Visiting Portugal from UK

Is Portugal worth visiting? Absolutely. Portugal is one of those places I never get tired of recommending. It’s got a little bit of everything. From stunning coastlines to friendly people to some of the best food you’ll ever taste.

What I love most about Portugal is how relaxed everything feels. Life moves at a slower pace there, and that’s part of the charm. It’s not overly expensive, which makes it even more attractive if you’re trying to stretch your pounds while still having a quality experience. Cities like Lisbon and Porto have so much character, and the Algarve? I think it is absolutely beautiful. You get sunny weather, crystal-clear water, and dramatic cliffs.

But Do You Need a Visa?

If you’re a UK passport holder, the good news is that you can visit Portugal without a visa for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Just make sure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond the date you plan to leave.

One thing to note, though: starting in late 2026, UK travelers will need to apply for an ETIAS travel authorization before heading to Portugal. It’s not a visa but a simple online form you’ll need to fill out and pay a small fee for. Think of it like an extra step to help keep things secure.

As always, rules can change, so it’s smart to double-check the latest entry requirements on the official UK government website (gov.uk) before booking your trip.

Best Ways to Travel to Portugal from the UK

By Plane

Flying is the fastest and easiest way to travel. Direct flights take 2 to 3 hours. You can fly from London, Manchester, and other UK cities to:

Lisbon (LIS)
Porto (OPO)
Faro (FAO)

Budget airlines like Ryanair, easyJet, and TAP Air Portugal offer affordable flights. Book early for the best prices.

By Train

If you prefer train travel:

Take the Eurostar from London to Paris (2.5 hours).
Take a high-speed train from Paris to Madrid.
From Madrid, take a train to Lisbon or Porto.

It’s a long journey but a great way to see more places along the way.

By Car and Ferry

If you enjoy road trips:

Take the Eurotunnel from Folkestone to Calais or a ferry from Portsmouth to Bilbao or Santander.
Drive through Spain to reach Portugal.

Driving gives you flexibility, but it takes longer than flying.

By Coach

If you’re looking to save money and don’t mind a long journey, taking a coach from London to Portugal might actually be worth considering. Companies like FlixBus and Eurolines run routes from London to Lisbon and Porto. It is by far one of the most budget-friendly options out there. Just keep in mind that it is not a quick ride. You’re looking at over 24 hours on the road, so be prepared with snacks, entertainment, and maybe a neck pillow.

Honestly, if you’re up for a bit of adventure and want to see parts of Europe along the way, the coach route can be a story in itself. I’ve met some interesting people on long bus rides like these, and it gives you a chance to slow down and really take in the distance you’re covering.

*The beautiful city of Lisbon. This city serves as the official capital of Portugal.*

Best Cities to Visit in Portugal

I’ve been to Portugal multiple times, and every visit just makes me want to go back again. These cities are the ones I keep recommending:

Lisbon: Portugal’s capital is a real gem. Think historic neighborhoods with cobbled streets, yellow trams winding through the city, and viewpoints that give you amazing views over the Tagus River. The food scene is fantastic too.
Porto: This city has a unique vibe. It’s known for port wine and its dramatic riverside views. Walking across the Dom Luís I Bridge is something you will not forget.
Faro: If you love beach vibes, Faro is your spot. It is the gateway to the Algarve region and offers a mix of old town charm and coastal beauty.
Sintra: Visiting Sintra feels like stepping into a fairy tale. The palaces and castles sitting on green hills are absolutely magical.
Madeira: If you want something more remote and natural, Madeira is perfect. The island has stunning mountains, walking trails, and views that will leave you speechless. I always feel refreshed after spending a few days there.

How Much Does It Cost?

Portugal is one of those countries where you can travel well on a budget or go all out if you feel like splurging. Just take a look at the following figures:

Flights: Budget airlines often offer flights for as low as £30 if you book early. Full-service flights start from around £120.
Hotels: Budget stays range from £40 to £80 per night. Mid-range options are usually between £90 and £150. Luxury hotels start from about £200 and up.
Food: You can enjoy a good local meal for as little as £5 to £15. Restaurant dining is still affordable, usually £15 to £40 depending on where you go.
Transport: Metro and bus rides cost about €1.50 to €2.50. If you plan to move around a lot, day passes between €6 and €10 can save you money.

Best Time to Visit

Let me be real with you. Portugal is one of those places that’s just amazing all year round. I’ve been there a few times now, and no matter when I go, it’s always a good time. Spring, from March to May, is probably my favorite. The weather is warm but not too hot, and the crowds haven’t fully arrived yet. It’s perfect for walking through Lisbon’s old neighborhoods or taking in the ocean breeze in Porto without bumping into too many tourists. Summer is when things heat up, literally. June to August is the busy season, especially in the Algarve.

If you’re into beach days, parties, and full-on sunshine, this is the time to go. Just expect lots of other people with the same idea. Then comes autumn, from September to November. This is another sweet spot. The temperatures cool down a little, prices start to drop, and you can still catch some great weather. I love this season for food trips and just taking it slow in smaller towns like Sintra or Évora.

Even in winter, Portugal holds up. It’s not freezing cold like other parts of Europe. You can explore cities like Lisbon and Faro in a hoodie and not worry about snow or icy streets. And if you’re craving nature, Madeira stays green and beautiful even in the colder months. So the truth is, Portugal doesn’t really have a bad season. It just depends on what kind of vibe you’re going for.

Things to Know Before You Go

Currency: Portugal uses the Euro (€).
Time Zone: Portugal is the same time as the UK (GMT).
Language: People speak Portuguese, but many understand English.
Power Sockets: Portugal uses Type C and F plugs. You may need an adapter.
Tipping: Not required, but rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is common.

Final Tips

Book flights and hotels as early as possible in order to save money.
Learn a few basic Portuguese words. This will go a long way in making your trip more enjoyable.
Portugal has one of the best public transports in Europe. Do yourself a favor and use it!
Try local dishes like pastel de nata, bacalhau, and francesinha.

For official travel updates, visit UK Government Travel Advice or Visit Portugal.