Portugal is a country that attracts tourists, digital nomads, professional emigrants and investors alike. Everything seems to work out here: mild climate, picturesque nature, rich cultural heritage and friendly locals. And these are just a few of the country’s advantages. In our guide we will tell you about the main pros and cons of living in Portugal, how to get a residence permit, as well as the key aspects of the culture and economy of the country.
General Overview of Portugal
The Portuguese Republic is located in the south-west of Europe, on the Iberian Peninsula. It borders only one country, Spain, and is washed by the Atlantic Ocean to the west and south. Due to its unusual geographical position, Portugal has been a significant trading hub between Europe, Africa and the Americas for centuries. Portugal has a total area of 92,226 square kilometres, including the Azores and Madeira archipelago, which have the status of autonomous regions of the country.
Capital, administrative division and largest cities of Portugal
The capital of Portugal is the magnificent Lisbon, the country’s largest city, located at the mouth of the Tagus River. Administratively, the state is divided into 18 districts (distritos) on the mainland and two autonomous regions (Azores and Madeira – archipelagos in Atlantic waters). Portugal’s major cities also include:
- Porto, the second most populous city, famous for the production of Port wine
- Coimbra, a historic centre of education and science, home to one of the oldest universities in the world
- Braga, an important religious and cultural centre
- Vila Nova di Gaia, a significant industrial and wine-producing city located opposite Porto on the southern bank of the Douro River
- Funchal, the administrative centre of the autonomous region of Madeira, known for its tropical climate, natural resorts and gastronomy.
Population and Language
As of 2024, Portugal has a population of approximately 10.3M. The official language is Portuguese, which, incidentally, is among the most widely spoken languages in the world. Dialects within the country vary, but standard Portuguese is accepted in all areas of official communication and education. Also an ethnic minority, the Mirandans, who live in the municipalities of Miranda do Douro, Vimioso and Mogadoro, speak Miranda, which is also recognised as an official language. English, French, Spanish and Spanish are also spoken in the tourist regions.
Brief History and Cultural Heritage
Portugal is one of the oldest states in Europe, having been formed as an independent kingdom in 1143 after the Treaty of Samora. In 1179, the Pope officially recognised Portugal’s independence with the bull Manifestis Probatum. By the 13th century, the modern borders of the country were finalised. In the era of the Great Geographical Discoveries (XV-XVI centuries) Portugal became one of the leading maritime powers of the world, establishing a vast colonial empire in South America, Africa and Asia.
It was the age of the Great Discovery that brought Portugal to the status of a world power. Thanks to outstanding navigators Bartolomeu Dias (who discovered the Cape of Good Hope in 1488), Vasco da Gama (who blazed a sea route to India in 1498) and Pedro Alvaris Cabral (who discovered Brazil in 1500), Portugal created the largest trading empire of its time. Lisbon was one of the wealthiest cities in Europe during this period, and Portuguese expeditions extended the country’s influence from Brazil to Goa, Macau and Mozambique.
The 20th century was a time of political upheaval and transformation for Portugal. In 1910, the monarchy was overthrown and the First Portuguese Republic was proclaimed. In 1926, a military dictatorship came to power, later replaced by the authoritarian regime of the ‘New State’ (Estado Novo) established by António de Oliveira Salazar. Salazar’s dictatorship lasted until 1974, when the Carnation Revolution took place, ending the brutal regime and leading to democratic reforms. In 1975, Portugal granted independence to its African colonies, including Angola and Mozambique. Since 1986, the country has been a member of the European Economic Community (now the European Union). Today Portugal is a member of the Eurozone and the European Economic Area, and is also a party to the Schengen Agreement.
The country’s cultural heritage includes UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Alcobaça Monastery, the Batalha Monastery, the Chivalric Castle of Tomar, the historic centre of Porto, Sintra and many other monuments of architecture and art. Portugal’s traditions are closely linked to its history – for example, the musical genre of Fado, recognised as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity: emotional lyrical performances to the guitar. The fadista (fado performer) must necessarily express with his music saudadi, an emotion similar to luminous sadness.
