Portugal🇵🇹
Portugal, located in the Iberian Peninsula in Southern Europe, is bordered by Spain and the Atlantic Ocean. Portugal and Spain, its only neighbour, maintain a peaceful relationship, reinforced by the EU's environmental and intercultural agreements. Portugal is renowned for its rich history, culture, picturesque landscapes, and fine wine production. Portugal offers beautiful beaches, historical cities and stunning landscapes like Pena Palace in Sintra, Tower of Belem in Lisbon, the vineyards in the Douro Valley, and the astonishing cliffs in the Algarve region. Portugal stands out for the cultural richness of Fado (traditional music), the unique two-storied 'azulejos' (painted, tin-glazed, ceramic tilework), and the vibrant celebration of 'Carnaval'. The beautiful coastal town of Nazare, popular for its big wave surfing, is a must-visit for adventure enthusiasts.
⚠️Things you should avoid⚠️
- Avoid taking unregistered taxis or Uber in areas where it's not legal.
- Avoid excessive public displays of wealth to deter pickpockets.
- Avoid purchasing train or bus tickets from unofficial vendors.
- Avoid swimming without lifeguards present due to the presence of strong sea currents along Portugal’s coastline.
- Avoid trekking alone in mountainous regions and inform someone about your trail.
- Avoid walking alone late at night in isolated areas.
- Avoid discussing sensitive political issues, particularly regarding Portugal's past dictatorships.
- Avoid crowded beaches during the peak summer months.
- Avoid disrespecting Portugal's cultural manners and traditions.
- Avoid leaving valuables in parked cars as break-ins are quite common.
Overall
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Crime 🔫
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The crime rate in Portugal is average compared to other European countries. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing are a concern, especially in tourist-heavy regions like Lisbon, Porto and the Algarve. Car break-ins have been reported in major cities and at popular tourist sites. Violent crime is relatively low but does occur, particularly in areas with a high concentration of nightclubs or bars.
Terrorism 💣
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The threat of terrorism in Portugal is generally low. Incidents of domestic terrorism have been rare. Portugal does not have a history of international terrorism, although it remains vigilant due to its status as a member of the European Union and NATO. There have been no significant terror incidents in the country in recent years.
War ⚔️
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Given Portugal's stable political environment and part of the EU, the threat of war is extremely low. The last significant domestic conflict occurred during the Carnation Revolution in 1974. Portugal has also been sheltered from the impact of conflicts affecting other parts of the world.
Natural Disasters 🌊
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Natural disasters in Portugal primarily consist of wildfires and occasional earthquakes. Wildfires during the summer months, particularly in the central and northern regions, are common. The fires in the summer of 2017 were seen as one of the most severe examples of wildfires. Earthquakes are rare, but they can occur; the most devastating being the 1755 Lisbon Earthquake.
Medical Care 🏥
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Healthcare in Portugal is of a high standard. Both public and private healthcare are available and medical staff is well-trained. However, waits for non-emergency treatment can be long in the public system. In addition, while urban areas have excellent medical facilities, services may be more limited in rural areas.
Tap Water Quality 💧
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Tap water in Portugal is of high quality and safe to drink. The water undergoes strict controls to comply with European Union quality standards. However, in some rural areas or islands such as the Azores and Madeira, bottled water is recommended.
Disease Burden 🤒
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In Portugal, the disease burden is quite low. Common health issues align with most western countries, including heart disease and cancer. Portugal has managed disease outbreaks effectively. Mosquito-borne diseases are rare, but there have been some incidents of West Nile virus.
Corruption 💸
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While Portugal has made significant progress in fighting corruption, it remains an issue. It ranks better than most countries in the Corruption Perceptions Index but there have been cases such as Operation Marquis which involved a former Prime Minister.
Safety for Women ♀️
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Portugal is generally safe for women travelling alone. Typical precautions advised in any country should be practiced. There are established laws and societal norms to protect women's rights. However, there have been isolated incidents of harassment and assault.
Safety for Queer People 👬
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Portugal is one of the most LGBTQ-friendly nations in the world. Laws protect the rights of queer people and discrimination based on sexual orientation is illegal. Portugal also became the 8th country to allow same-sex marriage in 2010. However, attitudes may vary in rural areas.
Censorship 📺
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Freedom of speech and press are protected by the Portuguese constitution. Portugal scores high on press freedom indices. However, there have been isolated incidents where media independence has been called into question, but overall, the situation is healthy.
Public Transportation 🚌
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Public transportation in Portugal is efficient, with extensive networks of buses, trams, and trains. Safety standards are high with rare incidents of accidents, but during peak hours, one must be cautious of pickpockets. It is relatively inexpensive and a preferred choice for locals and tourists.
Other useful information
How safe is it?
Portugal is one of the safest countries in the world. While petty crime exists like anywhere else, violent crime is rare. Normal precautions should suffice. During the summer months, pay extra attention to wildfires if travelling to the countryside. Portugal's social acceptability and safety for women and LGBTQ+ individuals is relatively high compared to other countries.
Embassies in this Country
Most countries have embassies in the capital, Lisbon. U.S. embassy is located at Avenida das Forças Armadas, Lisbon. British embassy is at Rua de São Bernardo 33, Lisbon.
Recommended Vaccinations
Routine vaccinations are recommended for travel to Portugal. Depending on the areas you are visiting, Hepatitis A and B, and Rabies vaccines might be recommended.
Dangerous Animals
There aren't many dangerous animals in Portugal. Bees and wasps can be bothersome, and some spiders can give a nasty bite, but it is generally safe. In the sea, Portuguese man o' war jellyfish and weever fish can cause problems if disturbed.
Visa Requirements
EU, EEA and Swiss citizens can enter Portugal without a visa. Citizens from many other countries including the USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand can enter Portugal visa-free for up to 90 days. For others, getting a Schengen Visa is required.
Currency
The currency in Portugal is the Euro. Money can be exchanged at banks, exchange bureaus, and larger hotels. ATMs are widespread.
Credit Card Acceptance
Credit cards are widely accepted across Portugal. However, smaller establishments or remote areas may prefer cash.
Is it possible to work and travel in this country?
Portugal is well-suited to work and travel programs, with temping opportunities, working hostels and farm work available. As an EU country, citizens of other EU nations have the right to work and live in Portugal without a special permit.
Cost of Travel and Living
The cost of living and travel in Portugal is relatively lower than in other Western European countries. One can expect good value for money in terms of food, accommodation, and transportation.