Shopping in Portugal is a delightful experience, offering a diverse range of options from local markets and quaint shops to expansive modern malls. Unlike the hustle of shopping in many UK cities, the shopping atmosphere in Portugal is typically laid-back and stress-free, particularly in areas outside the major urban centres.

Contents

• Market shopping in Portugal
• Village and town shopping in Portugal
• Supermarkets in Portugal
• Shopping malls in Portugal

A move to Portugal means access to fresh fruit and vegetables

Market shopping in Portugal

Local markets, known as mercados, are often the best place to find high-quality, low-cost food items, including meat, fish, fresh fruits, and vegetables. You can find markets all over Portugal, ranging from small village stalls to large daily events in bigger towns. No matter what type of market you explore, you’re sure to get a taste of authentic Portuguese culture.

Municipal food markets in larger towns typically open early in the morning and run from Monday to Saturday, closing down around lunchtime. Here you can haggle and find great deals, from fresh produce to clothing and household items. Some markets operate on a weekly or monthly basis and may even feature livestock.

If immersing yourself in local markets is appealing, consider visiting the East Algarve, which retains a unique ‘local’ authenticity. The region is known for its picturesque landscapes and local charm, making it perfect for anyone looking to experience genuine Portuguese life.

Many villages across Portugal will feature a bakery with national delicacies

Village and town shopping in Portugal

The centers of Portuguese towns maintain their traditional style, featuring a variety of local specialty shops such as bakeries, butchers, and florists. These establishments often reflect the heart of the community and provide an array of unique goods.

Look out for pastelerias, which combine a café with a counter for bread and pastries. You’ll recognise products marked fabrico proprio, meaning they are made on the premises. Independent butcher shops (talhos) can offer competitive pricing for meat compared to supermarkets, and fostering a relationship with these local vendors can help you find harder-to-source items.

Many towns also feature minimercados, which vary widely in quality and stock. These small grocery stores can range from well-stocked to somewhat sparse, making it worthwhile to explore what’s available in your area.

For all your large shopping needs, there are many familiar supermarket chains

Supermarkets in Portugal

Despite the abundance of local markets, many locals and expats often gravitate towards supermarkets for their convenience. Pingo Doce is the leading supermarket chain, renowned for its reasonable prices and good fish counters. Other European brands like Intermarché, Continente, and Jumbo (Auchan) are also common. Discount retailers such as Aldi and Lidl have widespread presence and offer a selection of ethnic and imported goods popular among expats.

It’s essential to note that prices can vary significantly, especially for non-Portuguese goods. By familiarising yourself with different supermarket chains, you can make informed choices and save money on items that may be priced differently across locations.

For high end shopping, head to the malls in major cities

Shopping malls in Portugal

The Portuguese enjoy shopping in modern malls, which continue to spring up across the country. Major cities like Lisbon, Porto, and Coimbra, as well as many locations in the Algarve, are home to these retail hubs. These malls offer not only a wide range of shops but also numerous dining options, bars, and cinemas.

Shopping at these malls is often a relaxing experience, thanks to their extended opening hours. Generally, shops open from 9 or 10 am and close at 7 pm, while malls may stay open late, often until midnight during summer. Weekends particularly attract families, creating a lively shopping atmosphere.

Whether you’re in the early stages of your property search or finalising plans for your move to Portugal, embracing the local shopping scene is part of the adventure. With diverse options ranging from markets to malls, you will not only find everything you need but also uncover unique pieces of Portuguese culture along the way.