Economy
The Portuguese economy is one of the highly developed and diversified economies of the European Union. Major industries include:
- Tourism. The industry accounts for about 15% of the country’s GDP. Portugal is among the top 10 most popular tourist destinations in Europe.
- Agriculture and food processing. Major exports include: olive oil, wines (mainly port wine and madera), timber, fish and seafood. Portugal ranks first in the world in the export of cork wood, which is used, among other things, for the manufacture of clothing, footwear and interior items.
- Textile and footwear industry. Portuguese footwear is considered one of the highest quality in Europe, and exports account for a significant portion of industrial production.
- Renewable energy. Portugal is actively developing solar and wind energy: more than 60% of all electricity is generated from renewable sources.
- Information technology and outsourcing. Lisbon and Porto are becoming hubs for IT companies and startups thanks to favourable tax policies and a highly skilled workforce. The country also issues a digital nomad visa.
Income and Living Costs
The average salary in Portugal as of 2024 is around €1,400 gross per month (approximately €1,050 net). The minimum wage is €820 net per month.
Estimated living expenses:
| Rent | From €1,500 per month for a one-bedroom flat in the major cities (Lisbon, Porto), from €400 in the periphery |
| Utilities/td> | Around €100-€150 per month |
| Food | €200-€350 per month per person |
| Transport | Monthly pass: €40-€50 |
| Health insurance | €50-€100 per month (private healthcare) |
In general, life in Portugal is cheaper compared to most Western European countries, but the cost of living is higher in Lisbon, Porto and resort regions (e.g. Algarve).
Portugal is among the top 5 countries in Europe in terms of housing affordability for foreigners choosing the country for permanent residence – including pensioners.
Social Welfare
Portugal’s social policy aims to ensure the basic rights of citizens and residents to health care, education, pensions and social support. The core of the system is the Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS), the national health service, which provides access to health services for almost all residents. Most health services are financed by the state, with patients only having to pay token amounts for doctor’s appointments or tests (usually between €5 and €20). Children under 18, pensioners and people with serious illnesses are often exempted from these costs entirely.
Portugal’s pension system includes public and private contributory schemes. The minimum state pension in 2024 is about €319 per month, while the average pension is about €750. Foreigners who have official residence status and have worked in Portugal for 15 years or more can expect to receive an old-age pension when they reach a certain age (66 years and 4 months in 2024).
Special attention is paid to supporting the poor: there are Rendimento Social de Inserção (RSI) programmes, a social benefit for low-income families, as well as unemployment and disability assistance. In addition, Portugal has a rent and utility subsidy programme for socially disadvantaged categories of citizens.
Despite a well-developed public health care system, many expats and wealthy Portuguese prefer private clinics, where the service is faster and the quality of care is often better. The cost of annual medical insurance in private systems starts from €400 per year and depends on the age and health status of the patient.
Local authorities pay attention to the accessibility of the city infrastructure for people with disabilities: new buildings and public transport are equipped with ramps and lifts in accordance with European standards.
Taxation
In Portugal, a tax resident is recognised as an individual who spends more than 183 days in Portugal in a calendar year, or has a permanent home with the intention of long-term residence. Legal entities are obliged to pay taxes in Portugal provided that their head office or actual management centre is located within the country.
If a foreigner is in Portugal for less than 183 days per year but receives income within the country, he is considered a non-resident taxpayer. In this case, income earned within the country is taxed at flat rates.
The main taxes in force in Portugal include income tax (IRS), social contributions, stamp duty, capital gains tax, property tax (IMI) and value added tax (IVA). Many of them have a progressive scale and depend on the level of income or the value of the taxable item.
