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Travel Advice: Portugal

Smart preparation for a smooth, sun-soaked trip

Portugal is one of Europe’s most beloved destinations with dramatic coastlines, cobblestone villages, world-class wine, and a pace of life that invites you to slow down. But even the most relaxed holiday can take an unexpected turn if you’re not prepared for the health side of travel.

At Walker Street Doctors, we love helping our patients travel well combining medical expertise with practical, lived experience. Our travel health specialist Dr Georgina East has supported expeditions from Antarctica to Africa, so she knows that good planning is the key to a seamless trip.


1. Don’t underestimate the European sun

Portugal’s coastal breeze can make you forget how strong the UV really is. Sunburn and heat exhaustion are two of the most common travel-related issues we see after European holidays.

  • Pack (and reapply) SPF 50+ sunscreen.
  • Stay hydrated, especially if you’re walking the steep hills of Lisbon or Porto.
  • Avoid sightseeing in peak midday heat.

2. Eat, drink and stay well

Portuguese cuisine is famous for fresh seafood and rich pastries, but travellers occasionally encounter food-borne illness.

  • Wash hands frequently and avoid undercooked seafood or street food of uncertain hygiene.
  • If you have a sensitive gut, carry medication for traveller’s diarrhoea.

3. Stay protected from bites

While malaria isn’t a concern in mainland Portugal, tick-borne encephalitis has been detected in parts of Europe, and ticks are common in rural or forested areas.

  • Use insect repellent if hiking in the countryside.
  • Check for ticks at the end of each day and remove promptly.
  • Discuss tick-borne disease prevention if you’ll be hiking or camping.

4. Review your vaccinations

Even for European destinations, travel vaccinations matter.
We’ll review your history and may recommend:

  • Hepatitis A (especially if travelling to rural or smaller towns)
  • Tetanus booster (every 10 years)
  • Influenza and COVID-19 (always worth being up to date before travel)

5. Pack a small medical kit

Our GPs and nurses can help tailor your WSD First Aid kit think:

  • Prescription medication in original packaging
  • Simple first-aid (antiseptic, bandaids, pain relief)
  • Hydration salts and anti-nausea tablets
  • Travel letter for any prescription medications
  • Copies of travel insurance and key documents

Travel well, travel prepared

A pre-travel consult at Walker Street Doctors helps you identify and prevent the most likely health issues before you go so your focus stays on surf, sunshine, and discovering Portugal’s hidden laneways.

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