Essential Travel Information for Portugal | Portugal Travel Tips
1. Language: The official language of Portugal is Portuguese. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, restaurants, and major cities such as Lisbon, Porto, and Faro.
2. Currency: Portugal uses the Euro (€) as its official currency. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash is useful for small cafés, local markets, and rural towns.
3. Passport Validity: Your U.S. passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay in Portugal. For added security, having six months of validity is recommended.
4. Visa Requirements: U.S. citizens do not need a visa for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism or business. Starting in 2026, travelers will need to apply for ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) authorization before entering Portugal.
5. Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is highly recommended for Portugal travel. Coverage should include medical expenses, emergency evacuation, trip cancellations, and trip interruptions.
6. Electricity & Power Usage: Portugal uses Type C and F plugs with a 230V / 50Hz electrical system. Travelers from the U.S. will need a plug adapter and possibly a voltage converter for their devices.
