Firstly, it’s essential to check the latest travel advice for your country of origin and for Portugal itself. The situation is constantly evolving, and the rules can vary depending on where you’re coming from. At present, Portugal has a traffic light system in place, with countries categorized as either green, amber, or red. Travelers coming from green countries, such as the UK and the US, don’t need to quarantine on arrival, while those coming from amber or red countries may be subject to additional testing and/or quarantine requirements.
It’s worth noting that testing requirements can also vary depending on where you’re coming from. UK travelers, for example, need to provide proof of a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of departure, while US travelers must provide a negative COVID-19 test or proof of recovery from COVID-19 before boarding their flight.
Once you arrive in Portugal, you’ll need to adhere to local restrictions. Face masks are mandatory in all indoor settings and outdoor areas where social distancing isn’t possible. You’ll also need to show proof of vaccination, a negative test result, or proof of recovery from COVID-19 to enter many indoor venues, including restaurants, bars, and museums.
If you’re planning to travel to Portugal for tourism purposes, it’s important to note that some regions may have more stringent restrictions in place than others. For example, the popular tourist destination of Madeira has its own entry requirements, including proof of full vaccination or negative PCR test within 72 hours of arrival. Some popular tourist attractions, such as the Tower of Belem in Lisbon, may also have limited capacity or require advance booking.
It’s also important to bear in mind the current state of the pandemic in Portugal. While the country has made significant progress in its vaccination rollout, has been a recent surge in cases due to the Delta variant. As of August 2021, the country has reintroduced some restrictions in response to this, including a night-time curfew in some areas.
Despite the challenges, many people are still choosing to travel to Portugal, attracted by its sunny climate, beautiful scenery and rich cultural heritage. It’s important to approach travel with caution during these uncertain times, but with the right preparation and information, it’s possible to have an enjoyable and safe trip.
Ultimately, whether or not you can travel to Portugal with restrictions will depend on multiple factors, including your country of origin, vaccination status, and itinerary. It’s important to do your research and stay up-to-date with the latest guidance to ensure a smooth and successful trip. With the right planning and precautions, a trip to Portugal can be a fantastic way to experience a new culture, enjoy the outdoors, and take a break from the stresses of everyday life.