13 Local Tips That’ll Make Portugal Your Best Trip Yet

Locals in Portugal follow routines that visitors often miss. They know when to order lunch, which trains run smoothest, and how to avoid tourist traps. A few small adjustments can make your time feel more relaxed, more connected, and a lot easier to manage.

These tips come straight from what locals actually do, instead of guidebooks.

Know What to Say When You Want Coffee

Ordering “coffee” doesn’t guarantee what you expect. Ask for “um café” to get an espresso or “meia de leite” for a milky coffee. These are standard terms across Portugal. Learning them helps prevent confusion and makes your café stops smoother, especially in places where English isn’t spoken as much.

Plan for Late Dinners, Not Early Ones

Most Portuguese restaurants stay open late, and locals prefer eating around 8 or 9 p.m. If you show up before then, expect mostly tourists and a quieter vibe. Adjust your schedule for a more authentic experience. Smaller restaurants also tend to serve until 10 or later, especially in the cities.

Say No to the Bread If You Don’t Want It

Restaurants tend to bring bread, butter, or cheese to the table without being asked. These extras aren’t free. They’re called “couvert,” and if you eat them, they’ll appear on your bill. If you’re not interested, simply tell the server when it arrives. It’s polite, common, and won’t cause offense.

Take the Metro Instead of Calling a Ride

Lisbon’s Metro system runs efficiently and costs less than rideshares or taxis. It covers most major neighborhoods, including the airport. At a station, you can get a reusable Viva Viagem card and load it with individual rides or a 24-hour pass. Metro access makes city travel faster and less expensive.

Learn a Few Common Portuguese Phrases

Locals speak excellent English in most areas, but they appreciate basic Portuguese greetings. Use “bom dia” for good morning and “obrigado” or “obrigada” to say thank you, depending on gender. A little effort earns respect and better service. It also helps you feel more connected to the culture.

Bring Cash for Smaller Transactions

Most larger businesses accept cards, but small cafés, taxis, and some rural shops don’t. Always carry a couple of euros in case you find a cash-only spot. Portuguese ATMs are widely available, but they charge foreign card fees. Use bank-affiliated machines to stay safe from unexpected charges.

Choose Tascas Over Tourist Restaurants

Tascas serve traditional meals in casual settings. These local restaurants offer large portions and better value than tourist-focused spots. Ask for the “prato do dia,” which refers to the dish of the day. It’s mainly homemade and changes daily. Tascas give you access to everyday Portuguese food that locals actually eat.

Try Not to Run Errands on Sundays

Many small businesses close or reduce hours on Sundays. Even some restaurants and grocery stores operate shorter shifts. If you need essentials, shop ahead on Friday or Saturday. Use Sundays for parks, beaches, or slower activities. Major cities keep more places open, but rural towns may feel very quiet.

Ride Tram 28 Early or Late

Tram 28 runs through some of Lisbon’s most scenic neighborhoods, but it gets overcrowded during the day. Pickpocketing also increases when it’s packed. If you want the experience, ride it before 9 a.m. or after 7 p.m. You’ll get the same views without fighting for space.

Pack for Sun and Sudden Breezes

Temperatures shift quickly, especially along the coast. Mornings can feel cool in summer, while evenings often call for a light layer. Pack short sleeves and sandals, but include a sweater or light jacket. Coastal winds and changes in elevation make layers more useful than heavy clothing.

Don’t Limit Yourself to Major Cities

Places like Lisbon and Porto deserve attention, but the country’s charm doesn’t stop there. Smaller towns like Évora, Tavira, and Viana do Castelo offer rich history, fewer crowds, and excellent food. These areas also tend to be more affordable and relaxed for longer stays.

Visit Neighborhood Bakeries

Bakeries in Portugal offer quick meals, strong coffee, and fresh bread throughout the day. Many locals stop in multiple times to grab a pastel de nata or savory snacks like “empadas” or “rissóis.” These spots give you a real look at everyday life.

Avoid Peak Travel in August

Tourism hits its highest point in August. Prices rise, beaches fill up, and temperatures climb in the interior. If you can, schedule your trip for May, June, September, or early October. You’ll still get sunny weather and plenty to do, with fewer crowds and better hotel availability.

Don’t Overthink Tipping

Portugal doesn’t follow strict tipping rules. Most people round up or leave small changes. A few extra euros show appreciation but aren’t expected. In restaurants with table service, 5–10% is generous. No one will chase you for not tipping, and servers understand the cultural differences.

Browse the Local Markets, Even If You Don’t Buy

Markets mix produce, prepared food, and everyday shopping in one place. You can try snacks, meet vendors, or just walk through. Mercados in bigger cities have both traditional and modern sections. They also give you better prices on fruit, wine, and snacks than supermarkets.

Expect Meals to Take Their Time

Dining out usually moves at a slower pace. Servers won’t bring your check unless you ask. That’s because meals are meant to be enjoyed, not rushed. If you’re in a hurry, choose a café or counter-service spot. Otherwise, lean into the slower rhythm and enjoy the time.

Pay Attention to Beach Flags Before Swimming

When it comes to beach flags, red means no swimming, yellow means caution, and green means it’s safe. Portugal’s Atlantic coast has strong currents and waves, even on calm days. Lifeguards are common on major beaches, but not everywhere. Always check the flag before heading in and don’t assume conditions stay the same all day.

Wear Shoes That Handle Cobblestones

City streets use “calçada portuguesa,” a type of patterned stone that looks great but gets slippery. Heels, flip-flops, or smooth soles won’t help on hills or uneven paths. Comfortable walking shoes with traction make your day easier and keep you from slipping on the way down a steep sidewalk.