Planning a Trip to Portugal: an 8-Step Checklist for Scouting

Taking a scouting trip to Portugal is an invaluable opportunity to truly understand where the best place for you to live is, immerse yourself in the local culture, and make informed decisions about your future relocation.  

As you begin to plan your scouting trip, we know there can be a lot to consider so we've put together a handy guide to help ensure your trip is successful and as stress-free as possible. This guide is broken down into seven key steps, each with their own subtasks and questions to consider. Take your time, take notes, and remember: this is an exciting step on your journey to your new home in beautiful Portugal.

Step 1. Create yourself a relocation wish list 

A good idea which will help with your itinerary planning of your Portugal scouting trip is to create a wish list of aspects about your new Portuguese life and especially the type of property you will want to live in, because that can really dictate the areas you should check out. It is also a crucial step to understand how to get around in Portugal before the arrival date, so you are well prepared to make the most out of your scouting time.

If it is non-negotiable for you, for instance, to have a house with a large garden and a pool and your budget is €200,000, as much as you should explore central Lisbon as part of your holiday, it won't be part of your ‘scouting' itinerary. Likewise, if nightlife and theatre is a core part of your life, you probably won't enjoy living in a village in rural Alentejo. 

So together with your partner or your family, write out: 

Budget for a property/affordability 

• Will you likely be renting or buying? property/affordability

• What kind of property do you want (apartment, house, farm etc.)? Property prices in Portugal vary dramatically; with and parts of the Algarve (Loule, Albufeira & Lagos) being the most expensive; and the interior of the country and parts of the Azores generally being the cheapest. 

• What's important to you in a property? How many bedrooms do you need? Desperate for a garden or a pool? 

Useful Resource: Idealista is the most popular Portuguese property portal, where you can create filters for your choice of housing and get an idea of property prices across Portugal to see where might suit your needs. 

Weather and surroundings 

Consider whether you want to live near a beach, in the city or in the country. Understand the variations in weather in Portugal. The north tends to rain more than the south, and can get cold in winter, whereas the interior gets baking hot in summer. 

Useful resource: Tempo is the most reliable resource for weather in Portugal. 

Lifestyle 

• What activities are important to you? 

• Do you have any dietary requirements? (If you have any strict dietary requirements you might struggle to and restaurants and grocery stores that cater to your needs outside of the major population centres) 

• What amenities are important to you? Nightlife, sports facilities, etc. 

Public Transportation

• Will you have a car?

• Will you rely on public transportation?

• Renting a car can be beneficial for exploring remote areas and the picturesque countryside.

• Do you want to live somewhere that’s walkable to essential amenities and services?

• For long-distance trips, consider the convenience and comfort of traveling by high speed train.

Community 

• Do you want to be around other expats? 

• Or would you rather integrate into the Portuguese community? (and if so, how are you at learning languages?) 

• Do you want to be around other people in a similar life stage to you? For example, young families, retirees etc. 

Healthcare and schools 

• How important are certain types of medical facility or schools to you at this stage of life? 

Tip! At this stage, it's a good idea to discuss your answers with one of our relocation consultants, who will be able to assess your answers and recommend specific areas and cities in Portugal that will suit your needs. Check out how Portugalxpert can help you on this mission and schedule an appointment to address your questions. 

Step 2. Determine the Length of Your Trip

Determining the length of your trip to Portugal is crucial in planning your itinerary. The duration of your trip will depend on your travel style, budget, and what you hope to achieve during your visit. If you’re looking for a quick getaway, a 5-7 day trip might be sufficient to get a taste of the country’s highlights. However, if you want to explore more thoroughly and immerse yourself in the local culture, a 10-14 day trip would be more ideal.

A shorter trip allows you to focus on a few key destinations, perhaps taking a day trip to nearby attractions. On the other hand, a longer trip gives you the flexibility to venture off the beaten path and discover hidden gems. Whether you’re planning a brief visit or an extended stay, having a clear idea of your trip length will help you create a well-balanced Portugal itinerary.

How Long is the Flight to Portugal

The flight duration to Portugal varies depending on your departure location. If you’re flying from the East Coast of the United States, you can expect a flight duration of around 7-8 hours. For those departing from the West Coast, the journey will take approximately 11-12 hours. If you’re traveling from within Europe, flights are much shorter, typically around 2-3 hours.

