Coimbra City Viewpoint, Portugal

Tips for American Travellers to Portugal

As the age-old saying goes, “When in Rome, do as the Romans do.” But what about when you’re in Portugal, a country bursting with rich history, mouthwatering gastronomy, and landscapes that seem plucked straight from a painter’s canvas? 

For the American traveler, Portugal offers a harmonious blend of familiar Western comforts and delightful European nuances. Yet, to truly savor the essence of this Iberian gem, one needs more than just a passport and a sense of adventure. From understanding the intricacies of local etiquette to navigating currency matters, this guide aims to bridge the cultural gap. So, whether you’re drawn by the allure of Fado-filled nights in Lisbon or the rustic charm of Douro Valley vineyards, we’re here to ensure your Portuguese journey is seamless, authentic, and utterly unforgettable.

Overview of Portugal’s Regions

sunrise over Alfama District, Lisbon at start of guided day tour

Portugal, though compact, boasts a diverse landscape that has shaped its regional cultures, cuisines, and even dialects. The name ‘Lusitanian’ harks back to the Lusitanians, an ancient Iberian tribe, hinting at Portugal’s deep-rooted history.

North (Norte): The northernmost region is characterized by its mountainous terrain, historic cities like Porto, and the famed Douro Valley, known globally for its port wine. Here, the essence of old Portugal lingers with traditional Fado music echoing in the alleyways.

Central (Centro): This region is a blend of coastal cities, such as Aveiro (often dubbed the ‘Venice of Portugal’), and historical gems like Coimbra, home to one of Europe’s oldest universities. The rugged Serra da Estrela mountains also dominate the landscape, perfect for hiking enthusiasts.

Lisbon (Lisboa): The capital region isn’t just about the bustling city of Lisbon. Nearby, Sintra offers a fairytale-like experience with its palaces and forests, while Cascais and Estoril are charming coastal retreats.

Alentejo: A vast region stretching from the Spanish border to the Atlantic coast, Alentejo is a tapestry of rolling plains, medieval towns, and pristine beaches. Its wines, especially the reds, are gaining international acclaim.

Algarve: Known for its golden beaches, golf resorts, and whitewashed fishing villages, Algarve is a sun-seekers paradise. Faro, Lagos, and Albufeira are among its vibrant hubs.

Azores & Madeira: These island archipelagos, located in the Atlantic, are a world unto themselves. From the volcanic landscapes of the Azores to the subtropical charm of Madeira, they are a nature lover’s dream.

Dollar to Euro: Navigating Currency

As American travelers, handling finances while abroad can sometimes be a daunting task. But, with some preparation and understanding, it’s a breeze.

Currency Exchange: Portugal, being a member of the European Union, uses the Euro (€). It’s advisable to exchange a small amount before your journey, ensuring you have cash for immediate expenses upon arrival. 

However, for competitive rates, consider withdrawing from ATMs in Portugal or using currency exchange offices.

ATMs & Banks: ATMs, known locally as Multibancos, are widespread across cities and towns. They offer a range of services, including balance checks and foreign card withdrawals. 

Major American credit cards are widely accepted but always check for international transaction fees with your bank beforehand.

Tipping: Tipping isn’t as customary in Portugal as in the U.S. However, leaving spare change or rounding up the bill in restaurants is appreciated. For exceptional service, a tip of 5-10% is generous.

Tax-Free Shopping: Non-EU tourists can benefit from tax-free shopping on certain goods, provided they meet minimum purchase requirements. Remember to ask for a tax-free form during purchase and have it stamped by customs upon departure to claim your refund.

Navigating the financial aspects of travel ensures that your Portuguese experience remains stress-free, allowing you to immerse fully in the nation’s vibrant culture and landscapes.

Portuguese Etiquette: Manners, Greetings, and Cultural Norms

The Portuguese are warm, friendly, and deeply rooted in traditions that echo the nation’s storied past. Understanding some fundamental aspects of local etiquette can make interactions more enriching.

Address: Formal titles, like “Senhor” (Mr.) or “Senhora” (Mrs.), are used until invited to use first names. It shows respect, particularly with elders or those you’ve just met.

Punctuality: Portuguese value punctuality. If invited to someone’s home, it’s polite to arrive on time, though being 15 minutes late is generally acceptable in social settings.

Gifts: If invited to a Portuguese home, consider bringing flowers, good wine, or chocolates for the hosts. When gifting flowers, avoid red flowers for romantic connotations and lilies or chrysanthemums due to their association with funerals.

