Portuguese Culture - Do's and Don'ts (2024)

FAQs

Portuguese Culture - Do's and Don'ts? ›

Tips on culture and etiquette in Portugal

Casual attire (e.g. barefoot, beachwear) is inappropriate in public and can make one seem unsophisticated. Similarly, it is important to speak respectfully and politely. Portuguese place high importance on being polite. Reciprocating this politeness will be appreciated by your Portuguese counterpart.

In Portuguese culture, making eye contact is considered polite in conversation, otherwise it may appear as though somebody isn't engaged in the conversation. Portuguese people tend to speak quickly and loudly, which can be misconstrued as anger. However, this is just the passionate way in which people communicate!

The Portuguese participate in many cultural activities, indulging their appreciation of art, music, drama, and dance. Portugal has a rich traditional folklore (Ranchos Folclóricos), with great regional variety. Many cities and towns have a museum and a collection of ancient monuments and buildings.

85% of the Portuguese population identify are Catholic but there are also Jewish and Muslim communities.

Therefore, ripped jeans, clothing covered with logos, or overly revealing garments may be frowned upon. Women might also wear heels for special occasions such as weddings or formal parties. And it's important to be aware that some places, such as cathedrals, enforce a conservative dress code.

Talk about taboo topics: Avoid speaking about topics related to religion, politics, and colonial wars, these topics are taboo and it is preferable to avoid them. Gloat: Do not talk very highly about your achievements, status, or wealth. Portuguese people are modest and you should be too, so do not exaggerate anything.

The main thing in Portugal is to always greet a person if you are going to be speaking to them. Say “bom dia/boa tarde” upon entering a store or approaching a ticket vendor, and before speaking to anyone. Not greeting a person is seen as rude and pushy, even if you are in a rush.

The key social and cultural values of Portugal include a focus on collective well-being, mutual trust, and satisfaction with life . Portuguese culture is characterized by fluid time management, a relaxed attitude towards professional performance, and the importance of social relationships .

Light-colored clothes for summer.

Darker clothes will absorb the heat from the big hot sun we get to enjoy so much of here. However, if you come in whites and beiges from head to toe, you will look like a tourist for sure. Portuguese people, regardless of gender, do not go for an all-caqui and all-white wardrobe.

What are some Portuguese rituals? ›

Portugal is rich in traditions, many of which are tied to religious festivals and events. These include the Festa de São João do Porto, the Burning of the Ribbons in Coimbra, and Holy Week in Braga. Other traditions include Fado music, traditional Portuguese dress, and the Sardine Festival in Portimão.

The Portuguese themselves tend to like free outdoor activities like taking a walk, going to the park or the beach or meeting friends and family for a picnic. Portugal's long coastal line and sunny weather gives great opportunities for different kinds of water sports like surfing and sailing.

Portuguese people are welcoming, easy-going and friendly

While first impressions in some cases may tell you otherwise, the majority of Portuguese people will make you feel right at home and will happily go out of their way to help, making them great hosts, one of the greatest Portuguese personality traits.

Christianity is the predominant religion in Portugal, with Catholicism being its largest denomination.

Avoid demonstrations and public protests, monitor the media and follow the advice of local authorities. Bag snatching, pickpocketing and theft from cars occur. Keep valuables out of sight. Pay attention to your belongings at beaches, tourist spots, and public transport.

Black, navy, grey and other darker colors will help you blend in. We're not very optimistic people. Don't do rain capes, but don't walk in the rain unprotected. Rain capes give any tourist away anywhere, but Portuguese people don't usually wear impermeable clothes.