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Pre-Trip Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist

Lisbon, Portugal

Essential Preparations

Organize your trip effectively with this chronological timeline.

Comprehensive Timeline

Follow these steps for a smooth trip.

1

Months Out

Passport Validity

Confirm passport valid for three months beyond departure from Schengen Area.

Visa Requirements

Determine visa needs; begin application if required (consider ETIAS for mid-2025).

Flight Bookings

Secure international and major domestic flights to Lisbon.

2

Month Out

Detailed Itinerary

Outline daily activities, including attractions, day trips, and dining.

Tour Bookings

Reserve popular tours like dolphin watching or specific wine tastings.

Local Transport Overview

Familiarize yourself with Setúbal's transport system and Lisbon connections.

3

Week Out

Confirm All Bookings

Double-check flight times, hotel, and tour reservations.

Pack Bags

Organize clothing and belongings using a comprehensive packing list.

Inform Your Bank

Notify your bank and credit card companies of travel dates to prevent security blocks.

Advance Reservations

Securing bookings ahead of time streamlines your journey.

Bookings

  • Flights (international and domestic)
  • Accommodation (hotels, guesthouses, apartments)
  • Popular tours (e.g., dolphin watching, wine tastings)
  • Car rental (if desired)

Pre-Travel Reading

A small amount of research deepens your travel experience.

Cultural & Historical Insights

  • Read up on Setúbal's history, culture, and local specialties.
  • Familiarize yourself with "chocos fritos" and Moscatel.
  • Familiarize yourself with basic Portuguese phrases.
  • Even a few words can open doors to local interactions.

Home Security & Logistics

Secure your residence before your departure.

Physical Security

  • Lock all doors and windows.
  • Set home alarms.
  • Use timers for lights.
  • Consider a house-sitter.

Mail & Utilities

  • Suspend mail delivery.
  • Arrange mail collection by trusted person.
  • Pay upcoming bills or set auto-payments.
  • Unplug unnecessary electronics.

Pet & Plant Care

  • Organize pet care.
  • Arrange for plant watering.
  • Keep important documents accessible.
  • Ensure passport is secure and ready.

Useful Advice

Always secure comprehensive Travel insurance well in advance of your departure date.

Arrival & Ongoing Journey

Your first steps upon arriving in Setúbal and tips for staying settled.

First Steps

  • 1
    Immigration & Luggage

    Clear immigration (if international at LIS) and collect your bags.

  • 2
    Cash Withdrawal

    Locate an ATM (Multibanco) for initial Euros; verify credit card function.

  • 3
    SIM Card

    Consider purchasing a local SIM card for mobile connectivity.

Settling In

  • Accommodation Check-in

    Head directly to your lodging to drop off luggage.

  • Local Map & Orientation

    Obtain a local map from your hotel or a tourism office.

  • Viva Viagem Card

    Purchase and load this card for immediate public transport use.

Cultural Adaptation

Dining Etiquette

Locals often dine later; seek "Prato do Dia" for value.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory (round up or 5-10%).

Social Interactions

A simple "Olá" or "Bom dia" is polite when entering small shops.

Portuguese hospitality is warm; a little effort with language is valued.

Public Behavior

Maintain moderate noise levels in public spaces, especially transport.

Queue respectfully in lines; patience is a local virtue.

Local Transport Tip

For seamless travel within Setúbal, consider using ride-sharing apps or local taxis for direct routes.

Departure Essentials

Ensure a smooth exit from Setúbal and Portugal.

Last-Minute Tasks

  • Plan time for last-minute souvenir shopping.
  • If purchasing larger items (e.g., wine), inquire about shipping options at CTT (postal service).
  • Consider Eagle Creek packing solutions for return journey organization.
  • Be aware of customs regulations and duties for your home country.

Financial Wrap-up

  • Non-EU residents may qualify for a VAT refund.
  • Look for shops displaying "Tax Free" signs.
  • Present forms, passport, receipts, and items at the airport's customs office.
  • Allow extra time at the airport for this refund procedure.

Important Reminders

Double-check these items before leaving.

Documents & Departure

  • Passport:Ready and accessible
  • Flight Tickets:Digital or printed
  • Health Documents:Any required for home country
  • Re-entry requirements:Check for your home country

Departure Logistics

  • Allow ample time to reach Lisbon Portela Airport (LIS) from Setúbal.
  • Factor in potential public transport delays or road congestion.
  • For international flights, plan to arrive 2-3 hours before departure.
  • For train or bus departures from Setúbal, arrive 15-30 minutes early.

Travel Beyond

Always account for travel time between Setúbal and Lisbon Airport (LIS).

This is especially true during peak traffic hours.