By Car

Portugal has a good road network composed of Motorways (AE), Main Trunk Routes (IP), Complementary Trunk Routes (IC), Main (National) Roads (EN) and Secondary (Municipal) Roads, making it easy to explore Lisbon and beyond.

There are two main types of motorways:

• Traditional toll roads where you can pay by cash or card. Via Verde is an electronic payment system for drivers with a registered Via Verde device.
• Electronic toll roads where there are no toll booths. Tolls are automatically recorded as you drive through. Find out more about these roads and payment options at Portugal Tolls.

Car hire is available at airports, major railway stations and in most towns and cities. Automatic and adapted vehicles are also available.

To rent a car, you generally need to:

• Be 21 or 25+, depending on the rental company
• Show a valid passport or ID
• Have held your driving licence for at least one year

By Air

Portugal is well connected by air, with major airports in Lisbon, Porto, Faro, Madeira and the Azores, as well as Beja.

Main airports:

• Lisbon – Humberto Delgado Airport
• Porto – Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport
• Faro – Gago Coutinho Airport
• Madeira – Cristiano Ronaldo Airport
• Azores – João Paulo II Airport
• Beja – Beja Airport

Several airlines operate regular domestic and international flights.

TAP Air Portugal is Portugal’s national airline, with flights connecting Lisbon, Porto, Faro, Madeira and the Azores, as well as many international destinations.

Azores Airlines connects the islands of the Azores with Madeira, mainland Portugal and international destinations.

Sevenair operates regional flights connecting destinations including Bragança, Vila Real, Viseu, Cascais and Portimão.

By Coach

Regular coach services connect Portugal’s cities, towns and main urban areas, with international services also available.

For routes, timetables and prices, visit Rede Expressos or FlixBus.

By Rail

CP – Comboios de Portugal is Portugal’s national railway network, connecting cities and towns across mainland Portugal, with international services to Vigo, Spain.

There are several options depending on your journey:

• Alfa Pendular – Fast, comfortable trains linking Lisbon with the Algarve and northern cities such as Porto and Braga, with stops including Coimbra and Aveiro.
• Intercidades – Intercity services connecting Lisbon with Porto, Guimarães, Guarda, Covilhã, Évora, Beja and Faro.
• Regional & suburban trains – A wider network covering destinations throughout Portugal, ideal for shorter journeys and exploring locally.

Accommodation Near the CCL Venue

There’s a good choice of hotels within walking distance of the Lisboa Congress Centre (CCL), ranging from luxury hotels to more budget-friendly options.

For nearby accommodation, see the CCL’s official accommodation guide: View accommodation near the CCL

Types of Accommodation

Portugal offers a wide range of accommodation to suit different budgets and preferences:

• Hotels (H) – From 1 to 5 stars, offering a variety of facilities and services.
• Aparthotels (HA) – Ideal if you want more space and independence while still having hotel-style services.
• Pousadas – Characterful accommodation in historic buildings or beautiful locations. They are grouped into four categories: Historic, Historic Design, Nature and Charm.

Dining

Lisbon has a fantastic choice of restaurants, from traditional Portuguese food to international cuisine, with options to suit every taste and budget.

• Lunch: usually around 12:00–3:00 pm
• Dinner: usually around 7:00–10:00 pm

Many restaurants, particularly in central Lisbon and busy nightlife areas, stay open longer. Restaurants often close one day a week, although those in shopping centres are generally open every day.

Passports and Visas

EU citizens and citizens of Andorra, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland can enter Portugal with a valid identity document.

For visa-exempt countries, stays of up to 90 days are permitted within the Schengen Area. A passport should be valid for at least three months after your planned departure.

Citizens of countries that require a visa must apply through the Portuguese Embassy or Consulate in their country.

For the latest visa requirements and country list, visit the official Portuguese visa website: Portuguese Visas – Official Information

Travelling with children? Check the current entry and parental consent requirements before travelling, as additional documents may be required.

Pastéis de Nata

These famous flaky pastries are filled with creamy egg custard and are best enjoyed warm with a sprinkle of cinnamon. Pair one with a Portuguese coffee for a perfect afternoon treat.

Bacalhau

Portugal’s famous salted cod is prepared in many different ways. Try Bacalhau à Brás, with cod, crispy potato, onion and egg, or pastéis de bacalhau, crispy cod and potato cakes.

Fresh Seafood

With the Atlantic on its doorstep, Lisbon is a great place for fresh fish and seafood. Look out for grilled fish, octopus, prawns and sardinhas assadas, especially popular during summer.

Bifana

For a quick and tasty local bite, try a bifana, a traditional Portuguese pork sandwich. You’ll find them in cafés and local eateries throughout the city.

Portuguese Drinks

Portugal is known for its excellent wines, including refreshing Vinho Verde. Adults can also try ginjinha, a sweet cherry liqueur traditionally served in a small glass.

Eat Like a Local

For a truly local experience, visit a traditional tasca, café, food market or neighbourhood restaurant and enjoy the food, atmosphere and Portuguese hospitality.

Weather

Lisbon has warm, sunny summers. July is typically hot and dry, with daytime temperatures around 28°C. Pack light clothing, comfortable shoes, sun protection and a light layer for cooler evenings.

Tipping

Tipping is appreciated but not compulsory. In restaurants, rounding up or leaving around 5–10% for good service is generally welcomed.

Wi-Fi

Free Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, restaurants, cafés and many public areas.

Safety

Lisbon is generally safe for visitors. As with any busy city, keep an eye on your belongings, particularly in crowded areas and on public transport.