Etiquette Survival Guide for Portugal.

It’s always good to have an idea of how things are done locally, when you are off on holiday abroad so you can be sure to avoid any social embarrassment. If setting off to Portugal, be sure to get clued up on the local etiquette before you go. Have a read of our simple survival guide.

Greetings

Always shake hands, maintain eye contact and say the appropriate greeting for the time of day when meeting someone. For reference, the Portuguese greetings are “Bom Dia” – Good Morning, “Boa Tarde” – Good Afternoon/Evening and “Boa Noite”- Goodnight. Close male friends may hug and females will ‘kiss’ on each cheek. Remember to brush cheeks and kiss the air though as opposed to actually kissing them! Younger Portuguese may just kiss you anyway so don’t be surprised if they do!

Tipping

Tipping is customary in Portugal and is considered to be a salary supplement. It’s very much the same as it is in the UK and in the United States. Whilst a service charge isn’t usually added to bills, a tip is expected. A tip of around 10-15% of the final bill is acceptable. If you receive really good service, then anything over and above this is appreciated. You can also tip taxi drivers, bell boys and maids as you wish.

If you happen to visit Northern Portugal, tips aren’t as widely accepted. You may find yourself chased down the street by a waiter who thinks you forgot to pick up your change! As always though, whether you tip and how much is your decision.

Dining at Restaurants

Whilst lateness of up to 15 minutes is generally acceptable, it is best practice to try to stick your reservation time. Starters in Portugal are normally brought to your table without asking and include a selection of bread, olives and cheese. Some restaurants charge and some don’t so it is best to ask rather than assume that it is free. Some restaurants are self-seating and some you will need to wait to be seated. You will usually be able to tell depending on whether there is a podium or not. Be aware that you may be required to share a table!

If you get invited to a Portuguese person’s home, be sure to bring a gift whether it be chocolates, table wine or flowers. Be aware not to give lilies or chrysanthemums as they are funeral flowers.

Table Manners

Unfolding your napkin is generally considered a faux pas. Keep it to the left of your plate whilst eating and move it to the right when you are finished. Leave a small amount of food on your plate when you are finished and lay your knife and fork parallel to each other. Almost all food is eaten with utensils in Portugal, including fruit and cheese. Check before you dive in with your hands!

General Tips & Pointers

Be aware that queuing is generally non-existent in Portugal. It tends to be a free-for-all and much is the same when it comes to car parks. Try to stay calm as it is normal here!

Portuguese manners are high on the list of attributes and you will find all to be polite and helpful. Rudeness is not obliged and snapping your fingers or similar at a waitress or waiter will not be welcomed.

Don’t speak Spanish to a Portuguese person or refer to them as Spanish – they are two separate countries, completely unrelated and it won’t go down well!

By checking out the local etiquette before you go, you’ll be sure to have a great time without making a faux pas! Have you had an embarrassing etiquette experience abroad? Share your story.