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128 Portuguese Phrases for Everyday Life and Travel

How would you fare if we transported you to a Portuguese-speaking country right now?

Do you have enough phrases under your belt to find your way around?

This post is for all the beginners who want to nail their basic Portuguese phrases.

Whether your focus is on European or Brazilian Portuguese , fine-tuning your essentials will make life that much easier.

Basic Greetings

Basic words and phrases, essential questions and phrases , essential portuguese travel phrases, asking for directions , words and phrases for food, quick tips to make learning basic portuguese a breeze, learn in context, learn out loud, and one more thing….

Download: This blog post is available as a convenient and portable PDF that you can take anywhere. Click here to get a copy. (Download)

Greetings are often the first thing you cover when learning a new language—and in Portuguese, it’s no different.

Whether you need a reminder of your basic hellos and goodbyes, or you’re yet to learn them, here are some of the key greetings you need to know:

Good manners always make a positive impression. If you’re ever traveling to Brazil or Portugal, these terms will help prevent any cultural misunderstandings that might arise from basic etiquette:

There’s no shame in asking for help when you need it. In fact, it’s all part of the learning experience.

If you’re talking to a native Portuguese speaker, use these phrases to aid your comprehension:

Traveling to Brazil or Portugal? Then these questions will definitely help you along the way. This is by no means a comprehensive list, but it’ll help you get started:

*Grammar note: use  ao  for masculine nouns,  à for feminine. 

In order to get where you want to go, you’re probably going to have to ask for directions. Here are the basics:

If you see something you’d like to bring home, you’ll need to know a thing or two about making purchases.

It might feel unnatural, but haggling is the norm in many countries . Here’s how to let the vendor know you won’t budge from your budget:

No cultural experience is complete without food . How about trying the famous Brazilian brigadeiro dessert pictured above? 

If you’re ever in Brazil you’ll need to know more than the word cachaça  (a spirit produced mainly in Brazil).

Here are some essential Portuguese phrases to remember:

Learning a language, as you already know, is a commitment.

It takes time to build up your vocabulary , study the  grammar rules and get your pronunciation just right.

But you know what? All that groundwork doesn’t have to be stressful.

As long as you know what you’re trying to achieve and how you’re going to achieve it, the transition between all learning phases—from beginner to advanced—should go quite smoothly.

At this stage, in particular, there are two key points that we recommend you focus on:

Your first mission is to  put your learned phrases  into context. Memorizing words and sentences isn’t going to do any good if you don’t know how to apply them in your daily life.

With all the resources you can readily access these days, it’s easy and fun to get actively involved in practicing your linguistic skills—no matter how basic—beyond memorization.

For instance, the exercises and native content you’re exposed to through the FluentU program’s authentic videos will help you see how each new phrase and language rule you’re studying fits into natural Portuguese speech.

FluentU takes authentic videos—like music videos, movie trailers, news and inspiring talks—and turns them into personalized language learning lessons.

You can try FluentU for free for 2 weeks. Click here to check out the website or download the iOS app or Android app.

Try FluentU for FREE!

Other great sources like Portuguese short stories , fun  local cartoons , engaging  Portuguese movies and authentic  TV shows can also help you get a feel for the basics.

The second thing to think about is pronunciation . A language learner’s ultimate goal is to get fluent, after all—so the earlier you start practicing those sounds, the better.

Watching online video lessons can be quite helpful at this stage. Regardless of which dialect you’re learning, finding the right material is as simple as searching for basic phrases, greetings and other key vocabulary terms in your chosen dialect.

Don’t just listen to how words are said, though—actually repeat them out loud. Pause the video after each word or phrase and come back to it a couple of times.

And if you need some extra reassurance on the pronunciation front, try inputting each separate word into your preferred Portuguese dictionary or translator app  to hear how it’s spoken. Again, repeating them to yourself out loud is a must.

Now that you have these essential Portuguese phrases , you’re ready to start using this new vocabulary in your own conversations!

Even if you’re not going traveling, try using these phrases in your everyday life. And for more advanced phrases, check out our post on Portuguese sayings and quotes for every occasion . 

These phrases will provide you with the necessary building blocks to help you on your Portuguese journey to fluency!

Boa viagem! (Have a good trip!)

If you've made it this far that means you probably enjoy learning Portuguese with engaging material and will then love FluentU .

FluentU takes authentic videos—like music videos, movie trailers, news and inspiring talks—and turns them into personalized Portuguese lessons.

Other sites use scripted content. FluentU uses a natural approach that helps you ease into the Portuguese language and culture over time. You’ll learn Portuguese as it’s actually spoken by real people.

FluentU has a wide variety of videos, as you can see here:

FluentU brings native videos within reach with interactive transcripts. You can tap on any word to look it up instantly. Every definition has examples that have been written to help you understand how the word is used. If you see an interesting word you don’t know, you can add it to a vocab list.

Review a complete interactive transcript under the Dialogue tab, and find words and phrases listed under Vocab .

Learn all the vocabulary in any video with FluentU’s robust learning engine. Swipe left or right to see more examples of the word you’re on.

The best part is that FluentU keeps track of the vocabulary that you’re learning, and gives you extra practice with difficult words. It'll even remind you when it’s time to review what you’ve learned. Every learner has a truly personalized experience, even if they’re learning with the same video.

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70+ Survival Portuguese Travel Phrase Guide with Pronunciation

Whilst wandering amongst the medieval castles and cobblestone villages, make your Portugal experience even more special and learn these common Portuguese phrases.

Having just returned from a once in a lifetime trip to the volcanic archipelago of the Azores (something I highly recommend), I thought it appropriate to dedicate my next post in my travel phrase guide series to Portuguese ! That’s right, I’ve brought together a bunch of super useful and common Portuguese phrases along with a pronunciation guide.

Even though Portugal covers a relatively small area, it played a crucial role in world history.

During the 15th and 16th centuries, Portugal started a major chapter in world history with the New World Discoveries known as “Descobrimentos” in Portuguese.

As the Portuguese established a sea route to India, colonized areas in Africa (including Angola, Mozambique, Cape Verde), South America (Brazil), Asia (Macau), and Oceania (East-Timor) thus creating an empire.

It is because of this that the Portuguese language continues to be the biggest connection between these countries and a great reason for learning the language.

Why else should you learn Portuguese? Well, it makes learning other languages, especially Romance languages like Spanish , Italian , French and Romanian much easier.

