Internship in Portugal at a Glance

Duration: 8+ weeks

Our internships in the Algarve, Portugal are available from a minimum duration of 8 weeks.

Professional Environment

Our internships are perfect for students of Hospitality, Tourism, Business, or related fields.

University Credits

Our placements in Southern Portugal meet the requirements of many universities and colleges.

Destination Algarve

Endless beaches, dramatic rock formations, turquoise water, and 300+ days of sunshine.


Reasons to intern in Portugal

An internship in Portugal means gaining valuable professional experience in one of Europe’s most popular coastal regions. The Algarve combines warm hospitality, modern 4–5-star hotels, and breathtaking nature — the perfect setting for both career development and an unforgettable stay. Here are the top 4 reasons why students love interning in Portugal:

Interns in Portugal sitting in a park in Lisbon

Legendary Hospitality

The Portuguese are known for their friendliness, calm manner, and genuine helpfulness. Whether you’re working at the hotel reception, in the restaurant, or elsewhere — you’ll learn what true hospitality looks like.

A surfer riding a wave, enjoying the perks of interning in Portugal

Work Where Others Vacation

Your daily backdrop? Golden beaches, crystal-clear water, and spectacular coastal cliffs. After your shift, the Algarve invites you to enjoy beach bars, surfing, coastal hikes, charming old towns, and magical sunsets.

An intern looking at the stunning coastline of the Algarve

Career Boost in Tourism

Gaining experience in one of Europe’s most in-demand tourist destinations is a real asset for your CV. You’ll develop sought-after skills and gain numerous qualifications that open doors to hospitality jobs worldwide.

Students abroad exploring the famous river walk in Lisbon

Community, Support & Safety

A local English, German and Portuguese speaking team supports you from your arrival to your departure, organizes meet-ups with other interns, and assists with any questions. Ideal for your first stay abroad.


Two interns walking towards a beach at the Algarve Coast in Portugal

StudentsGoAbroad

Why you can rely on us

For more than a decade, StudentsGoAbroad has been supporting students and graduates on their journey to an internship in Portugal — from personalized guidance all the way to on-site support at your placement location. Thanks to our professional network across the Algarve and other parts of Portugal, we ensure your stay runs smoothly and that you can fully focus on your internship experience.

Specialist for Internships in Portugal

Support during visa application process

Recognized and Proven Internship Placements

Most Affordable Internship Agency

Individual Advice & Preparation Assistance

Reliable Coordinators in the Algarve, Portugal

Introductory Programs On-Site


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Ask all your questions!

Looking for an internship on your own can be tedious. Is the company reputable? Can I get a Visa for Portugal? Our consultants will guide you through the process!

The registration process

Three steps to intern in Portugal

1.

Create your profile

Set up your profile and share your internship preferences. Your travel details are non-binding and no payment is required at this stage.

2.

Book free consultation

Schedule your free consultation with us – we’ll answer your questions and show you how your internship in Portugal can become reality.

3.

Secure your placement

Once requirements are met, the placement begins and we forward your application to our team in Portugal. A deposit is required at this step.


What else you need to know.

More about interning in Portugal

We know that embarking on an internship in Portugal is an exciting step, and we're here to provide guidance and answer all your questions about internships in the Algarve, ensuring a smooth and successful experience.

Internship in Portugal - Services

Only with StudentsGoAbroad will you get a service, that checks a whole range of conditions, before you have to pay anything. That's part of our quality of service promise at SGA. Before you make your down payment you will receive from us:

  • Validation check before registration whether your internship is possible

  • Application folder check (included)

  • Intercultural briefing

We know that planning an internship can be stressful. But don't worry, that's why we are here every step of the way! Before your arrival at your internship destination, you can expect the following service from us:

  • Individual placement of internships with regard to subject, duration and time

  • Contact person of our local partner organization during the entire preparation phase for your internship abroad

  • Creation and processing of the contract between you and the company

  • Assistance with visa formalities

  • On request, an arrangement of a language course or organization of accommodation

  • Information about cheap flights, insurance, vaccinations, and other important travel information

New country, new environment - As soon as you arrive at your internship destination life will feel like it is coming at you with 100 kilometers per hour. And that's why our services "on your arrival" will make sure you have an easy and comfortable start to this amazing journey that you have decided to embark on. Among other services you can count on us to do the:

  • Organization of the transfer to your accommodation

  • Presentation of a welcome package (depending on location)

  • Detailed information about the respective city and surroundings

  • SIM prepaid card for your mobile phone (depending on location)

  • Information documents on various leisure activities

  • Tips for using public transport

Regardless of whether you will stay two weeks, two months or even longer - During your stay abroad you will have a million questions, a multitude of things on your to-do-list and despite all of this time will feel like it's just flying by. And here are some good news - Our services don't end with you getting to your destination. Also during your stay we are there for you, with the following services:

  • Competent contact persons on site

  • Accompaniment to the company on the first day of the internship

  • Advice on the extension of the visa

  • Newsletter about events in your city or surroundings

  • Organization of trainee meetings

FAQs - Frequently asked questions about interning in Portugal

To join one of our internships in the Algarve, you should meet the following criteria:

  • Age: 18–24 years

  • Minimum duration: 8 weeks

  • Motivation, openness & enjoyment in working with guests

  • English skills are helpful but not mandatory

You don’t need any prior experience — the hotels will train you and guide you step by step.

Our partner hotels belong to the 4–5-star category and offer internships in:

  • Reception & Guest Relations (Front Office)

  • Food & Beverage (Restaurant / Bar / Breakfast Service)

  • Animation & Kids Club

  • Event & Leisure Management

  • Hotel Management Assistance

Your exact placement depends on your interests and language skills.

You will live free of charge in a shared apartment with other interns near your placement.
The accommodations are fully equipped and give you the chance to join an international community.

Yes!
Depending on the hotel and role, you receive €200–450 pocket money per month.
Free accommodation and full support from the local team are also included.

Because placements in 4–5-star hotels fill up quickly, we recommend applying at least 3–5 months in advance. This ensures enough time for matching, organization, and preparing your stay.

Either way, if you are planning to intern on a shorter notice, feel free to contact us and we will see what's possible for you.

If you are from Germany, Austria, Switzerland, or most EU/EFTA countries, you do not need a visa.
You can enter with your ID card or passport.

Yes — many of our internships are accepted as mandatory or academic internships.
Make sure to speak with your university beforehand to clarify requirements such as duration, documentation, and relevance to your field of study.

You don’t need any Portuguese to join.
English is widely used in the hotel environment, especially with international guests.
You will naturally pick up basic Portuguese on-site.

You will have a German-speaking coordinator in the Algarve throughout your stay.
She supports you with all questions — from arrival to departure — and is reachable via a 24/7 emergency number.

The Algarve is a paradise for outdoor lovers and water sports fans:

  • Surfing, bodyboarding & kitesurfing

  • Coastal hiking trails

  • Mountain biking & horseback riding

  • Boat tours, dolphin watching & kayaking

Culinary highlights include fresh fish, seafood, petiscos (Portuguese tapas), and famous desserts like Pastéis de Nata — perfect for immersing yourself in local culture!

Yes!
Our local team organizes regular meetups, activities, and group outings.
Many interns make close friendships during their stay.


Two surfers walking down a portuguese beach enjoying time away from their internship

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