto, and the fairy-tale palaces of Sintra, each stop offers its share of discoveries and unforgettable moments. But behind the postcard-perfect images lie practical realities worth knowing to make the most of your trip.

This is a personal perspective, based on what I experienced, observed, and learned — both during my own stay and through deeper research into how the country works.

Here are my essential tips for traveling to Portugal, avoiding common pitfalls, and savoring every moment — whether you’re planning a short city break or a longer itinerary.

What You Need to Know Before Traveling to Portugal

💶 1. Contactless payments everywhere

When traveling to Portugal, there’s no need to bring large amounts of euros in cash — almost everything can be paid for using contactless methods (Apple Wallet, NFC card, etc.). Even the guy selling beers from a cooler in the park during a local band’s performance accepts it. Still, keep a bit of cash for tips, especially for guides during excursions.

🗣️ 2. Languages and communication

A few words in Portuguese — obrigado, por favor, bom dia… — will always be appreciated by locals, but there’s no need to stress. When you're traveling to Portugal, you’ll quickly realize that in major cities like Lisbon and Porto, many people speak fluent English, and often French or Spanish as well. Some, like the owner of Café Alfama Doce, can even switch effortlessly to Italian or German, which is impressive to hear. This mix of languages makes communication easy and enjoyable, even for those who don’t speak Portuguese.

📅 3. Book your tickets in advance

Whether it’s a wine tour in the Douro Valley, a sunset sailing cruise on the Tagus or under Porto’s six bridges, entry to Pena Palace and the Moorish Castle, or train tickets between Lisbon and Porto — booking in advance is essential, especially during high season. It might take away a bit of the trip’s spontaneous charm, but it saves you from arriving only to find you can’t visit the attractions you were most looking forward to.

☀️ 4. In summer, prepare for the heat

From late July through the end of August, the Portuguese sun can be relentless. Temperatures soar and the sunshine is intense. Bring a hat or cap, sunscreen, and keep hydrated throughout the day. Water is easy to find in public places and small shops, usually for €1 to €2. However, sunscreen is often much more expensive in Portugal than in Canada, so packing your own will save you money.

For optimal protection with an elegant summer style, I wear my official JuliesTravels.com hat from Cappelli Straworld, Inc., a brand known for its chic, comfortable designs. Some hats in this collection are certified UPF 50+, blocking over 98% of UV rays. Perfect for traveling to Portugal safely… and in style!

📶 5. Stay connected for less

The Airalo eSIM is a reliable and affordable solution for traveling to Portugal, whether for a short break or a longer trip. It keeps you connected at all times — whether you’re following directions to a miradouro, checking tram schedules, or booking a last-minute dinner. By activating your eSIM before you even leave the airport, you save time and avoid the hassle of finding a local SIM shop. Best of all, you dodge the often steep international roaming fees from your Canadian or European provider. Airalo plans are flexible, easy to top up, and perfectly suited to a modern traveler who wants to stay connected while keeping the freedom to explore.

🚌 6. Transit App — your public transport ally

The Transit app is an invaluable tool for navigating public transportation in Lisbon, Porto, and elsewhere in Portugal. It works just as well here as it does in Montreal or Las Vegas, offering real-time schedules and optimized routes. In a country where a car is far from essential, it’s a real asset for getting around efficiently and affordably.

traveling to portugal

Portugal: Stories, Tips & Reviews

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