- 1 h
- 2 h (Azores)

Lisbon (Lisboa)

Portuguese

• 230 volts
• A travel plug adapter for type F sockets is required.

Banks

8.30 am–3.00 pm (Mon–Fri)

Shops

Weekdays: 9.00 am–7.00 pm
Lunch break in smaller shops: 1.00 pm–3.00 pm
Saturdays: smaller shops close at 1.00 pm
Large shopping centres: daily, 10.00 am–11.00 pm

• 1 January: New Year’s Day (Ano Novo)
• Easter: date varies (Páscoa)
• 25 April: Freedom Day (Dia da Liberdade)
• 1 May: Labour Day (Dia do Trabalhador)
• 10 June: Portugal Day (Dia de Portugal)
• 15 August: Assumption of the Virgin Mary (Assunção de Nossa Senhora)
• 5 October: Republic Day (Implantação da República)
• 1 November: All Saints’ Day (Todos os Santos)
• 1 December: Restoration of Independence Day (Restauração da Independência)
• 8 December: Immaculate Conception (Imaculada Conceição)
• 25 December: Christmas Day (Natal)

The following documents are required for entry into Portugal:

• A valid identity card or a valid Swiss passport is required.
• No visa is required.
• Minors: minors travelling alone, with only one parent or without their parents are advised to carry a travel authorisation. Further information: travel authorisation for travelling with children.

Last updated: February 2024

• North, around Porto: the area around Porto is characterised by lush vegetation, supported by above-average rainfall, particularly in winter. Summers are milder than in the south, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 29°C. The region is less popular for beach holidays because water temperatures remain relatively cool at between 16°C and 18°C. Winters are fairly cool, with temperatures of around 14°C.
• North-east, bordering Spain: this region is highly mountainous and shaped by numerous rivers, including the Douro. Due to its elevation, it has a continental climate with extreme conditions: hot, dry summers and cold winters, often with snowfall.
• Central Portugal: this area, particularly around the capital Lisbon, has a hilly landscape with several mountain ranges where winter sports are possible. Summers have pleasant average temperatures of around 27°C. Spring and autumn, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C, are considered ideal times to visit.
• The south: southern Portugal has a Mediterranean climate similar to that of southern Spain, with long, hot summers from May to October. Maximum temperatures above 30°C are not uncommon. With an average of 8.6 hours of sunshine per day, the Algarve is considered the sunniest region in Europe.
• The Azores and Madeira: both Atlantic archipelagos experience only minor temperature variations between summer and winter. Madeira, located close to the African coast, has an average temperature difference of only 6°C between August and January. However, its climate is very humid, supporting unique and abundant vegetation.

The ideal time to visit Portugal

• Beach holidays: the best period for sun, sea and sandy beaches in the Algarve is from June to September.
• City breaks: Portugal’s charming cities are best explored during the mild spring or colourful autumn.
• Winter holidays: experience Portugal’s winter atmosphere from December to February, whether enjoying winter sports in the mountains or discovering the cities during the cooler season.

• Roaming charges may apply when using a mobile phone in Portugal. It is advisable to check the charges before travelling and, where appropriate, purchase a special roaming package to reduce costs.
• Free Wi-Fi is available in cafés, hotels, public areas and on public transport.

• Belém Tower in Lisbon: an iconic landmark on the banks of the Tagus, symbolising Portugal’s maritime history.
• Jerónimos Monastery in Lisbon: a masterpiece of Manueline architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Pena Palace in Sintra: a colourful, fairy-tale palace set among the hills of Sintra and an outstanding example of Romantic architecture.
• Dom Luís I Bridge in Porto: an impressive steel bridge connecting Porto’s historic centre with Vila Nova de Gaia.
• Porto’s historic centre: a maze of picturesque, winding streets lined with traditional Portuguese houses.
• University of Coimbra: one of Europe’s oldest universities, renowned for its magnificent library.
• The Algarve coast: famous for its breathtaking beaches, dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear Atlantic waters.
• Peneda-Gerês National Park: Portugal’s only national park, renowned for its wild beauty and diverse flora and fauna.
• Batalha Monastery: another UNESCO World Heritage Site, distinguished by its impressive Gothic architecture.
• Alcobaça Monastery: known for its architectural simplicity and the moving love story of Pedro and Inês.
• Historic centre of Évora: a remarkably well-preserved old town that tells the story of Portugal through the centuries.
• Ribeira das Naus in Lisbon: a lively riverside promenade, ideal for strolling and enjoying views of the Tagus.
• Chapel of Bones in Évora: a fascinating chapel whose interior is decorated with human bones.
• Palácio da Bolsa in Porto: a former stock exchange palace renowned for its magnificent interiors and impressive Arab Room.
• Cabo da Roca: the westernmost point of mainland Europe, known for its dramatic cliffs and lighthouse.