Income tax (IRS) ranges from 13.25 per cent to 485 in 2024. The minimum rate applies to income up to €7,703 per year, while the maximum applies to income exceeding €81,199 per year. Non-residents of Portugal pay tax on income earned domestically at a flat rate of 25%.
Value Added Tax (IVA) has different rate levels depending on the region. On the mainland, the standard rate is 23%, with reduced rates of 13% and 6% (on essential goods). Autonomous regions have lower rates: in Madeira IVA ranges from 5% to 22%, in the Azores – from 4% to 18%.
There is also a corporate tax (IRC) for companies registered in the country. Its base rate on the mainland is 21%, while in Madeira and the Azores it is reduced to 14.7% and 16.8% respectively.
Employment and Business Opportunities
Portugal actively attracts foreign investors and entrepreneurs. Starting a business requires a minimum authorised capital (usually €1 when setting up an Lda – Sociedade por Quotas) and registration with the tax office.
The main areas for business:
- Tourism and hospitality
- IT and software development
- Agricultural sector and winemaking
- Renewable energy
A residence permit for Portugal can be obtained for investment by becoming a member of the Golden Visa Programme (investments in funds from €500,000 are available).
Labour Market
The labour market in Portugal is stable, the unemployment rate at the beginning of 2024 is 6.7%. IT specialists, engineers, tourism workers and language teachers are in demand. The working week is 40 hours and paid holidays are 22 working days per year.
Popular Destinations for Holidays and Tourism
Portugal is surprisingly different – each region of the country differs in history, entertainment and atmosphere. Travellers are amazed at how the Algarve’s snow-white beaches, Lisbon’s ancient streets and the green hills of the Douro fit into a small area.
The Algarve is a classic Portuguese holiday destination. It is worth at least just a walk near Lagos: the rocks, as carved from gold, descend directly into the clear water of the Atlantic. The resorts of Albufeira, Vilamoura and Portimão are ideal for those looking for comfort, developed infrastructure and a variety of entertainment. There are many world-class golf courses, yacht clubs and hotels for discerning guests, so there is something to suit all budgets.
The Algarve has been voted Europe’s best beach destination several times by the World Travel Awards.
The complete opposite is Madeira. It is literally buried in greenery. Coming to Funchal, it is impossible not to fall in love with this cosy town with its promenade, markets and the aroma of madera. Madeira is the choice of those who appreciate solitude, nature and active holidays: here you can wander through laurel forests, whale watching and surfing on the northern coast.
The Azores are 9 volcanic islands in the middle of the Atlantic, where you find yourself in a different world. The first thing that strikes you is the absolute silence and lush greenery, so vivid that it seems unreal. On São Miguel Island, the largest in the archipelago, visit Costa da Ferreira, where hot springs gush from the ground, and be sure to visit Furnas, a volcanic settlement where cozido das furnas, a traditional stew cooked slowly underground in natural thermal pits, is made. And then there’s the Sete Cidades lagoon with its two lakes, one blue, the other green.
For those who dream of whale and dolphin watching, there is no better place than Piku. You can also climb the Pico volcano of the same name – it’s the highest point in Portugal! The Azores are perfect for those looking for not only nature, but also adventure and a chance to completely disconnect from civilisation.
Lisbon and Cascais are a different story. Lisbon’s charm is impressive, with postcard-perfect trams, the streets of the Alfama neighbourhood and the fado music of the old cafés. Don’t forget to check out the suburb of Sintra for its quaint palaces and gardens. Just a 30-minute drive away is Cascais, a sophisticated seaside resort with a luxurious, old-world European feel. It’s got casinos and expensive restaurants, but at the same time feels totally relaxing.
Porto – here you can spend hours tasting port wine on the Ribeira promenade, looking out over the bridges over the Douro. The region’s incredible wineries (quintas), where Port wine is made, are worth a visit if only for the views of the terraced vineyards. And if you’re seriously interested in winemaking, take a tour of the Douro Valley.
