so im heading to lisbon and the algarve for 3 weeks and obviously bringing the mini 3 pro. ive done some reading on the EASA rules and it seems like portugal is generally fine for open category flying but honestly the rules are a bit confusing when you cross into different zones near the coast. some of those cliffs and beaches look incredible on google maps and i really want to get some shots but i dont want to get my drone confiscated on day one of the trip.

anyone actually flown there recently? what apps are you using to check airspace, i know dronelink and aloft work in the US but not sure whats best for europe. also do the locals care or is it pretty relaxed vibe

flew there two summers ago with my mavic air 2. the algarve cliffs are absolutely worth it, praia da marinha especially. i used drone assist and also just checked the AIP portugal site directly before any flight. near faro airport you gotta be careful obviously but most of the coastal spots were fine. locals didnt bother me once, had a few people come over curious to watch the screen which was kind of nice actually.

just watch the wind off those cliffs, it gets weird and gusty way more than the weather apps will tell you. lost about 10% battery just fighting turbulence on one flight.

not portugal specifically but i flew in spain last year and the EASA open category stuff is pretty much the same across the EU. your C1 or C0 class drone should be fine in most places without pre-authorization. i used the Enaire app for spain and i think portugal has a similar official one. just google ANAC portugal drone and youll find it. bring a printed copy of your operator registration just in case even though nobody ever asked me