Portugal is more than just blue-and-white tiles, golden beaches and freshly grilled sardines. For those making a life here, it’s also a country of subtle traditions, deeply rooted values and a slower rhythm of living that may take some getting used to. Learn the Portuguese culture and customs to really feel at home.
If you’re a Brit relocating to Portugal, adapting to the local customs will go a long way towards helping you feel settled. And while you’ll be welcomed warmly, there are cultural quirks and unspoken social rules that are worth learning. From how to greet your neighbours to what time you might be eating dinner, consider this your guide to making friends, steering clear of faux pas and living Portuguese life to the full.
Contents
- Mind your language: navigating Portuguese politeness
- Greetings, gestures and getting it right
- Respect for authority and the elderly
- Superstitions, red pens and taking things slowly
- Embracing Portuguese food culture
- Typical dishes and dining habits in Portugal
- Portuguese wine culture and drinking sensibly
- Frequently asked questions
Portuguese culture and customs are built upon their delicious food
Mind your language: navigating Portuguese politeness
In tourist-heavy areas like Lisbon and the Algarve, it may seem as though everyone speaks English. But all the same, showing a little effort with Portuguese will win you genuine respect. Even a simple bom dia or obrigado makes a difference to how locals respond.
Let the Portuguese person you’re speaking to lead the conversation’s language. Many will switch to English quickly, especially if they’re confident speakers. Don’t be disheartened – it’s not a rejection of your efforts, just practical communication. This is just one of the aspects of Portuguese culture and customs you need to be aware of.
One essential tip: don’t speak Spanish. Although the two languages share similarities on paper, they sound completely different. Using Spanish in Portugal can land poorly, especially in areas where language identity is a particularly sensitive subject.
Taking lessons, attending a conversation group or simply learning the basics online can ease your integration. Besides, once you start to follow conversations in cafés or markets, daily life becomes much more enjoyable.
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Greetings, gestures and getting it right
In Portugal, greetings are warm and often affectionate. Two cheek kisses are a standard hello – usually between women or a man and a woman – especially among friends and extended family. If you’re not sure whether to lean in, wait for the other person to initiate.
In more formal scenarios, such as meeting a business contact or addressing a neighbour you don’t yet know well, a handshake is more appropriate. As your relationship becomes more familiar, greetings may naturally become more relaxed.
Addressing someone politely means using the formal ‘you’ – você – particularly with elders, professionals or people you’ve just met. The informal tu is used among friends and children. When in doubt, start formally; Portuguese people will let you know when it’s time to be more casual.
And a friendly word of advice: don’t point. Gesturing with your finger, especially at people, is seen as rude. Use your entire hand if you need to indicate something out in the street or in a shop.
Respect for authority and the elderly
Portugal places high value on respect – for tradition, elders and authority. It’s not just about being polite to your neighbour or letting others go first. It’s a cultural foundation. Youngsters will often give up their seat for the elderly, and across generations there’s a strong sense that rules are to be followed.
For British expats used to questioning authority or getting into verbal sparring with officials, this may take adjusting. Smiling, staying calm and keeping your tone courteous when dealing with bureaucratic challenges – like paperwork or parking disputes – will usually yield the best outcome.
This respect extends to law enforcement. Raising your voice with the police or challenging instructions is unlikely to go over well. In Portugal, calm cooperation is seen as mature behaviour, and it’s appreciated.
If you’re willing to embrace this more traditional aspect of the culture, you’ll find it quite comforting – it often contributes to Portugal’s low crime rates and high levels of public civility.
Superstitions, red pens and taking things slowly
Portugal has its share of cultural superstitions – and while many are harmless, observing them shows that you’re willing to engage with local customs. Writing a note or message in red pen, for instance, is considered bad form. In some cases it signals anger or disrespect to the recipient.
Life here also moves at a gentler pace. Outside of busy hubs like Lisbon and Porto, people rarely rush – whether you’re in a queue at the bakery or waiting for a plumber. Don’t let it frustrate you. Take a deep breath, adjust your expectations and see it as an invitation to slow down.
Scheduling extra time for errands can help avoid stress. And if you walk into a café or shop, saying hello first – even to someone you don’t know – is standard. Cutting straight to business without greeting can be considered impolite.
This unhurried rhythm is one of Portugal’s charms. It encourages mindfulness, patience and a genuine enjoyment of the small things. (Allegedly.)
Embracing Portuguese culture and customs through food
Food is central to Portuguese life – not just for nourishment, but as a way of connecting with others. Mealtimes are rarely rushed. Lunch and dinner are still sacred, often lasting two hours or more when shared with family or friends.
