Santos Populares is one of Lisbon’s biggest celebrations, bringing together music, street food, nightlife, and thousands of tourists every June.
While the festival is usually very safe and enjoyable, long nights, alcohol, crowded streets, and summer heat can sometimes lead to health problems during your stay in Lisbon.
Here are a few simple tips to stay healthy during Santos Populares.
Avoid dehydration
Walking for hours in crowded neighbourhoods such as Alfama, Bairro Alto, and Graça, combined with alcohol and warm June temperatures, can quickly lead to dehydration and heat exhaustion.
Common symptoms may include:
- headache,
- dizziness,
- fatigue,
- nausea,
- weakness,
- dehydration.
To reduce the risk:
- drink water regularly throughout the evening,
- wear sunscreen and a hat during the day,
- rest in shaded areas when possible,
- and avoid excessive alcohol consumption during the hottest hours.
Lisbon temperatures can remain high even late at night during Santos Populares, especially in crowded areas with little airflow.
Be careful with street food
Santos Populares is famous for grilled sardines and traditional Portuguese street food.
Although food vendors are generally safe, stomach problems and food poisoning can occasionally happen during large outdoor festivals.
Symptoms may include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Stomach pain
- Fever
You can also read our guide:
Food Poisoning in Lisbon: When should tourists see a doctor
Practice safe nightlife habits
Large festivals and nightlife events can sometimes increase health and safety risks.
Simple precautions include:
- Watching your drink
- Staying with friends
- Avoiding excessive alcohol consumption
- Using protection during sexual activity
Tourists concerned about sexually transmitted infections (STIs), urinary symptoms, or unusual symptoms after nightlife events can access confidential medical consultations and STI testing in Lisbon.
Common Injuries During Lisbon’s Popular Saints Festivities
Lisbon’s historic neighbourhoods often include steep streets, slippery cobblestones, and crowded stairways, especially during Santos Populares celebrations.
Minor injuries, cuts, ankle sprains, and falls are relatively common late at night after several hours of walking, dancing, or standing in busy streets.
Comfortable shoes and extra caution can help reduce the risk of injury.
If you experience a minor injury during your stay in Lisbon, Alegria Medical Centre also offers nursing care for wound cleaning, dressings, minor injuries, and basic medical assistance in central Lisbon.
Need a doctor during Santos Populares?
Alegria Medical Centre offers medical consultations for tourists, travelers, and expats visiting Lisbon.
Our clinic provides:
- Same-day appointments
- English-speaking doctors
- STI testing
- Confidential consultations
- Prescriptions when medically necessary
- Medical reports for insurance
Q&A
Can tourists book a doctor’s appointment?
Yes. We see tourists, travelers, and expats everyday. You can easily book an appointment at Alegria Medical Centre in Lisbon.
Can I use my European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)?
No. The EHIC card is only valid in public healthcare facilities in Portugal.
Do I need travel insurance?
No. You can book a consultation without insurance. If you have travel insurance, we can provide the documents needed for reimbursement.
What documents do I need?
For your first appointment, please bring a valid ID such as:
- Passport
- National ID card
- Driving license
Do I need a Portuguese NIF or health number?
No. Tourists and non-residents do not need a Portuguese NIF or healthcare number.
Can I get a prescription during my appointment?
Yes, if medically necessary. The doctor will evaluate your condition and prescribe the appropriate treatment.
I forgot my medication at home. How can I get it in Portugal?
If you forgot your medication during your stay in Lisbon, our doctors can help you obtain a prescription in Portugal if medically appropriate.
During the consultation, the doctor may ask for:
- the name of your medication
- Or a previous prescription
After medical evaluation, a Portuguese prescription can usually be issued, allowing you to buy your medication.
Will my invoice be in English?
Invoices are issued in Portuguese, but you may request a medical report in English for your insurance company.
How can I contact Alegria Medical Centre?
Telephone: +351 211 452 289
E-mail: info@alegriamed.com
