Portugal, with its stunning coastlines, vibrant cities, and rich history, is a dream destination for many international travelers. But before you pack your bags and head to this beautiful country, it's crucial to understand the landscape of roaming charges. Let's dive into everything you need to know about staying connected in Portugal.

Are There Roaming Charges in Portugal?

Yes, roaming charges can apply in Portugal, but the specifics depend on your home country and mobile provider. For travelers from within the European Union (EU) or European Economic Area (EEA), the "Roam Like at Home" policy typically allows you to use your domestic plan without additional charges. However, for visitors from outside the EU/EEA, roaming fees can be significant if you're not prepared. It's always wise to check with your provider before traveling to understand your specific situation.

When Do Roaming Charges Apply in Portugal?

Roaming charges in Portugal typically kick in when you use your home country's SIM card to connect to a Portuguese mobile network. This happens automatically when you arrive in the country and your phone connects to a local network. For non-EU/EEA visitors, these charges can apply to all mobile services, including calls, texts, and data usage. Even for EU/EEA travelers, it's important to be aware of any fair use policies or data caps that might apply to your roaming usage.

Roaming Fees and Charges in Portugal

Disclaimer: Prices and plans are subject to change. Always check with your provider for the most up-to-date information.

We've compiled an overview of roaming and carrier fees for Portugal:

EE (UK): [1]

• It costs 70p a minute and 30p a text to use your device in the EE Europe zone without an add-on. You also need to buy a 500MB data add-on for £3.

Vodafone (UK): [2]

• You need to purchase Extra to use data

• £5 one off charge for 8 days for 100 minutes

• £9 one off charge for 8 days for 3GB

• £4 one off charge for 8 days for 200 texts

• £12 one off charge for 8 days for 3GB, 100 mins and 200 texts

Turkcell (Turkey): [3]

• Use your own plan for 250 TL per day

• 250 TL per week for 1 GB, 200 mins, 100 SMS

• 400 TL for 2 weeks for 2 GB, 200 mins, 100 SMS

Vodafone (Turkey): [4]

• Use your own plan for 299 TL per day

• 469 TL per 30 days for 3 GB, 30 Mins, 15 SMS

Turk Telekom (Turkey): [5]

• 540 TL per month for 3 GB, 100 Mins, 1000 SMS

Orange: [6]

Holiday Portugal 1GB package limited to 7 days for €4.99:

• 1 GB in 4G/LTE

• Calls NOT included

• Messages NOT included

Holiday Portugal 12GB package limited to 14 days for €19.99:

• 12 GB in 4G/LTE

• Unlimited calls

• 30 mins to the rest of the world

Rogers (Canada): [7]

• $15.00 per 20 MB

• $0.75 per text

• $2.00 per min

• or $15.00 per day - Pay the daily fee and use your own plan (Maximum 20 days per billing cycle)

Telstra (Australia): [8]

$10 AUD per day for "International Day Pass"

• 2 GB data

• Unlimited calls/SMS

Verizon (USA): [9]

• $2.05 per MB

• $1.79 per min

• Travel Pass: $10 per day to use your own plan

T-Mobile (USA): [10]

• $5 per day: 512MB data, unlimited calling

• $35 for 10 days: 5GB data, unlimited calling

• $50 for 30 days: 15GB data, unlimited calling

Remember, these rates can change, and additional fees may apply. Always check with your provider for the most up-to-date information.

How to Avoid Roaming Charges in Portugal

Avoiding roaming charges in Portugal is easier than you might think. Here's a step-by-step guide to keep you connected:

• Make use of Wi-Fi whenever possible - many cafes, hotels, and public spaces offer free connections.

• Turn off data roaming in your phone settings to prevent any accidental usage.

• If you need to make calls, consider using internet-based apps like WhatsApp or Skype over Wi-Fi.

• As a last resort, you can always keep your phone in airplane mode and only turn on Wi-Fi when needed.

Read our guide on how to avoid roaming charges for more information. By understanding the roaming landscape in Portugal and considering alternatives like the Roamless eSIM, you can ensure that your Portuguese adventure is filled with memories of beautiful landscapes and rich experiences, not shocking phone bills.

Roamless eSIM for Portugal

Roamless eSIM offers a game-changing solution for staying connected in Portugal and beyond. Here's why it's the perfect travel companion:

• No speed throttling: Enjoy full-speed data throughout your trip, ensuring smooth video calls and quick uploads of your stunning Algarve beach photos.

• Pay-as-you-go flexibility: Only pay for the data you actually use, whether you're spending a weekend in Lisbon or a month exploring the Douro Valley.

• Funds never expire: Your balance stays intact for future trips, so you can use leftover data on your next adventure to the Azores or Madeira.

• Borderless connectivity: No need for country-specific plans – your Roamless eSIM works seamlessly across multiple countries, perfect for that Portugal-Spain-France itinerary you've been planning.

• Local network speeds: Connect at the same speeds as local users, ensuring you can quickly look up directions to that hidden Porto wine cellar or stream a fado concert in real-time.

• Easy activation: Set up your eSIM before you even board your flight to Portugal, so you're ready to go as soon as you land.

Check our eSIM Portugal page before planning your trip. You can check our guide on the best eSIM for Portugal for more information. With Roamless eSIM, you're equipped to explore Portugal's rich culture and stunning landscapes without worrying about connectivity issues or surprise roaming charges. It's travel-tech made simple, giving you the freedom to focus on what really matters – your Portuguese adventure.

Sources:

[1] https://ee.co.uk/help/mobile/roaming/roaming-costs/countries/portugal

[2] https://www.vodafone.co.uk/help-and-information/costs-and-charges/travelling-abroad

[3] https://www.turkcell.com.tr/paket-ve-tarifeler/yurt-disinda-kullanim

[4] https://www.vodafone.com.tr/tarifeler/ek-paketler/yurt-disi-kullanim

[5] https://bireysel.turktelekom.com.tr/mobil/yurt-disi

[6] https://travel.orange.com/en/buy-a-sim/offers/portugal

[7] https://www.rogers.com/mobility/roaming#searchbar

[8] https://www.telstra.com.au/international-roaming#eligible-destinations

[9] https://www.verizon.com/support/international-services-pricing/

[10] https://www.t-mobile.com/cell-phone-plans/international-roaming-plans/unlimited-calling-data-pass