Practical

Information

Personal Security

Lisbon is a relatively safe city to visit, where you only really need to fear becoming a victim of pickpocketing. Take care in crowded tourist areas and on popular tram routes, particularly the 28 and 15. Keep your belongings in a safe place or with you at all times.

If you have anything stolen, report the crime within 24 hours to the nearest police station and take ID with you. Get a copy of the crime report to make an insurance claim. There is a police station specifically for tourists at Praça dos Restauradores, beside the tourist office. Contact your embassy if you have your passport stolen, or in the event of a serious crime or accident.

As a rule, Lisboetas are very accepting of all people, regardless of their race, gender or sexuality. Homosexuality was legalized in 1982 and in 2010, Portugal became the eighth country in the world to recognize same-sex marriage. If you do feel unsafe, the Safe Space Alliance pinpoints your nearest place of refuge.

Women may receive unwanted and unwelcome attention, especially around tourist areas. If you feel threatened, head straight to the nearest police station.

Safe Space Alliance

∑ safespacealliance.com

Health

Portugal has a world-class health system. Emergency medical care is free for all EU citizens. If you have an EHIC, present this as soon as possible. You may have to pay after treatment and reclaim the money later.

For other visitors, payment of hospital and other medical expenses is the patient’s responsibility. It is therefore, important to arrange comprehensive medical insurance before travelling.

Seek medicinal supplies and advice for minor ailments from pharmacies (farmácias), identifiable by a green cross. Pharmacists can dispense a range of drugs that would normally be available only on prescription in many other countries. Each pharmacy displays a card in the window showing the address of the nearest all-night pharmacy.

Smoking, Alcohol and Drugs

Smoking is banned in most enclosed public spaces and is a fineable offence, although some bars still allow it.

Portugal has a high alcohol consumption rate, however it is frowned upon to be openly drunk. It is common for Lisboetas to drink on the street outside the bar of purchase.

All drugs are decriminalized in Portugal, but possession of small quantities is considered a public health issue and results in a warning or small fine. Drug-dealers brazenly plying their wares in the city centre can be a small nuisance but pose no threat.

ID

By law you must carry identification with you at all times. A photocopy of your passport should suffice. If stopped by the police you may be asked to report to a police station with the original document.

Local Customs

Lisbon is a tolerant and open-minded city, but as the pressure of tourism grows, small efforts to integrate are increasingly appreciated. If possible, use simple Portuguese phrases and greetings appropriate to the time of day.

A much-loved aspect of Portugal is the slow pace of life. This is evident as a pedestrian, at public events and when making social engagements, so try to stifle any impatience and readjust your tempo suitably.

Visiting Churches and Cathedrals

Most churches and cathedrals will not permit visitors during Sunday Mass. Generally, entrance to churches is free, however a fee may apply to enter special areas, like cloisters.

Portugal retains a strong Catholic identity. When visiting religious buildings ensure that you are dressed modestly, with your knees and shoulders covered.

Mobile Phones and Wi-Fi

Free Wi-Fi is not yet widespread in Portugal, but it can be found in some restaurants and bars, specifically those aimed at tourists. Visitors travelling to Portugal with EU tariffs are able to use their devices abroad without being affected by roaming charges. Users will be charged the same rates for data, calls and texts as at home.

Post

The postal service is run by CTT (Correios de Portugal), which offers a wide range of services at prices lower than the European average. Stamps are sold in post offices, newsagents and on the CTT website. Post should take around 3–5 days to reach the rest of Europe, 7 days for elsewhere in the world and can be tracked on the CTT website, where you can also find details of your nearest post office. There is also a choice of international couriers.

CTT

∑ ctt.pt

Taxes and Refunds

VAT is usually 23 per cent. Under certain conditions, non-EU citizens can claim a rebate. Either claim the rebate before you buy (show your passport to the shop assistant and complete a form) or claim it retrospectively by presenting a customs officer with your receipts as you leave.

Discount Cards

If you plan to pack a lot of sightseeing into a short trip, purchasing an official Lisboa Card can be a cost-efficient choice. For €19, adults receive 24 hours of free public transport, which includes the train lines to Cascais and Sintra; free entry to 26 museums and points of interest; and discounts relating to tours, shopping and nightlife. Cards lasting 48 and 72 hours are also available (€34/€42). The cards can be bought online, at the airport and in the tourist information offices at Praça do Comércio and Praça dos Restauradores.

Lisboa Card

∑ lisboacard.org

Need to know Practical Information

At a Glance

EMERGENCY NUMBERS

Need to know Practical Information

Time zone

CET/CEST

Central European Summer time (CEST) runs end Mar–end Oct

Tap water

Unless stated otherwise, tap water in Lisbon is safe to drink.

Need to know Practical Information