Best VPN for Portugal in 2024

At a Glance

There’s very little online censorship in Portugal. There’s also little to no online surveillance happening in the country.

However, it’s also true that it’s impossible to access geo-blocked websites and services from Portugal. Basically, websites and services in other countries don’t allow users with a Portuguese IP address to access their content, leaving online users in Portugal in the dust.

Can I Use a VPN to Protect Me Online in Portugal?

But you can get around this by using a Virtual Private Network (VPN).

Not only does a VPN protect your online activities from any surveillance by encrypting your internet connection, but it also accesses international content housed in other countries, letting you access a literal world of foreign content.

It does the latter by changing your Portuguese IP address to one from another country, making online services in other countries believe you’re really located there instead of Portugal, and they’ll open the gates wide to their content.

In this article, I thoroughly review the best seven VPN providers for protecting yourself from any online threats and gaining access to content in other countries.

Best VPNs for Portugal

After rounds of extensive testing, I was able to figure out which of the top VPNs are suitable for the job at hand.

The best VPNs to use in Portugal:

1. NordVPN: NordVPN is my #1 choice for the best VPN to use in Portugal. Along with offering some of the fastest speeds out there, the provider doesn’t charge a high price and provides excellent app and customer support. Comes with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee.
2. Surfshark: The best VPN for users on a budget. Despite the low price for Surfshark’s multi-year subscriptions, the provider offers unlimited simultaneous connections and complete online security.
3. ExpressVPN: Premium VPN protection for Portugal. ExpressVPN is rather high-priced, but it may be worth it for some users. The provider’s speeds are the fastest available, and its ability to access pretty much any video streaming service makes it great for streaming lovers.
4. CyberGhost: Best VPN for rookie VPN users. CyberGhost is the obvious choice for users who are new to using VPNs because of its easy-to-use apps. In addition, the provider offers seven simultaneous connections and thoroughly protects your online privacy and security.
5. Private Internet Access (PIA): Reliable VPN protection for Portugal. PIA not only provides reliable access to content around much of the globe, but it also provides comprehensive online protection, keeping its customers’ online activities undercover.
6. PrivateVPN: Small but mighty VPN provider. While PrivateVPN’s global server network is somewhat thinly spread around the globe, the servers deliver well-protected access to geo-fenced content in the countries where it has servers.
7. Atlas VPN: Simultaneous protection for all of your devices. Atlas puts no limit on how many devices its customers can connect to its VPN servers at once. Atlas provides fast, well-protected connections to content in many regions of the globe.

Each of the following factors were considered when I made my decision to choose these providers for offering the best VPN protection and online enhancement in Portugal:

• Server locations in Portugal
• High-end encryption and security protections
• No-logs policy (bonus if it offers a Bitcoin payment option)
• Fast VPN connection speeds
• App support for a multitude of devices
• Easy-to-access customer support

Best VPNs for Portugal – Summary table

We’ve compared the most important features of the top VPNs here. Prefer to read the in-depth reviews? Start with NordVPN – our #1 choice for Portugal.

---

If you’re looking to protect your online connection and enhance your access to international content by using a VPN provider, the following seven providers are the best to choose.

1. NordVPN

Apr 2024

NordVPN offers the best overall protection for your connection of any VPN provider on my list.

NordVPN offers 5,800+ servers, spread across Portugal and close to 60 other countries. You shouldn’t have any problem finding the Portuguese content you want to access.

The provider offers excellent security protections, including military-grade 256-bit AES encryption, an automatic kill switch, DNS leak protection, and malware, botnet, and ad blocking features.

While not available in Portugal, you can still use NordVPN’s obfuscated servers in other countries to hide the fact that you’re using a VPN. The provider’s Double VPN protection routes your connection through a duo of VPN servers, increasing your anonymity.

Located in Panama, where VPN providers aren’t required to keep logs, NordVPN doesn’t keep any logs of your online activities. In addition, you can opt to pay with Bitcoin if that suits your fancy.

NordVPN runs all of its servers 100% from RAM, writing no data to a physical hard drive or SSD, so all data is wiped when a server is shut down or rebooted. Plus, the provider’s owned-and-operated servers keep third-party contractors away from your personal data.

The provider’s connection speeds are some of the fastest out there, so you’ll have no trouble watching streaming video in HD or 4K, playing fast-moving games, or sharing large files.

