Travel essentials for Portugal
Adapters, plugs, tap water, tipping and health basics.
Power & adapters
Type C, F adapter required
You need a Type C or F adapter - the round two-pin European plug. The voltage is 230V, the same as Australia, so your chargers, hair dryer and shaver all work normally once the plug fits.
230V, 50Hz
Tap water
Safe to drink
Tap water is safe throughout mainland Portugal and Madeira.
Staying connected
Excellent nationwide, including Madeira and the Azores.
A Europe-wide eSIM covers Portugal and Spain on one plan, which is how most Australians travel this corner of Europe.
Compare Portugal eSIMsHealth risks
- Strong Atlantic rips on west-coast beaches
- Summer wildfire risk inland between June and September
Emergency numbers in Portugal
| All emergencies | 112 for everything |
|---|---|
| Police | 112 |
| Ambulance | 112 |
| Fire | 112 |
| Australian consulate | Australian Embassy Lisbon - +351 21 310 1500 |
Tipping and everyday costs
Not expected. Round up in a cafe, leave 5-10% in a restaurant if the service was good. The couvert - bread and olives brought unasked - is charged for, and you can send it back.
What screening will actually let you pack
Half of what goes in the bag is decided by someone else. What you can take on a plane sets out the Australian rules item by item - power banks, liquids, scissors, aerosols - and what has to be declared at the border on the way home.
More Portugal essentials
Further reading: Power adapters by country: what Australians actually need to pack
How these comparisons are made
Plug types, voltages and frequencies come from the international electrotechnical standards data for each country, stated per destination with what that means for Australian appliances specifically - what needs an adapter, what needs a converter, and what should stay home. Read the full editorial policy.
Portugal travel essentials FAQs
What power adapter do I need for Portugal?
A Type C or F adapter, the round two-pin European plug. Portugal runs on 230V at 50Hz, the same as Australia.
Planning Portugal?
We will send you the Portugal guide as it grows - what to book before you go, which eSIM and travel card are worth it there, and what things actually cost in Australian dollars.