Quick Guide

Thanks to the city’s perpetually sunny weather, there really isn’t a bad time to visit Lisbon. Spring and fall (March through May and September through November) are particularly lovely, with pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds than in summertime (aka peak tourist season).

Visas

U.S. citizens visiting for less than 90 days do not need to obtain a visa. Passports must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned date of departure.

Money

Local currency is the euro. ATMs are widely available throughout the city, and most places accept credit cards.

Travel Health

Visit Portugal and the CDC are the best resources for up-to-date information and guidance. Before traveling, research and prepare for what to do if you get sick while away.

Getting Here

Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS), also known as Portela Airport or Lisbon Airport, is roughly five miles from the city center, which can be reached by bus, shuttle, taxi/rideshare or metro. A taxi or Uber is the most convenient (albeit most expensive) option. The metro is the slowest, and least expensive, option.

Getting Around

The city’s public transportation system includes the metro, trams, buses, funiculars and ferries. The easiest thing to do is to purchase a Viva Viagem card and use it for every form of transportation. However, if you’re staying in central Lisbon, the area is best explored on foot (traffic is notoriously terrible). Take a taxi or Uber if you need to get around late at night.

Local Lingo

Portuguese is the official language. It can be helpful to learn a few key words and phrases before you go, even though many people speak English. Ola: Hello. Por favor:  Please. Obrigada/o: Thank you. De nada: You’re welcome. Voce fala ingles? Do you speak English?

Must-Have Apps

Uber; Lisboa MOVE-ME; Lisbon Travel Guide; HERE WeGo Maps & Navigation; Citymapper

Insider Tip

Portuguese seafood is legendary. Spend a leisurely afternoon or evening (or both) at Cervejara Ramiro, a Lisbon institution that serves some of the very best seafood in the city.

Thanks to the city’s perpetually sunny weather, there really isn’t a bad time to visit Lisbon. Spring and fall (March through May and September through November) are particularly lovely, with pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds than in summertime (aka peak tourist season).

Visas

U.S. citizens visiting for less than 90 days do not need to obtain a visa. Passports must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned date of departure.

Money

Local currency is the euro. ATMs are widely available throughout the city, and most places accept credit cards.

Travel Health

Visit Portugal and the CDC are the best resources for up-to-date information and guidance. Before traveling, research and prepare for what to do if you get sick while away.

Getting Here

Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS), also known as Portela Airport or Lisbon Airport, is roughly five miles from the city center, which can be reached by bus, shuttle, taxi/rideshare or metro. A taxi or Uber is the most convenient (albeit most expensive) option. The metro is the slowest, and least expensive, option.

Getting Around

The city’s public transportation system includes the metro, trams, buses, funiculars and ferries. The easiest thing to do is to purchase a Viva Viagem card and use it for every form of transportation. However, if you’re staying in central Lisbon, the area is best explored on foot (traffic is notoriously terrible). Take a taxi or Uber if you need to get around late at night.

Local Lingo

Portuguese is the official language. It can be helpful to learn a few key words and phrases before you go, even though many people speak English. Ola: Hello. Por favor:  Please. Obrigada/o: Thank you. De nada: You’re welcome. Voce fala ingles? Do you speak English?

Must-Have Apps

Uber; Lisboa MOVE-ME; Lisbon Travel Guide; HERE WeGo Maps & Navigation; Citymapper

Insider Tip

Portuguese seafood is legendary. Spend a leisurely afternoon or evening (or both) at Cervejara Ramiro, a Lisbon institution that serves some of the very best seafood in the city.