With its stunning coastal landscapes, vibrant culture, rich history, and sunny climes Portugal is a great place to visit whether for work or leisure. Whilst a business trip may the main focus of your travel, this European gem has plenty to offer by way of opportunities that will allow you to really soak up its charm during your stay. Whether you want to enjoy their fresh, flavourful cuisine or explore the diverse bustling cities, let’s take a look at how you can make the most of your business trip to Portugal.
Where to stay
The main business hubs in Portugal are Lisbon, Porto, and Faro. They are well placed to make a good base during your business trip. The capital of Portugal, Lisbon is the heart of innovation and commerce, Faro which is situated in the Algarve region is where you will find many industries related to agriculture and tourism, and Porto offers a mix of culture and industry. They are all well connected using local transport links and Portugal has a number of airports making internal travel very easy.
If you want to minimise your travel time, consider a hotel close to your main meeting locations. Many of the big hotel chains have hotels in the cities which offer excellent facilities for business travellers. If you prefer something with a more homely feel where you will have a little more space and freedom, then a serviced apartment may be a better option that will offer you everything you need for a very comfortable stay in Portugal.
Whilst breakfast may be included in most hotels, renting a serviced apartment in Lisbon in particular will give you a little more freedom to start your day the Portuguese way. The coffee culture in Portugal is not to be missed. A coffee and a pastel de nata (custard tart) at a local bakery is one of the best ways to start your day. Cafés such as A Brasileira in Lisbon or Majestic Café in Porto are iconic and should be on everyone’s list. For a quintessential Portuguese start to the day consider enjoying breakfast outdoors which will give you the chance to soak in the sunny vibes and fresh air.
Conduct business with a local touch
The business culture in Portugal is one that places a heavy emphasis on trust and relationships. They also value punctuality, politeness, and a genuine interest in building a rapport. When it comes to meeting with your Portuguese business associates you should make time to engage in small talk as this can help to break the ice. Popular subjects include culture, wine, and of course Portuguese football.
Portugal has a great range of modern business venues and coworking spaces that can make a good place to conduct your business meetings. If you are looking for somewhere for a larger event then facilities like the Lisbon Congress Center or Alfândega do Porto are ideal. Alternatively for a co-working space, Second Home in Lisbon or Porto are a good choice for a smaller, stylish, and productive work environment.
Explore the local area and culture
If you have free time between your professional engagements, or even after, Portugal’s rich heritage is ready and waiting. Here are some activities to consider:
1. Lisbon: The Belém Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is well worth a visit or you could take a tram ride on the iconic Tram 28 which travels through the city’s historic neighbourhoods.
2. Porto: The Ribeira district, famous for its colourful facades, is the place to visit. You may also want to consider a short tour of the Port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia.
3. Faro: Stroll through the Old Town, known for its cobblestone streets and the beautiful Arco da Vila.
Portugal’s culinary scene offers something special and is a highlight of any trip to the country. Treat your taste buds to the diverse flavours that you will find in the specialities of the country:
- Seafood Delights: Dishes like bacalhau à brás (salted cod) or arroz de marisco (seafood rice) capture the essence of Portugal.
- Local Specialties: Francesinha is a Porto speciality, a hearty sandwich filled with meats and covered in a generous amount of melted cheese and sauce.
- Wine Pairing: Portugal is also known for its wines, consider a glass of Port wine, Vinho Verde, or Douro reds for an authentic experience.
If you want a more relaxed dinner after your meetings, the waterfront restaurants in Lisbon’s Docas de Santo Amaro or Porto’s Foz area offer not only stunning views but also a calming ambiance, that will make your food taste even better
Transportation tips
Getting around Portugal is incredibly easy and convenient:
- Public Transport: Lisbon and Porto both benefit from well-connected metro systems, buses, and trams. It is easy to travel around using travel cards like Viva Viagemwhich is an economical option for short stays.
- Taxis and Ridesharing: Uber and Bolt operate across major cities, offering a quick and reliable option for business travellers.
- Rent a Car: For day trips or if you would like to explore beyond your base, renting a car offers flexibility, particularly in regions like the Algarve.
Practical tips
- Portugal’s climate is usually mild, but it can be a good idea to pack for the seasons, summer can be particularly hot whilst the winter is cooler but not as cool as in the UK.
- You will need a Type F socket universal power adaptor.
- The currency in Portugal is the Euro. These are widely available, but you may wish to exchange some money before you travel as it is always handy to have access to some cash when travelling.
- Clothes wise you should also consider smart business wear for your meetings. If you plan to do any walking around some of the wonderful towns then a good pair of comfortable shoes is a must for tackling those cobbled streets.
- Travel apps like Moovit are handy for public transport and Google Translate for language support are handy. For your more important business meetings you may want to engage the services of a professional interpreter. Learning a few basic phrases will help leave a positive impression on your business associates.