Lisbon, Portugal

Spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October) usually offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds than the peak summer months. Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times to explore popular viewpoints and historic monuments. Many museums and monuments close on Mondays, so check opening hours locally before planning your itinerary.

Lisbon is well-served by an extensive public transport network including the metro, buses, historic trams, and funiculars, which can usually be accessed using reloadable transit cards or contactless payment. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are widely available, efficient, and affordable for traversing steep inclines. Walking is one of the best ways to explore the central quarters, though sturdy footwear is recommended for navigating the steep, polished cobblestone streets.

Lisbon is generally considered one of the safest capital cities in Europe, but standard precautions apply. Be attentive to personal belongings in crowded spots like busy transit hubs, Rossio, Baixa, and along popular tram routes. In an emergency, dial the general European emergency number, 112.

Be aware of street vendors in prominent tourist plazas aggressively offering faux spices or fake substances; a firm 'no, thank you' and walking away is the best response. In restaurants, be aware that introductory bread, butter, and olives (couvert) placed on your table are not complimentary and will be added to your bill if consumed. Always ensure licensed taxis use their meters or use reputable ride-hailing apps.

Tipping is not mandatory in Portugal, as service is typically included, but leaving a small token of appreciation is common practice for good service. In casual cafes, rounding up the bill is standard, while in sit-down restaurants, leaving around 5% to 10% in cash is customary. For taxis, rounding up to the nearest euro is appreciated.

Portugal uses the Euro (€). Contactless card payments are widely accepted across hotels, major museums, and modern restaurants, though carrying some cash is advisable for small traditional tascas, kiosks, and public restrooms. When withdrawing money, use bank-affiliated ATMs rather than independent exchange kiosks to avoid unfavorable conversion rates.

A friendly greeting such as 'bom dia' (good morning) or 'boa tarde' (good afternoon) is customary when entering shops and restaurants. Dress codes are generally casual, but respectful attire covering shoulders and knees is recommended when visiting active churches. Always ask for permission before taking close-up photographs of local residents or artisans at work.