e7m💵 Money & Payment Mistakes
Portugal uses the Euro, and many visitors arrive unprepared for currency exchange costs. Withdraw cash from ATMs in Portugal rather than exchanging money at airports—the rates are significantly better. Expect to pay €2-5 ($2.20-5.50) per withdrawal fee at most machines.
Never exchange currency at tourist shops near major attractions. The Chiado district in Lisbon and Baixa area are notorious for offering rates 15-20% worse than banks. Card payments work everywhere in modern establishments, but smaller restaurants and family-run shops in towns like Sintra or Porto may only accept cash. Keep €50-100 ($55-110) in small bills at all times.
⚠️ Scams & Safety Awareness
The "friendly local" scam targets visitors in Lisbon's Alfama and Baixa districts. Strangers approach offering help with directions, then demand payment for unsolicited tourist information. Simply ignore and walk away.
Avoid unmarked taxis—use Bolt or Uber instead, which cost 30-40% less than hailed cabs. Taxi drivers from Humberto Delgado Airport to central Lisbon typically charge €15-25 ($16-27) for an 8km ride; apps show exactly what you'll pay upfront.
Street crime is low overall, but pickpocketing occurs on tram 28 and crowded metro lines during peak hours. Keep phones and bags secure. Petty theft at beach areas like Cascais happens occasionally; don't leave valuables unattended.
🤝 Cultural Etiquette & Local Customs
Portuguese people greet with a handshake or light cheek kiss between acquaintances. "Olá" (hello) and "obrigado" (thank you) show respect—using English without attempting basic Portuguese phrases can seem rude to locals in smaller towns.
Meal times differ significantly from North American customs. Lunch occurs 12:30-2pm, and dinner starts at 8-9pm. Many restaurants don't open for dinner before 7pm. Tipping is optional but appreciated—rounding up or leaving 5-10% is standard for good service.
Avoid discussing the colonial past negatively in casual conversation. Portuguese history is complex, and such topics are best left to educational contexts. Don't photograph people without permission, particularly in traditional neighborhoods.
🚌 Transportation & Connectivity
The Viva Viagem card (€0.50) allows unlimited metro and tram rides—7-day passes cost €40 ($44) in Lisbon. Buying individual tickets at €1.50 ($1.65) each adds up quickly. Regional trains between Lisbon, Porto, and Covilhã are affordable and reliable; book through CP or Trainline.
Stay connected affordably with an eSIM from e7m.net, priced from $1, allowing data without switching physical cards. For longer stays, local providers like MEO offer plans around €20 ($22) monthly with generous data.
Don't expect Sunday services—many shops close, and some attractions have reduced hours. Plan museum visits accordingly; entrance fees range €5-15 ($5.50-16.50).