Travel inspiration

Be inspired by our articles and discover Portugal’s most fascinating destinations:

• The 10 most beautiful glamping stays in Portugal and Europe
• Portugal in June: Between sunny coastlines and vibrant festivals
• A city break in Lisbon: Between tradition and modernity
• Algarve attractions: The most beautiful places, beaches and hidden gems
• Discover Porto’s attractions: A city to fall in love with
• Madeira highlights: The most beautiful places, hikes and culinary experiences
• Portugal’s most beautiful beaches: The top 10 for your next trip
• Portugal’s 10 most beautiful islands: From Madeira to the Azores

Portugal, a country where the flavours of the sea meet the rich tastes of the land, invites visitors on a culinary adventure as varied and abundant as its landscapes. From the gentle hills of the north to the sun-drenched coasts of the south, its cuisine is shaped by fresh ingredients, centuries-old traditions and an enduring passion for good food.

• Bacalhau: more than just a dish, salt cod is a national symbol, prepared in more than a hundred different ways, each reflecting a part of the Portuguese soul.
• Wine and port: Portugal offers an impressive variety of wines, ranging from the light Vinho Verde of the north to the full-bodied red wines of the Douro Valley. World-famous port, a sweet fortified wine, is an essential part of Portugal’s winemaking heritage.
• Fish and seafood: Portugal’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean provides an abundance of seafood. Fresh sardines, prawns, squid and many different varieties of fish feature in local dishes every day. Cataplana de Mariscos and Arroz de Marisco are exquisite examples of Portuguese seafood cuisine.
• Cheese: Portugal offers a fascinating selection of cheeses, from the creamy Serra da Estrela to the distinctive Azeitão. Each region has its own cheese specialities.
• Desserts and pastries: Portuguese patisserie is famous for its sweet temptations, including the world-renowned Pastéis de Nata, delicate puff pastry tarts filled with custard.
• Meat dishes: hearty and richly flavoured, Portuguese meat dishes include specialities such as Espetada, grilled meat skewers, and Cozido à Portuguesa, a substantial stew made with various meats and vegetables.
• Markets and food festivals: a colourful kaleidoscope of flavours and aromas awaits at Portugal’s markets and culinary festivals, which celebrate the freshness and diversity of local produce.
• Cafés and pastelarias: far more than places for a quick refreshment, they form the vibrant heart of everyday Portuguese life, where people enjoy the moment over a galão or a glass of wine.

Together, these elements create Portugal’s delicious and colourful culinary tapestry, reflecting a country that welcomes every visitor with open arms and a generously laid table.

• Greetings: Portuguese people often greet friends and family with two kisses on the cheeks. On more formal occasions or when meeting someone for the first time, a handshake is customary. A friendly “Bom dia” (“Good morning”), “Boa tarde” (“Good afternoon”) or “Boa noite” (“Good evening”) is always appreciated.
• Saying please and thank you: politeness is highly valued. “Por favor” (“please”) and “Obrigado” or “Obrigada” (“thank you”, used by men and women respectively) are key expressions that are appreciated in every interaction.
• Clothing: dress in Portugal tends to be conservative and well presented, particularly in cities and on special occasions. Clothing is more relaxed in coastal and holiday areas, although a neat appearance is still valued.
• Dining etiquette: it is customary to take time over meals and enjoy them in company. Punctuality is expected when invited, and it is polite to compliment the host on the food. Sharing dishes and trying everything offered is considered a sign of appreciation.
• Smoking: smoking is prohibited by law in indoor public spaces. Designated smoking areas are clearly marked. When in company, it is polite to ask for permission before smoking.
• Tipping: in Portugal, it is customary to leave a tip of 5–10% in restaurants, provided that service is not already included in the bill. For taxi journeys, the fare is usually rounded up to the next whole euro.
• Other: showing consideration and respect towards older people is an important aspect of Portuguese culture.