Understanding the flight duration helps in planning your arrival and departure times, ensuring you make the most of your trip to Portugal. Direct flights are available from many major cities, making it convenient to reach this beautiful destination.

 Step 3. Research Portuguese Cities and Towns

Portugal boasts a rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty, with numerous cities and towns waiting to be explored. Some of the top destinations include Lisbon, Porto, the Algarve, and the Douro Valley. Each of these places offers its unique charm, attractions, and experiences.

Lisbon, the capital city, is known for its historic neighborhoods, vibrant nightlife, and delicious cuisine. Porto, famous for its port wine, offers a mix of medieval architecture and modern attractions.

The Algarve, with its stunning coastline and beautiful beaches, is perfect for those seeking sun and relaxation. The Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and wine tasting opportunities.

When planning your trip, consider what each city or town has to offer and how it aligns with your interests and lifestyle. Whether you’re drawn to the bustling city center of Lisbon or the tranquil vineyards of the Douro Valley, Portugal has something for everyone.

Action Plan to Choose Cities and Towns to Visit

If you choose to research the towns and cities yourself, it can be easier to work through your research in a systematic order.

After you’ve completed your wish list, compile a list of cities/towns of interest. Later in this section, we’ve got some city guides for the major cities, towns and regions that are popular for expats to live in. Consider spending a few nights in specific destinations like Porto or the Alentejo region to enhance your experience.

Spending a few hours at various locations can also help you get a feel for the area and decide if it suits your needs.

Look into the cost of living, job market, and available housing in each, and research the quality of schools, healthcare facilities and community, or whatever other amenities are important to you.

Get a sense of the cultural vibe and lifestyle in each place.

Ask yourself:

• Which cities or towns align best with our lifestyle and professional needs?

• Do these places offer good educational opportunities for our children? Are we looking for international schools or will we use local schools?

• How does the cost of living compare to our current location and our budget?

Step 4. Choosing the Right Time

Choosing the right time to visit Portugal is crucial in planning your trip. The best time to visit Portugal depends on your preferences and what you want to do. Timing your visit well can enhance your experience, whether you’re looking to enjoy the beaches, explore historical sites, or participate in local festivals.

When to Visit Portugal

The best time to visit Portugal is during the spring (March to June) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer mild weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices, making them ideal for exploring the country. Summer is the peak tourist season, with warm weather and long days, perfect for beach vacations. However, it can get crowded and hot, especially in the southern regions. Winter is the low season, with cooler weather and fewer tourists, providing a more relaxed atmosphere for city exploration.

Portugal’s cultural calendar is filled with events and festivals that can enrich your visit. Some of the top events include the Lisbon Festival, the Porto Wine Festival, and the Algarve International Film Festival. These events offer a glimpse into the local culture and traditions, making your trip even more memorable.

Overall, the best time to visit Portugal depends on your preferences and what you want to do. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or a cultural experience, planning your visit during the right season will ensure you have an incredible trip.

Consider the Seasonality Factor

Timing is crucial when planning a scouting trip to Portugal. The weather, local events, and the tourist season can all affect your experience. But maybe more important is to think about how Portugal might be in the opposite season to your visit. Many towns in Portugal are very seasonal, especially the coastal resort towns, and just because a town is buzzing in August, doesn’t mean there will even be anyone there in January.

In addition, consider planning day trips to explore nearby destinations like Sintra and Belém, which are easily accessible from major cities like Lisbon and Porto.

When planning your itinerary, prioritize key tourist attractions to maximize your experience. Purchasing tickets in advance for popular sites can help avoid missing out, especially when time is constrained.

Weather Considerations: Take into account the climate and seasons in Portugal, as different regions vary in temperature and rainfall.

Festivals and Events: Research the cultural festivals and events happening during your desired travel period to fully experience the local traditions and celebrations.

Budget Considerations: Consider both high and low seasons to find a balance between optimal weather and affordability.

Our Recommendation: We suggest that the best time of year for a scouting trip is either April-June, or September-November. The weather is usually fantastic, costs will be lower than mid-summer, and there will be enough going on without the excessive crowds that you can easily imagine what it would be like in both mid-winter and mid-summer.

Matt’s Personal Experience: Well, not mine exactly, but my girlfriend. 12 years ago we moved to Lagos - she’d never visited before - and we arrived at the beginning of October, as all the tourist crowds had just left. She spent the next 6 months thinking that she had moved to a sleepy, quiet beach town with nothing going on… but then the crowds came back.

