Portugal has long been a favourite destination for Irish holidaymakers, no matter the time of year. The golden beaches of the Algarve, the mosaic streets of Lisbon and relaxing along the Duoro river in Porto, are all places and things we’ve come accustomed to.
In July, the Portuguese Tourist Board, along with leading health bodies in the country, launched a ‘Clean & Safe’ certification for hospitality, tourist and entertainment businesses. This was to encourage visitors back to the country and to the regions that rely on tourism.
Like the rest of Europe, Portugal is currently going through a second wave of COVID-19. So, what is the situation there like and what restrictions have been implemented?
What are the latest coronavirus restrictions in Portugal?
Since the start of the pandemic, the Lisbon region has seen just over 70,000 cases and the Algarve region reporting just over 3,500 cases.
Similar to the coronavirus situation in Spain, a state of emergency has been declared in Portugal for the next fortnight. As of Monday, 9th November, 121 of the country’s 308 municipalities will have a curfew, including Lisbon and Porto. These areas are currently considered a high-risk for COVID-19 transmission.
This curfew is from 11pm to 5am Monday to Friday and 1pm to 5am at the weekend. There are, of course, exceptions to this such as going to work, caring duties and buying medicine or food. This doesn’t apply to the Algarve region.
Across Portugal, you are still advised to adhere to public health guidelines, which are the Rule of 5:
- The use of face masks is mandatory in all commercial and cultural spaces and on public transport.
- Regularly and thoroughly wash your hands
- Practice good cough / sneeze etiquette
- Physically distance
- Use the Stayaway app – their version of a COVID-19 tracker app
As in Ireland, there is a limited capacity in restaurants and cafes with the utmost health and safety measures in place. This is also true for museums, galleries and tourist attractions. It’s advised, where possible, to book in advance. All bars and nightclubs are shut and the sale of alcohol in open-air spaces if prohibted unless part of a meal. In taxis, only the driver may sit in the front with passenger occupancy not exceeding 2/3 of the remaining space.
Can I travel to Portugal? What are the entry requirements?
Yes, people travelling from Ireland are welcome in Portugal and will not need to self-isolate. You will have to fill out a passenger locator form, which can be done online or during the flight. Upon arrival in Portugal, you will be required to take a body temperature check.
Can I fly to Portugal?
Yes, although at a reduced capacity, both Ryanair and Aer Lingus are still flying to Portugal on a daily basis. They are flying to the two most popular destinations Lisbon and the Algarve (Faro).
Do I need to self-isolate when I return home?
Currently, yes. As per the EU-wide traffic light system, Portugal is currently red. This means you would have to restrict your movements for 14-days upon arrival home. From December, the government hope to be able to test those returning from a red country after 5 days.
Get some inspiration for your future holidays to Portugal here.
