Find and Book Cheap Flights to Portugal Today

Spring offers pleasant weather, less rain, and fewer tourists than summer, making it an ideal time to explore the cities.

This is the peak tourist season, with warm sunshine perfect for the Algarve beaches. Flight prices to Portugal in summer are usually the highest.

Autumn is the shoulder season, and flight prices to Portugal start to drop. The weather remains pleasant, and it is the grape harvest season in the Douro Valley.

Winter is the low season, offering the cheapest flights to Portugal. The weather is cool and wet, but cities still have a festive atmosphere.

Vietnamese citizens need a Schengen visa to enter Portugal, as it is part of the Schengen area. You should submit your visa application early, at least 3 months before your planned trip, at the Portuguese Embassy or Consulate. Prepare all necessary documents such as a valid passport, proof of accommodation, travel insurance, and proof of financial means. Thorough preparation will help the visa processing go smoothly and quickly.

The public transportation system in Portugal is very efficient, especially in major cities like Lisbon and Porto. You can use the metro, buses, and trams. In Lisbon, the Viva Viagem card is the most economical choice for getting around. Trains are an excellent way to travel between cities, with high-speed lines connecting Lisbon, Porto, and Faro. Renting a car is also a good option if you want to explore remote rural areas, but be aware of tolls and that driving in city centers can be complicated.

Portugal offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels, budget hostels to rental apartments (Airbnb). In major cities, choose accommodation near metro stations or the city center for convenient travel. If you are traveling during peak season (June to August), book at least 3-4 months in advance for good prices and more options. Areas like Alfama (Lisbon) or Ribeira (Porto) offer a unique cultural experience, but can be noisier.

Portuguese people are friendly and polite. When meeting, shaking hands is common, while close friends often hug or kiss on the cheek (twice). Punctuality is important, but flexibility is also accepted, especially in social appointments. When dining, wait until everyone is served before starting. Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated, usually 5-10% of the bill. Learning a few basic Portuguese phrases like 'Obrigado' (Thank you - said by a male) or 'Obrigada' (Thank you - said by a female) will help you connect easily with locals.

Portugal is generally a safe country. However, in crowded tourist areas like Lisbon (especially the Baixa-Chiado area and Tram 28 routes), be careful of pickpockets. Always keep personal belongings secure and do not leave items unattended. When using taxis or public transport, double-check your luggage before getting off. If there is any problem, the general European emergency number is 112. Purchase comprehensive travel insurance before departing from Vietnam to ensure financial safety in case of emergency.

Portuguese cuisine is famous for its fresh seafood and rich, flavorful dishes. You must try Bacalhau (salted cod) prepared in hundreds of different ways, and Francesinha (a type of cheese and meat sandwich typical of Porto). Don't forget to savor the world-famous Pastéis de Nata (custard tarts). For an authentic experience, look for small 'tascas' (traditional eateries) instead of large restaurants in tourist areas. Portuguese wine, especially Port wine, is also a wonderful experience.

When planning, allocate at least 3 days for Lisbon and 2 days for Porto. If you have time, add Sintra (fairy-tale castles) and the Algarve region (beaches). Portugal has a Mediterranean climate, so bring light clothing in summer and a warm jacket in winter. Since you will be walking a lot on cobblestone streets, bring comfortable shoes. Don't forget to bring a power adapter (European standard two round pins) and sunscreen, especially when traveling in summer.

To truly experience Portugal, stay away from large chain stores and seek out local markets like Mercado da Ribeira (Lisbon) or Mercado do Bolhão (Porto). Take time to sip coffee and pastries at a 'pastelaria' in the morning. Instead of just riding the famous Tram 28, explore lesser-known tram routes to see peaceful corners. Try listening to Fado music in a small bar in Alfama, where you can feel the deep 'saudade' (nostalgia) in the Portuguese soul. That is the best way to immerse yourself in life here.