Want to have fun whilst learning European Portuguese or Brazilian Portuguese? Struggling to find decent Portuguese language resources available? I recommend getting uTalk . Available as a desktop site and app, uTalk is awesome for learning key words and phrases in Portuguese (both European and Brazilian ), especially if you want to use it for travel purposes.  It’s great for beginners getting started in a language and invaluable for intermediates looking to fill in gaps in their vocabulary and pronunciation. 

What I love most about uTalk is that you can jump around their extensive library of topics and choose what you want to learn, when you want, and at your own pace.  Because I believe in uTalk so much, I reached out to them and we’ve teamed up to offer you an exclusive 30% OFF reader discount across all of uTalk’s 140 languages! This offer isn’t available anywhere else! Click here to claim your exclusive 30% discount in Brazillian Portuguese and European Portuguese here.

Let’s take a quick look at the Portuguese language so you’re a bit more clued up on its origin, use, and vocabulary.

I hope you enjoy this post as much as I enjoyed bringing it together. If you have any requests for other languages, let me know in the comments section!

Where is Portuguese spoken?

Portuguese is the sole official language of Portugal, Brazil, Cape Verde, Guinea-Bissau, Mozambique, Angola, and São Tomé and Príncipe.

It also has official language status in East Timor, Equatorial Guinea, and Macau in China! (The latter came as a surprise to me too!)

As mentioned above, due to the expansion during colonial times, Portuguese and Portuguese creole speakers can also be found in Goa, India, Sri Lanka; Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Caribbean where Papiamento is spoken, while Cape Verdean Creole is the most widely spoken Portuguese-based Creole.

In both English and Portuguese, Portuguese-speaking people and nations are referred to as “Lusophone”.

There are well over 250 million Portuguese native speakers, with 200 million of that population residing in Brazil!

The Portuguese in this travel phrase guide is of the European usage which differs from the Brazilian in both sounds and pronunciation. Read my guide on the main differences between Brazilian Portuguese and European Portuguese.

A brief history of Portuguese

Being a Romance language, Portuguese is a descendant of Latin, which was brought to the Iberian Peninsula by Roman soldiers, settlers, and merchants from 218 BC.

It wasn’t until 1290 that King Denis decreed that Portuguese, which was simply called the “Vulgar language” (i.e. Vulgar Latin) should be known as the “Portuguese language” and should be used officially. By the 15th century, Portuguese had become a mature language with a rich literature.

Because of the New World Discoveries made between the 14th and 16th century, the great majority of Portuguese speakers live in Brazil, in South America.

Portuguese  Vocabulary

Even though the Portuguese and Brazilians speak the same language, due to cultural and historical differences the language has evolved over the years. Curious at just how different European Portuguese is from Brazilian Portuguese?

Here are some examples of just how different it can be.

Portuguese  Pronunciation

Whilst there are loads of pronunciation rules out there (too many to list here for simple travel phrase guide), as a general rule of thumb, remember to place the stress on the penultimate (second-last) syllable.

Here come the exceptions… Don’t stress the penultimate syllable if it has an accent, or the word ends with a diphthong (that is, 2 vowels which are pronounced as a single syllable), or if it ends with any of the following letters: i, l, r, z, im, um, ins, uns – in which case, the stress is on the last syllable.

P.S. If you’re reading this on your phone and can’t see the pronunciation column, turn it to landscape mode. For some reason, tables aren’t mobile friendly. Sorry!

Basic Portuguese Phrases for Travellers

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Greetings Essentials Questions Eating Out Getting Around Numbers Days Emergencies

Like it? Pin it for later!

Want more here are some hilarious portuguese expressions.

Want to visit Portugal? Don’t miss these travel guides

• 11 Reasons Why You Should Visit the Azores in Portugal
• 5 Day Azores Itinerary – 26 Top Things to do on São Miguel Island
• Top 10 things to do in Ponta Delgada – The Capital of the Azores
• 34 Best Things to do in Madeira, Portugal (The Ultimate Guide)
• 12 Awesome Things to do in Funchal, Madeira (Includes Travel Tips & Top-Rated Tours)

Want to know more about learning languages? Start here!

• 25 Hilarious Portuguese Phrases That Make No Sense
• 8 Surprising Differences Between Brazilian Portuguese and Portugal Portuguese
• Top Language Learning Resources You Should Use
• 11 Life-Changing Reasons Why You Should Learn a Language
• 42 beautiful Inspirational Quotes for Language Learners
• Language learning tips: 11 Polyglots Reveal The Secrets of Their Success
• Top 10 Best Ways to Learn a Language Better and Faster
• How Many Languages are there in the World?

Over to you!

Which of these common Portuguese phrases do you find most useful? Which other phrases would you like to know? Let me know using the comments section below or join me on social media to start a conversation.

Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed this post.

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Michele creates language learning guides and courses for travel. What separates her from other instructors is her ability to explain complex grammar in a no-nonsense, straightforward manner using her unique 80/20 method. Get her free guide 9 reasons you’re not fluent…YET & how to fix it! Planning a trip? Learn the local language with her 80/20 method for less than the cost of eating at a tourist trap restaurant Start learning today!

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Hi Michele,

Great article, it’s really funny to see my own language dissected like that!

Thank you for the highlight on Portugal and the Portuguese language!

Hey Michele. What a great article. These will come in very handy for my next trip. Keep up the good work.

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Home » Articles » 20+ Basic Portuguese Phrases for Travellers and Tourists

Full disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. ?

written by Benny Lewis

Language: Portuguese

Reading time: 10 minutes

Published: Sep 8, 2023

Updated: Sep 11, 2023

20+ Basic Portuguese Phrases for Travellers and Tourists

Planning a trip to Portugal, Brazil, Cape Verde, Guinea-Bissau, Mozambique, Angola, or São Tomé and Príncipe?

Whichever Portuguese-speaking nation you want to visit, you’ll have a much richer experience if you get some basic Portuguese phrases under your belt before you board the plane.

Table of contents

The first 9 basic portuguese words and phrases you should learn, “hello” in portuguese –  olá/oi, “excuse me” in portuguese:  com licença, “good morning” in portuguese:  bom dia, “good afternoon” and “good night”, “how are you” in portuguese, “yes” in portuguese, “no” in portuguese, “where is … ” in portuguese, “please” in portuguese, “thank you” in portuguese, “bye” in portuguese, why should you learn these portuguese phrases.

Before we jump into the detailed article, here is a rapid-fire list of words and phrases you should learn as soon as you think about having a conversation in Portuguese (which ideally is now!).

