To make sure you don’t miss any of the sights, sounds and opportunities on offer when visiting Portugal, it’s a good idea to have reliable and easy access to the internet. This will also enable you to use apps like WhatsApp for free phone calls and Google Maps for navigation, among many, many others.
Connectivity in Portugal is generally fast with excellent coverage (including Madeira and Azores) and the three major internet providers – Vodafone, MEO and NOS generally have good coverage and speeds.
Free Wi-Fi access in Portugal
Almost all accommodations offer free wi-fi these days – just ask for the code at reception if it’s not provided or an open network (no password required). The same applies to cafés.
Many public places, including parks, beaches, shopping malls and town centres offer free public wi-fi, although you may need to register and sign in to access it.
The speed and security of these public networks is variable so it’s often preferable to have your own mobile data.
Paid internet access (mobile data)
Despite the widespread availability of wi-fi in Portugal, it’s still handy to have your own service so that you don’t get caught out without coverage when you need it most. It’s also more secure than using a public network.
There are several different ways in which you’ll be able to get online when travelling in Portugal, depending on your needs and device / local provider.
To help you decide which is the best option for you, I’ve put together these helpful tips.
It’s worth knowing about all the possibilities in advance as some options need to be set up before you take to the skies.
Options for arranging internet access before you travel
1. Using your existing provider abroad
This can work out to be more expensive than other options but if you want to keep your usual phone number active, it’s worth just checking with your home cell phone provider to see if they offer any special packages for your trip to Portugal.
Although the setting up of international roaming should be straightforward, you maybe hit with high costs and some plans may have limited mobile data allowances. Be sure to read all of the details carefully to avoid any nasty shocks.
If you have included international usage, make sure you activate roaming before you travel. Your network provider will have instructions on how to do this.
2. Purchase an eSIM card
A popular alternative for getting good internet access in Portugal is to buy an eSIM card. These virtual SIMs mean that you don’t have to physically change or insert any SIM card – it’s all done digitally.
Because there’s no need to remove your primary SIM card, this allows you to keep your usual phone number active for calls and texts, even if you don’t have a dual SIM device.
Set up isn’t complicated but you do need to be a little tech savvy. Full details will be provided by the supplier.
WARNING: Before you decide to buy one, check that your phone is eSIM-compatible. Mine isn’t! For iPhones, navigate to Settings > General > About and check under the Digital SIM section for an IMEI number. On Android devices, go to Settings > About > Status info (the exact steps may vary depending on your phone) and look for an EID.
ESIMS are cost effective as they are typically cheaper than international roaming fees and packages are usually for a 30 day duration. With Holafly you can select how many days you’d like your plan for so you only pay for what you need.
Buy an eSIM with unlimited data for Portugal from Holafly and get 5% off with this exclusive offer.
Another popular and trustworthy service is provided by Yesim. They have a range of eSIM cards with unlimited data and a variety of packages to suit your itinerary.
Options for internet access once you arrive in Portugal
As soon as you’ve landed in Portugal there’s no need to wait too long to get connected.
Purchase a data SIM card
A local SIM card can be purchased at the airport (although queues can be long at peak times) or in one of the many Vodafone, MEO or NOS stores throughout the country.
Local SIM cards are generally cheaper than international roaming and often come with generous data allowances. You can also by data-only SIM cards.
WARNING: If you don’t have a dual SIM phone, you’ll have to replace your usual SIM card, thereby losing access to your normal phone number. If you do have a dual SIM phone, make sure you change your settings so that mobile data goes through your new data SIM and not your usual one.
PREPARATION: If you are travelling with someone else, you could agree to use one person’s phone for internet access during the trip and make sure that anyone who needs to contact you by telephone in an emergency has the other person’s phone number.
Hotspots
Using your phone as a hotspot
If your device is equipped (look in your Connections settings for Mobile Hotspot and Tethering), you can use it as a hotspot to share your mobile data with other devices. This means that as long as the phone with the data SIM is within range of the other devices you and your companions are using, they will all be able to log onto your mobile data wi-fi. Just make sure you don’t go over the data limit!
Rent a mobile hotspot
Alternatively, you can rent a mobile hotspot device, which is great if you don’t want to install anything on your phone, or if your phone doesn’t act as a hotspot.
This is a good way to get connected if your phone is locked to a specific provider and you can’t insert a new SIM card. You can rent a hotspot from Portugal Internet.
Hotspots are really handy for group travel, so long as you all stay in range of it. However, keep your eye on battery levels; usage can really drain the power and you’ll need to re-charge, sometimes at inconvenient moments. Daily rental fees can add up, too.
So, these are some of the best ways to get connected while you enjoy the delights of Portugal, whether sharing your experiences online with friends and family or booking dinner reservations or accommodation.
Planning your holiday in Portugal? Check out my 25 Essential Tips For Your First Trip To Portugal post.