Fun fact: The population in Lagos in January is approximately 30,000. The population of Lagos in July & August often swells to in excess of 200,000. That’s not a typo. She got a shock that following summer. It’s not so seasonal these days, as Lagos has become a popular winter destination too, and has a larger, year-round population of remote workers and expats, but it still feels like a very different place at different times of year.

Step 5. Plan Your Travel Itinerary and Day Trips

If you don’t use a suggested itinerary for your scouting trip, when planning your itinerary work through the following tasks in this order:

Decide on the duration of your scouting trip and how long you’d like to spend in each of the cities/towns you want to visit. 2-3 days in each town is often good enough to get a ‘gut-feeling’ on the place, however don’t discount a town just because you have a bad experience from meeting a rude taxi driver or because it rained. (Lagos when its sunny is paradise. Lagos in the rain is miserable with nothing to do. Luckily it rarely rains). Make sure you allow some time for leisure and not just house-hunting or research.

Decide whether it’s best for your itinerary to fly into Lisbon, Porto, Faro, or the Portuguese islands. (Most often it will be cheapest to fly into Lisbon, especially from outside of Europe, and get a connecting flight or train / bus from there). Lisbon Airport offers various transportation options, including car rentals and public transport, making it a convenient entry point for international travelers.

Useful resource: Kiwi is a great platform for flights to and within Portugal, searching all the available flights and routes to get you the best possible price.

Research and book accommodation in each location (we have recommendations for all budgets in each of our city guides later in this chapter).

Plan your mode of transportation between locations (e.g., bus, train, high speed train, car rental). Portugal’s train network provides efficient connections between major cities, allowing you to explore beyond Lisbon. With both high speed trains and local scenic routes, you can easily reach many towns and cities by train.

Buses are maybe even more convenient, modern and often cheaper, with some crazy price war currently going on between the bus companies. Often you can pick up tickets between Lisbon and Porto or Lisbon and the Algarve for less than €5!

Useful resource: If you are travelling by public transport in Portugal, the best resource to check trains and buses in Portugal is Omio, which compares all the bus and train prices. You can check out travel prices between cities here.

Remember to book your train tickets in advance to secure the best prices and ensure availability, especially for long-distance routes.

Renting a car, however, gives you the freedom to explore Portugal at your own pace and will probably be essential for you if you want to check out rural areas or smaller towns and villages, or you have a lot of luggage, or kids. It’s also the better choice if you are travelling in low or mid season, as many train and bus routes are reduced outside of tourist season.

Useful resource: The cheapest rental car company we’ve found in Portugal is Discover Cars - who usually have the best prices, and depots in most Portuguese airports and cities (when

Finally, investigate local attractions and plan some leisure activities. Many accommodations are within walking distance of major attractions, making it easy to explore without needing additional transportation.

A website that we can strongly recommend to truly immerse yourself in local life is Eatwith - where you can eat with a local host in their home, sample some authentic Portuguese food, and discuss with a local what it’s really like to live in Portugal.

Ask yourself:

• How long do we need in each location to get a true feel for the place?

• What type of accommodation will give us a good sense of living there (e.g., hotel, Airbnb)?

• Are there any local events or festivals happening during our visit?

Step 6. Prepare Necessary Travel Documents and Rental Car

Before embarking on your Portugal scouting trip, it's crucial to get your ducks in a row - and by ducks, we mean travel documents. This section is all about ensuring your passports are up-to-date, visas are obtained if necessary (although they probably won't be if your scouting trip is less than 90 days), and that you're covered with adequate travel insurance.

This might not be the most exciting part of the journey, but it's absolutely essential for a smooth and hassle-free trip. Remember, it's better to have and not need, than to need and not have! 

• Ensure passports are up-to-date and apply for visas if necessary. 

• Check if international driving licenses are needed (they aren't for most countries). 

• Purchase travel insurance that covers any potential health and travel disruptions. 

• And finally, make copies of all important documents to have on hand.   

Useful resource: The best supplier we've found for travel insurance that will cover your trip to Portugal travellers to Portugal is Ekta - who have great prices, more importantly have fantastic cover, and their USP is ensuring that the whole process of insurance purchase is transparent, easy and fast. 

Ask yourself: 

• Are all our travel documents current and valid? 

