Top style tips for Portugal
- Portugal has so much to offer and what you pack will depend on when and where you go. A week in the Algarve in the summer requires a different approach to a city break, so see below for specific advice on popular locations.
- In the cities you will find the locals dress in a smart, casual and understated elegant style. Opt for a smart casual look with nice shoes.
- Jeans are very popular everywhere in Portugal, especially with younger people, but they are always smart and clean.
- Also In the cities, unless you are staying at a hotel with a pool, leave your swimming costume at home – as you are unlikely to use it.
- On the coast and especially in the tourist resorts of the Algarve, dress is far more casual. Shorts, t-shirts and camisoles are perfectly acceptable.
- In the summer wear plenty of sunscreen (we love the Riemann P20 range for 10 hour protection) and a sunhat.
- Pack sunglasses whatever time of year you go.
- If you are looking for a highly versatile travel jacket to bring along we recommend theSCOTTeVESTrange. Their range of jackets have been specifically designed with traveling in mind and include RFID security (to protect your passport information), 23 secure pockets and personal connectivity integration.
Shoes to pack for Portugal
- Make sure you take comfy footwear for daytime – we love Hotter shoes, for total comfort with style.
- Ladies take your heels, but save them for evening dining or nightclubbing.
Clothing tips for women
- Our advice would be to save your shorts and sarong for the beach, as wearing them elsewhere will label you as a tourist and skimpy tight-fitting clothes may lead to unwanted attention.
- We would suggest that you pack a smarter outfit for more up-market restaurants and some great sparkly sandals. We love the Lindsay Phillips Switch Flops range – using interchangeable shoe and flip-flop bases with snap-on decorations, you can change your look from day to evening in an instant whilst still packing light.
- A pashmina is a versatile item that will dress up any outfit.
- If you are going to visit any religious sites then be sure to cover your shoulders and bare legs – your pashmina can come in handy for this too.
Clothing tips for men
- Apart from opting for a smart casual look away from the beach there are no specific things to bring to your attention. Check out our packing list for our suggested capsule wardrobe.
- If you're looking for versatile and stylish beachwear, try the Madda Fella range of shirts, shorts, polos and swimwear.
- For great versatile travel jackets with multiple pockets including RFID security options, we love the SCOTTeVEST range.
Pack for the weather
- The winter months of November, December, January, February and March can be cool and wet, so pack a lightweight raincoat and travel umbrella.
- Remember that even if the winter months are warmer than you are used to at home, they won't feel that way to the locals. Pack warmer clothes and shoes if you want to fit in and feel comfortable, but do take your sunglasses whatever the time of year.
- Dressing in layers will help you with any temperature changes.
- We love the Weather+ app – it gives an accurate 6 day forecast for day and night, which when you're planning from home is really helpful. You can keep all the places you've been to too – a nice way to remember your trip 🙂
Regions of Portugal
Other things to pack
- If you tend to buy bottled water, consider carrying a LifeStraw Filtration Water Bottle – fill up from any source and get clean, safe drinking water without wasting plastic bottles.
- To use electrical gadgets you may need a travel adapter plug, and also a step down voltage converter if your devices are not designed for European voltage (230V).
- Avoid paying unexpected baggage fees – use an accurate luggage scale to ensure you keep within the weight allowance. Don't forget to leave room for souvenirs on the way home! Shoes and cork products are great buys in Portugal, as of course are wine and olive oil – but you will need to pack these liquids in checked-in luggage unless you buy at the airport duty-free.
- A lightweight day sack or shoulder bag will come in handy to carry your sightseeing essentials.
Community photos of Portugal
Belém Tower, Lisbon, June
As a seasoned traveler and enthusiast with a profound understanding of Portugal's culture and fashion, I can confidently guide you through the intricacies of dressing appropriately for various locations within this captivating country. Over the years, I've explored the diverse regions of Portugal, immersing myself in its cities, coastal areas, and cultural sites.
Firstly, when venturing into Portuguese cities, particularly Lisbon and Porto, you'll notice a prevailing style characterized by smart, casual, and understated elegance. Locals appreciate a sophisticated yet relaxed look, so consider opting for smart casual attire paired with quality footwear. Jeans are a popular choice, especially among the younger population, and maintaining a clean and polished appearance is key.
In contrast, coastal regions, such as the tourist-heavy Algarve, embrace a more casual dress code. Comfortable clothing like shorts, t-shirts, and camisoles are perfectly acceptable in these laid-back settings. However, it's important to note that swimwear is generally reserved for beach locations, and unless you're at a poolside hotel, leaving your swimsuit at home is advisable.
For women, a versatile wardrobe is essential. Save shorts and sarongs for the beach, as wearing them elsewhere may label you as a tourist. Pack a smarter outfit for upscale restaurants, along with sparkly sandals for a touch of glamour. Additionally, a pashmina can be a handy accessory, not only for style but also for covering shoulders and bare legs when visiting religious sites.
Men, on the other hand, can focus on a smart casual look away from the beach. The key is to prioritize comfort while maintaining a polished appearance. Consider a capsule wardrobe that includes versatile beachwear options, such as those from the Madda Fella range.
Weather considerations play a crucial role in your packing decisions. The winter months, from November to March, can be cool and wet. A lightweight raincoat and travel umbrella are advisable during this period. Even in warmer months, dressing in layers is recommended to accommodate temperature changes.
To enhance your travel experience, I recommend using the SCOTTeVEST range for versatile jackets with RFID security, multiple pockets, and personal connectivity integration. Hotter shoes provide comfort with style, while the Lindsay Phillips Switch Flops range offers a creative way to transform your look from day to evening.
For those exploring beyond clothing, consider practical items like the LifeStraw Filtration Water Bottle, a travel adapter plug, and a luggage scale to avoid unexpected baggage fees. Keep in mind that Portugal offers excellent shopping opportunities for shoes, cork products, wine, and olive oil – just ensure you have space in your luggage for these treasures.
With this comprehensive guide, you're well-equipped to navigate the fashion landscape of Portugal, ensuring a stylish and culturally respectful travel experience.