The town of Nazare, in the central part of the country, deserves special attention. It is the world capital of giant wave surfing: waves up to 30 metres high form in the coastal waters thanks to the underwater Nazaré Canyon. This makes Nazaré an ideal location for international surfing competitions and sports tourism development.
Sightseeing in Portugal
Portugal is a country where literally at every step you can stumble upon something amazing. Here ancient castles neighbour cosy coastal towns, and natural wonders amaze with their pristine nature. So, what is worth visiting in Portugal? You should start travelling around the country with its capital. Lisbon is a city best explored by simply walking around its hills. Be sure to take the legendary tram 28, which winds through the ancient neighbourhoods of Alfama and Baixa.
Walk up to St George’s Castle for panoramic views of the red roofs and the wide Tagus River. In the evening, pop into one of the traditional cafés where Fado, a sad and beautiful music that reflects the soul of Portugal, is played. The most atmospheric places for this are Adega Machado or Casa de Fado. The Belém Tower, a symbol of the country’s maritime history and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the ancient Manuelino-style Belém Monastery are also a must-see.
Very close to the capital is Sintra, a city that looks like a fairytale vision. Palacio da Pena, a hilltop palace, looks like it was drawn on the pages of a book: yellow, red and blue towers add up to a fairy-tale picture. Not far away is the mysterious Quinta da Regaleira, with its underground tunnels, enigmatic Masonic symbols and the Well of Dedication. The best time to visit Sintra is early morning. This way you can avoid the crowds of tourists and enjoy its atmosphere in silence.
In the north of the country lies Porto, the second largest city, famous for its bridges and port wine. Sit on the Ribeira promenade, have a glass of wine and watch the sun set behind the arches of the Luís I Bridge. To learn how port wine is made (and taste the best examples), head to Vila Nova di Gaia. This is where the oldest wine cellars are located and where you can taste the famous brands – Graham’s, Sandeman, Taylor’s. Tour guides will tell you in detail about how the aged wines are produced.
The Algarve is where travellers come to catch the sunrise on Praia da Marinha beach or explore the Benagil Cave by boat or swimming. The south coast is famous for its grottos, azure waters and fish restaurants serving the freshest seafood. Here you can try cataplana, a traditional dish cooked in a copper cauldron of fish, prawns and molluscs, or interesting lagos shells stewed in hot garlic oil.
If you want to touch the history of the Middle Ages and feel the spirit of chivalrous Portugal in a couple of days, we recommend planning a short trip along the route Tomar – Batalha – Alcobaça – Obidos. Start with the Castle of the Templar Order in Tomar, one of Portugal’s most important architectural complexes, where Manuelino and Gothic elements have been preserved (and be sure to visit its Round Church – a hall of unimaginable beauty!). Then head to the Monastery of Batalha, a masterpiece of late Gothic architecture and a UNESCO heritage site.
In Alcobaça you will be impressed by the majestic monastery of Santa Maria de Alcobaça with the tomb of Pedro and Ines (the most touching and a bit creepy love story). And the best way to finish the route is in Obidos, a small town with white houses surrounded by strong fortress walls. Here you should try ginjinha, a traditional cherry tincture served in shot glasses made of the finest chocolate.
Natural Landscapes and Climate
Despite its modest size, Portugal is characterised by a diverse landscape. You’ll find coastal areas with world-class beaches, mountain ranges, wine valleys and national parks.
In the south of the country lies the Algarve region, known for its long sandy beaches fringed by picturesque limestone cliffs. The Algarve has a mild Mediterranean climate, with summer temperatures of +28 … +32 °C and warm and dry winters.
According to the Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA), Portugal is one of the sunniest countries in Europe, with more than 300 days of sunshine a year in the southern part of the mainland.
Central Portugal’s wine regions include the famous Douro Valley, where terraced vineyards neighbour the river and rolling mountains. The climate is temperate continental with hot summers and cool winters, making the region ideal for agribusiness and eco-tourism.