• Do we have adequate health and travel insurance for our trip? 

• Do we need any specific vaccinations before traveling? (Short answer: No. Unless you are visiting other countries before or after) 

Step 7. Network with Locals and Expats 

Now, let's jump into one of the most exciting parts of your upcoming scouting trip – making connections! When moving to a new country, having a community can make the transition so much smoother and it's never too early to start building a network. 

Before you go on your scouting trip, it's a great idea to explore how you can start building those vital connections with locals and fellow expats in Portugal. Whether it's joining online forums, attending local events, or setting up casual coffee dates, networking can provide invaluable insights into your potential new home. 

So before you even leave home for your scouting trip: 

• Join local expat forums and social media groups for advice and insights. Join 30,000+ other expats in our ‘Expats Lisbon' Facebook group

• Schedule meetings or casual get-togethers with locals or expats if possible 

• Research and consider attending local events or meetups during your visit. (meetup.com is great for this and is REALLY popular in Lisbon!) 

• Give us (João and Matt) a shout. We'll come for a coffee with you 🙂   

Checklist: 

• Are you in touch with anyone who can give you first-hand insights about living in your chosen locations?  

• Have you joined platforms or groups to connect with locals and expats? 

• Can you meet anyone in person during our visit? 

Step 8. Financial Planning 

Alright, now let's talk money. We know, it's not always the most fun topic, but when it comes to planning a scouting trip like this, it's absolutely critical. By planning ahead and having a good grasp of your finances, you'll be able to focus on the fun parts of your trip and avoid any unexpected monetary hiccups. 

How much will it cost? 

Ok, so first up, let's break down a potential budget for your trip to Portugal, considering three different levels: budget, mid-range, and premium. Please note that these are estimated costs and can vary depending on your preferences, travel habits, and, most importantly, the time of year.

We're going on an average for May-June or September-October. Remember that July-August will be more expensive than this, and the winter will be cheaper. 

We've quoted here in USD, but at the time of writing USD and EUR were similar. 

1. Budget Travel 

Accommodation: $30-$50 per day / $210-$350 per week 

Food: $25 per day / $175 per week 

Transportation (public transport, occasional taxi): $10 per day / $70 per week 

Entertainment & Sightseeing: $15 per day / $105 per week 

Total: $80-$100 per day / $560-$700 per week - per person   

2. Mid-range Travel 

Accommodation: $50-$100 per day / $350-$700 per week 

Food: $50 per day / $350 per week 

Transportation (daily taxi, car rental): $30 per day / $210 per week 

Entertainment & Sightseeing: $30 per day / $210 per week 

Total: $160-$260 per day / $1,120-$1,470 per week - per person 

3. Premium Travel 

Accommodation: $150-$200+ per day / $1,050-$1,400 per week 

Food: $100 per day / $700 per week 

Transportation (private driver, premium car rental): $50 per day / $350 per week 

Entertainment & Sightseeing: $50 per day / $350 per week 

Total: $350-$400+ per day / $2,450-$2,800+ per week - per person 

These costs do not include flights to and from Portugal, nor any pre-trip expenses like travel insurance. They are estimated per person, so keep in mind to multiply by the number of people in your family for a total trip budget. Remember, these are estimates and actual prices can vary, so it's always a good idea to do your own research as well. 

Moving on with your to-do list… 

• Notify your bank about your travel plans to avoid any issues with your cards abroad. 

• Research the currency exchange rates and consider getting some local currency (although don't worry too much because there are ATMs everywhere in Portugal which work with foreign cards). You might want to consider getting an international currency card; Wise is a great options. 

• Explore mobile banking or international credit card options for convenience.   

Useful resource:  Consider getting an international SIM card - The best supplier we've found for travellers to Portugal is Drimsim whose fees are around 0.01 €/MB, which will help you avoid a nasty shock when you're next cellphone bill comes in. 

Ready to explore Portugal and the Portuguese lifestyle? We allow you to spend a day with a local relocation consultant. Click below to know more about our scouting tours.

Summary 

Planning your scouting trip to Portugal is an exciting adventure in itself. By taking the time to thoughtfully consider and complete these tasks, you'll be setting yourself up for a productive and enjoyable trip. Remember, the goal is not just to scout potential places to live, but also to start experiencing the rich culture and lifestyle of your soon-to-be new home. Happy planning, and here's to an amazing journey ahead! 