• Bom dia  – “Good morning”
• Por favor  – “Please”
• De nada  – “You’re welcome”
• Tudo bem  – “Everything is good”
• Até amanhã  – “See you” (literally “until tomorrow”)
• De onde você é?  – “Where are you from?”
• Como vai?  – “How are you?”
• Desculpe  – “Sorry” or “Forgive me”
• Tchau  – “Goodbye” (informal)

If you need some motivation, take some time to listen to YouTuber Liz’s experience with learning Portuguese:

There are many different ways to  greet someone in Portuguese . The most important one to know is  olá , which simply means “hello”.

In Brazilian Portuguese, the word  oi  is very common as well.  Oi  is a more casual way to greet someone, like saying “hi” or “hey” in English.

Oi  is not so common in Portugal.

The phrase “excuse me” serves a few different functions in English.

First of all, it can be used to get someone’s attention. A polite way to do this in Portuguese is to say  com licença  or simply  licença .

Licença  is also what you’d say if you were pushing through a crowd; it’s a polite way to ask someone to step out of your way.

“Excuse me?” can also mean “can you please repeat yourself?” In Portuguese, you can accomplish this with a  como?  or  o que disse?

Or, if you’re in Brazil, you can use a word we’ve already seen:  oi . While  oi  pronounced with a flat tone means “hi”, as mentioned above, you can also say it with a rising tone –  oi?  – to ask someone to repeat themselves.

Three essential phrases to know in Portuguese are  bom dia ,  boa tarde , and  boa noite , which respectively mean “good morning”, “good afternoon”, and “good night”. Which one you use depends, obviously, on the time of day.

Bom dia  literally means “good day”, but you only ever use it in the morning, i.e. before midday.

Newcomers to Portuguese often struggle to pronounce  bom  – the masculine form of the adjective “good” – correctly. From the spelling, you’d think it was pronounced like the English word  bomb , but this is dead wrong.

The  -om  ending actually represents a  nasal vowel . This means that, instead of closing your mouth like you would for a normal “m” sound, you only say the “o”, but you let the air out through your nose as well as your mouth.

If that doesn’t make sense, don’t worry – this is a tricky thing for beginners to master. As a starting point, just pronounce  bom  like the English word “bong”. This is much closer to the correct pronunciation than “bomb” is.

After midday you can’t say  bom dia  anymore; instead, you must use  boa tarde  in the place of  bom dia . Then, after 6 pm, you say  boa noite  (“goodnight”).

“Goodnight” in English isn’t really a greeting; you’d normally only say it to someone who is about to go to bed.  Boa noite  can carry this meaning in Portuguese, but it can also be used as a greeting, or as a more generic way of saying “bye”.

What about “good evening”? The distinction between the “afternoon” and “evening” doesn’t exist in Portuguese. There’s only the  tarde  and the  noite .

It’s easy to remember which one to use: between midday and 6 pm, it’s the  tarde . From 6 pm onwards, it’s the  noite . Simple!

After you’ve greeted someone with an  olá  or  bom dia , follow it up with a  como vai?  (“how are you?”).

You’d typically respond to  como vai?  with a simple  bem  (“well”).

Or instead of  como vai?  you can use  tudo bem  and  tudo bom . Both of these expressions mean “everything (is) good”, and they can be both a question and a response.

What I mean by that is, to say “how are you?” in Portuguese, you can say  tudo bem?  or  tudo bom?  And if someone asks you either of these questions, you respond with the one that they  didn’t  say.

I.e. if someone asks you  tudo bom? , you reply with  tudo bem! . If someone asks you  tudo bem? , reply with  tudo bom!

“Yes” in Portuguese is  sim . Like  bom  above,  sim  contains a nasal vowel. To a first approximation, it sounds like the English word “sing”.

However, in Brazilian Portuguese specifically, the word  sim  is almost never used. This isn’t because Brazilians are a disagreeable bunch – it’s just a quirk of their dialect. Saying  sim  when someone asks you a question is quite unnatural.

So what should you say instead of  sim ? The trick is to  repeat the word from the question . It’s best illustrated by example:

• Você está com frio?  – “Are you cold?”
• Estou  – “I am”
• Você gostou do filme?  – “Did you like the film?”
• Gostei  – “I liked (it)”.
• Você fala português  – “Do you speak Portuguese?”
• Falo  – “I speak (it)”

It’s easy to get used to.

Note that in European Portuguese, people aren’t so shy about saying  sim . You can still respond by repeating the verb in the manner above, but there’s nothing wrong with simply saying  sim  instead.

Of course, you might not always want to say  sim , even in Portugal. In this case, a simple  não , which means “no”, will suffice.

• Não  – “no”
• Não, foi uma bosta!  – “No, it was crap!”
• Não falo  – “I don’t speak (it)”
• Mentira!  – “Liar!”

If you’re a tourist newly arrived in a Portuguese-speaking country, you might struggle to find your way around. If so, ask for directions using  onde está …?  – “where is … ?”

Here are a few things you might ask, and this is a good opportunity to note some of the vocabulary differences between Brazilian and European Portuguese:

• Onde está a estação de trem?  – “Where is the train station?” (Brazilian Portuguese)
• Onde está a estação de comboio?  – “Where is the train station?” (European Portuguese)
• Onde está o banheiro?  – “Where is the bathroom?” (Brazilian Portuguese)
• Onde está a casa de banho?  – “Where is the bathroom?” (European Portuguese)
• Onde está o ponto de ônibus?  – “Where is the bus stop?” (Brazilian Portuguese)
• Onde está a parada de autocarro?  – “Where is the bus stop?” (European Portuguese)

(Note that, due to the dominance of Brazilian media and entertainment in the Portuguese-speaking world, Portuguese people are far more familiar with  brasileirismos  – Brazilian words and expressions – than Brazilians are with  portuguesismos .)

By learning a bit of Portuguese for your travels, you’re being a little more respectful and polite than you would be by assuming that everyone you need to talk to already speaks English.

With that in mind, it’s time to learn a word that’s essential for etiquette in just about every language: “please”!

To make a sentence or request more polite in Portuguese, stick  por favor  – “please” – on the end.

So for example, if you’re a  restaurante  and you want to ask for the  conta  (bill), you could say this to the  moço  (waiter):  Você pode trazer a conta, por favor?

Now that you know how to say “please”, it’s time to learn the other essential phrase that will make your Portuguese more polite: “thank you”.

The way to say “thank you” in Portuguese depends on your gender. If you’re male, say  obrigado . If you’re female, say  obrigada . Often this is shortened to a simple  ‘brigado  or  brigada .

Just like English has “thank you”, “thanks”, “cheers”, and more, there are a few different ways to thank someone in Portuguese. You can get by with  obrigado/obrigada  alone, but  see this article  for a more detailed explanation of all the alternatives.

We’ve covered “hello”. What about “goodbye”?

