Volunteer in Portugal with Volunteering Solutions and actively contribute towards making a difference. No matter whether you are a high school/ college student or a gap year traveler looking for a meaningful work experience abroad, the projects would surely help you to learn new things and you can actively contribute to making a difference. The volunteering programs in Portugal are located in Lisbon & Porto. You can choose to be a part of the Marine Conservation Program, or the Food Waste Management Program.As the Lonely Planet describes - "Medieval castles, cobblestone villages, captivating cities and golden beaches: the Portugal experience can be many things." If you've always had the urge to set sail and explore this beautiful nation, then now is the time to let your dreams find a way.
Ready to experience a volunteer vacation in Portugal?
Apply Now- Portugal - Quick Facts
- Start Dates : All Year Round
- Duration : 1-12 Weeks
- Program Locations : Lisbon & Porto
- Minimum Age : 17 years+
- Certificate - Offered after Program completion
Program: Food Waste Management
It was a nice experience and I truly enjoyed my time in Lisbon! Both the accommodation and the organization there were excellent, all the people there were super nice and helpful and it was nice to have some similar minded guests staying there as well.The placement at the food rescue was also all good, I've met some wonderful people with a big heart there and I'm glad I could help them a hand.
Projects available in Portugal
Being a volunteer for the Food Waste Management Project would be a perfect choice for gap year travelers as well as college student groups, who...
As a part of the Marine Conservation Program, you will have the opportunity to join a variety of conservation efforts focused on the protection of...
There's so much to do in Portugal, that you might just fall short of time during your volunteering journey! Well, you can surely make your own checklist and plan what all you wish to explore. If you are in Lisbon, wonder at the Torre de Belém and go for a Tram 28 ride crossing the hair-pin alleys of Escolas Gerais. You can head off to the little Alfama District and explore the tile-fronted chapels. And not to miss out, packed with al fresco cafes and international restaurants, the Bairro Alto is also the Lisbon's top nightlife spot.
If you are in Porto, you must go for a wine tour and savor your taste-buds. Visit the museums or just chill on the beachside for a relaxing weekend.
Sintra – 
If you want to explore around, then pick the fairytale town of Sintra first because it feels full of mystery with its castles, palaces, and mighty estates among the trees and a quick 45-minute train ride away from Lisbon. The glistening Pena Palace is atop the hill while the old wall of another Moorish castle is a great spot to look at the valley that will be below you and the Quinta da Regaleira gardens are a remarkable place to explore.
Cascais – This place has the laid-back vibe of a soothing seaside town which is only 45 minutes from Lisbon and the perfect escape on a hot summer day. Its old city center is embellished with patterned black and white stones like in Lisbon, and its streets are lined with boutiques and restaurants. You can go further from here by renting bikes to Boca do Inferno and Casa de Santa Maria.
Braga – It is an old chap of a city near Porto, brimming with modernity and spiritual and historical surroundings. Overall, it is a youthful center with students from nearby universities to meet, socialize and share ideas, while you can enjoy seeing the famous Bom Jesus Sanctuary and the country’s oldest from a distance.
Aveiro – 
Nicknamed as the ‘Venice of Portugal’, Aveiro is actually a lot quieter than Venice and even more colorful. Some of Aveiro’s signature features are the painted boats and the vibrant buildings. It’s actually very easy to reach Aveiro from Porto, either via a drive, train or even a bus.
Guimarães – It is where Portugal’s origins began. Guimarães castle is was home to Portugal’s first king, and home to many more medieval structures. Because of the colorful streets, ancient churches and various natural landmarks, you will feel like you’re taking a walk from the history of Portugal to its present.
If you have anything else in your bucket list or planning to go & explore any of the above-mentioned places, you can simply get in touch with our Travel Experts, who can guide you better in planning your weekend tours. Drop us a mail at [email protected] mentioning your choice of weekend adventures, and we shall cater your needs.
Volunteer in Portugal - Faq's
Portugal FAQs
FAQ's Application and Program Details
Once you complete your application, your individual 'My Account' will be active in which you will receive your placement confirmation after which you can pay the program fees. You can pay the program fees later as well in installments, but 45 days before the program starts.
- Volunteers must be 18 years or older at the beginning of the program.
- Volunteers need to have an open mind and flexible attitude for working in a new and different environment.
- The volunteer should bring energy and enthusiasm to make a difference.
- The participant must be in good health.
Health and Safety
If you already have a valid Travel and Medical insurance, you can email us a copy of the same. It is also advised to bring along the Insurance documents during your trip.
Flights and Visa
Once you arrive at the airport, our in-country coordinator will be there to be in touch with you. You'll be taken to your accommodation where you can rest before kickstarting your amazing journey.
Connect with Past Volunteers
We encourage volunteers to get in touch with former Volunteering Solutions program participants and also other program participants joining our projects. You are recommended to join the Volunteering Solutions Facebook Page or Facebook Group to communicate with other participants.
To read alumni interviews from past participants, visit the Meet a Volunteer page on our website.
Accommodation and Living
Accommodation in Porto:
Volunteers in Porto are accommodated at a centrally located hostel.Located right at the city center, the hostel, provides a wide range of rooms, from dormitories to private rooms, a spacious and friendly lounge area where you can hang out, chill, listen to music, enjoy the atmosphere, play some games, and get to know other fellow travellers while enjoying a nice cold beer, a tasty cocktail or a glass of the famous Porto wine! The welcoming staff will always be there to make the guests experience to the fullest! All the guests can count on the best tips about the city, an endless energy and a welcoming smile!!
Accommodation in Lisbon: Volunteers in Lisbon are accommodated at a sustainable hostel accommodation. Located in one of the oldest Lisbon neighborhood, Restelo, the hostel is just 20 minutes away from the best custard tart in the country ! You can find local shops, traditional restaurants, the stunning Belém area, supermarkets, ATMs and most utilities you will need just around the corner.
In Lisbon, breakfast is generally self-made at the hostel with different supplies provided at the accommodation. Lunch and Dinner are also provided either at the placement or in the form of a packed meal.
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