Trip readiness checklist for Portugal

What to pack

Portugal is hills, tiles, and Atlantic light. Pack comfortable shoes for the steep streets, layers for the coast, and a swimsuit you can reach quickly.

• Grippy walking shoes

  Lisbon and Porto are built on steep hills with polished, slippery 'calçada' pavement — smooth soles are a hazard.

• Layers for coastal weather

  Atlantic breezes cool evenings even in summer; mornings can be misty.

• Sun protection and a swimsuit

  Beaches are everywhere and the sun is strong from late spring.

• A light rain layer (off-season)

  Winters are mild but wet.

When to go

July–August is warmest and busiest, with the Algarve packed. Spring and autumn are ideal — warm, lively, and far easier on the wallet and the queues.

Money & getting around

Portugal's on the euro (€). Cards are widely accepted, including the handy MB WAY system, but keep some cash for small cafés and tips. Tipping is modest — round up or 5–10% for good service. Trains link the main cities cheaply.

Local quirks worth knowing

Portugal is gentle with visitors, with one famous exception that arrives uninvited on your table.

• The couvert isn't a gift

  Bread, olives, and cheese appear unasked — touch them and they're on the bill. Wave them away politely if you don't want them; no offence taken.

• Coffee is quick and standing

  A bica (espresso) at the counter costs less than the same cup at a table — and it's how locals do it.

• Dinner is late-ish, not Spain-late

  8–9pm is the groove. Kitchens do close; Lisbon isn't Madrid.

• Don't assume Spanish works

  It's understood, but leading with it can land badly. 'Olá' and 'obrigado/obrigada' earn real warmth.