Last updated on November 3, 2020
Portugal: Post-Lockdown Guide
Golden beaches, breathtaking mountains, delicious food; Portugal has it all. Now that the country has opened back up for tourists, we can get excited about all it has to offer. Below, we have all the information you need to know before visiting, such as the new rules and regulations, COVID-19 testing, safety measures in place, as well as some travel treasures to get you excited about your holiday.
International Travel
Currently, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office cautions Britons against all but essential international travel. However, travel to some countries and territories are now exempted, including Portugal. Update: The The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office advises against travel to mainland Portugal (except Madeira and the Azores). Please note that if you are travelling to Wales or Scotland from Portugal, you have to self-isolate for 14 days after arrival.
Mainland Portugal and its territories, Madeira and the Azores welcome British tourists as border restrictions have been lifted. In continental Portugal, there are temperature checks at the airport. If travellers have a temperature of 38 degrees or more, they are required to take a COVID-19 test and self-isolate at their accommodation until the test results are known. If their temperature is below 38 degrees, they do not have to quarantine.
Tourists arriving in the Azores will need to complete a traveller questionnaire 72 hours prior to travel. Once they arrive, they will need to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test, which has been completed 72 hours earlier, or take a test on arrival and await the results at their accommodation.
Those travelling to Madeira and Porto Santo will be required to upload proof of a negative COVID-19 test that has been done 72 hours prior to travel. They will also be expected to complete a traveller questionnaire 12-48 hours beforehand. Those who do not have proof of a negative result will have to take a test at the airport and wait for the results at their accommodation.
Safety Measures and Rules in Portugal
Portugal has implemented several safety measures and rules to keep tourists and citizens safe in the country. One newly implemented measure is the Clean and Safe seal by the Tourismo de Portugal association. The seal will distinguish companies in the tourism sector that comply with the minimum hygiene standards created by the Directorate-General for Health (DGS). We recommend you verify that the places you visit are in possession of this certification, either physically on their premises or their digital platforms.
Social gatherings in the country are limited to 20 people in public and private spaces. In Lisbon, gatherings are limited to 10 people. It is mandatory to wear face masks for people over the age of 10 on public transportation and enclosed public spaces such as supermarkets, beauty salons, museums, and other cultural and leisure spaces.
Portugal has also launched a COVID-19 travel insurance plan for international tourists. The coverage covers medical, surgical, pharmaceutical, hospital and other expenses associated with COVID-19 for foreigners. Tourists planning a trip to the country can sign up at the Portugal Health Passport where they will be able to obtain a COVID-19 test and access urgent healthcare for fixed prices.
Portugal Travel Treasures
Madeira
The lush island of Madeira is a destination like no other, with its picturesque mountains, colourful scenery and tropical forests. Often referred to as the ‘island of the eternal spring’, the weather is always pristine in Madeira. Highlights include the lava pools at Porto Moniz, the spectacular views from Pico de Arriero and the skywalk in Cabo Girão.
Sintra
Located on the foothills of Portugal’s Sintra Mountains, just a short drive from the capital city Lisbon is the charming town of Sintra. Sprinkled with dazzling palaces and beautiful gardens, Sintra truly looks like a fairytale. The Pena Palace and the Cabo de Roca are two of the must-sees at this enchanting gem of a town.
Porto
The second-largest city in Portugal, Porto is a coastal city known for its Port and unique architecture. With a bustling nightlife and a rich heritage, visitors will never run out of things to do. The Cais da Ribeira, Foz do Duoro and the Ponte Luís I bridge are not to be missed at this vibrant city.
The Azores
Located in the middle of the Atlantic, the Azores are an archipelago that has some of the tallest mountains in the world. It is the ultimate destination for fans of nature and watersports, as it hosts a variety of activities year-round like hiking, diving, whale watching and more.
Algarve
Nestled among stunning beaches and breath-taking cliffs, the Algarve is a beautiful landscape that has much to offer. Mouthwatering cuisine, thermal springs and sea caves are just a few of the many attractions in the region. The regional dish Cataplana is a must-try for seafood lovers!
So there you have it! We trust we have informed you sufficiently about the new travel regulations and safety measures in place in Portugal. Hopefully, our list of some of the treasures in the country has reignited your passion for travel. No matter where you go, make sure to wash your hands, maintain social distancing and wear a mask when necessary. Safe travels!