In smaller towns and villages, you’re unlikely to see locals eating a baguette on the go. Instead they take time out for a sit-down meal, even if it’s simple. It’s social, communal and deeply cherished.
Special events and birthdays turn into culinary showcases. Expect dozens of savouries, homemade dishes and a centrepiece dessert. Everyone contributes – aunties, grandparents, cousins – and the planning can start days in advance.
Portugal’s culinary roots mix rural traditions with international flair. Influences from Africa, Asia and the Middle East are found in the spice selections – paprika, cinnamon, saffron, coriander. Olive oil features heavily, of course, and everything is seasonal.
If you’re invited to someone’s home, a small gift – wine, flowers or a dessert – is a thoughtful gesture.
Typical dishes and dining habits in Portugal
Portuguese cuisine combines bold flavours with simplicity. Fish is king here – especially cod (bacalhau), which the Portuguese claim to cook in over 365 ways. Grilled sardines in summer are a national treasure, served alfresco with roasted peppers and crusty bread.
Soup plays a regular role in daily meals. Caldo verde is a comforting favourite made with potato, kale and cured sausage. Even at formal dinners, soup often leads the way.
Grilled chicken, usually marinated in olive oil and garlic with a touch of chilli, is a staple too. The mega-hot sauces seen in UK chains are largely inventions – piri piri here is spicy, but always balanced.
Vegetarian options are expanding, but historically they’ve been limited in rural areas. Vegetables traditionally accompany meat or fish rather than starring as the main event. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, some independent restaurants or international spots offer better variety.
Restaurant schedules matter: lunch is typically 12–3pm and dinner starts from 7.30pm. A complimentary snack – bread, olives or cheese – often appears once you’re seated. It’s called couvert and will be charged, though it’s never expensive. Still, you can politely decline if you’re not hungry.
Portuguese wine culture and drinking sensibly
Portugal punches far above its weight in the wine world. It’s the tenth largest producer globally (OIV, 2024), with more than 4,700 wineries spread across varied regions. Each offers distinctive characteristics – and locals are proud of their favourites. Of the Portuguese culture and customs you can embrace, this may be one of the most enjoyable.
The Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is home to full-bodied reds and the iconic Port wine. Meanwhile, the Minho region produces vinho verde – young, crisp, slightly fizzy and perfect for warmer days.
You’ll likely never drink a bad glass of wine in Portugal, and prices are surprisingly modest. For everyday meals at home or in restaurants, a decent bottle might cost no more than €6–€8.
Drinking here is about enjoyment, not excess. Binge drinking isn’t part of the culture – even among teens. Alcohol is often enjoyed alongside food and water, and people rarely overdo it. Espresso and sparkling water – such as Água das Pedras, which has a naturally salty taste – are popular chasers.
Socially, it’s best to follow this laid-back drinking attitude. Over-the-top behaviour, especially in quieter communities, might raise eyebrows rather than smiles.
So whether you’re sipping bica (espresso) at breakfast or enjoying a glass of wine with dinner, the slower, savvier Portuguese approach to life – and drink – is all part of what makes living here so appealing.
Planning your move to Portugal?
At Your Overseas Home, we help you move confidently by providing expert advice on property, finances and everyday life in Portugal. Whether you’re looking for a villa in the Algarve or a farmhouse in Alentejo, we’ll connect you to trusted estate agents, legal advisers and relocation guides to make your transition smooth and stress-free.
Start your journey today by speaking with one of our property consultants.
Frequently asked questions about Portuguese culture and customs
Is it necessary to speak Portuguese when living in Portugal?
While many people in tourist areas speak English, learning basic Portuguese is important for everyday interactions and shows respect for local culture. A few key phrases go a long way in helping you integrate and build friendships.
What are common greetings and etiquette in Portugal?
Greetings are polite and often affectionate. Expect two cheek kisses among friends or a handshake in formal settings. Start conversations with a friendly ‘bom dia’ and use the formal ‘você’ unless invited to be informal.
What should I know about Portuguese mealtimes and food culture?
Meals in Portugal are social and unhurried. Lunch is typically from 12–3pm and dinner begins after 7:30pm. Mealtimes often include soup, seafood or cod, followed by dessert or coffee. Meze-style dining is common at gatherings.
Is binge drinking common in Portugal?
No. Drinking in Portugal is moderate and meal-oriented. Wine and spirits are enjoyed socially but rarely to excess. Even younger people follow this relaxed and respectful drinking culture.
Are there any social customs I should be aware of in Portugal?
Yes. Avoid writing in red ink, never point with one finger, and always greet people when entering a shop or café. Respect for elders, patience in queues, and a generally slower pace of life are all important cultural norms.
