Dreaming of a life filled with sunshine and a pleasant climate, scenic landscapes, and a rich cultural experience? Portugal offers all this and more.

Whether you’re considering a move or already settled, understanding the Portuguese lifestyle can enhance your experience and help you feel at home in no time.

Let’s dive into the essence of Portuguese life and what makes living in Portugal so special.

The Warmth of the Portuguese Community

One of the first things you’ll notice about living in Portugal is the warmth and friendliness of the Portuguese people. Community and family play a central role in their lives. It’s common to see multi-generational families enjoying meals together and neighbors greeting each other warmly on the streets.

• Community Events: From local festivals to neighborhood gatherings, community events are a great way to connect with locals and experience Portuguese culture firsthand.
• Family Values: Family is at the heart of Portuguese society. Expect to see large family gatherings, especially during weekends and holidays. Many Portuguese family visit their country house on weekends.

A Pace of Life to Savor

Portugal is known for its relaxed pace of life. Unlike the hustle and bustle you might be used to, the Portuguese take time to enjoy life’s simple pleasures. This is the case in the northern region, the Algarve region, southern Portugal, central Portugal, Porto, and even in Lisbon!

Daily Routine: Expect a slower pace, with long, leisurely meals and a focus on quality over quantity. Afternoon siestas are still a tradition in many parts of the country.

Cafés and Pastries: Spending time at a café is a favorite pastime. Enjoy a fresh-squeezed juice or coffee and a pastel de nata (custard tart) while people-watching.

Stories of how other Americans have adjusted to the Portuguese culture

Kaitlin Wichmann’s Experience as told to Business Insider magazine:

Kaitlin Wichmann, an American expat living in Lisbon, shared her journey of moving from Kansas City, Kansas, to Portugal. She highlighted the significant shift in work-life balance she experienced. In the U.S., Kaitlin was accustomed to a fast-paced work environment where skipping lunch or having working lunches was common. However, in Lisbon, she found that people take longer breaks, including two-hour lunches, and prioritize spending time outdoors after work. This change allowed her to enjoy a higher quality of life and embrace the local culture’s emphasis on relaxation and social interaction

Madison’s Experience:

Madison’s experience is a testament to the rewards and challenges of embracing the Portuguese lifestyle. Her journey highlights the importance of patience and adaptability when transitioning to a new country and culture.

One of the most significant adjustments for many Americans moving to Portugal is adapting to the slower pace of life. It took her about a year to fully embrace this change. The Portuguese way of life places a greater emphasis on work-life balance, family time, and enjoying simple pleasures. While this shift may initially feel unfamiliar, it ultimately leads to reduced stress levels and a more fulfilling lifestyle.

Madison’s appreciation for the additional time spent with her family is a common sentiment among expats in Portugal. The Portuguese culture values strong family bonds and often prioritizes family gatherings and leisure activities. This focus on family can be a refreshing change for Americans seeking a more balanced and meaningful life.

General Observations

Many Americans moving to Portugal are drawn by the country’s warm climate, affordable cost of living, and high quality of life.

The laid-back lifestyle, characterized by a focus on personal interests and family time, contrasts sharply with the work-centric culture prevalent in the U.S. This shift often leads to a more balanced and fulfilling life for expats.

The Portuguese value work-life balance, taking pride in enjoying quality time with friends and family, which can be a refreshing change for those coming from a more hectic environment

Safety

Portugal is consistently has a global ranking as one of the safest countries in the world. The low crime rates and general sense of security allow residents to enjoy a more carefree lifestyle, whether it’s walking home late at night or letting children play outdoors independently.

Portugal is considered one of the safest countries. Portugal ranked 7th globally according to the 2023 Global Peace Index. This ranking highlights Portugal’s high level of societal safety and security, low levels of domestic and international conflict, and low degree of militarization.

By comparison, the United States ranked 128th out of 163 countries in terms of safety according to the Global Peace Index.

Work Culture Differences

In Portugal, the work culture is less intense compared to the U.S. Portuguese employees typically enjoy more paid time off, with the standard being 22 to 25 days of vacation per year, compared to the 10-14 days common in the U.S.

This allows for more relaxation and personal time, contributing to a better work-life balance. Portuguese employees get paid an extra month of pay in the summer and again at Christmas. It’s not just tradition, it’s the law.

Culinary Delights

Portuguese cuisine is diverse and delicious, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Seafood is a staple, given Portugal’s extensive coastline, but there’s much more to explore.

• Seafood Galore: Dishes like bacalhau (salted cod), grilled sardines, and octopus salad are must-tries.
• Wine and Dine: Portugal is famous for its wine, especially port wine from the Douro Valley. Don’t miss the chance to pair local wines with your meals.
• Sweet Treats: Indulge in traditional pastries like pastéis de nata and bolo de arroz (rice cake).
• Soup: Soups are a staple in Portuguese cuisine, enjoyed year-round and often forming a significant part of the main meal. Whether served as a starter, an amuse-bouche, or a hearty main course, soups are integral to the Portuguese dining experience. This tradition is deeply rooted in the country’s history and reflects the Portuguese emphasis on simple, wholesome, and flavorful food.

