Book Cheap Flights to Portugal for Your Next Vacation

Hot and sunny. This is the peak tourist season. Expect higher Portugal plane ticket prices and more crowds in popular spots.

The weather is still mild, and there are fewer tourists. A great time to explore Portugal. Portugal plane ticket prices are cheaper than in summer.

Cold and rainy, but fewer people and lower prices. This is the best time to get cheap plane tickets to Portugal and enjoy the cities.

The weather is getting warmer. Flowers are blooming, and prices are lower than in summer. This is the perfect time for a budget trip to Portugal.

Yes, Philippine passport holders need a Schengen visa to enter Portugal, as it is part of the Schengen Area. You must apply at the Portuguese embassy or consulate in the Philippines before your trip. Ensure your visa covers the entire duration of your Portugal vacation. The process requires sufficient time and documentation, so plan it early. Having complete documents is key to a successful application. Also, ensure you have travel insurance covering your stay. Obtaining a visa is the first step in your budget trip to Portugal.

Portugal has excellent public transportation. In Lisbon and Porto, use the metro, tram, and bus. Trams, especially Tram 28 in Lisbon, are not just transportation but also a sight to see. The metro is cheaper and faster for long distances. For inter-city travel, the train (CP - Comboios de Portugal) is fast and comfortable, especially the high-speed train between Lisbon and Porto. Compared to the Philippines, public transportation in Portugal is easier and more reliable. You can also rent a car, especially if you plan to visit rural areas or the Algarve. Note that roads are excellent, but driving within the old city can be challenging. Use a reloadable card like Viva Viagem in Lisbon to save on fares.

There are many accommodation options in Portugal, from luxury hotels to affordable hostels and guesthouses. For those looking for a budget trip to Portugal, try 'Alojamento Local' (local lodging) which offers authentic and cheap living. Guesthouses and B&Bs are popular with tourists because of their personal service. In Lisbon and Porto, book early, especially during summer or peak season. Compared to Manila, accommodation prices may be higher in tourist areas, but the quality is also higher. Look for hotels near a metro station for easy access to Portugal's attractions. Staying outside the center can help you get cheaper plane tickets to Portugal.

Portugal is one of the safest countries in Europe, but always be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like Tram 28 and tourist spots in Lisbon. Do not leave your belongings unattended. Portuguese people are very kind and respectful. Greeting with 'Olá' (Hello) and 'Obrigado' (thank you, if male) or 'Obrigada' (thank you, if female) is appreciated. Lunch is usually eaten late (around 1:00 PM) and dinner late (around 8:00 PM). Compared to the Philippines, service in Portugal is more formal. Remember that tipping is not mandatory but appreciated in restaurants. Do not be too loud in public places. Learning about Portugal before going will help your trip.

Portuguese culture is rich in history, Fado music, and architecture. Portuguese people love coffee and pastry. Do not leave without trying 'Pastel de Nata' (custard tart). Also try 'Bacalhau' (codfish) prepared in various ways, and the 'Francesinha' sandwich in Porto. Eating in 'tascas' (local eateries) offers a cheaper and more authentic experience. Portugal is also famous for its wine, especially Port wine from the Douro Valley. Drinking coffee is a ritual; do not order 'coffee,' order a 'bica' (espresso). Exploring Portugal through food is one of the best parts of the vacation. Look for local markets to see the real life of the Portuguese people.

For a week-long Portugal vacation, focus on Lisbon, Sintra, and Porto. If you have more time, include the Algarve for beaches or Madeira/Azores for nature. Pack comfortable shoes because there are many cobblestone streets, especially in Lisbon and Porto. Bring a light jacket even in summer because evenings are cool, and an umbrella if traveling during the rainy season. Portugal has a Mediterranean climate, but it is cooler than the Philippines. If you are looking for cheap plane tickets to Portugal, remember that traveling in the shoulder season can help. For Filipinos, bring an adapter for European two-pin plugs. Planning ahead is key to making the most of your discounted flights to Portugal from the Philippines. Don't forget to bring sunscreen, especially if going to the Algarve.