Redpoint Destinations

Portugal

Portugal Travel Insurance: What You Need to Know Before You Go

Explore Portugal's Laid-Back Charm, With The Best Trip Insurance From Redpoint

Portugal is having a moment. In recent years, this laid-back nation has grown in popularity with travelers, thanks to its vibrant culture, friendly locals, and beautiful beaches to explore.

Whether it's the urban surfing meccas of Lisbon, Porto, and Ericeria, the unique and surprising Azores, or the stunning Algarve coast, most visitors come away from Portugal eagerly planning their next trip.

As with any destination, taking out a comprehensive travel insurance policy should be part of your preparation. Portugal has lots of activities on offer, from surfing and diving to rock climbing and kayaking, so a plan with both medical coverage and emergency medical evacuation cover is essential for adventure travelers. You'll also want all the standard benefits of a travel insurance policy, like trip cancellation, trip delay, and baggage loss.

Let's take a closer look at what you need to know about traveling to Portugal.

Health & Safety in Portugal

Overall, Portugal is a safe and peaceful country that travelers should feel confident about visiting. Violent crime is very rare, and in general, crime rates are low, with petty crime being a minor exception.

As in most destinations, petty theft can occur in tourist hotspots and around major sites, so you should always stay aware of your surroundings and be aware of flashing valuables. Scams targeting tourists, such as distraction thefts and overcharging for taxi fares, are uncommon but can happen, so vigilance is advised.

Portugal does not come with any novel or significant disease risk for travelers. However, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) always recommends being up-to-date on routine vaccinations before international travel, including measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), tetanus, influenza, and hepatitis A and B.

For travel tips and the most up-to-date information on Portuguese health and safety, you should always consult the U.S. Department of State’s country information page for Portugal and track the CDC’s country-specific guidance before your trip, just in case.

With diverse landscapes that include scenic coastal cliffs, forests, and mountain ranges, Portugal’s natural beauty is something to behold. That said, travelers should always be aware of the potential risks involved while out and about.

While the country has no dangerous large wildlife, jellyfish and sea urchins can pose hazards along the coast. Hikers should stay on marked trails and be cautious of steep cliffs, especially in the Algarve and Madeira, where strong winds and coastal erosion can create unstable terrain.

As for natural disasters, Portugal occasionally experiences wildfires, especially during the hot, dry summer months. Travelers should stay informed about fire risks when visiting rural or forested areas. Portugal also has a history of seismic activity, with mild earthquakes occurring occasionally. In the Azores, volcanic activity is monitored closely, though the risk to travelers is low.

In case of emergencies, U.S. travelers should register for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) ahead of a trip to Portugal. Once your application is received, the State Department will be able to reach out in the event of a natural disaster or other crisis, and keep you in the loop on any health, weather, safety, and security news in your destination.

When it comes to getting behind the wheel, Portugal’s roads are generally in good condition, but driving can be challenging due to winding streets, aggressive drivers, and occasional poor signage. Be aware that if you plan to drive in Portugal, you need an International Driving Permit in addition to a valid U.S. license.

In Portugal’s cities, public transportation is reliable, though pickpocketing can occur on crowded trams and metro lines. Tourists should use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps to avoid scams and ensure fair pricing.

Insurance Benefits & Coverage for a Trip to Portugal

The components of any good travel insurance policy are the same. Before you purchase travel insurance, you’ll want to make sure your plan includes each type of coverage benefit listed below. That way you should be covered, no matter what unforeseen circumstances come your way in Portugal.

Trip cancellation and trip interruption insurance:

Trip cancellation insurance can reimburse your non-refundable trip expenses if your trip to Portugal is canceled or cut short due to covered reasons, like illness, severe weather, or family emergencies. For extra trip cancellation coverage, cancel for any reason (CFAR) insurance is usually available as an add-on.

Travel medical insurance:

This can help cover medical expenses for injuries or illnesses incurred during your trip. Both public and private healthcare facilities can bill visitors for treatment in Portugal, and your health insurance coverage from home will not be accepted for medical care, so travel health insurance is a must. If you have pre-existing medical conditions, you may need to tack on a waiver to your medical coverage.

Emergency medical evacuation insurance:

Emergency evacuation coverage should cover you for transportation to the nearest medical facility or back to the U.S. in extreme or emergency situations. If you’re doing any extreme or adventure travel in Portugal, such as surfing, scuba diving, or rock climbing, it would be a big error to overlook this benefit when shopping for coverage.

Baggage and personal belongings insurance:

This helps cover loss, theft, and damage to your belongings should anything happen to them during your journey.

Trip delay insurance:

Travel delay benefits can compensate you for additional expenses incurred if your trip is delayed before it starts, or during any connections or transfers. If you’re traveling to Portugal from other countries in Europe, you may experience flight or train delays, which makes this insurance important to have.