• Drinking water quality: tap water in Portugal is generally safe to drink. In some rural areas or on the islands, water quality may vary, so it may be advisable to use bottled water.
• No compulsory vaccinations are required for entry into Portugal.
• Make sure that you and your children are up to date with the standard vaccinations recommended in the Swiss vaccination schedule issued by the Federal Office of Public Health.

• Portugal offers high-quality medical care. Hospitals and clinics with well-trained medical staff are readily accessible in cities and tourist centres. Before travelling, Swiss citizens should request a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) from their health insurance provider.
• The availability and quality of medical care may be limited in rural or remote areas. Travellers should therefore take this into account when planning excursions to such regions.
• Pharmacies are widely available and offer health advice as well as medicines.

• Check the media for the latest information before and during your trip and remain in contact with your tour operator.
• The Portuguese authorities assess the terrorist threat as significant.
• In major cities and popular tourist destinations, be alert to pickpocketing, bag snatching, theft from vehicles and burglaries in holiday homes. Remain vigilant at all times, particularly on public transport and Lisbon’s famous tram 28.
• Further information on the current security situation is available on the website of the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA).

Last updated: February 2024

• A Swiss driving licence is accepted for car hire, provided that it was issued at least one year previously.
• The minimum age for hiring a car is 25.
• A CH sticker, high-visibility vest and warning triangle are compulsory for vehicles registered in Portugal.
• Yellow lines along the edge of the road indicate a strict parking prohibition. Vehicles parked in these areas may be towed away.
• Particularly on roads outside built-up areas, observe traffic regulations and speed limits carefully-120 km/h on motorways and 100 km/h on country roads-to minimise the increased risk of accidents.
• Most motorways are subject to tolls.
• Blood alcohol limit: 0.5‰

• Long-distance trains: long-distance trains offer an efficient and comfortable way to explore Portugal. The Portuguese railway company Comboios de Portugal (CP) operates an extensive network connecting most major cities and many regional centres. The two main types of long-distance train are Alfa Pendular and Intercidades. Alfa Pendular is the fastest service, connecting major cities such as Lisbon, Porto, Coimbra and Faro at high speed and with a high level of comfort. Intercidades, or InterCity, also provides fast connections between the main cities and other important destinations, although with slightly lower speeds and levels of comfort.
• Regional trains: regional trains provide a practical and affordable way to explore Portugal, particularly when travelling to smaller towns and rural areas that are not served by long-distance trains. Regional services include Regionais trains and suburban Urbanos trains, which are designed for shorter journeys within areas such as Lisbon and Porto.
• Buses: Portugal has an extensive bus network connecting not only major cities and tourist destinations, but also smaller villages and remote regions. The main bus operators include Rede Expressos, Rodonorte and Renex, which provide regular services between the largest cities and popular tourist destinations.
• Metro: Portugal has metro systems in Lisbon and Porto, both of which play an important role in the cities’ public transport networks.
• Tickets: public transport tickets can be purchased from ticket machines, transport operators’ customer service offices, selected sales outlets and directly from the driver.
• Timetables and apps: digital timetables and apps such as “Viva Viagem”, “Comboios de Portugal (CP)” and “Metro de Lisboa” make public transport easier to use by providing real-time information, route planning and ticket purchasing options. Apps such as “Moovit” and “Google Maps” also offer comprehensive support for travelling by public transport.
• Night services: in Lisbon, the metro operates until around 1.00 am at weekends and on public holidays, supplemented by night buses running into the early morning. In Porto, certain metro lines and night buses also provide late-night transport covering both central and outlying areas.

• Lisbon (LIS): direct connections from Zurich, Geneva and Basel.
• Porto (OPO): direct connections from Zurich, Geneva and Basel.
• Faro (FAO): directly accessible from Zurich, Geneva and Basel, providing convenient access to the Algarve.
• Madeira (FNC): direct flights connect Zurich, Geneva and Basel with the island of Madeira.
• Ponta Delgada (PDL) in the Azores: direct connections from Zurich.

These direct flights are mainly operated by airlines such as Swiss International Air Lines, TAP Air Portugal and easyJet.

00 41 (omit the zero from the Swiss area code)

• Single emergency number: 112
• Emergency pharmacy service: 118

Lisbon, Travessa do Jardim, No. 17
Tel. +351 213 944 090
Email: lisbon@eda.admin.ch

• The national territory also includes the Azores and Madeira.
• Drug laws are very strict.
• During the summer, there is a risk of forest fires in many areas.
• You must be able to identify yourself at all times using your passport or identity card. A photocopy is also sufficient.