Travel Information

WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT
PORTUGAL AND LISBON

Enjoy our
country

Lisbon is celebrated as EUROPE’S LEADING CITY DESTINATION IN 2024. The city has also garnered numerous accolades, including the WORLD’S LEADING SEASIDE METROPOLITAN DESTINATION IN 2022 and EUROPE’S LEADING CITY BREAK DESTINATION in 2017-2020 and 2022.

Safety

Safety is always a major concern when travelling, especially with children. Portugal, however, stands out as one of the safest destinations. According to the 2024 Global Peace Index, Portugal is the world’s 7th safest country, ranking just behind Iceland, Denmark, Ireland, New Zealand, Austria, and Singapore.

Modernity

The heart of Lisbon is vibrant with wide avenues, green trees, modernist buildings, mosaic decorations, and numerous cafes. The city is undergoing a renaissance, making it one of the trendiest cities in the world.

Culture

Lisbon’s cultural scene is a dynamic mix of the old and the new. The echoes of its grand past blend seamlessly with contemporary venues, creating a unique cultural experience.

Weather

Portugal enjoys a temperate climate year-round, with long hot summers, warm spring and autumn months, and mild winters. Being located along the Atlantic coast, Lisbon benefits from this pleasant climate.

Attractions

The capital city is rich in history and easy to explore. Wander through the historic neighbourhoods of Alfama, Mouraria, and Graça, or visit the ancient St. Jorge’s Castle for stunning city views. Belem, the launching point for Portugal’s great maritime explorers, is another must-see area filled with impressive sights.

Friendliness

Portugal is known for its friendly people. Locals are hospitable and enjoy being good hosts. Most speak excellent English and are eager to assist tourists.

Leisure

The city offers a fantastic atmosphere with endless activities. From ancient and modern architecture to interesting monuments and exciting tourist activities like Bus, Tuk Tuk, and Sailing Tours, there is always something to do. High-end shopping centres and vibrant city life make it a must-see destination for those wanting to experience the Southern European lifestyle at its best.

Easy Access

Lisbon is only two hours from most Western European cities, with numerous low-cost flight connections to the main airport. The tournament venue is conveniently located just 5 km from Lisbon International Airport and close to many accommodation options.

How to get to Lisbon?

Lisbon

Direct flights to Lisbon International Airport are available from Europe, Africa, America and Asia, from more than 110 different cities. The airport is located in the heart of Lisbon, making the route from the airport to the existing accommodations for the festival never much longer than 20 min by bus.

Porto

Flying to Porto, with 84 connections to Europe and to the rest of the world, is also a great way to get to the Portugal Rugby Youth Festival. Porto, the European Best Destination in 2012, 2014 & 2017, is only 3 hours away by bus to Lisbon on first class highways.

Faro

With more than 68 destinations, flying to Faro Airport is an excellent option to get to the festival while getting cheaper rates on flights. Enjoy the beautiful beaches in Algarve and combine it with the Portugal Rugby Youth Festival. Faro is less than 2h30 away from Lisbon by bus in modern highways, and we can provide you with good accommodation next to the beach or just a transfer to Lisbon!

Quick tips

Visas

European Union, Australia and New Zealand citizens require only their passport or Identity Document. They may remain for a period of up to 90 days. American and Canadian citizens may stay for a period of 60 days with a valid passport. Other countries are subject to Visa controls and as regulations can change overnight it is recommended that a potential visitor should check with the Portuguese Consul in their respective country prior to making a visit to Portugal.

Cost of living

Prices vary in function of the type of establishment and whether or not the cost includes a table service, as a result of which the prices presented are purely indicative. An espresso coffee, which is so popular amongst the Portuguese, costs around €1. A beer or Coca-Cola costs around €1.50. A cheese or ham sandwich costs around €2. If you have a full meal, it will cost you around €8 to €11 per person in a snack bar, between €13 and €20 in a restaurant and around €30 to €50 in a first-class restaurant or Fado house.

Banks

Banks are open from Monday through to Friday, from 08h30 to 15h00, and closed on Public Holidays, Saturdays and Sundays. Bank charges vary between different banks for the same item or service.

Language

One of the Latin languages, Portuguese is the third most spoken European language in the world and the native tongue of about 200 million people. The Portuguese-speaking countries are scattered all over the world. Portuguese is spoken in Africa (Angola, Cape Verde, Guinea-Bissau, Mozambique and São Tomé e Príncipe), in South America (Brazil) and in Asia, (East Timor, the youngest nation in the world).

In Portugal, there are lots of people who are able to communicate in English, French and Spanish.

Urban Transit

In Lisbon, passengers can use trains, buses, electric trams, underground, and public elevators. Tickets can be purchased from 08H00 until 20H00. In most instances, tickets can be purchased before or at the moment of boarding.

Taxis

In urban areas, you are charged according to the taximeter. Outside urban areas, the charge is per kilometre and includes the cost of the return trip. Luggage over 30 kilos is charged at a fixed rate. Printed rates are available in both Portuguese and English.

Money

The local currency is Euros. Money can be exchanged at Banks, “Bureau de Change” (Câmbio) or at one of the currency exchange machines in the streets. These facilities offer a better rate than Hotels. Euro Cheque is a cheaper method than Travellers Cheque for obtaining cash. All well-known Credit Cards are usually accepted.

Emergencies

While in Portugal, by calling 112 you'll be connected to Fire, Police, and Ambulance services. Every Fire Brigade also maintains one or more ambulances for emergencies.

Pharmacists can give advice on simple health problems and suggest appropriate treatment. They also sell many medicines without a doctor’s prescription.

Security is handled by the “Polícia de Segurança Pública” (PSP) or the “Guarda Nacional Republicana” (GNR). Traffic is handled by “Brigada de Trânsito”. On motorways and several major roads, there are SOS phone boxes for you to call for help in case of an accident or breakdown.

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