Interactive Task: Draft an itinerary for your Portugal scouting trip. Include places to visit, people to meet, and things to experience. Also, create a budget outline. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Scouting Trip and why is it important for those planning to move to Portugal?

A Scouting Trip is a pre-relocation visit aimed at exploring potential living areas, understanding the local culture, and in somes cases assessing real estate options firsthand. It's crucial for making informed decisions about where to live, ensuring the chosen area aligns with your lifestyle, budget, and preferences.

What are the key considerations for someone moving to Portugal?

When moving to Portugal, consider factors such as the type of property you prefer, the cost of living in different regions, lifestyle and community amenities, transportation options, and the availability of healthcare and educational institutions. Assessing these factors helps in finding a place that meets your needs and preferences.

How can I determine the best places to live in Portugal?

The best place to live in Portugal varies based on individual needs and preferences. Research and consider factors like property prices, lifestyle amenities, climate, and community. Popular regions include Lisbon, the Algarve, and Porto for their wide expat communities, diverse lifestyles, and range of properties.

What is the cost of living in Portugal and how does it impact my relocation?

The cost of living in Portugal varies by location, with urban centers like Lisbon and Porto being more expensive than rural areas. Budgeting for housing, food, transportation, and leisure activities is essential. Understanding these costs helps in planning a financially sustainable life in Portugal.

What should I know about retiring in Portugal?

Retiring in Portugal offers a high quality of life, affordable healthcare, and a favorable climate. Consider factors like visa requirements, tax implications, and the cost of living. Portugal's former and probably future Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime may offer tax advantages for retirees.

How does the real estate market in Portugal affect expats?

The Portugal real estate market offers diverse options from urban apartments to rural homes. Prices vary by location, with higher costs in Lisbon and the Algarve. Understanding the market helps in making informed purchasing or renting decisions, fitting your budget and lifestyle needs.

What are the benefits of conducting a scouting trip before moving to Portugal?

A scouting trip allows you to explore different regions, experience the local lifestyle, and personally assess real estate options. It helps in making an informed decision about where to live, based on your firsthand experience of the climate, community, and living conditions.

Can you provide tips for planning a scouting trip to Portugal?

When planning your scouting trip to Portugal, consider the timing to experience the area in different seasons, research potential living areas based on your preferences, arrange accommodations and transportation, and schedule visits to properties.

Also, so your homework and research about Portugal, our Portugal Beckons - The Book is a great resource to read before your Portugal scouting trip. This comprehensive guide, consisting of over 60 lessons, checklists and guides, expert advice, and tips from experienced expats will help prepare a successful trip and relocation.

What should I know about day trips during my Portugal scouting visit?

Day trips are an excellent way to explore Portugal’s diverse regions within a short time. From Lisbon, you can visit cities like Sintra or Cascais, each within a quick drive or train ride (don't forget to buy train tickets before) from the city center. Planning a day trip to different areas helps you experience the country’s variety, from beach towns to rural communities, giving you a well-rounded view of where you might want to live.

What resources are available for expats moving to Portugal?

Expats moving to Portugal can utilize online forums, expat groups, real estate portals like Idealista, weather information services, and local expat advisory services like Portugalxpert. These resources offer valuable information on living, working, and integrating into the Portuguese community.

How can I choose the right accommodation during my Portugal scouting trip?

Choosing accommodation for a scouting trip depends on your target areas. In Lisbon and Porto, staying in the city center at walking distance proximity to amenities and public transportation, making it easy to explore by foot. For those interested in more suburban or rural areas, booking accommodations outside the city and renting a car will allow for a broader exploration of the region.

What should I expect when flying into Lisbon Airport for a scouting trip?

Lisbon Airport, the main entry point for international travelers, is well-connected to the city center via public transportation, taxis, and rental car options. If you plan on using a rental car, the airport hosts several car rental services, making it convenient to start your journey.

Should I rent a car during my scouting trip to Portugal?

Yes, renting a car is often beneficial when scouting Portugal. While public transport is accessible in larger cities and the Lisbon airport area, rental cars provide flexibility to visit more remote locations, especially if you plan multiple day trips.

Wanna know more about Portugal and the Portuguese life? Thinking of moving to Portugal? Questions on visas? Healthcare? Expat life? Where you should live? Download our “Portugal Beckons - Book”, read by over 700 expats.