Preparation file

Preparing for Lisbon

Portugal is hilly, full of trams and smells of the sea; people are calm and helpful. Knowing that food brought to the table unasked is charged for is the single most practical thing. What follows applies across the whole country.

Last updated: 2026-08

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Food and the bill

All of Portugal

Bread, olives and cheese brought to the table without asking are charged for (the "couvert"). Sending them back is normal and nobody takes offence.

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Getting around the country

All of Portugal

The intercity train and coach networks are good and distances are short. Within a city the tram, metro and funiculars share one transit card.

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Money and practical notes

All of Portugal

The currency is the euro; cards are common but cash is needed in small places. Sockets are type C/F at 230 V. Tap water is drinkable.

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Safety and etiquette

All of Portugal

Violent crime is low; the real risk is pickpocketing on crowded trams and in tourist squares. People are helpful and do not like being hurried.

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In an emergency

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Emergency call: 112One number for police, ambulance and fire. It is the same across Europe, so there is nothing to look up on arrival.
Reporting a theft: A report at a police stationAn insurance claim does not move without it. On a group tour, do it with your tour leader.
Pharmacy: FARMÁCIA — green crossThe out-of-hours rota is posted at the door.
Lost passport: Your country's missionReport the loss to the police first, then apply to your mission. On a group tour, tell your tour leader immediately.

Checklists

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Phrases worth knowing

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