Travel Note
Portugal is very easy to visit. U.S. citizens only need a valid passport to enter (no visa required). Your passport should have at least three months of validity beyond your travel dates. Portugal has two major international airports: Lisbon (LIS) and Porto (OPO). If you plan to explore Lisbon first, fly into LIS. If you’re coming straight to the wedding, OPO may be the most convenient choice. If you’re thinking about arriving a few days early, Lisbon is a wonderful place to start your trip before heading north to Porto. Just a note that there are direct flights from LAX to LIS (Lisbon), but not from LAX to OPO.
Travel Note
Portugal’s high-speed trains make traveling between the two cities simple and comfortable. The journey takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, and trains run throughout the day. Seats are assigned, the ride is smooth, and stations are centrally located in both cities. Long-distance buses are another easy option. They run frequently, take a similar amount of time, and are often very affordable. Renting a car isn’t necessary unless you’re planning to explore smaller towns or want the flexibility of a road trip. Both cities are compact enough that a car is not helpful once you arrive, especially considering the fact that parking is quite limited in both cities.
Travel Note
Public transportation is reliable and easy to navigate. Both Lisbon and Porto have metro systems, buses, and trams that connect major sights. Rideshare apps like Uber and Bolt are available everywhere and are very reasonably priced. Portugal is generally very safe and highly walkable. Keep an eye on your belongings in very crowded tourist areas, but overall the country is very low-stress and safe for travelers.
Travel Note
Baixa & Chiado These central neighborhoods are lively and convenient, with shops, restaurants, and easy transportation. Príncipe Real Trendy, charming, and full of cafés, boutiques, and beautiful viewpoints. Alfama Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood, full of winding streets and traditional charm. It’s beautiful but very hilly. Belém A quieter area near the river, home to museums, gardens, and historic monuments.
Travel Note
Baixa The center of Porto and a great option for first-time visitors. It’s lively, walkable, and puts you close to restaurants, shops, and major landmarks. Ribeira The iconic riverside area with colorful buildings, beautiful views, and a charming atmosphere. It’s one of the most scenic parts of the city. Cedofeita A vibrant, artsy neighborhood with cafés, galleries, and a young, local feel. Great for people who like staying somewhere creative and central. Foz A lovely beachfront area with ocean views, coastal walks, and a more relaxed vibe. When booking, just aim for the waterfront and main avenues to ensure the best experience. Matosinhos A great choice for anyone who loves the beach. It’s known for excellent seafood restaurants and a wide, sandy shoreline. It’s a bit farther from the historic center, but easy to reach by metro or rideshare. Vila Nova de Gaia (Gaia) Located just across the river from Porto, Gaia offers beautiful views of the city and is home to the famous port wine cellars. It’s an easy walk or quick rideshare over the bridge.
Travel Note
English is spoken almost everywhere, especially in Lisbon and Porto, so you will be totally fine getting around. Most places accept card, but it is helpful to have a little cash for cafés or smaller bakeries. Tipping is not a big thing in Portugal, but rounding up or leaving around ten percent for great service is appreciated. Portugal uses European plug adapters (Type F), so make sure to bring a converter.
Travel Note
Lisbon is usually hot and sunny during the day in August—it is generally a lot hotter than Porto. Porto is warm too, but since it is closer to the ocean, evenings can be a little cooler. Light clothes and comfortable walking shoes are perfect for both cities, and it is helpful to bring a sweater or light jacket for the evenings in Porto becuase you really never know.
Travel Note
Both Lisbon and Porto have easy ways to get from the airport into the city. The metro in each city connects directly to the airport and is very simple to use. Uber and Bolt also work everywhere and are usually very affordable. Taxis are available too, but most people just use rideshare since it is cheaper and straightforward.