As in English, there are a few different ways to say “bye” in Portuguese. The most useful to know is  tchau . It’s pronounced exactly like the Italian  ciao , from which it’s derived.

Another way to say goodbye is  adeus , which is more formal. It literally means “to God”. You may have noticed that  adeus  is similar to  adios , the Spanish equivalent which is increasingly used these days in English. So that makes  adeus  easy to remember!

As I never grow tired of  saying on this blog , travelling with English alone is  extremely limiting . You don’t have to become fully fluent in every Portuguese dialect to have fun on a short trip to Brazil, but even a  small bit of effort  to learn the most common Portuguese phrases can make a big difference to your trip, and to how locals perceive you.

My favourite place to start learning a language is with a  phrasebook . They’re a great way to get a basic introduction to the language and learn the most essential expressions without having to worry about grammar rules or verb conjugations or the finer points of the imperfect passive subjunctive.

But if you don’t have time to study an entire Portuguese phrasebook, start with these essential Portuguese words and expressions and you can’t go too far wrong.

And if you want to get more in-depth with Portuguese, check out my  favourite resources for learning Portuguese .

I hope you enjoy your time in the Lusophone (Portuguese-speaking) world. I certainly enjoyed my time in Brazil – enough to make me visit again and again! Maybe you’ll be the same.

The above phrases won’t turn you into a fluent  falante  (speaker) of Portuguese, but they’re a start. I hope you have as much  fun with the Portuguese language as I have .

Let me know if this post was useful to you, or which was your favourite phrase! You can message me on Instagram ( @irishpolyglot ), TikTok ( @irishpolyglot ), and Twitter ( @irishpolyglot ).

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Benny Lewis

Founder, Fluent in 3 Months

Fun-loving Irish guy, full-time globe trotter and international bestselling author. Benny believes the best approach to language learning is to speak from day one .

Speaks: Spanish, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Esperanto, Mandarin Chinese, American Sign Language, Dutch, Irish

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Common Portuguese Phrases and Words for Your Next Trip to Brazil or Portugal

No need to tell us obrigada for these tips.

Brazil and Portugal are thousands of miles apart, but they have a lot in common: gorgeous beaches, vibrant cities, and the beautiful Portuguese language. Whether you're wandering the hilly streets of Lisbon , snacking on delicious egg tarts, or lounging on the Algarve's stunning beaches, knowing some basic Portuguese can make your trip even better (even though many people in popular tourist areas do speak English).

Meanwhile, in the land of samba and caipirinhas, body language does go a long way. But Brazilians are a very gregarious bunch, and as soon as you arrive and see the crowds of people hanging out on Ipanema Beach, dancing in the streets to live music, or chatting over açaí and snacks at the ubiquitous juice stands, you'll wish you had brushed up on a few introductory words and phrases to better interact with locals. Thankfully, most Brazilians are more than happy to practice with you — and they'll be extra impressed if you already know a thing or two.

Just a note: Brazilians tend to be pretty casual with language, so you can almost always use the informal versions below.

Here are the basic Portuguese words, phrases, and slang to learn before your next trip to Brazil or Portugal.

Basic Portuguese Phrases and Words

Hello: Oi (informal); olá (formal)

How are you?: Como está?; tudo bem? (In response, you can say "tudo bem" as well, meaning "everything's good.")

How's it going?: Como vai?; como está indo?

Goodbye: Tchau (informal); adeus (formal)

See you later: Até mais

See you soon: Até logo

See you tomorrow: Até amanhã

Good morning: Bom dia

Good afternoon: Boa tarde

Good evening/good night: Boa noite

Please: Por favor

Thank you: Obrigada (if you are female), obrigado (if you are male) (Tip: Locals often shorten this to 'brigada or 'bridago, omitting the first "o")

Thank you very much: Muito obrigada/o

You're welcome: De nada

What's your name?: Qual é o seu nome? (informal); Como se chama? (formal)

My name is…: Meu nome é… (informal); Me chamo... (formal)

Pleased to meet you: Prazer

Friend: Amigo (masculine); Amiga (feminine)

Family: Família

Father/mother: Pai/mãe

Boyfriend/girlfriend: Namorado/namorada

Mr./mrs./miss: Senhor/senhora/senhorita

Beautiful: Lindo (if the object you're describing is masculine); linda (feminine)

Good: Bom (if the object you're describing is masculine); boa (feminine)

Bad: Mau; Ruim

I don't know: Não sei

I'm sorry/excuse me: Desculpa

Excuse me (passing through a crowd or asking to pass by someone): Com licença

Today: Hoje

Tomorrow: Amanhã

Yesterday: Ontem

Week: Semana

Weekend: Fim de semana

Who?: Quem?

What?: Que? (When asking solely "what?" you say, "O que?")

Where?: Onde?

When?: Quando?

Why?: Por quê?

Which?: Qual?

How much?: Quanto?

Useful Portuguese Words for Travelers

Airport: Aeroporto

Subway: Metrô

Subway station: Estação de metrô

Train: Trem

Train station: Estação de trem

Bus: Ônibus

Bus stop: Ponto de ônibus

Car: Carro (Tip: Double Rs in Portuguese are pronounced as an "h" sound, so this is pronounced ca-ho.)

Luggage: Bagagem

Ticket: Bilhete

Beach: Praia

City: Cidade

Restaurant: Restaurante (Tip: Rs at the beginning of words in Portuguese are pronounced as an "h" sound, so this is pronounced hes-taur-ronch.)

Bathroom: Banheiro

Store: Loja

Hotel: Hotel

Hostel: Albergue

Food: Comida

Drink: Bebida

Breakfast: Café da manhã

Lunch: Almoço

Dinner: Jantar

Snack: Lanche, petiscos

Wine: Vinho; vinho tinto (red wine); vinho branco (white wine)

Beer: Cerveja

Expensive: Caro

Cheap: Barato

Street: Rua

Hospital: Hospital

Help: Ajuda

Police: Polícia

Bank: Banco

ATM: Caixa eletrônico

Left: Esquerda

Right: Direita

Go straight: Siga; vai direto

Common Portuguese Phrases for Travelers

Where is the bathroom?: Onde fica o banheiro?

Do you speak English?: Você fala Inglês?

I don't understand: Eu não entendo

What?/Say that again?: O quê?

I don't speak Portuguese: Não falo Português

How much does this cost?: Quanto custa isso?

Check, please: A conta, por favor

Cheers! (when toasting drinks): Saúde!

I'm lost: Estou perdido (if you are male); Estou perdida (if you are female)

Let's go: Vamos!; vamos embora!

I would like...: Eu gostaria...

