Traveling to Portugal is fun! But every country has rules. Some rules in Portugal might surprise you. Let’s learn about them so you stay safe and happy.
Public Drinking Rules in Portugal
You can’t drink alcohol in parks, beaches, or streets in cities like Lisbon. If you do, police might give you a €200 fine.
Why? Portugal loves wine, but cities want to keep public places clean.
Expert Tip: Drink at cafés or restaurants. Ask for a “copo de vinho” (glass of wine) there!
True Story: My friend Ana tried sipping beer on a Lisbon bench. A police officer reminded her kindly to move to a terrace.
Protecting Portugal’s Sand Dunes
Sand dunes look like big hills near beaches. Never walk or play on them! They protect the land from waves.
Where? Costa da Caparica and the Algarve have strict rules.
What Happens? Fines start at €25. Look for signs with a crossed-out foot symbol.
Expert Tip: Use wooden walkways to reach the beach. They’re built to keep dunes safe.
Why You Need to Carry ID
Police can ask for your ID anytime. Tourists must show a passport. If you forget it, they might take you to the police station.
True Story: A tourist named João left his passport at the hotel. He missed his bus while proving his identity.
Expert Advice: Take a photo of your passport on your phone. Police usually accept this.
Buying Alcohol on Highways After 8 PM
On highways, gas stations stop selling beer, wine, or spirits after 8 PM.
Why? Portugal wants drivers to stay safe.
What to Do: Buy drinks earlier from supermarkets.
Place | Alcohol Sales Time |
Highway Gas Stations | Until 8 PM |
Supermarkets | Until 10 PM |
Quiet Hours in Neighborhoods
From 10 PM to 7 AM, you must be quiet. No loud music, shouting, or parties.
Why? Portuguese families value calm nights.
Expert Tip: If staying on an Airbnb, close the windows by 10 PM. Neighbors might call the police.
Taking Photos of Military Places
Never take pictures of ships, bases, or soldiers. It’s illegal and could get you in trouble.
Where? Near ports, airports, or areas with “Proibido Fotografar” signs.
True Story: A tourist once snapped a photo of a navy ship in Lisbon. Police deleted the photo and gave him a warning.
Crossing Streets Safely
Always use crosswalks. If you jaywalk (cross anywhere else), police can fine you €50.
Why? Drivers expect people at crosswalks.
Expert Advice: Wait for the green “walk” man. Portuguese drivers, stop quickly!
Understanding Bullfighting in Portugal
Bulls aren’t killed in Portuguese bullfights. They leave the ring alive.
What’s Different? Horsemen called cavaleiros fight the bull. It’s a show of skill, not blood.
Expert Tip: Ask locals if bullfights suit your values. Some find them exciting; others feel sad.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I drink wine on the beach in Portugal?
No. Beaches, parks, and streets in cities ban public drinking.
2. Do I need my passport everywhere?
Yes. Police can ask for it. Take a photo as backup.
3. Are sand dunes really protected?
Yes. Walking on them harms plants that hold the sand.
4. Can I buy alcohol at night on highways?
No. Highway gas stations stop sales after 8 PM.
5. What happens if I’m too loud at night?
Neighbors might call the police. You could pay a fine.
6. Can I take photos of police cars?
Avoid it. Police or military vehicles are often off-limits.
7. Are bullfights cruel?
Opinions differ. Bulls aren’t killed, but they do get tired.
8. What if I lose my ID?
Go to your country’s embassy. They’ll help you get new papers.