In the north, the climate is cooler and more humid, especially in the Minho region, which favours green landscapes and developed agriculture. It is also home to the Serra da Estrela mountains, where the country’s only ski resort operates. In winter, temperatures can drop below freezing.
Madeira, thanks to its subtropical climate, offers a comfortable temperature of +18…+25 °C all year round, which favours the development of medical tourism. The Azores, on the other hand, have a more temperate oceanic climate with high humidity and frequent rainfall, but also attract with their unique landscapes: volcanoes, crater lakes, calderas and hot springs.
Portugal’s Culture: Events and Festivals
Portugal is known for its rich cultural life and numerous festivals reflecting both religious traditions and folk customs. The calendar of events spans the entire year and makes the country attractive to lovers of authentic cultural experiences.
One of the highlights is Carnival (the analogue of our Pancake Day), which is celebrated throughout the country in February or March, depending on the date of Easter. Carnival parades are particularly popular in Torres Vedras and Funchal (Madeira), where parades are accompanied by musical performances, costumed processions and street festivities.
In summer, Portugal comes alive with the Festival of St Anthony in Lisbon and the Festival of St John in Porto. These festivals take place in June and are accompanied by mass festivities, concerts, street decorations and street fairs. In Lisbon, sardines are grilled and in Porto, fireworks and paper lanterns are set off into the sky.
The island of Terceira, part of the Azores archipelago, has an ancient and distinctive bullfighting tradition known as Touradas à Corda. Unlike classic bullfighting, here bulls are released into the streets of towns and villages, where locals demonstrate their agility and courage by dodging the animals. The bull is held on a long rope by a group of men to control its movements and ensure the relative safety of the participants. These events take place from May to October, but are particularly popular during Festas Sanjoaninas in June, when the streets of Angra do Eroismo come alive with parades, concerts and traditional bullfights.
In September, the Douro Wine Festival is worth a visit, celebrating the end of the grape harvest. Locals and tourists alike participate in traditional dances, port wine tastings and winery tours. This is a unique opportunity to learn about the gastronomic traditions of the region and the wine culture, which is considered one of the oldest in Europe.
In winter, in December, Portugal is immersed in the atmosphere of the Christmas holidays. Colourful illuminations are installed in the cities and Christmas markets are held. Especially famous are the Christmas markets in Lisbon and Porto, where handicrafts, traditional sweets (such as Bolo Rei – ‘King Cake’) and handmade jewellery are sold. On the night of 24 December, families gather for Ceia de Natal, a festive dinner with the obligatory cod dish.
Portugal also hosts international festivals of contemporary art, film and music throughout the year. Among the most famous are NOS Alive and Super Bock Super Rock in Lisbon, Maré de Agosto in the Azores, and the Madeira Flower Festival, which takes place in spring and transforms the streets of Funchal into blooming gardens with a parade of floral platforms. There is also a festival dedicated to Fado music, held in cultural venues in Lisbon and Coimbra. Fado concerts are often held in atmospheric casas de fado restaurants, where traditional Portuguese cuisine is served to the sound of the guitar.
Visa and Residence Permit in Portugal
Portugal is a member of the Schengen area, therefore a valid Schengen visa is required to enter the country. The basic requirements for obtaining a visa include:
- Passport: must be valid for at least 3 months after the expected date of departure from Portugal and have at least 2 free pages for visa stamps.
- Visa application form: completed and signed by the applicant.
- Photographs: 2 colour photographs of 3.5×4.5 cm on a light-coloured background.
- Proof of financial solvency: bank statements, certificates of employment indicating salary or other documents proving that you have sufficient funds to stay in Portugal.
- Health insurance: a policy with a minimum of €30,000 coverage valid throughout the Schengen area.
- Proof of purpose of travel: hotel booking, private invitation, etc.