I like…: Eu gosto...

I don't like…: Eu não gosto...

I am from/I come from…: Eu sou de…

Where are you from?: De onde você é?

Important Phrases for Any Trip to Brazil

This city is marvelous: Essa cidade é maravilhosa

Very good: Muito bom

One more (drink)!: Mais uma!

I'd like an açaí with banana, please: Quero um açaí com banana, por favor (Trust us, you'll want to order this)

Let's go to the beach: Vamos a praia

I will miss this place: Vou ter saudades desse lugar

Portuguese Slang Words and Phrases

What's up?: E ai?

Alright (to show agreement and enthusiasm): Beleza

Cool!: Legal!

Awesome: Bacana

Thanks (informal/colloquial): Valeu!

Wow/no way (a general exclamation in reaction to something): Nossa (or nossa senhora)

All good?/It's alright?: Ta bom? (If someone asks you this, you respond with "ta" to say "yes")

Who knows/I have no idea: Sei la

Guy/girl: Cara (this is used to address in an informal, colloquial manner, as "man" or "dude" is used in the U.S.)

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Portuguese Phrases for Travel | The Essentials (with PDF!)

If you are planning to visit Brazil or Portugal , it is a good idea to learn a few essential phrases before your trip. You’ll find that outside of those who work directly in tourism, often English is not very widely spoken. And this is particularly true in Brazil. As a Latin Romance language, it may feel similar to those of you who speak or know some Spanish . I know that this fact (and this list) helped me a lot as I learned to speak Portuguese at the B1 level recently. This post will cover the essential Portuguese phrases for travel, so I recommend you save this post for your trip! 

Table of Contents

The Top Resources for Learning Portuguese

• iTalki : Practice with Live Teachers at a low cost
• LingoPie : Learn the language by watching videos in French
• Short Stories : Expand your Portuguese vocabulary with easy to read short stories

START LEARNING TODAY!

Background Information on Portuguese

Believe it or not, the Portuguese language is the sixth most spoken language in the world, coming in right after Hindu and Bengali. There are 274 million speakers of Portuguese around the globe, and it is the official language of 9 countries across Europe, Africa, Asia and the Americas.

The countries where Portuguese is an official language are:

• Guinea-Bissau 
• São Tome and Príncipe 
• Equatorial Guinea

As a Romance language, it is derived from Latin. And while Latin is the core of the language, it was influenced by the Hispano-Celtic languages that were there before the Romans, as well as the languages of the Germanic tribes that conquered the area after the Romans and the Arabs who followed them. 

An interesting fact about Portuguese is that while it is a syllable-timed language in Brazil (like most Romance languages), it is a stress-timed language in Portugal (like English). All of this essentially means that while every sound and syllable is pronounced in Brazilian Portuguese, in European Portuguese, the vowel sounds are often clipped, making it a bit harder to understand for the non-native speaker. Brazilian Portuguese sounds like a melodious romance language, but European Portuguese sounds honestly a bit like Russian. But, while words may sound a bit different, overall the core vocabulary of the language is the same across the world. 

Fun Fact:  Speakers of Portuguese are referred to as  Lusophones , as the area where Portugal is inhabited was called Lusitania by the ancient Romans. 

Portuguese Phrases for Travel PDF

This PDF of Portuguese Phrases is the ultimate guide for all the common phrases that you might use while traveling through a Portuguese-speaking country, like Brazil or Portugal. 

Grab my free Ebook

Portuguese phrases pdf.

This free download includes all the key Portuguese phrases that you will need for your travels to Brazil, Portugal, and other Portuguese-speaking countries. In addition, get details on the best resources to improve your speaking and listening skills as well.

The Essential Portuguese Phrases for Travel 

Below are the phrases that you’ll use most when traveling Brazil, Portugal, and more Portuguese-speaking countries.

Portuguese Greetings

Below are basic Portuguese greetings you’d use to greet or say goodbye to locals:   

• Hello – Olá
• Hi – Oi
• Good morning – Bom dia
• Good afternoon – Boa tarde
• Good night / evening – Boa noite
• Goodbye – Tshau / adeus
• What is your name? – Qual é o seu nome?
• My name is… – Meu nome é…
• Nice to meet you – Muito prazer 
• Have a great day! – Tenha um ótimo dia
• See you later –  Até logo 
• How are you? –  Tudo bem? 
• And you?  – E você? 
• I’m fine / I’m well  – Tudo bem / Eu Estou bem
• Very well –  Muito bem

Basic Portuguese Phrases

Basic phrases are those you’d use most frequently, outside of greetings.

• Yes – Sim
• No – Não
• Thank you – Obrigada (o)
• Thanks a lot – Muito obrigada (o)
• You’re welcome – De nada
• Excuse me – Desculpe / Com licença
• I’m sorry – Eu sinto muito
• Do you speak English? – Você fala inglês? 
• I don’t speak Portuguese – Eu não falo portugues. 
• I don’t understand – Não entendo. 
• Please – Por favor
• Slowly – Devagar 
• Repeat – Repita
• Where is the bathroom?  – Onde fica o banheiro? (Brazil); Onde é a casa de banho? (Portugal)
• How much does it cost?  – Quanto custa? 
• Boa viagem  – Have a nice trip!

Days, Months, and Time in Portuguese

The days of the week and all other phrases related to telling time. Something to note is that Monday – Friday are known as ordinal market days (feira). 

Days/Week in Portuguese

• Day – Dia
• Week – Semana
• Sunday – Domingo
• Monday – Segunda-feira
• Tuesday – Terça-feira
• Wednesday – Quarta-feira
• Thursday – Quinta-feira
• Friday – Sexta-feira
• Saturday – Sábado

Months/Year in Portuguese

• Month – Mes
• Year – Ano
• January – janeiro
• February – fevereiro
• March – março
• April – abril
• May – maio
• June – junho
• July – julho
• August – agosto
• September – setembro
• October – outubro
• November – novembro
• December – dezembro

Telling Time in Portuguese

• Minute – Minuto
• Hour – Hora
• Time – hora / Tempo
• What time is it? – Que horas são? 
• It is 1:00 – É uma hora. 
• It is 2:00 / 3:00 – São duas horas/ três horas.
• What day is today? – O que dia é hoje? 
• What date? – O que data?
• Tomorrow – Amanhã
• Yesterday – Ontem
• Day before yesterday – Anteontem
• Morning – Manhã
• Midday – Meio-dia
• Midnight – Meia-noite
• Night – Noite
• (Three days) ago – Faz (três dias) 
• Last week – A semana passada
• Today – Hoje
• Now – Agora

Numbers in Portuguese

Directions in portuguese.

