Lisbon, Portugal: Pre-Departure Planning Guide
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Lisbon, Portugal: Pre-Departure Planning Guide

Preparing you for your trip

This document is to aid you in planning your trip to Lisbon. On your first full day together in Lisbon, you will participate in a comprehensive orientation to living in Lisbon with the Lisbon Community Manager. This document is simply to provide you with some basic information in advance of departure.
 

Event schedule: find your program dates

Your program schedule will be updated 60 days before departure. This is a high level program schedule for our upcoming groups. It also includes optional activities and tours you might be interested in. Program details with exact locations and times will be presented upon arrival. Schedule is subject to change.
 
 
 

Pre-departure

Packing

  • Packing Considerations
    • Consider the Season: Lisbon has distinct seasons. Pack light, breathable fabrics for summer and hats to guard you from the sun, and warm layers for winter. Spring and fall can be mild, so pack clothes that can be layered. A rain jacket might also come in handy. Sunscreen is also a good idea if you like a particular brand, but you can always buy it once you get here.
    • Walking Shoes: Lisbon is a walkable city, albeit very hilly, so comfortable shoes are essential. Opt for closed-toe shoes with good tread for navigating cobblestone streets.
    • Casual Clothing: The style in Portugal is casual so pack with comfort in mind as you will be doing a lot of walking and exploring. Pack pieces that are easier to mix and match, allowing for more outfit combinations with less luggage. Also, for you beach lovers, pack a swimsuit, and beach towel as it might be warm enough to check out the local beaches.
    • Luggage: Navigating the cobblestone streets of Lisbon with a large suitcase can be difficult, try to pack as light as possible since you will have the advantage of washing your clothes while you’re here.
  • Non-Obvious Things to Pack
    • Respectful Attire: For visits to churches and religious sites, pack clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. A light scarf can be handy for quick cover-ups.
    • Travel Adapter: Portugal uses a two-pronged plug different from the US. Pack a travel adapter to charge your electronics.
    • Small Umbrella: Rain showers can happen any time. A small, foldable umbrella can be a lifesaver.
    • Medications: Pack an adequate supply of any medications you take regularly. Bring a doctor's note for prescriptions in case you need refills.
 

Important Phone Numbers

  • The 911 equivalent in Portugal is 112 in case of emergencies
 

In-country

Arrival Day

  • The easiest way to reach the apartments from Lisbon airport is by Uber, Bolt, or taxi. Ubers and Bolts usually pick you up outside of Arrivals in the parking area on the left hand side (close to taxi stand).
The taxi stand is right outside of Arrivals. Most taxi drivers only accept cash, so if you don’t have euros and want to take a taxi, please ask the driver beforehand if they accept credit cards.
  • Note: Please DO NOT accept rides from anyone either inside or outside asking if you need a taxi. They will overcharge you. Go directly to the taxi stand or order an Uber.
  • Once you drop off your luggage at your apartment, you’ll likely never need a taxi again in Lisbon as everything is walkable, or you can utilize the myriad forms of public transportation in Lisbon.
 

Getting Around

  • Public transportation
    • Lisbon is a walkable city albeit very hilly, but if your feet get tired, don't worry! You can catch any of the city’s public transport, such as a bus, tram, trolley, metro, or even a ferry to get around. Click here to see a diagram of the metro/ferry/train system around Lisbon. FYI, the closest metro line to you would be the blue line like stations Marques de Pombal or Avenida.
    • While Google maps is great to show you different public transport options , you can also download Citymapper, an accurate and comprehensive app for navigating public transport.
    • Your Community Manager will talk to you about how to use local public transport; you’ll be getting around like a local in no time!
  • Car rental
    • Consider if you really need a car: Lisbon is a walkable city with great public transportation, so a car might not be necessary. If you plan on exploring the Portuguese countryside or nearby major cities, then a car becomes more helpful, but buses and trains connect the country quite well.
    • Rental Location: You can pick up a car at Lisbon Airport or at different locations around the city. Renting outside the city center might be slightly cheaper and avoids ZOC (limited traffic areas) hassles.
    • Insurance: Rental car insurance can be expensive, so check your existing car insurance and credit card coverage to see if they provide rental car protection in Portugal.
    • Tolls: Most highways in Portugal have tolls. Rental companies often offer toll payment options like prepaid boxes or post-trip billing.
  • Parking
    • Driving in Lisbon: Driving in Lisbon can be challenging. There are narrow streets, one-way roads, and ZOC zones (limited traffic areas) where cars aren't allowed. Familiarize yourself with traffic regulations and ZOC zones before hitting the road.
    • Parking: Parking in Lisbon can be tricky and expensive. Look for designated parking areas or garages, and avoid leaving your car on the street for long periods.
 

Money

  • Cash vs. Credit Card: While credit cards are widely accepted in Lisbon, it's always a good idea to carry some euros as some local restaurants/shops only accept cash or in case of emergencies.
  • Using your Credit Card: When paying by credit card, the machine may ask if you would like to pay in local currency. The answer is Yes. The next question will be whether you Accept or Reject the conversion rate. Always mark Reject. This will prevent you from being charged any hidden fees. You will also be asked these questions at most ATMs.
  • ATMs: ATMs in Portugal are called Multibancos (MB). They are widely available throughout Lisbon, especially near tourist areas and banks.
  • Look for Major Banks: Opt for ATMs affiliated with major Portuguese banks like Santander, Caixa Geral de Depositos, Millenium BCP, Banco Montepio, or Novobanco. These might offer better exchange rates and lower fees compared to independent ATM providers.
  • Avoid Euronet ATMs: While convenient, Euronet ATMs are known for higher fees and potentially less favorable exchange rates. Try to avoid them if possible.
  • Check Fees Before Withdrawing: Always check the ATM screen for any withdrawal fees before you confirm the transaction and it is advised to Reject the conversion rate. Your home bank may also charge additional foreign transaction fees.
  • Inform Your Bank: Let your bank know you'll be traveling to Portugal to avoid any issues with using your card abroad.
  • Carry Some Euros: It's always a good idea to carry some euros in cash before you arrive in Lisbon. This will help you cover any immediate expenses in case you have trouble finding an ATM or your card doesn't work.
 

