Greeting: Portuguese people usually greet each other with a handshake, but close friends or family may greet each other with a kiss on the cheek (for women it’s just one, for men it can be two). When in doubt, wait for the local to extend their hand first.
Politeness: Portuguese people are generally very polite and courteous. Use please (“por favor”) and thank you (“obrigado” - for males, “obrigada” - for females) often.
Patience: Porto is a vibrant city with numerous tourists, so lines can be long at popular attractions or restaurants. Be patient and respectful of others’ time.
Cultural Etiquette Tips
Time Management: Punctuality is appreciated, but not always strictly observed in social situations. However, for business meetings, it’s important to arrive on time.
Dining Etiquette: It’s considered rude not to finish all the food on your plate. If you can’t finish, you can ask for a doggy bag (“um saco para levar”).
Tipping: Service charge is often included in the bill at restaurants (it’s marked with “serviço incluso” or “pago ao portista”), but rounding up is always appreciated if it wasn’t. For taxis, tipping is not necessary as it’s already included in the fare.
Public Behavior: Public displays of affection are less common than in some other countries. Respect local customs and behave appropriately in public places.
Respect for Traditions: Porto is rich in tradition, especially during religious festivals such as St. John’s Day (São João) on June 24th. If you’re there, join the locals in singing traditional songs, eating sardines, and hitting each other with plastic hammers (in jest).
Travel Tips
Learn Basic Portuguese: While many Porto residents understand English, it’s always appreciated when tourists make an effort to speak Portuguese. A few basic phrases can go a long way!
Use Public Transportation: Porto has an efficient and affordable metro, bus, and tram system that makes getting around the city easy. Consider purchasing a tourist pass for unlimited travel during your stay.
Stay Safe: Like any other city, Porto has areas that are safer than others. Avoid dimly lit alleys and deserted streets at night, and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places.