Phrases and words for getting around town.

• Where is…? – Onde fica….?
• The bank – O banco
• The museum – O museu 
• The park – O parque
• The hospital – O hospital
• The airport – O aeroporto
• The church – A igreja 
• How do you get to…? – Como se vai a…?
• Left – esquerda
• Right – Dereita 
• Straight – Dereito 
• Turn to the.. . – Vire a…
• How far away is…? – A que distância fica o hospital?
• It is two blocks away – Fica a dois quateirões
• It is five minutes away – Fica a cinco minutos
• What is the address? – Qual é o endereço?

Transportation-Related Phrases in Portuguese

Phrases and words for traveling to further destinations. 

• By bus – De ônibus
• By train  – De trem
• By car  – De carro
• By plane  – De avião
• By subway/metro – De metrô
• Where is the train station? – Onde fica a estação de trem? 

Phrases for Eating Out in Portuguese

Phrases and words to use when looking for or eating good food.

• Restaurant – O restaurante
• Breakfast – Café da manhã
• Lunch – O almorço
• Dinner – O Jantar
• Appetizer – Aperitivo
• Main Course – Prato principal
• Desert – Sobremesa
• What do you recommend? – O que você recomenda? 
• I would like (to order) – Eu gostaria…
• The bill please – A conta por favor

Pronunciation Tips for Brazilian Portuguese

There are some unique things about Brazilian Portuguese that will make things much easier as you start to learn a bit of the language. Correct pronunciation will be tough as a beginner, but with practice you will get better. Here are the tips that have helped me the most:

• Pronouncing “di” and “de” – “Di” in words like “Dia” is pronounced as though it were spelled with a “gi”. The same goes for “de” in words like devegar and dereito
• Pronouncing “ti” and “te” – Both “ti” and “te” may sound like the “ch” sound (most often at least). You can  see examples of this in words like bastante (bastan-che) or tinha (cheen-ya)
• Final “m” sound – The final “m” in a word is mainly silent, and is an indicator to make the penultimate syllable more nasal
• Pronouncing “r” – When a word begins with “r” it will be pronounced more like a hard “h” sound in English. The same goes for the double “rr” in the middle of a word. A single “r” in the middle of the word is similar to the Spanish one with a slight roll, and the final “r” may be pronounced similarly, like an “h”, or in some regions, exactly like the American English final “r” sound. So you have a few options there!
• Pronouncing “nh” – This should more or less equate to the ñ in Spanish or the “gn” we sometimes see in borrowed English words like “gnocchi” or lasagna. 
• Final syllable ã – This is another indicator that the word is ending with a nasal sound. Seen in words like amanhã or irmã. 
• Pronouncing “lh” – This is slightly similar to the “ll” in Spanish or “y” in English, but keeps more of the “l” sound. Seen in words like brilhante . 

Here is a video that talks about Portuguese pronunciation:

For more information, here is a webpage that explains this subject in more depth.

FAQs About Learning Portuguese

While English is widely spoken in some tourist areas and major cities of Portugal, knowing some basic Portuguese can enhance your travel experience. Key phrases and common courtesies such as “Obrigado” (Thank you), and “Por favor” (Please) can be helpful. However, it is not necessary to be fluent in Portuguese to visit Portugal.

Similar to Portugal, Brazil has some English speakers in major cities and touristic areas, but the average person is unlikely to speak English well. You should plan to learn basic phrases for navigation, dining, and emergencies. Fluency is not required, but you will have a better experience if you learn key phrases before your trip.

European and Brazilian Portuguese differ primarily in pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammar. European Portuguese is a stress-timed language while Brazilian Portuguese is a syllable-timed language. Also, two dialects exhibit differences in colloquial speech and formal writing, making them distinct yet mutually intelligible.

In Lisbon, which is in Portugal, you can say hello by saying “Olá”. This is a standard greeting in Portuguese, applicable at any time of the day. If you want to specifically say “Good morning”, you can use “Bom dia”.

In Rio, which is in Brazil, you can say hello by saying “Oi”. This is a common informal greeting in Brazilian Portuguese. For a more formal greeting or to say “Good morning”, you can use “Bom dia”.

Brazilian Portuguese is often perceived as nominally easier due to its more clear pronunciation and usage rules. There’s a greater allowance for pronunciation errors, as well as a simpler vocabulary in some respects.

Portuguese Phrases for Travel | Final Thoughts….

That completes my list of the basic Portuguese phrases for travel. I hope that this list serves as a useful guide when you venture out to any of the 9 countries where Portuguese is the official language! To get the most out of this list, you should practice often before taking your trip. This practice helped me tremendously when preparing for my trip.

If you would like additional practice, here are a few resources that I recommend that you check out: 

• If you want to practice speaking with a real person for a very affordable price,  check out my favorite language resource,   iTalki . You can use this site to practice with a tutor, formal teacher, or others just seeking to do a language exchange (for free!). The paid lessons have very cheap options, with some as low as $5 an hour. Check it out!
• Another fun way to learn is through watching video. Lingopie offers ways to learn new languages by watching videos at all levels of understanding to improve you listening comprehension. Check it out here ! 

Related Posts on Brazil:

• Ten Days in Brazil
• 3 Days in Rio
• The Best City Tour of Rio
• Is São Paolo Worth Visiting?
• The Best Helicopter Tour of Rio
• The Best Favela Tour of Rio

Related Posts on Portugal:

• 3 Days in Lisbon

Don’t forget to pin this for later!

Christen Thomas is the founder of TravelWanderGrow, established in 2018. She has lived abroad and traveled extensively to over 30 countries. In addition, she is a certified Travel Advisor and is an expert in planning trips focused on city history and culture. As a frequent traveler, she also shares tips on how to prepare to travel well and how to save money while doing so.

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The Top 50 Most Common Portuguese Phrases You Need to Know

Are you planning a trip to Portugal, or want to get a taste of Portuguese? Learning some of the most common Portuguese phrases will certainly come in handy. Not only will they help you navigate your way around, but they’ll also give you a general sense of what Portuguese looks and sounds like.

Here are some of the most common Portuguese phrases we use in everyday situations, from greetings to ordering food to asking for directions.

