Portugal Travel Restrictions: What Travelers Need To Know

Is it possible to travel to Portugal? Yes! Travelers from around the world are currently welcome to visit Portugal. 

No one knows a place like the people who live there. For the most up-to-date info on Portugal travel, connect with a Portuguese local. Learn more. 

Is It Safe To Travel To Portugal Right Now?

In the summer of 2020, Portugal became one of the first European countries to open its doors to tourists (with COVID restrictions). But is Portugal safe to visit right now?

Like most places around the world, travel to Portugal comes with new risks. The CDC gives Portugal a Level 3 rating. That means the level of COVID-19 in Portugal is high. The organization recommends making sure you are up-to-date with COVID vaccinations before traveling to Portugal as well as wearing a mask in indoor public places. Anyone who is immunocompromised or at high risk of severe disease should speak with their doctor before travel. 

Portugal Travel Restrictions To Know Before Your Arrival

Until recently, a number of documents were required for Americans to travel to Portugal. However, most Portugal travel restrictions have been lifted, and visiting Portugal is almost as simple as it was pre-COVID. There’s no need for proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test to enter the country. 

Once on the ground, visitors to Portugal must respect local rules about masks and social distancing. At present, masks are only required in healthcare settings. But it's best to pack masks and your vaccine record just in case. 

Keep in mind that the rules for visiting Madeira or the Azores are slightly different. Learn more about traveling to the Azores and Madeira HERE. 

Why Travel To Portugal Right Now

Today, traveling to Portugal is more complicated than it used to be. And because of the coronavirus pandemic, there are definitely some elevated risks to traveling anywhere. 

That said, Portugal is a stunning destination that offers a range of experiences. Sunny and colorful, it’s a wonderful place to go for anyone hoping to escape the doldrums of lockdown. Plus, its various towns and cities offer a range of experiences, which means you can find a destination that fits your risk tolerance and travel style. 

For anyone hoping to enjoy city life, there’s no better place to visit in Portugal than Lisbon. Colorful — we love its yellow trolleys — and packed with fascinating history, Lisbon is a wonderful city to just wander. Plus, you’ll find some delicious eats and fantastic local music

But if you’re hoping that your Portugal itinerary includes beach time, then the country also offers stunning (and sunny) destinations like the Algarve. And if avoiding crowds is a top priority, then Portugal offers plenty of low-key, off-the-beaten-path destinations like the small town of Alcoba, which is known for its beautiful monastery.

All in all, the country offers a striking selection of fantastic seafood, wine — go to Porto to enjoy its classic spirit! — beaches, and history. For anyone looking to add a dash of color to their lives, a visit to Portugal will definitely do the trick. 

Work With A Local To Plan Your Trip To Portugal 

Today, it’s true that travel is more complicated than ever. That’s why we recommend working with a local who actually lives in your destination to help plan your trip. 

If you ask us, local knowledge can always enrich a trip. But it’s especially crucial at a time when covid travel restrictions are in flux. Things can change in a destination week by week. Places might add — or remove — masking and social distancing requirements as their caseloads fluctuate. Sometimes, online sites just can’t keep up with how fast stuff is changing. 

But when you work with a local to plan your trip, you have someone on the ground who can let you know how the situation develops. More often than not, they’ll know about changes to the rules before they make it onto travel sites. 

Certainly, locals can help keep you up to speed with covid rules. But they can also let you know which restaurants have good outdoor seating, which “top ten” places have since shut down, and, of course, where to get the best dinner in town. 

Basically, they can let you know what it’s like in Portugal right now. And they can help you plan a trip that fits your travel style and your risk tolerance. 

Ready to have a local plan your trip to Portugal? Connect with a local today to learn more.