Portugal is a country known for its warm, welcoming people. If you’re traveling here, it’s important to understand some of the customs and etiquette to help you connect with locals and avoid any awkward situations. This guide will give you everything you need to know to ensure you’re respectful and polite during your stay.
Greetings
Portuguese people are generally formal in their greetings. A handshake is the most common way to greet someone. For close friends and family, you’ll often see people hug or exchange two kisses, one on each cheek. This is especially common between women or between a man and a woman.
When meeting someone for the first time or in a business setting, stick with a firm handshake. Make sure you greet everyone individually, even in a group setting. Avoid addressing people with their first name until invited to do so. In formal settings, using titles like “Senhor” (Mr.) or “Senhora” (Mrs.) followed by their last name is common.
Dress Code
Portugal has a relaxed but somewhat conservative dress code. Casual wear is common, but people tend to dress a bit more formally than in other Western countries. You’ll rarely see locals walking around in shorts unless they are at the beach.
For dinners, gatherings, or business meetings, dressing smartly is always a good idea. Men should consider wearing collared shirts, and women might wear dresses or blouses. When visiting churches or religious sites, cover your shoulders and knees. This applies to both men and women.
Social Behavior
Conversations and Topics
Portuguese people appreciate politeness and patience in conversations. They tend to communicate in a soft-spoken manner, so speaking loudly can come across as rude. You’ll also find that interrupting someone while they speak is viewed as impolite.
Stick to safe topics like family, work, or hobbies when talking with strangers. Politics, religion, and issues related to Portugal’s history (such as the colonial period) are often sensitive topics, so avoid bringing them up unless you’re with close friends who initiate the topic.
Giving and Receiving Gifts
If you’re invited to a Portuguese home, it’s a nice gesture to bring a small gift. Flowers, chocolates, or a good bottle of wine are always appreciated. Avoid giving lilies or chrysanthemums as these are often used in funerals.
When receiving a gift, open it right away in front of the person. It is more common for the giver to watch as you appreciate their gesture. Similarly, if you’re the one giving the gift, don’t be offended if someone opens it immediately.
Food and Dining Etiquette
Portuguese people take pride in their culinary traditions, and dining is often a relaxed, social affair. Always wait for the host to tell you where to sit before taking your place around the table.
Before the Meal
Before starting the meal, it is polite to say “Bom apetite” (enjoy your meal). If you’re with locals, you’ll likely hear this phrase. If you’re invited for a family meal, don’t rush the eating process. Meals in Portugal are leisurely and meant to be enjoyed slowly.
During the Meal
Keep your hands visible on the table while eating. It’s polite to rest your wrists on the table, though elbows should stay off. Taking small portions is a sign of politeness. Remember, if you’re full, it’s acceptable to refuse more food by saying, “Estou satisfeito” (I’m satisfied).
Tipping
Tipping culture in Portugal is very laid-back. At restaurants, it’s expected to leave between 5-10% of your bill as a tip if the service was good. For taxis, you can usually round up to the nearest euro. No one will look at you poorly if you don’t tip, but a little extra is appreciated.
Church and Religious Etiquette
Portugal is deeply rooted in the Catholic tradition, and you’ll find many beautiful churches and monasteries during your visit. While many churches double as tourist destinations, they are also places of worship, so respect the space whenever you enter.
Entering a Church
If you’re visiting a church, make sure to dress modestly. Avoid wearing shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops, and try to keep your voice low while inside. If a service is underway, stay out of the way of the worshippers.
Religious Traditions to Be Aware Of
Portugal has many religious festivals, especially around Easter and Christmas. During Holy Week (Semana Santa), the streets can close down for processions, and people gather in large numbers to observe the events. If you’re traveling during these times, be patient and plan accordingly for potential delays.
Public Behavior
Public displays of affection are common and acceptable in Portugal, though excessive displays can still make people uncomfortable. Holding hands or a quick kiss is fine, but beyond that, it’s better to keep displays of affection for private moments.
Smoking is banned in indoor public spaces like restaurants, bars, and public transportation. You’ll find designated smoking areas outside.
Portuguese Time: Punctuality
Portugal isn’t as strict about punctuality as some other European countries. Arriving a little late for social events, around 10-15 minutes, is considered acceptable. However, for business meetings, you should aim to be on time, even if they may not always start exactly on schedule.
Respect for Family
Family is significant in Portuguese culture. You’ll notice that many businesses shut down for lunch so people can go home and eat with their families. Sundays are often considered family days, with many people gathering for big lunches.
It is common to ask someone about their family, as it’s seen as a sign of interest and affection. However, avoid any questions that could come off as intrusive, especially early on in your relationship with someone.
Respect for the Elderly
The elderly are highly respected in Portugal. If you’re taking public transportation, it’s expected to offer your seat to someone older than you. Speak politely, and if you’re introduced to an older person, make sure to greet them before anyone else.
Practical Advice for Visitors
If you’re unsure how to act in a particular situation, don’t hesitate to observe others or politely ask. Locals are usually happy to guide you.
Portugal is laid-back, and making the effort to be polite will go a long way. Simple courtesies like saying “obrigado” (thank you) or “por favor” (please) will help you blend in and make traveling more enjoyable.
Conclusion
Portugal is a wonderful place to visit, and understanding the local customs can make your experience unforgettable. By following these tips, you’ll show respect to the Portuguese people and their culture while getting the most out of your trip.
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