• Olá [oˈɫa] Hello
• Xau [ˈʃaw] Goodbye
• Obrigado/a [obɾiˈgadu/ɐ] Thank you (male/female)
• De nada [dɨ ˈnadɐ ] You’re welcome
• Por favor [puɾ fɐˈvoɾ] Please
• Com licença [kõ ɫiˈsẽsɐ] Excuse me
• Desculpe [dɨʃˈkuɫpɨ] Sorry
• Não falo português [ˈnɐ̃w ˈfaɫu puɾtuˈgeʃ]   I don’t speak Portuguese
• Fala inglês? [ˈfaɫɐ ĩˈgɫeʃ?] Do you speak English?
• Sim [ˈsĩ] Yes
• Não [ˈnɐ̃w] No
• Como está? [ˈkomu ʃˈta?] How are you?
• Tudo bem [ˈtudu bɐ̃j] Everything’s good
• Sou de… [ˈso dɨ… ] I’m from…
• Como se chama? [ˈkomu sɨ ˈʃɐmɐ? ] What’s your name?
• Chamo-me… [ˈʃɐmu-mɨ…] My name is…
• Prazer em conhecê-lo/a [pɾɐˈzeɾ ɐ̃j kuɲɨˈse-ɫu/ɐ] Nice to meet you (male/female)
• Onde fica…? [ˈõdɨ ˈfikɐ…?] Where is…?
• Quanto custa? [ˈkwɐ̃tu ˈkuʃtɐ?] How much does it cost?
• Gostava de… [guʃˈtavɐ dɨ…] I would like to…
• Aceita cartão de crédito? [ɐˈsɐjtɐ kaɾˈtɐ̃w dɨ ˈkɾɛditu?] Do you take credit card?
• Posso pagar em dinheiro? [ˈposu pɐˈgaɾ ɐ̃j diˈɲɐjɾu?] Can I pay in cash?
• Com certeza [kom səɾˈtəzɐ] Sure
• Preciso de ajuda [pɾɨˈsizu dɨ ɐˈʒudɐ] I need help
• Não entendi [ˈnɐ̃w ẽtẽˈdi] I didn’t understand
• Pode repetir, por favor? [ˈpodɨ ʁɨpɨˈtiɾ, puɾ fɐˈvoɾ?] Can you repeat, please?
• Pode falar mais devagar? [ˈpodɨ fɐˈɫaɾ ˈmajʒ dɨvɐˈgaɾ?] Can you speak more slowly?
• Aqui está [ɐˈki ʃˈta] Here it is
• Concordo [kõˈkoɾdu] I agree
• Não concordo [ˈnɐ̃w kõˈkoɾdu] I disagree
• Percebi [pɨɾsɨˈbi] I understood
• Não percebi [ˈnɐ̃w pɨɾsɨˈbi] I didn’t understand
• Como se diz… em português? [ˈkomu sɨ ˈdiʃ… ɐ̃j puɾtuˈgeʃ?] How do you say… in Portuguese?
• Pode-me mostrar no mapa? [ˈpodɨ-mɨ muʃˈtɾaɾ nu ˈmapɐ?] Can you show me on the map?
• Como chego lá ? [ˈkomu ʃeˈɡu ˈla] How to to get there?
• À esquerda [à ʃˈkeɾdɐ] To the left
• À direita [à diˈɾɐjtɐ] To the right
• Em frente [ɐ̃j ˈfɾẽtɨ] Straight ahead
• Desculpe, estou perdido/a [dɨʃˈkuɫpɨ, ʃˈto pɨɾˈdidu/ɐ] Sorry, I’m lost
• Estou à procura de… [ʃˈto à pɾuˈkuɾɐ dɨ…] I’m looking for…
• É longe daqui? [ˈɛ ˈɫõʒɨ dɐˈki?] Is it far from here?
• A que horas abre/fecha? [kɨ ˈoɾɐz ˈabɾɨ/ˈfɐjʃɐ?] What time does it open/close?
• Pode recomendar um restaurante [ˈpodɨ ʁɨkumẽˈdaɾ ˈũ ʁɨʃtawˈɾɐ̃tɨ] Can you recommend a restaurant?
• Queria… [kɨˈɾiɐ…] I would like to order…
• O menu, por favor [u mɨˈnu, puɾ fɐˈvoɾ] The menu, please
• Qual é o prato do dia? [ˈkwaɫ ˈɛ u ˈpɾatu du ˈdiɐ?] What’s the dish of the day?
• A conta, por favor [ɐ ˈkõtɐ, puɾ fɐˈvoɾ] The bill, please
• Preciso de fazer uma reserva [pɾɨˈsizu dɨ fɐˈzeɾ ˈumɐ ʁɨˈzeɾvɐ ] I need to make a reservation
• Gostava de cancelar a minha reserva [guʃˈtavɐ dɨ kɐ̃sɨˈɫaɾ ɐ ˈmiɲɐ ʁɨˈzeɾvɐ] I would like to cancel my reservation
• Até à próxima   [ɐˈtɛ à ˈpɾɔsimɐ] See you next time

Learning these common Portuguese phrases is an excellent way to get started. If you want to go beyond this first step, I recommend this read: The Best Way to Learn Portuguese: Key Strategies to Become Fluent .

Get my guide "Key Strategies to Learn Portuguese" for FREE .

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Ela finta-nos a cada passo, impressões digitais, suiça vence eurovisão.

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15 basic Portuguese language phrases & words to know before you travel to Portugal

Recently updated on May 15th, 2024 at 05:26 pm

Planning a trip to Portugal ? Don’t forget to learn a few basic Portuguese phrases and words before you go! It’s so important to learn some simple phrases in the local language for any trip, as it’s a great way to show respect to the locals and enrich your travel experience. Portuguese is a beautiful Romance language but it can take time to get the hang of it, so start with some easy but essential words like greetings and please and thank you. To help you on your way, here are 15 basic Portuguese phrases to learn before your trip to Portugal. 

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1. Hello – Olá

Get off to a good start by greeting people with “olá” (hi or hello). 

It’s one of the most important yet basic Portuguese phrases to learn and you won’t get far without it!

RELATED CONTENT: How knowing the local language saves you money when you travel

2. How are you? – Como está ?

Once you’ve said olá or bom dia, follow it up by saying “como vai?” (how are you?). If someone asks you this question, you can respond with a simple “bem” (well) or say “eu estou bem” (I am good). If you want to ask how they are too, say “E tú?” (and you?). 

You can also use “tudo bem?” or “tudo bom?” They both mean “how are you?” and “everything is good” and they can be both a question and a response.

So, if someone says “tudo bem?” you respond with “tudo bom!” And if someone asks you “tudo bom?”, reply with “tudo bem!”

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3. Greetings for every time of day

If you want to greet people correctly throughout the day in Portugal, there are three basic Portuguese phrases to learn:

Bom dia – Good morning. This can be only be used in the morning before midday.

Boa tarde – Good afternoon. This phrase is used between midday and 6pm.

