Portugal Travel Advice

A series of strikes has been called by Portuguese Air Traffic Controllers on 11, 17, 18, 24 and 25  May. The strikes will take place between 07:00 - 09:00, 14:00 - 16:00 and 21:00 - 23:00. In addition. Disruption to flights to and from Portugal on these dates may be experienced as a result. Travellers are advised to contact their travel company or airline for further information.

There is an underlying threat from terrorism. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.

Around 1.6 million British nationals visit Portugal every year (Source: The Office for National Statistics). Most visits are trouble-free but see General - Consular Assistance Statistics for statistics on when our Consulates provide support to British nationals.  

112 is the number for emergency services. Click here for a list of emergency expressions in Portuguese. 

Be alert to the existence of street crime. Thieves tend to target money and passports so don't keep them all in one place and keep a photocopy (or scanned copy) of your passport somewhere safe. See the Crime section for more details.

Walking the levadas (ancient irrigation channels) is a popular activity in Madeira, but the walks can be challenging if you are inexperienced. See Safety and Security - Local Travel - Madeira.

You should take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling to help cover any unexpected costs such as medical bills or stolen belongings.

You should apply for a free European Health Insurance Card to be eligible for state provided medical treatment that may become necessary during your trip to Portugal. See Health.

Print our pocket sized advice leaflet and wallet card before your visit to Portugal. The documents contain travel tips, numbers and expressions you may need in an emergency and information on what our Consulates can and can't do to help.

Source: Foreign & Commonwealth Office