Exploring Portugal’s Vibrant Fresh Produce Markets

One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the local culture and cuisine is by visiting the bustling fresh produce markets found in cities and towns across Portugal.

These lively markets offer a glimpse into the country’s rich agricultural heritage and provide access to an abundance of locally grown fruits, vegetables, and other seasonal delicacies.

It is common for the indoor markets to combine produce with local cheese, a fish market (straight off the boat from the Atlantic Ocean!) and butcher market.

Markets selling fresh produce can be found all over. Sometimes you have to look them up, especially in the bigger cities because they are not all open air markets selling fresh vegetables. Sometimes you could walk right past a good one and not even notice!

Embracing the Outdoors

Portugal’s stunning landscapes offer endless opportunities for outdoor activities. From the golden beaches of the Algarve to the rolling hills of the Douro Valley, there’s something for everyone.

• Beach Life: The coastline is dotted with beautiful beaches, perfect for sunbathing, surfing, or a leisurely stroll.
• Nature Trails: Explore the scenic hiking trails in places like the Azores and Madeira.
• City Parks: Urban areas like Lisbon and Porto have plenty of parks and green spaces for relaxation and recreation.

Rich Cultural Heritage

Portugal’s history and culture are woven into the fabric of everyday life. The country’s rich heritage is reflected in its architecture, festivals, and traditions.

• Historical Sites: Visit landmarks such as the Tower of Belém in Lisbon, the Douro Valley vineyards, and the historic city of Sintra.
• Festivals and Traditions: Experience vibrant festivals like the Festa de São João in Porto and the Feast of Saint Anthony in Lisbon.
• Music and Dance: Fado music, a soulful genre unique to Portugal, is an essential part of the cultural experience. Enjoy a live Fado performance in a traditional setting.

Portuguese Holidays and Seasonal Changes

Portugal celebrates several holidays throughout the year, and it’s important to know when these occur, as many businesses close on these days.

• National Holidays: Key holidays include New Year’s Day (January 1), Carnation Revolution Day (April 25), Portugal Day (June 10), Assumption Day (August 15), and Christmas (December 25).
• Local Holidays: Each region and city may have its own holidays, such as Saint Anthony’s Day in Lisbon (June 13) and Saint John’s Day in Porto (June 24).
• Business Closures: On these holidays, expect government offices, banks, and many businesses to be closed. Supermarkets and malls may operate on reduced hours. It’s not uncommon for small businesses to close for a week or two during festival times or because they want to go on vacation.

What to Expect in the Summer

Summer in Portugal is a vibrant time, filled with festivals, tourists, and lots of sunshine.

• Tourist Season: Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season. Expect crowded beaches, busy streets, and a lively atmosphere.
• Festivals and Events: Many festivals take place during the summer, including music festivals like NOS Alive and cultural events such as the Feast of Saint John.
• Heat and Sun: The weather can get quite hot, especially in the southern regions. Make sure to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.

Practical Tips for Living in Portugal

Adjusting to a new country involves more than just enjoying the culture. Here are some practical tips to help you settle in smoothly:

Learn Basic Portuguese: While many Portuguese speak English, learning basic Portuguese language phrases can enhance your experience and show respect to the locals.

Healthcare System: Portugal offers excellent healthcare services, both public and private. Ensure you register with the national health service (SNS) and strongly consider private health insurance policies for comprehensive coverage.

Cost of Living: Portugal is known for its affordable cost of living. However, prices can vary depending on the region. Urban areas like Lisbon and Porto are more expensive than rural areas. Be sure to keep your budget in mind when choosing where to live.

Conclusion

Living in Portugal is about embracing a lifestyle that values community, the simple pleasures of life, and exploring Portuguese culture. From the warmth of its people to the beauty of its varied landscapes and the richness of its culture, Portugal offers a unique and fulfilling experience.

Whether you’re here for the long term or just starting your journey, understanding the Portuguese lifestyle will help you make the most of your time in this wonderful country.

Adapting to the Portuguese lifestyle involves embracing a slower pace of life, prioritizing personal well-being, and integrating into the local community. For many Americans, this transition from a workaholic culture to a more relaxed environment leads to a higher quality of life and a deeper appreciation for the simple pleasures of daily living in Portugal.

Ready to dive into Portuguese life? Join the vibrant community of expats and locals who have discovered the magic of living in Portugal. Embrace the culture, savor the cuisine, and enjoy the relaxed pace of life that makes this country so special.

Contact us if you’d like help navigating any part of moving to and living happily in Portugal.  We have a robust team to help you with every step and every need, from all things Bureaucratic to Property renting or buying, furnishing your home, renovating, legal issues, household staffing, buying a car, insurances, etc.

Welcome to your new home in Portugal!