Planning a Trip to Portugal? Here’s What You Should Know
Portugal is one of Europe’s most popular destinations—offering charming cities, delicious cuisine, beautiful coastlines, and rich cultural heritage. But even in a country that feels “easy to navigate,” it’s important to understand how the healthcare system works, what vaccines are recommended, which medications may be restricted, and how to protect yourself with the right travel insurance.
Common Health Conditions in Portugal
💜 Cardiovascular Diseases
The leading cause of death in Portugal, especially among older adults. Includes heart attacks, strokes, and high blood pressure.
🛌 Stroke (CVA)
Has a high incidence rate, often related to diets high in salt and fat, physical inactivity, and smoking.
🚮 Cancer (breast, lung, colon)
Prevalent but supported by strong national screening and early detection programs.
🧐 Diabetes and Obesity
Increasingly common, particularly due to sedentary lifestyles and an aging population.
Health Issues Tourists May Encounter in Portugal
🤧 Colds and Flu
The colder and drier climate—especially in autumn and winter—can lead to seasonal respiratory infections.
🍽️ Digestive Issues
Changes in diet, or excessive consumption of seafood or cured meats, may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort.
🧼 Trips and Falls on Uneven Streets
Many historic city centers like Lisbon, Porto, and Coimbra have cobblestone streets or slopes that can be slippery or uneven—comfortable footwear is key.
Is Travel Insurance Required for Portugal? 💳
Technically, travel insurance is not mandatory to enter Portugal for many passport holders, but it is strongly recommended.
Portugal’s public healthcare system (SNS) is not free for tourists.
Unless you have EU citizenship or coverage via a reciprocal healthcare agreement, you will be charged for all care, even in public hospitals.
A good travel insurance policy should cover:
Emergency medical treatment and hospitalization
Consultations, diagnostic tests, and medications
Urgent dental care
Medical repatriation, evacuation, or trip cancellations
Having insurance can prevent serious expenses—and in some cases, avoid delays at border control if officials request proof of coverage.
Recommended Vaccines Before Traveling to Portugal 💉
No vaccines are required for entry into Portugal. However, the following are strongly recommended:
Influenza (Flu) – Especially during autumn and winter
Hepatitis A & B – For extended stays or rural travel
MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
Tetanus and Diphtheria (Td)
COVID-19 – Fully vaccinated travelers are less likely to face complications
🚨 Measles outbreaks have occurred in Portugal in recent years, so MMR vaccination is particularly important.
Medications: What’s Allowed and What’s Restricted in Portugal? 💊
If you’re bringing medications from your home country, here are the key rules to know:
🚫 Controlled or Restricted Medications
Some medications commonly used in other countries are regulated or restricted in Portugal and across the EU.
Metamizole (Dipyrone): Allowed in small quantities with a prescription, but rarely used and tightly regulated in Europe.
Benzodiazepines (e.g., clonazepam, diazepam, alprazolam): Require a medical prescription with diagnosis and dosage, ideally translated into English.
Codeine and its derivatives: Treated as controlled substances and may be considered opioids.
Methylphenidate (Ritalin): Controlled. Do not travel with it unless you have a detailed medical report.
Antidepressants and Antipsychotics: Permitted, but must be in original packaging and accompanied by a valid prescription.
✅ Permitted (With Caution and in Reasonable Quantities)
Paracetamol (acetaminophen), ibuprofen, antacids, antihistamines, anti-diarrheals (e.g., loperamide)
Vitamins and supplements, as long as they’re for personal use
📝 Medication Tips for Travelers
Always carry medications in your carry-on bag, in original packaging
Bring the original prescription in your language and a simple English translation
Only pack the amount needed for the duration of your trip
Avoid bringing loose pills or large quantities of controlled substances
🔎 Example for translation:
Patient uses alprazolam 0.25 mg for anxiety. One tablet per day. Prescribed by Dr. [Name].
Pre-Trip Health Checklist for Portugal ✅🧳
✅ Travel insurance purchased (minimum €30,000 coverage recommended)
✅ Vaccines up to date
✅ Printed prescriptions + English translations for controlled medications
✅ Personal medications and first-aid kit
✅ Moisturizer and sunscreen for dry or sunny days
✅ Location of nearby pharmacies (“Farmácias”)
✅ Emergency contact for your insurance provider
Final Thoughts
Portugal is one of the most welcoming, safe, and scenic countries in Europe. But even in a familiar or “easygoing” destination, good preparation matters—especially regarding health, insurance, and medication rules.
Get your health in order, update your vaccines, pack your essentials, and travel with peace of mind. That way, all that’s left to do is enjoy the wine, the pastel de nata, and the beauty of Lisbon’s hills or the Algarve coast.