No matter which device is your favorite, NordVPN likely has an app for it. Native apps are available for Linux, Windows, macOS (with Apple silicon support), iOS, Android, Android TV, and Amazon Fire device platforms. Chrome, Edge, and Firefox browser extensions can protect your browsing sessions, and there’s plenty of support for routers.

You can connect up to six devices to the provider’s servers at one time on one account.

NordVPN also offers a SmartDNS service, which lets you watch international streaming content on devices that aren’t compatible with VPN apps, such as gaming consoles, smart TVs, and other set-top boxes. Just remember that this service doesn’t encrypt your internet connection like the VPN service does.

The provider offers excellent customer support options, including around-the-clock live support chat, email support, and a searchable support library.

BEST VPN FOR PORTUGAL:NordVPN is the top VPN for Portugal because of its complete security and digital privacy protections, unusually fast speeds and top-notch app support. Customer support is always there for you, and there are servers all over the globe. A risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of NordVPN.

---

2. Surfshark

Surfshark is a value-priced provider, with its excellent service offerings coming in at a bargain-basement price.

Although the provider once struggled to offer much global server coverage, Surfshark now has 3,200+ servers in 100+ countries, Portugal included, giving you plenty of options.

Surfshark offers a multitude of security features, including government-level 256-bit AES encryption, an automatic kill switch, DNS leak protection, malware and phishing protections, and ad and tracker blocking. A “MultiHop” feature lets you connect through two VPN servers instead of one, doubling your security and anonymity.

You’ll never have to worry about your privacy thanks to Surfshark’s strict no-logs policy and Bitcoin payment method. The provider now runs all of its servers solely from RAM, so all data is wiped when a server is powered down or restarted.

When it comes to connection speeds, Surfshark is formidable, offering speeds fast enough to handle any but the most demanding of online activities.

App support includes offerings for macOS (with M1/M2 Mac support), iOS, Linux, Windows, Android, and Amazon Fire device platforms. You can protect your browsing sessions with a Chrome, Edge, or Firefox browser extension, and you can protect all of your online activities through one point of access if you opt to connect via a router that Surfshark supports.

“Unlimited simultaneous connections” means that Surfshark lets you connect as many devices as you like to the provider’s servers concurrently on one account. Just don’t abuse the privilege.

Customer support-wise, Surfshark scores well, offering 24/7 live chat, email support, a “Contact Us” support form, and an easy-to-search knowledge base.

BEST FOR BUDGET:Surfshark doesn’t charge much for its excellent service. Unlimited simultaneous connections make it an attractive option for small businesses and large families who want to stay within a budget. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of Surfshark.

---

3. ExpressVPN

ExpressVPN is the optimal VPN to use if you’re looking to enjoy international streaming content.

ExpressVPN’s server network is impressive, comprising 3,000+ servers in 94+ countries, Portugal being one of them. No matter which country you want to access streaming content in, ExpressVPN is likely to offer a server there, and its unblocking abilities are formidable.

Security is something everyone should be concerned about, and this provider doesn’t let you down. ExpressVPN offers government-grade 256-bit AES encryption, a kill switch, and DNS leak and IPv6 leak protections. An upcoming “Lightway” protocol will increase your speeds in addition to security.

Your privacy is also completely protected, as the provider keeps no logs of your online usage and lets you pay with the privacy-friendly Bitcoin cryptocurrency.

The provider’s custom TrustedServer technology runs all server operations from RAM, never writing any info to the hard drive. This means all information is completely wiped every time the server is restarted.

ExpressVPN’s super-fast connections allow you to watch streaming content in HD or 4K, play any kind of game, and share large files with ease.

The provider offers apps for iOS, macOS (native support for M1/M2 Macs), Android, Windows, Linux, Android TV, and Amazon Fire device platforms. Browser extensions are available for Brave, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Vivaldi, and you can use the service with many different makes and models of routers.

A somewhat small limit of five simultaneous secure connections are allowed on one set of login credentials if you subscribe monthly. Eight are allowed for longer-term subscribers.

Like NordVPN, ExpressVPN offers a smart DNS service called “MediaStreamer.” You can use it to access international streaming content on devices like gaming consoles, smart TVs, and set-top boxes. However, the service doesn’t encrypt your connection.

Customer support is always there to assist you, with 24/7 live chat available, well, 24/7. Email support, a trouble ticket tracking system, and a searchable support library are also available.

EXCELLENT FOR STREAMING:ExpressVPN makes unblocking streaming content a priority, offering incredibly fast speeds and servers all over the world so you can watch in HD or 4K, anywhere. While expensive, you get a great return on investment. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of ExpressVPN.

