Lisbon Travel Tips: Things To Know Before Visiting Lisbon

- What to know before you travel to Lisbon:

So, you've finally taken the leap and booked that vacation in Portugal that you have always dreamed of. Congratulations! But now, the planning stage begins, and before you head to Portugal, there is much to know beforehand to make your time there the most enjoyable and incredible possible!

That's why we have compiled this Lisbon travel guide, offering you insider tips and advice on what to know before you go. Happy reading, and here's to your upcoming incredible Lisbon vacation!

Government & Constitution - Lisbon, Portugal's vibrant capital, celebrates democracy with a commitment to equality, free speech, and political tolerance. Visitors can enjoy a warm welcome and a fantastic stay by respecting local laws and customs.

Currency - The official currency used in Lisbon is the Euro, but all major credit cards are generally accepted by vendors and other Lisbon establishments.

Visitors will also be relieved to know that ATMs are widely available throughout the city. If your Lisbon travel finds you flying on any of the numerous available direct flights to Lisbon (such as Toronto to Lisbon, JFK to Lisbon, London to Lisbon, and more), currency can be easily exchanged at airports, banks, and hotels upon your arrival.

Language - The official language spoken in the capital city of Lisbon is Portuguese, but a majority of the local population is also proficient in English, especially in the more tourist-heavy spots throughout the city and surrounding area.

Internet and Wi-Fi - Throughout the capital city of Lisbon, Portugal, travelers will be happy to hear that free Wi-Fi is widely available in many public areas, restaurants, bars, shopping centers, and hotels. We still suggest that you contact your mobile provider ahead of your trip and find out specific details about international data rates and roaming that may apply to you specifically. 

Electricity/Voltage - Lisbon uses electricity at 220-240V, 50Hz with European standard Europlug and Schuko plug sockets. If you plan on using electrical appliances that operate on a different voltage, a transformer is required, while appliances that have different plugs will need an adapter.

- Lisbon Public Business Schedule

Subway: The Lisbon metro operates daily from 6:30 am to 1 am. For further details on the Lisbon subway network, travelers can find information in the MetroLisboa website.

Trains: Lisbon trains run every day from 5 am to 1 am. For help with planning your Lisbon train travel,  more information can be found at CP Comboios website. 

Buses: Lisbon buses run every day from 5:30 am to 12:30 am. Night bus service in Lisbon is available from 12:30 am to 5:30 am.

Pharmacies: In Lisbon, pharmacies are conveniently located across the city to accommodate visitors. Typical operating hours are from 9 am to 7 pm on weekdays, with a possible lunch break, and from 9 am to 1 pm on Saturdays. Outside these hours, closed pharmacies will display directions to the nearest 24-hour service pharmacy.

Banks: Regular Lisbon banking hours are Monday through Friday from 8:30 am to 3 pm.

Restaurants: A common time during the day for restaurants in Lisbon to serve lunch is from 12 pm to 3 pm, while dinner is usually served from 7 pm to 10 pm.

Embassies: International embassies dedicated to serving their citizens abroad during their Lisbon travel normally operate Monday through Friday from 9 am to 3 pm.

Shopping Centers: Lisbon travelers looking to shop at Lisbon's main shopping centers will find them open every day from 10 am to Midnight.

- What Should You Pack For Lisbon:

• Travel Documents: Passport/Visa, ID, travel insurance, and necessary travel tickets.
• Money: Euros and a credit/debit card that works internationally.
• Summer (June - August): Light clothing, sunglasses, a hat, comfortable sandals, and a swimsuit.
• Spring (March-May) / Autumn (September - November): Layers, a light jacket, comfortable walking shoes, and an umbrella for occasional showers.
• Winter (December - February): Warm coat, scarf, gloves, and waterproof footwear.
• Chargers: For all your devices.
• Power Adapter: Portugal uses Type F sockets.
• Portable Power Bank: For charging devices on the go.
• Basic Toiletries
• Sun Protection: Sunscreen, lip balm with SPF.
• Hiking Gear: If you plan to explore natural parks or go hiking.
• Camera Equipment: For photography enthusiasts.
• Entertainment: Books, e-readers, travel games for downtime.

Note: Remember that Lisbon is known for its cobblestone streets and hilly terrain, so comfortable footwear is a must.

- Useful Contacts

• International Calls: Dial 00 + country area code
• Portugal area code: +351
• Police – Tourism Station at Praça dos Restauradores: (+351) 213 421 634 / (+351) 213 421 623
• Fire Service: (+351) 213 422 222
• “Ask Me” Tourism Office – Airport: (+351) 218 450 660
• SOS Pharmacy (Farmácias de Serviço): [+351] 800 202 134 (For information on the nearest open pharmacy)
• Healthline (Saúde 24): [+351] 808 24 24 24 (Non-emergency medical advice)
•  Emergency Contact: Dial 112 
• Lisbon Airport (Aeroporto de Lisboa Humberto Delgado): [+351] 218 413 500
• Lisbon Metro (Metropolitano de Lisboa): [+351] 213 500 115
• Lisbon Buses (Carris): [+351] 213 613 000
• Train Information (CP - Comboios de Portugal): [+351] 707 210 220
• Tourist Support Service (Serviço de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras): [+351] 808 202 653 (For reporting issues related to foreign travel, including lost/stolen travel documents)
• Lisbon Tourist Information: [+351] 210 312 700 (General information, events, and directions)

The Portugal Getaways Customer Care team is available 7 days a week to answer your concerns by phone, email, or chat, but in the case of an emergency, you should dial 112.

Are you already in love with Portugal? Take a look at our stress-free packages that allow you to book your ultimate Portuguese adventure. All our packages are carefully curated by our team of local Portuguese experts so that you don't need to worry about any details - just enjoy your trip!