Reisgids voor Portugal: essentiële tips

1. What are the top attractions in Lisbon?
Top attractions in Lisbon include Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, and the Alfama district with its narrow streets and Fado music. Visit the LX Factory for trendy vibes, the Baixa-Chiado area for shopping, and take Tram 28 for a scenic ride. Don’t miss a day trip to Sintra to see the Pena Palace.

2. What is the best time to visit Portugal?
The best time to visit Portugal is spring (March to May) or autumn (September to October) for mild weather and fewer crowds, ideal for exploring Lisbon and Porto. Summer (June to August) is perfect for the Algarve beaches, while winter (December to February) offers cooler temperatures and festive events like Lisbon’s Christmas markets.

3. Do I need a visa to travel to Portugal?
Portugal is part of the EU and Schengen Area. EU citizens don’t need a visa. US, Canadian, and Australian citizens can stay visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Others may need a Schengen visa—check with the Portuguese embassy for specific requirements.

4. What are the best beaches in the Algarve?
Top beaches in the Algarve include Praia da Marinha with its dramatic cliffs, Praia da Falésia for its golden sands, and Benagil Beach with its famous sea cave. Dona Ana Beach in Lagos is great for families, while Praia do Camilo offers stunning views and clear waters for snorkeling.

5. Is Portugal expensive to travel to?
Portugal is one of the more affordable destinations in Western Europe. Daily costs average $60–$120 per person for accommodation, food, and transport. A mid-range trip can cost $700–$1,200 for a week. Lisbon and the Algarve can be pricier, but rural areas like the Alentejo are budget-friendly.

6. What are traditional Portuguese foods to try?
Try bacalhau (salted cod), with dishes like bacalhau à brás, and pastéis de nata (custard tarts). Enjoy caldo verde (kale soup), grilled sardines, and piri-piri chicken. Pair your meal with a glass of port wine from Porto or vinho verde, a refreshing white wine from the Minho region.

7. What are the best things to do in Porto?
In Porto, explore the Ribeira district along the Douro River, visit the Livraria Lello bookstore, and tour the port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia. See the Clérigos Tower, stroll through the Foz do Douro, and take a boat cruise in the Douro Valley to see terraced vineyards.

8. What are the best historical sites in Portugal?
Visit the Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower in Lisbon, both UNESCO sites, and the Pena Palace in Sintra. Explore the Roman ruins of Conímbriga, the medieval town of Óbidos, and the Castle of São Jorge in Lisbon. The Guimarães Castle, linked to Portugal’s founding, is also a must-see.

9. What are the best festivals in Portugal?
Top festivals include the Festa de São João in Porto (June) with street parties and fireworks, the NOS Alive music festival in Lisbon (July), and the Funchal Carnival in Madeira (February). The Holy Week celebrations in Braga (March/April) and the Feast of Saint Anthony in Lisbon (June) are also vibrant.

10. How can I travel around Portugal?
Portugal has an efficient train network, with CP trains connecting Lisbon, Porto, and Faro. Buses like Rede Expressos cover smaller towns. Renting a car is ideal for exploring the Douro Valley or the Alentejo. In cities, trams and metro (in Lisbon and Porto) are convenient, and ferries operate between Lisbon and the south bank.