---

4. CyberGhost

CyberGhost is a great option for users who may not yet be adept at using a VPN thanks to its apps, which are easy to install and use.

9,600+ CyberGhost servers are available in 90+ countries around the world, including Portugal. That’s some of the most impressive server coverage available on the market.

The provider offers comprehensive security protections, including bank-grade 256-bit AES encryption, kill switch protection, DNS leak protection, and malicious website and ad blocking. CyberGhost can also optionally force websites to pull up secure versions of their web pages.

CyberGhost takes the lead of other providers on this list by never saving any logs of your online activities. The provider also allows you to pay with Bitcoin, if that’s how you roll.

The provider is no slowpoke, offering speeds comparable to other providers on this list. Gaming, file sharing, and streaming will be a breeze.

CyberGhost apps are not only easy to use, but they’re also available for many of the most popular device platforms, including Windows, iOS, macOS, Android, Linux, Android TV, and Amazon Fire TV. Chrome and Firefox extensions secure your browsing sessions, and router support is also available.

Although not unlimited, seven simultaneous connections on one account is still a high number.

If you have any problem using the service, CyberGhost offers around-the-clock live chat to assist you. A trouble ticket submission system and an easy-to-search knowledge base are also available.

BEST FOR BEGINNERS:CyberGhost doesn’t make it hard to use their apps, and also provides excellent offerings to boot. It’s value-priced, offers fast speeds, and provides plenty of native app support. A 45-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of CyberGhost.

---

5. Private Internet Access

Private Internet Access (PIA) has 3,300+ servers stationed in Portugal and 83+ other countries. The provider’s large server network provides reliable access to geo-fenced content in most countries around much of the globe.

PIA protects all of its customers’ connections with government-grade encryption, a kill switch, and IP/DNS leak prevention. The provider also can block ads, trackers, malware, and malicious websites.

Its servers do not save user logs, so your online activities can’t be examined at a later date. Bitcoin is available as a private subscription payment option. All PIA servers are run 100% from RAM, meaning all data is completely wiped from the server when it is rebooted or powered down.

PIA apps are available for Android, Android TV, iOS, macOS, Windows, and Linux devices. Chrome, Opera, and Firefox browser extensions are also available, and the provider is also compatible with select routers.

The provider allows users to make as many simultaneous connections as they’d like to its servers.

PIA’s connection speeds are admittedly the second-slowest on this list. However, the provider’s connections can easily handle popular online pastimes. PIA never spoils the fun with daily or monthly data caps or bandwidth throttling.

Live agent chat, a trouble ticket system, and a searchable support library are all available in your time of need.

RELIABLE VPN FOR PORTUGAL:Private Internet Access boasts a large global server network that provides access to geo-controlled content in many other areas of the globe. The provider puts no limits on the number of devices a customer can connect to its servers at once, providing comprehensive online protection and enhancement for all of your devices. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of Private Internet Access.

---

6. PrivateVPN

PrivateVPN’s global server network is made up of just a bit more than 200 servers stretched thinly among 63+ countries, including Portugal. That said, these servers provide reliable access to geo-fenced content in the countries where they have servers.

While the provider takes last place in the download speeds race, it can easily handle most online pastimes, including streaming and gaming. No data caps or bandwidth throttling to worry about here.

PrivateVPN-provided connections are all protected with banking-grade encryption, IP/DNS leak protection, and more. A handy “Stealth VPN” feature hides your VPN traffic by making it appear to be normal browser usage.

A strict no-server logs policy prevents any information about your online activities from being left behind. Plus, a cryptocurrency payment option is available to provide another layer of payment privacy.

PrivateVPN’s app support also comes up short, as it offers apps only for Android, iOS, macOS, and Windows device platforms. Users can manually set up Linux devices and select routers to work with the provider. Browser extensions are also missing in action.

Up to 10 devices can be simultaneously connected to PrivateVPN’s servers.

PrivateVPN’s support options include live chat, a support request form, and an FAQ support area.

SMALL BUT POWERFUL:PrivateVPN’s global server network is spread a bit thin. However, it provides reliable access to geo-fenced content in the countries where it has servers. A handy “Stealth VPN” feature keeps your VPN usage undercover. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of PrivateVPN.

---

7. Atlas VPN

Atlas VPN’s global server network is made up of more than 1,000 servers in over 49 countries (including Portugal). While the network isn’t the largest on this list, it provides reliable access to geo-controlled content in several areas of the globe.

