Don't Be That Tourist: 12 Things Not To Do When Visiting Portugal

Portugal is an incredibly fascinating country that everyone needs to visit at least once. The European nation has everything from historical architecture and unique traditions to stunning beaches and vibrant cities. However, as with any country, there are some rules and tips to remember to enjoy Portugal to its fullest.

With that in mind, we’ve compiled a list of 12 things tourists should never do when visiting Portugal so you can plan the trip of your dreams. If you avoid doing these things, you can ensure you have a successful and memorable trip that doesn’t encounter any issues.

Don’t Try To Speak Spanish to Locals

Surreal Places in Portugal_Benagil Caves — © Kanuman / Adobe Stock

We’ll kick things off with a super simple one that’s surprisingly easy to fall for. You shouldn’t speak Spanish to people in Portugal. While the two languages are very similar, people in Portugal speak Portuguese. If you can’t speak Portuguese, don’t panic; most people in Portugal are capable of speaking English.

Furthermore, the similarities between the Spanish and Portuguese languages make it possible for Portuguese people to understand what you’re saying, but it’s always better to speak the local language if possible. If you don’t speak Portuguese, why don’t you learn a few basic phrases before your trip, such as please and thank you?

Don’t Eat in Tourist Hotspots

Tourist Traps in Portugal Overpriced Restaurants — © Picturellarious / Adobe Stock

Like in most countries, you should avoid eating in popular tourist areas in Portugal, particularly if traveling on a tight budget. Tourist hotspots are almost always more expensive, busier, and generally less good than authentic restaurants in local areas. For example, it’s not uncommon for portions to be smaller and food to be less traditional.

Therefore, you won’t experience a genuine Portuguese meal, which is a shame because authentic Portuguese cuisine is fantastic. To avoid eating in tourist hotspots, eat a few blocks away from major tourist attractions and follow the locals. Asking hotel staff and locals for recommendations is an excellent way to find traditional restaurants.

Don’t Expect Fast Service

Things Not to Do Visiting Portugal Expect Fast Service — © Aniczkania / Shutterstock

When eating out, you should never visit a restaurant for lunch or dinner if you’re in a rush because you can’t expect fast service in every restaurant in Portugal. In Portugal, people value taking their time to enjoy meals, reflected in their appreciation for a more leisurely lifestyle.

As a result, it’s a cultural norm for food in restaurants to be served slower than what you might be used to. With this in mind, plan when you want to eat more carefully and maximize the opportunity to relax and savor your delicious meal.

Don’t Skip the Line

In most countries, skipping the line or jumping ahead of a queue is considered rude and disrespectful. Portugal is the same, so always take your time and be patient when queuing for an attraction, public transport, or access to a restaurant. Of course, you won’t be punished for doing so, but it won’t go down very well with the locals.

Most public services in Portugal have a number system, so you can take a number and wait patiently until it’s your turn. However, bars, cafes, etc., don’t, so be prepared to queue or line up now and then during your trip. None of us like queueing, but sometimes we have to. It’s just one of those things that comes with traveling.

Never Forget About the Siesta Tradition

In many parts of Portugal, especially in small towns and rural areas, local people follow a tradition called siesta. Also known as the “sixth hour,” siesta is a period in the day when people take a break to rest, eat, escape the heat, and spend time with family.

Most shops, cafes, restaurants, and some tourist attractions shut during the siesta. Therefore, planning your day around the siesta is essential to avoid disappointment when finding somewhere to eat, drink, or shop. Following local customs is also a great way to show respect and experience everyday life in a specific place.

Don’t Forget To Say Please and Thank You

Things Not to Do Visiting Portugal Forget To Say Please and Thank You — © Freesurf / Adobe Stock

This is another super simple rule to remember, but many fail to do it. While it might not be as important where you live, politeness is highly valued in Portuguese society. Saying simple common courtesies such as please, thank you, and even just hello can go a long way in showing respect.

