How Things Work in Portugal
Everything Tourists Need to Know
Tipping is not obligatory in Portugal, but 5-10% is appreciated for good restaurant service.
Updated 2025-06
Lisbon and Porto have good metro networks, and intercity trains and buses connect the country efficiently.
Updated 2025-06
Portugal's SNS public health service is solid, and EU citizens can use their EHIC card for free or reduced-cost treatment.
Updated 2025-06
Personal drug use is decriminalized in Portugal, meaning possession of small amounts leads to an administrative warning rather than criminal charges.
Updated 2025-06
Dial 112 for all emergencies — police, fire, and ambulance — anywhere in Portugal.
Updated 2025-06
Portugal is very relaxed about dress, but shoulders and knees should be covered when visiting churches and especially the Fátima sanctuary.
Updated 2025-06
The legal drinking age is 18, alcohol is cheap and widely available, and drinking in public is generally permitted.
Updated 2025-06
Bargaining is not part of Portuguese culture and fixed prices are the norm in almost all settings.
Updated 2025-06
Portugal is extremely photo-friendly with almost no restrictions, though respectful photography is required at Fátima during religious services.
Updated 2025-06
Most independent shops close on Sundays, but shopping centres, restaurants, and cafes generally stay open.
Updated 2025-06
Uber and Bolt are widely available in Lisbon and Porto and are generally reliable and fairly priced.
Updated 2025-06
Tap water is safe to drink throughout mainland Portugal and on the islands of Azores and Madeira.
Updated 2025-06
The Multibanco ATM network is widespread and accepts foreign cards, but avoid Euronet machines which charge high fees.
Updated 2025-06
NOS, MEO, and Vodafone Portugal offer tourist SIMs with good data packages, available at airports and phone shops.
Updated 2025-06
Portugal uses Type C and Type F (Schuko) plugs at 230V/50Hz, the same as most of continental Europe.
Updated 2025-06
The main scams to watch for are Tram 28 pickpockets, couvert charges at restaurants, and fake monks.
Updated 2025-06
Portugal is one of the safest countries in Europe for tourists, with violent crime against visitors being very rare.
Updated 2025-06
Portuguese people are reserved at first but become warm and welcoming once acquainted; greet with two kisses on the cheeks.
Updated 2025-06
Portuguese is the official language, and English is widely spoken in Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve.
Updated 2025-06
Portugal's beaches are stunning but the Atlantic brings strong currents and cold water — always swim within flagged zones.
Updated 2025-06
Drive on the right, and be aware that most motorways use electronic Via Verde tolls that require a transponder or pre-registration.
Updated 2025-06
Portuguese cuisine is outstanding and affordable, but always check whether couvert (bread and olives) will be charged before accepting it.
Updated 2025-06
Cover shoulders and knees at all churches, and observe absolute silence and modesty at the Fátima pilgrimage sanctuary.
Updated 2025-06
The best times to visit are spring (March-May) and early autumn (September-October) for pleasant weather and smaller crowds.
Updated 2025-06
Eat the prato do dia at local tascas, visit museums on free Sunday mornings, and buy wine and pastéis de nata at street prices.
Updated 2025-06