Dress: The Portuguese dress elegantly on social occasions. For casual outings, smart casual is the norm. Beachwear is restricted to the beaches, and it’s respectful to dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

Portuguese Foods, Wines, and Dining Do’s and Don’ts

Portuguese traditional tapas food.

The Portuguese dining scene is a delightful reflection of its maritime history, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural influences. Here’s how to savor the experience right:

Must-try Dishes: Portugal’s culinary richness spans from the sea to the plains. Dive into dishes like bacalhau (codfish prepared in numerous ways), caldo verde (green soup with chorizo and kale), and the famed pastel de nata (custard tart).

Wine and Spirits: Portugal is renowned for its wines, particularly the fortified Port wine from Douro Valley. Vinho Verde, a young wine from the North, and various reds and whites from regions like Alentejo and Dão are also notable. Don’t forget to try ginjinha, a cherry liqueur savored mainly in Lisbon and Óbidos.

Dining Etiquette: The Portuguese tend to eat late, with lunch around 1-3pm and dinner around 8-10pm. During meals, keep your hands on the table (not on your lap), and remember to say “Bom appetite” before starting.

Local Eateries: Dive into local dining by visiting tascas – traditional eateries serving home-style dishes. These often offer daily specials called pratos do dia and are a fantastic way to experience authentic Portuguese cuisine.

Seafood Delights: Given its expansive coastline, Portugal is heaven for seafood lovers. From sardines to octopus and various shellfish, coastal towns and cities offer the freshest catch. The traditional cataplana, a seafood stew, is a must-try in the Algarve region.

Don’ts: Avoid asking for alterations to dishes on the menu. It’s considered disrespectful to the chef’s expertise. Similarly, requesting tap water in upscale restaurants may be frowned upon.

Language Tips and Handy Portuguese Phrases

Portuguese, a beautiful, lilting Romance language, is the primary mode of communication in Portugal. For an English-speaking traveler, picking up a few phrases and understanding some nuances can greatly enhance the travel experience.

While many in the urban areas and younger generations speak English, especially within the tourism industry, making an effort to use Portuguese goes a long way. It shows respect for the culture and is often met with appreciation.

Handy Phrases:

Olá – Hello

Obrigado (male) / Obrigada (female) – Thank you

Por favor – Please

Desculpe – Excuse me / I’m sorry

Fala inglês? – Do you speak English?

Quanto custa? – How much is it?

Onde fica…? – Where is…?

Sim – Yes, Não – No

Eu não entendo – I don’t understand

Language Tips: Portuguese pronunciation can be challenging. Remember that the letter ‘r’ at the beginning of words is pronounced like a ‘d’, and ‘s’ at the end of words in Lisbon sounds like ‘sh.’ Familiarizing yourself with such nuances can be beneficial.

Helpful Apps: Consider downloading language apps or translation tools like Duolingo or Google Translate. They can aid in basic communication, especially in less touristy regions.

Exploring Safely: Health & Insurance

Portugal, with its welcoming populace and developed infrastructure, is generally safe for travelers. However, being informed and taking precautions ensures a stress-free journey.

No specific vaccinations are required for Portugal. However, keeping updated with routine vaccines, like MMR, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, and seasonal flu, is wise. The tap water is safe to drink in most places, but buying bottled water in rural areas is a good practice.

Secure a comprehensive travel insurance policy that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and loss or theft of belongings. The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) isn’t applicable to Americans, so having appropriate coverage is essential.

In case of serious emergencies, loss of passport, or legal troubles, it’s handy to have the contact information of the U.S. Embassy in Lisbon.

By acquainting yourself with these basic communication and safety tips, you not only ensure a smooth journey but also get to interact more meaningfully with the local culture and its people.

Talk to Our Portugal Planning Specialists

Unlock the true essence of Portugal with guidance from our dedicated planning specialists. Our seasoned team, armed with in-depth knowledge and local insights, stands ready to craft your perfect Portuguese escapade. 

From hidden gems to cultural treasures, let us guide your journey and tailor an experience that’s uniquely yours. Don’t just visit Portugal; live it — and it all begins with a simple conversation with our team.

Email us

Let us know your questions!

Call our team

US: +1 (240) 540-5240

SideBar Tour Request

Contact Our Tour Planners For Your Own Customizable Tour Itinerary

Our tours are kept to small private groups to provide the best possible experience for our clients. As such we can customize our itineraries to suit your interests, needs, and requirements.

To discuss this tour or any changes you would like to make simply complete the form below.

Tour Request

Email us

Let us know your questions!

Call our team

US: +1 (240) 540-5240

Example Multi-Day Portugal Tour Itineraries