Being polite often leads to a friendlier interaction, too. If you say please or thank you in Portuguese, that would be even better. The Portuguese for thank you is “obrigado” or “obrigada.” Meanwhile, the Portuguese for please is “por favor” or “se faz favor.” If you want to impress the locals, you could say something like, “olá, como vai” upon meeting them, which means “Hello, how are you.”

Don’t Overlook the Less Popular Tourist Destinations

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One of the biggest mistakes you can make when planning a trip to Portugal is overlooking the lesser-known destinations. Generally, most people visiting Portugal stay along the Algarve or in big cities, such as Lisbon and Porto. While these places are spectacular and well worth visiting, it would be wise to consider other parts of Portugal.

For example, historical cities like Evora have fascinating sights, Portuguese culture, and important national landmarks. Meanwhile, small towns like Pinhão in Northern Portugal offer beautiful architecture, impressive scenery, and a wide range of things to do but without the hustle and bustle of Lisbon. The key secret to the perfect Portugal itinerary is including hidden gems in your plans.

Don’t Leave a Tip for the Sake of It

Like most places, tipping in Portugal is common. However, you should never tip just for the sake of it. Tipping in countries such as America and the United Kingdom is expected, but it’s not mandatory in Portugal. Locals are mindful when tipping, only leaving a tip for exceptional service.

It’s also important to know that servers won’t treat you any differently if you do or don’t tip, as it’s not expected. In other words, if you want to leave one, do so. If not, don’t just do it for the sake of it—most people who leave a tip in Portugal round their bill up by five or ten percent.

Never Leave Valuables Unattended

Leaving your valuables unattended anywhere in the world is never a good idea, so don’t do things differently in Portugal. Portugal might have a better reputation than other countries for being safe and having a low crime rate, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still fall victim to theft.

Like many European countries, pickpocketing, bag snatching, and petty theft aren’t uncommon in Portugal. With that in mind, always keep your belongings close, especially in tourist hotspots and on public transport. We also advise you against flashing luxury belongings in public, especially at night in more remote or quieter locations.

Don’t Forget Your Sunscreen

Things Not to Do Visiting Portugal Forget Your Sunscreen — © Kurt Nielsen / Adobe Stock

With more than 300 sunny days a year, Portugal is one of the sunniest European vacation destinations. In addition to year-long warm and sunny weather, the country has plenty of places to kick back on the beach, sunbathe, and swim in crystal-clear turquoise waters. With that in mind, remember to pack your sunscreen.

You could quickly burn if you forget to bring sunscreen to Portugal or fail to buy some during your trip. For obvious reasons, this can lead to severe health implications and ruin your holiday before it’s even begun. Your skin will thank you for putting on strong sunscreen in the morning and reapplying it every couple of hours or after swimming and sweating.

Don’t Forget Your Walking Shoes

Things Not to Do Visiting Portugal Forget Your Walking Shoes — © Boivinnicolas / Adobe Stock

Sticking with forgetting to pack things, remember to pack a good pair of walking shoes for your Portugal trip, too. Even if you’ve only planned a short city break or a week-long beachside vacation, walking shoes can be helpful in Portugal.

From steep cobblestoned alleyways and hilly city-center streets to long sandy beaches and countryside hikes, a high-quality pair of walking shoes is crucial if you want to walk comfortably during your trip. Pack your favorite trainers, heels, or flip-flops, but make sure you have a sturdy pair of shoes for longer and more challenging walks.

Don’t Underestimate the Power of the Ocean

Things Not to Do Visiting Portugal Underestimate the Power of the Ocean — © R.M. Nunes / Adobe Stock

If you love the water, this final piece of advice is crucial. Portugal is renowned for having some of the best beaches and surfing breaks in the world, making it a big hit with surfers and beachgoers. While most beaches and surf breaks are suitable for everyone, certain areas can be hazardous, so never disrespect the sea and only go in the water if you feel 100% confident in the situation.

Take Nazaré, for example. Nazaré has powerful currents and enormous waves that should only be tackled by professionals, if at all. In fact, according to the Guinness World Book of Records, the largest wave ever surfed was in Nazaré. It was a whopping 85.99 feet (26.21 meters) tall.