Communication

  • Cell phone
    • We recommend using Truely eSIM which allows you to easily and cheaply connect to the local cell network wherever you travel - and avoid roaming charges. Truely specifically offers an option that includes all of Europe and the UK, and only costs about $10.  Click here to see how it works. 
    • Check with your carrier about international roaming plans for Portugal and what is included and not included.
    • You can purchase a local SIM card in Portugal. This requires an unlocked GSM phone.
  • Messaging
    • We encourage you to use Whatsapp for text messaging, this is what people in Europe use commonly. You can also use it for making calls on wifi.
  • Wi-Fi
    • Public wifi: Many cafes, restaurants, and hotels offer free wifi. This is a great option for basic tasks such as email and text messaging.
    • Apartment wifi: Your apartment will have high speed wifi that you can use for FaceTime and other messaging apps such as Whatsapp, iMessage, Zoom.
    • Download Offline Maps and Apps: Having offline maps and apps like Google Translate downloaded can be helpful if you lose signal or wifi access.
  • Local calls
    • You may need to call local businesses or people in Portugal. We recommend that you use Whatsapp to make local calls, and to avoid incurring international calling charges
 

Dining Out

  • Tipping
    • Not Mandatory: Unlike the US, tipping in Lisbon is not mandatory, but it has come to be expected in the cities tourists visit most. For small orders, like a pastry and a coffee, leaving the change or 1-2 euros is sufficient. However, when dining out at a restaurant, a 5-10% tip is acceptable.
    • Couvert: A couvert is a selection of small dishes like bread, olives, and local cheeses, that servers will sometimes bring to the table for you to nibble on. They are not expensive, but if you’d rather not pay for extra food, then simply tell your server to take it away.
    • Check for Service Charge: Some restaurants might include a service charge on the bill. It’s not common practice in Lisbon, but in more touristy areas, it may be added on. Look for this before leaving an additional tip.
  • Restaurant Reservations
    • Fine Dining & Popular Spots: For Michelin-starred restaurants or highly-rated establishments, reservations are strongly recommended, especially for dinner. These places can fill up quickly, particularly during peak tourist season (March-November).
    • Casual Eateries: Reservations are generally less necessary at casual tascas or local Portuguese restaurants like pastelarias. However, if you have a large group (more than 4 people) or are visiting during a busy time (weekends, evenings), it might be helpful to call ahead and secure a table. For lunch, lots of restaurants have what’s called prato do dia, or plate of the day. This could include a starter, main meal with a drink plus coffee and dessert. If you stick to less touristy areas, you may find you get more for your money.
    • Making Reservations: The most common apps for making reservations are OpenTable and The Fork, however, many restaurants still take reservations the old fashioned way - with a phone call!
    • Many restaurants in Lisbon have websites, Facebook pages, or Instagram accounts, where you can message them for a reservation.
 

Fitness & Health

Other than the city itself, which will serve as an incline treadmill or stairmaster at times, I’ve listed some clubs below for those who would like to continue their workout routine:
 
  • ClassPass (https://classpass.com/search/lisbon/fitness): Buy credits that allow you to book at many of the yoga studios, gyms, salons & spas around Lisbon. Use them however you like in order to create a personalized fitness and wellness routine. For new users, you may be able to get a month for free.
  • Holmes Place is a gym located in Marques de Pombal, a short walk away from the apartments.
    • The exact address is Avenida Fontes Pereira de Melo, 16 1050-121 Lisboa
    • The cost is 182.50 euros for a one month membership. Please contact recepcao.palacio@holmesplace.pt if you wish to find out more information.
    • The membership fee includes access to a large weight training area, many group classes, sauna, jacuzzi, swimming pool, cowork space, and training and bath towels.
  • Fitness Hut is a gym that has several locations around Lisbon, and you can choose which is closest to you or try multiple locations.
    • Rua Alexandre Herculano n.º 2, Santo António
    • Rua Dom João V 24, 1250-091 Lisboa
    • They have per day (11.90 euros) and per month (30.90 euros) options. Please note that this gym as well as all Fitness Hut gyms in Lisbon get very busy during peak hours (early morning, lunchtime, and evening starting from 4PM), so avoid those times if you want to enjoy your workouts.
  • Pharmacies
    • Many pharmacies in Lisbon have staff that speak some English. Just look for the green cross above the store to find a pharmacy.
 

Community Manager

  • Hours of Availability
    • Our Community Managers are there to support your experience. They will be physically present at community events, and that is a great time to talk to them.
    • Outside of community events, Community Managers are available via Whatsapp from 9am to 6pm, Monday through Friday. As they have families and other obligations, we ask that you respect these hours for regular messages.
 

Emergencies

  • In the event of an emergency, you may call or text the Community Manager at any time via Whatsapp.
 
More to come…
On our first full day together, we will have a full group orientation with the Community Manager, and we will cover much more information specific to living in Lisbon.