Healthcare for Tourists in Portugal

Portugal has good healthcare, with a public health service, private hospitals and excellent pharmacies. Here’s what to do if you get ill or injured on holiday, what it may cost, and what insurance and documents to bring.

Quick answer: for emergencies, call 112. For non-urgent advice, call the SNS 24 health line (808 24 24 24). For minor problems, go to a pharmacy (farmácia), where pharmacists give advice. EU travellers should bring an EHIC, and UK travellers a GHIC, for state healthcare. Everyone should have travel insurance.

Emergencies

• 112: the European emergency number, for ambulance, police and fire.
• Hospital emergency departments (urgência) treat urgent cases. Expect waits for less serious problems.

Non-urgent care

• SNS 24 (808 24 24 24): the national health line gives advice and directs you to the right service.
• Health centres (centros de saúde) provide public care.
• Private clinics and hospitals: faster, with English-speaking staff, but you’ll pay and claim on your insurance.

Pharmacies

Look for the green cross. Pharmacists are highly trained and can recommend treatments for minor illnesses. Some medicines that need a prescription elsewhere are available over the counter. Every town has a duty pharmacy open late or overnight, listed on pharmacy doors.

Insurance and documents

• EHIC / GHIC: gives access to state healthcare on the same terms as residents, but doesn’t cover everything (such as repatriation).
• Travel insurance: essential for private care, repatriation, and activities like hiking and water sports.
• Prescriptions: bring enough medication and a copy of your prescription.

Common issues

• Sun and heat: use high-factor sunscreen and drink water.
• Sea safety: swim at beaches with lifeguards and respect the flags.
• Slips: the stone pavements are slippery when wet.

More: is Portugal safe?, entry requirements and the packing list.

Prices and details change, so please double-check before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us in the groups.