Short answer: Portugal uses the standard two-round-pin European plug, so you need a Type C / Type F adapter, and the mains runs at 230V, 50Hz. Here's the detail, including the one thing that trips people up.
Portugal's plugs and voltage
- Plug types: Type C and Type F — the round two-pin European sockets. Type F sockets also take Type E plugs, so a standard "Europe" adapter covers you.
- Voltage: 230V.
- Frequency: 50Hz.
This is the same standard used across most of continental Europe (Spain, France, Germany and so on), so if you're travelling within Europe your plugs will usually already fit.
Which adapter you need
- From the UK or Ireland: you need a UK-to-Europe adapter (Type G to Type C/F). Your voltage is already 230V, so no converter is required — just the adapter.
- From the US or Canada: you need a US-to-Europe adapter (Type A/B to Type C/F). But voltage matters here: North America runs on ~120V, while Portugal is 230V. Check each device is dual-voltage before plugging it in (see below).
- From Australia or New Zealand: you need a Type I-to-Europe adapter. Your voltage is already 230V, so an adapter alone is fine.
- From elsewhere in Europe: your existing plugs will almost always fit, no adapter needed.
Adapter vs voltage converter — the bit people get wrong
An adapter only changes the shape of the plug. A voltage converter actually changes the voltage. The two are not interchangeable, and this is where travellers damage devices.
- Phone and laptop chargers are almost always dual-voltage — look for "INPUT: 100–240V" printed on the plug or brick. If you see that, a simple adapter is all you need anywhere in Portugal.
- High-wattage single-voltage items — hairdryers, straighteners, curling irons, some shavers rated only for ~120V — will not work on 230V with just an adapter. Plug a 120V-only hairdryer into a Portuguese socket through a plain adapter and you'll likely destroy it, or worse. Either buy a proper voltage converter rated for the wattage, or simply buy a cheap dual-voltage or local version once you arrive.
Always read the label on the device first. That single check prevents nearly every "it went bang" story.
A quick FAQ
Do I need a special adapter for Portugal specifically? No — a standard European (Type C/F) adapter works throughout mainland Portugal, Madeira and the Azores.
Are three-pin (earthed) devices fine? Yes. Type F sockets are earthed, so grounded appliances are properly supported. Buy an adapter that includes the earth contact for anything with a three-pin plug.
Will my US laptop charger work? Almost certainly — check it says 100–240V and use a plug adapter. No converter needed.
Can I just buy an adapter when I land? Yes, they're sold at the airport, in electronics shops and supermarkets. Buying a universal adapter before you fly is usually cheaper and less stressful, though.
What about USB charging? Many Portuguese hotels and newer flats have USB ports, and a compact multi-port USB adapter is often the most useful thing to pack.
For the technical standards, the IEC's World Plugs reference lists Portugal's plug types and voltage. Sorting your electronics is a small task, but it's part of a bigger picture — if you're moving rather than just visiting, start with our relocation guide and our overview of living in Portugal.
Turning a trip into a move? Our team handles the real paperwork — NIF, residency and settling in — so you can focus on the fun parts. Explore our services to get started.