Redpoint has a selection of travel insurance plans that offer crucial coverage for every type of trip to Portugal, no matter your activity level or travel needs.

For adventure travelers looking to explore the beautiful Algarve coastline or Peneda-Gerês National Park, Ripcord is an extensive travel plan with high coverage limits and enhanced coverage.

If you’re sticking to cultural exploration in Portugal’s laid-back cities, like Porto and Lisbon, Redpoint’s other policies provide comprehensive and tailored trip protection for a wide range of situations too, from travel delays to trip interruptions to unexpected medical fees.

Cavalry is particularly suited for urban travel and luxury experiences, while Harbor offers robust coverage for the budget-minded leisure traveler who’s backpacking across Europe.

You can buy travel insurance for a single trip to Portugal, or purchase an annual policy for multiple trips. Check out our plan options and get a quote today.

FAQs for Portugal Travel Insurance

Yellow vintage tram on the street in Lisbon, Portugal.

1. Is travel insurance mandatory for Portugal?

Travel insurance is not required to visit Portugal if you are an American tourist staying for less than 90 days. However, it's a risk to travel anywhere without appropriate travel insurance, even if it's not required. And if you're applying for a Schengen Area visa for a longer stay, then you will need to provide proof of travel insurance.

2. How much is travel insurance for Portugal?

The cost of travel insurance for Portugal varies based on multiple factors, including the length and nature of your trip, your age, and the total trip cost. In general, most of Redpoint's plans for travel insurance to Portugal range from 6% to 15% of the total trip cost.

3. What should your travel insurance cover for a trip to Portugal?

A comprehensive travel insurance policy for Portugal should include adequate medical coverage (at least $100,000 for unexpected medical costs), emergency medical evacuation, trip cancellation and interruption coverage, and baggage loss protection. You should also look for a policy with 24/7 assistance services, which all of Redpoint's policies offer.

4. Are there any COVID-19 restrictions for travelers to Portugal?

As of now, there are no COVID-19-related entry requirements for travelers to Portugal. However, if you are worried about a coronavirus infection upsetting your travel plans, it may be a good idea to add cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage to your travel insurance policy.

5. What happens if a tourist gets sick in Portugal?

If a tourist gets sick in Portugal, they can visit a public or private hospital, urgent-care center, or pharmacy for medical assistance. Public healthcare facilities provide high-quality care but may have longer wait times. Private hospitals and clinics offer faster service but require payment upfront, which is why travel insurance to cover medical expenses is so important.

If you need to call emergency services in Portugal, dial 112. Redpoint can also be reached for round-the-clock assistance at +1-415-481-0610.

6. Are the hospitals good in Portugal?

Yes, Portugal has a well-regarded healthcare system with high-quality hospitals and medical facilities. Major cities, like Lisbon, Porto, and Faro, have top-tier medical centers with English-speaking staff, whereas rural areas may have fewer healthcare options and you may struggle to find as many English speaking practitioners.

If you need help locating adequate medical care while in Portugal, contact Redpoint for assistance.

7. What documentation is needed to visit Portugal?

U.S. citizens need a valid passport with two empty pages to enter Portugal. The passport must be valid for three months beyond the intended departure date.

A Schengen visa is not required for Americans entering Europe's Schengen Zone for tourism or business purposes if they are staying less than 90 days. Starting in 2025, however, travelers may need to obtain an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) before entering.

8. Is Portugal safe to visit?

Yes, Portugal is considered one of the safest countries in the world, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere for tourists. Petty crimes, like pickpocketing, can occur in and around crowded tourist areas, public transportation, and nightlife spots, so visitors should remain aware of their surroundings and safeguard their belongings.

9. Is Portugal safe for female travelers?

Yes, Portugal is generally very safe for female travelers, and visitors will find that local people are typically friendly and helpful. Violent crime is rare, and solo female travelers often find it comfortable to explore both cities and rural areas.

However, as with any destination, taking standard safety precautions is advised. Use common sense, and avoid poorly lit areas at night, stay alert in nightlife districts, and keep your personal belongings secure, among other preventative measures.

10. How do I contact the U.S. Embassy in Portugal?

The U.S. Embassy in Portugal is located in Lisbon, where you can seek help with emergencies, legal matters, or passport-related issues. There are also consulates located in Ponta and Delgada. The contact information is below:

Av. das Forças Armadas 133C,

1600-081

Lisboa

Tel: +351-21-727-3300

Redpoint Travel Protection Has Your Back

Redpoint has comprehensive and easy-to-understand policies to suit any type of trip, from cultural adventures in the major Portuguese metropolises to exploring the natural beauty of the Azores and Algarve, so you can travel with confidence. Take a closer look at our travel insurance plans — Ripcord, Cavalry, and Harbor — and get a quote for your next trip today.