It is recommended to apply for a visa not earlier than 6 months and not later than 15 days before the planned trip.
A residence permit in Portugal can be obtained by foreign citizens who meet one of the following criteria:
- Investors: persons who invest from a certain amount in the Portuguese economy can apply for a Golden visa.
- Financially independent persons: citizens with passive income above a set minimum can obtain a D7 visa.
- Remote workers and freelancers: individuals working remotely with an income above a certain threshold can apply for a D8 visa.
- Entrepreneurs: individuals planning to start a business in Portugal and create jobs can apply for a D2 visa.
- Students: foreigners enrolled in accredited educational institutions in Portugal can apply for a student visa.
- Family members of Portuguese residents or citizens: under the family reunification programme.
How to obtain a residence permit in Portugal (basis):
- Investment in funds: investing €500,000 or more in investment or venture capital funds.
- Support for culture and arts: investment of €250,000 or more in the form of a grant for projects related to the preservation of cultural heritage.
- Scientific research: investment of €500,000 or more in research activities, also in the form of a grant.
- Job creation: starting a company and creating at least 10 jobs.
D7 visa for financially independent persons:
- Passive income: proof of regular income from €870 per month.
- Savings: bank account equivalent to annual income (from €10,440).
D8 visa for remote workers (digital nomad visa):
- Remote work: proof of employment in a company outside Portugal or running your own business.
- Income: minimum monthly income from €3480.
D2 visa for entrepreneurs:
- Business plan: submission of a sound business plan describing the intended activity in Portugal.
- Financial resources: proof of funds available for the project and accommodation.
Student visa:
- Proof of enrolment in an accredited academic institution
- Financial guarantees: proof of financial means for accommodation and tuition fees.
Family reunification:
- Kinship: proof of relationship or marriage to a Portuguese citizen or resident
- Financial solvency: having sufficient funds to support family members
Procedure of Obtaining a Residence Permit
When obtaining residency, you must go through 2 stages: applying for a national D visa and applying for a residence permit.
The process includes the following steps:
1. Obtaining a national visa (type D)
Initially, you need to apply to a Portuguese visa centre. Type D visa gives the right to enter the country for the purpose of subsequent registration of residence permit. At this stage it is required to prepare a package of documents:
- A foreign passport, valid for at least three months after the planned end date of stay.
- A completed visa application form with the applicant’s personal signature.
- Two current passport sample photos (3.5×4.5 cm).
- Proof of sufficient funds for accommodation (bank statements, income certificates).
- Health insurance with at least €30,000 coverage valid in the Schengen area.
- Proof of residence in Portugal (rental agreement or property purchase agreement).
- Documents confirming the purpose of the trip: work contract, investment contract, enrolment in a university, etc.
All foreign documents must be translated into Portuguese and authorised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
2. Applying for a residence permit at the SEF (Portuguese Aliens and Borders Service)
After entry on a D visa, you must make an appointment at the nearest SEF office to apply for a residence permit. This is usually required to be done within 4 months of entering the country.
The standard package of documents at this stage includes:
- Passport with D visa.
- Documents confirming the legality of residence (lease agreement, property ownership certificate).
- Proof of income or savings sufficient to live in Portugal.
- Criminal record certificate from the country of citizenship, legalised and translated into Portuguese.
- A taxpayer number (NIF) obtained from the Portuguese tax office.
- A certificate of registration in the Portuguese health care system or a valid private health policy.
The SEF can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months to process the application. Once approved, the applicant receives a plastic residence card (Título de Residência), which entitles the applicant to reside and move freely in Schengen countries.
Features of Life and Culture
Portuguese society combines traditionality and modernity. The main features of the mentality are hospitality, respect for personal space and discreet politeness. Locals are friendly to foreigners and open to dialogue. Family values are important: large families are common in Portugal and family gatherings and holidays remain significant events.
