Destinations / Portugal
Here's everything you need to know — currency, tipping, language, safety, and the tips that actually matter.
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Language
Portuguese
Emergency
112
Plug Type
Type C / Type F (two round prongs)
Voltage
230V / 50Hz
Driving Side
Right
Tap Water
Safe to drink from the tap
U.S. Embassy
Lisbon: +351 21 727 3300
Not expected but appreciated. Rounding up or leaving 5-10% is generous.
Round up to the nearest euro.
€1-2 per bag. Housekeeping tipping is uncommon.
Leave small change. Not expected.
| English | Portuguese | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello | Olá | oh-LAH |
| Thank you | Obrigado/a | oh-bree-GAH-doo/dah |
| Please | Por favor | por fah-VOR |
| The bill, please | A conta, por favor | ah KOHN-tah por fah-VOR |
Portugal is not Spain — don't speak Spanish to Portuguese people
Lunch menus ('prato do dia') are the best deal — full meals for €7-10
Pastéis de nata (custard tarts) are everywhere and always worth it
Lisbon's trams are charming but pickpocket-heavy — watch your belongings
Credit cards are widely accepted, but carry some cash for smaller shops
The Algarve coast is stunning but crowded in August — visit in June or September
Comfortable shoes — Lisbon is built on seven hills, all of them steep
Sunscreen and a hat for the Algarve coast
A light jacket for coastal wind, even in summer
A Type C or Type F power adapter
Currency, tipping, phrases, emergency info, and city guides for Portugal — offline and instant.