Portugal is close to the US by European standards, popular with visitors, and has a large diaspora in places such as New England. It has several gateways, including the islands.
Portugal at a glance
- Main gateways: Lisbon (LIS) and Porto (OPO); also Faro in the south and the Azores and Madeira.
- Busiest fare periods: July and August, Easter, and Christmas.
- Often better-value periods: November to March, outside the holidays.
When to fly
Summer is hot and busy, especially along the coast, and diaspora families travel in July and August. Spring and autumn are mild and a good balance of weather and price. Winter is quieter and can be rainy.
Routings and baggage
TAP Air Portugal has flown non-stop from several US cities to Lisbon and Porto, and US airlines have flown to Lisbon. The Azores are served from the US East Coast by some airlines. Check baggage on the exact fare, because transatlantic basic fares may exclude checked bags.
Airports and getting around
Lisbon’s airport is close to the center, and the metro runs from the terminal. Trains link Lisbon and Porto, and local ride-hailing apps work in the major cities.
How to pay less on flights to Portugal
- Skip the diaspora summer. July and August, Easter and Christmas are busiest. November to March outside the holidays is usually cheapest, and spring and autumn are a good balance.
- Compare Lisbon, Porto and the islands. TAP and US airlines have flown non-stop to Lisbon and Porto, and some flights to the Azores run from the US East Coast. Fares can differ a lot between them.
- Check the baggage. Transatlantic basic fares may exclude checked bags, so compare the total.
- Use the metro and trains. Lisbon’s airport is close to the center and linked by metro, and trains link Lisbon and Porto, so a second flight is rarely needed.
For the general method, see how we find cheap flights. Send us your dates and a specialist compares the options for this route.
Before you go
Portugal is in the Schengen area. Check passport validity and the current entry rules for your nationality, including any European electronic travel authorization that has started, through official sources. Health requirements are minimal. See the CDC page for Portugal.
Last reviewed: October 27, 2026. Airline routes, schedules, baggage rules and entry requirements change, so your specialist confirms the current options when they quote your trip.
Planning a trip? See our Portugal flights page, or send us your dates for a quote.
Questions, answered.
When is the cheapest time to fly to Portugal?
Winter outside the holidays, roughly November to March, is usually cheapest. Summer and the diaspora holiday period in July and August are the busiest.
Are there non-stop flights from the US to Lisbon?
Yes. TAP Air Portugal and several US airlines have flown non-stop from cities such as New York, Newark, Boston, Miami and others. Confirm the current routes when you book.
Can I fly to the Azores from the US?
Yes, some flights to the Azores operate from the US East Coast, especially from New England. Confirm the airline and season, since schedules vary.