Portuguese people are proud of their history and culture. This is evident in the respect for religious holidays and traditions. Despite the secular nature of the state, Catholicism continues to influence social and cultural norms. National holidays such as Portugal Day (10 June) and Christmas are actively and colourfully celebrated not only in the cities but also in small villages.
The locals appreciate the measured rhythm of life. In Portugal it is customary to start the working day later than in other European countries, and lunch breaks can last two hours or more. The afternoon siesta, although not as common as in Spain, is still observed in some regions, especially in the southern, hottest part of the country.
When moving to Portugal, it is important to remember that the Portuguese attach great importance to face-to-face meetings. Business negotiations usually start with an informal conversation where non-business related topics are discussed. This is part of the cultural code that fosters trusting relationships.
Education
Education in Portuguese public schools and universities is provided in Portuguese, but many public schools have programmes available in English, French and German. Private schools tend to provide a high standard of education and accept children from expat and mixed families. Portugal has a network of international schools (British School, German School, Lycée Français) offering bilingual education.
Compulsory schooling (Ensino Básico) starts at the age of 6 and lasts 9 years. This is followed by secondary education (Ensino Secundário), after which graduates can enter universities or polytechnics. Among the most prestigious universities in the country are the University of Lisbon, the University of Porto and the University of Coimbra.
Higher education in Portugal attracts international students due to its moderate tuition fees and programmes in English. Annual fees at public universities range from €1,000 to €3,000, while private universities are higher but affordable. Public health insurance and support programmes are available to international students.
Cuisine and Gastronomic Festivals
Portuguese cuisine is a harmonious combination of simplicity and variety of flavours. The diet is based on seafood, olive oil, fresh bread and vegetables. Traditional dishes include bacalhau (salted cod), which is prepared in hundreds of different ways, grilled sardines, caldeirada (fish stew), and cozida a portuguesa, a meat stew with vegetables.
Sweet desserts deserve special attention. The most famous is pâtel de nata, a delicate tart with a creamy filling, the most delicious baked in Lisbon’s Belém district. In the Alentejo region, almond and egg-based sweets are popular, and in the village of Amarante they bake gingerbread in an interesting shape called Caralhinhos de São Gonçalo.
Gastronomic festivals are held throughout the country and have long been an important part of the cultural calendar. Among the most famous events are:
- Lisbon’s Sardine Festival (June), timed to coincide with St Anthony’s Day.
- The Douro Valley Wine Festival (September), coinciding with the end of the grape harvest.
- Madeira Wine Festival in Madeira (August-September).
- Chestnut Festival in Monsanto and Bragança (November).
These events are accompanied by fairs, tastings and masterclasses.
Security and Infrastructure
Portugal is consistently ranked as one of the safest countries in the world. According to the Global Peace Index 2024, it ranks 7th in terms of public safety. Crime rates in the country are low, especially in smaller towns and islands. The main risks for tourists and expats are related to petty theft in tourist spots in Lisbon and Porto.
Health care is well developed, with public clinics providing a basic level of care and private medical centres offering high quality services with minimal waiting times. Private health insurance is available from €400 per year.
Transport infrastructure is well developed. Intercity travel is convenient thanks to a network of high-speed trains (Alfa Pendular) and motorways with good coverage. Urban transport is represented by buses and trams, and Lisbon has a metro. Lisbon and Porto have modern international airports providing direct flights to EU countries, the UK and America.
Internet and mobile connections in Portugal provide stable connections. Broadband internet is available even in remote regions, and 5G coverage is being actively expanded.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to visit Portugal for a tourist trip?
Citizens of the EU, Schengen Area, the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and many other countries can visit Portugal visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Others may require a Schengen visa.
What period of the year is considered the high season for vacation?
What documents are required to apply for a residence permit?
How easy is it for a foreigner to open a business?
Is it difficult to get a job in major cities?
How do the main regions of the country differ?
What additional advantages does a residence permit provide?