The provider delivers blazingly-fast connections, making it a good option for streaming and gaming fans. Daily or monthly data caps or bandwidth throttling are nowhere to be found.

Atlas VPN’s connections are protected using government-grade encryption, kill switch protection, and IP/DNS leak prevention. A handy “Safebrowse” feature protects against online perils and irritating ads.

No user logs are to be found on Atlas servers, which keeps your online activities unrecorded. A cryptocurrency subscription payment option helps to keep your payment info private.

The provider’s native app support includes offerings for Android, Android TV, iOS, macOS, Windows, Linux, and Amazon Fire TV devices. Browser extensions and router support are currently not available.

The provider has an unlimited simultaneous connections policy.

Live chat is for paying customers only. All users have access to the provider’s support contact form, email support, and support library.

NO LIMIT ON PROTECTED CONNECTIONS:Atlas VPN places no limit on the number of devices its customers can connect to its VPN servers. The Atlas global server network provides reliable access to content in multiple countries around the world. A 30-day money-back guarantee is available.

Read my full review of Atlas VPN

---

Methodology for Assessing VPNs for Portugal

Not all VPNs work well to reliably access geo-blocked content or provide comprehensive online protection, so you should never subscribe to the first VPN you see.

These are the features of VPNs that I focused on to determine which services work best for protecting you while inside Portuguese borders.

• Connection speeds: No matter what you enjoy doing online, a fast connection is your friend. Gaming and streaming sites require fast speeds and eat up data quickly.
• Server network: If you’re looking for access to content in other countries, you’ll want a VPN that has servers in as many countries as possible. Multiple servers in each country are a plus, as it helps prevent a heavy load from being put on a single server, slowing your connection.
• Value: VPN’s true value is determined by comparing its features to its monthly or annual cost. The provider’s on this list all offer an excellent return on investment.
• Ease of use: VPN apps should be easy to use, especially for those of us that are using a VPN for the first time. A VPN provider’s apps should be available for a large number of popular devices.
• Security and privacy: Always look for banking-grade encryption, kill switch protection, and IP/DNS leak prevention. Bonus points are awarded to VPNs that also offer ad and malware blocking. No server logs are also important.
• Streaming: Last, but certainly not least, it’s important that the VPN you’re considering works to reliably access geo-blocked video streaming services, like Hulu, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and others.

The features listed above make up just a bit of the research as part of my VPN testing methodology. My data-driven approach to research provides a better understanding of each VPN provider, allowing me to recommend only the VPNs that best fit my readers’ needs.

How to Use a VPN to Connect to Portugal

It’s not difficult to connect to Portugal or any other country using a VPN. Just complete the following steps.

1. Subscribe to a VPN provider (I suggest NordVPN).
2. Download and install the VPN provider’s app(s) on your device(s).
3. Log into the VPN app.
4. Select and connect to a server in Portugal, or another country. If you have any issues, clear your browser cache.
5. Enjoy the internet in Portugal!

Can I Use a Free VPN to Access Portuguese Content?

You’ll find that the benefits of using a free VPN are heavily outweighed by its consequences.

Free VPNs make you wait in a queue before allowing you to connect, so if you’re in a hurry, you’ll just have to wait. Once you’re given the green light, you’ll find that your options of servers are severely limited, if a choice is involved at all and they don’t automatically connect you to a server of their choosing.

If you were planning to use a VPN to connect to Portugal, you might be disappointed.

You can also expect your connection speeds to be throttled so that the free VPN provider can save bandwidth for its paying customers. Daily or monthly data caps are also a staple of free VPN providers, so you’ll be cut off mid-stream during your favorite drama.

Most importantly of all, free VPNs disrespect your privacy. Free VPN providers will often save logs of your online activities and sell them to interested third parties, such as advertisers.

And that’s not even considering the unwanted ads and tracking cookies you may find during your browsing sessions. Those cookies will track you even when you’re not using the free VPN service, by the way.

Paid VPN providers pose none of these problems, and if you choose NordVPN or Surfshark, you won’t have to pay much for the advantages. For your own security, convenience and sanity, don’t use a free VPN.

Conclusion

Of all VPN providers out there, if you want an excellent experience using a VPN in Portugal, NordVPN is your #1 bet.

NordVPN offers astonishingly fast speeds, comprehensive native app support, and around-the-clock customer service. The provider never saves any logs of your online activities, and their security protections are second to none. You can enjoy all of your favorite online activities at a low cost when you choose NordVPN.

For more information or to subscribe, visit the NordVPN website.

Portugal VPN FAQs