Good night – Boa noite. From 6pm onwards, use this one. You can also use it as a generic way of saying goodbye. 

Tip: When saying “bom dia”, don’t pronounce “bom” like the English word “bomb”. The -om ending is actually a nasal vowel, so instead of closing your mouth to say the “m” sound, you let the air out of your nose and mouth to only say the “o”. It can be tricky so if you’re having trouble, pronounce “bom” like the English word “bong”. It’s closer to the correct pronunciation than “bomb”.

RELATED CONTENT: ​​ The secret Portuguese beach you should visit this summer

4.  Nice to meet you – Prazer

If you’ve met a new acquaintance on your trip to Portugal, be sure to offer them a polite “prazer” (nice to meet you).

5. Goodbye  – Adeus

If you say hello, you should also learn how to say goodbye. Just like in English, there are many different ways to say goodbye, depending on the context. One of the most common words is “tchau”. It’s pronounced like the Italian “ciao”. 

If you’d like a more formal way to say goodbye, you can say “adeus”, which is similar to the Spanish word “adios”. 

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6. Excuse me – Com licença

There are many different uses and ways to say excuse me in Portugal.

If you’re passing through a crowd and need to politely ask someone to step out of your way, you can say “Com licença” or simply “licença”. 

If you need to ask someone to repeat what they’re saying, you can say “a como?” or “o que disse?” These also translate to “excuse me?”

If you need to apologise for bumping into someone, or you’re trying to get a waiter’s attention, you can say “Desculpa” which also means “excuse me”. 

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7. Please – Por favor

If you’re looking for some easy Portuguese phrases that will help you be a little more polite and respectful on your trip to Portugal, don’t forget your pleases and thank yous!

You can add “por favor” (please) on to the end of a sentence to make it more polite. For example, if you want to ask for the bill in a restaurant, you can say to the moço (waiter): “Você pode trazer a conta, por favor?” (Can you bring the bill please?)

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8. Thank you – Obrigad(a/o)

The way to say “thank you” in Portuguese changes depending on your gender. If you’re female, say “obrigada”. If you’re male, say “obrigado”. You can also shorten it to “brigada” or “brigado”. 

You can also say “de nada” (you’re welcome) after some thanks you. 

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9. Yes – Sim

This is one of the most simply Portuguese phrases but it’s an essential one. 

Like the word “bom”, sim also contains a nasal vowel. If you’re having trouble pronouncing it correctly, try saying it like the English word “sing”. 

“Yes” in Portuguese is sim. Like bom above, sim contains a nasal vowel. To a first approximation, it sounds like the English word “sing”.

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10. No – Não

It’s one of the most basic Portuguese words to know but it’ll come in handy. No is “não”, pronounced in a similar way as the English “no”.

11. Where is… ? – Onde está…?

If you’ve just arrived in Portugal, you might need some extra help finding your way around. If you need to ask for directions, say “onde está…?” (where is…?)

Here are some basic Portuguese phrases to learn to help you navigate Portugal: 

Onde está a casa de banho? – “Where is the bathroom?”  Onde está a estação de comboio? – “Where is the train station?”  Onde está a parada de autocarro? – “Where is the bus stop?”

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12. What is your name? – Qual é o seu nome?

If you want to get to know someone, ask their name by saying “Qual é o seu nome?”

You can then tell them your name by saying “O meu nome é or Me chamo…” (My name is…).

13. How much does this cost? – Quanto custa isso?

If you’re planning to do some shopping in Portugal, one of the best simple Portuguese phrases to learn is “Quanto custa isso?” (how much does this cost?).

14. I don’t understand – Eu não entendo

If you’re new to learning the Portuguese language, you’ll likely have some trouble understanding everything at first. Let people know when you’ve lost them by saying “Eu não entendo” (I don’t understand). You can also say “O quê?” (What/Say that again?)

RELATED CONTENT: Travelling to Portugal in May? Here’s what you need to know

15. Do you speak English? – Fala inlgês?

If you’re really struggling and need to find someone who can speak English, it’s polite to ask them first instead of assuming they can speak your language. You can say “Fala inlgês?” (Do you speak English?) or let them know that you don’t speak Portuguese by saying “Não falo português”. You can also say “Eu estou aprendendo Português” (I am learning Portuguese) and people may even help you with some basic phrases.

What are your most important basic Portuguese phrases to learn? Let us know in the comments below!

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41+ Common Portuguese Phrases for Everyday Life and Travel

A short introduction on portuguese .

The Portuguese language, a beautiful and melodious Romance language, is spoken by millions of people worldwide. It holds the status of the official language of Portugal, where it has deep historical roots, and is also the primary language spoken in Brazil, which is home to the largest population of Portuguese speakers in the world. Beyond these two major hubs, Portuguese is spoken in various other countries, making it a truly global language.

These are just a few reasons why you need to learn basic phrases in Portuguese. So

let’s not waste any time and quickly dive into the most useful Portuguese expressions.

What Are the Most Common Portuguese Phrases?

Before we embark on our journey through basic Portuguese phrases for various situations, let's start with some fundamental Portuguese expressions. These phrases serve as the building blocks for effective communication, and whether you find yourself in the vibrant streets of Rio de Janeiro or the charming alleys of Lisbon, you'll be glad to have these in your linguistic toolkit. Here are 15 common Portuguese phrases along with their English translations or brief explanations:

• Olá - Hello

Use this when greeting someone in a friendly and casual manner. It's appropriate for most situations.

• Por favo r - Please

Include this when making a polite request or asking for something. It adds politeness to your interactions.

• Obrigado/a - Thank you (male/female)

Express your gratitude when someone does something for you. Use obrigado if you're male and obrigada if you're female.

• Desculpe - Excuse me / I'm sorry

Say this when you need to get someone's attention, apologise, or express regret for a mistake. It's versatile in its usage.

• Sim / Não - Yes / No

Employ these simple affirmatives or negatives to answer questions with clarity.

• Quanto custa? - How much does it cost

Use this phrase when inquiring about the price of an item or service.

• Onde fica...? - Where is...?

Utilise this question to ask for directions or the location of a place or object.

• A conta, por favor - The bill, please

Request the bill at a restaurant or any other establishment when you're ready to pay.

• Fala inglês? - Do you speak English?

Use this question when you need to communicate in English, especially when travelling or seeking assistance.

• Preciso de ajuda - I need help

Express your need for assistance when you require help in a polite and straightforward manner.

• Bom dia - Good morning

Greet someone in the morning until around noon with this phrase for a friendly and respectful interaction.

• Boa tarde - Good afternoon

Employ this greeting in the afternoon, typically from noon until early evening.

• Boa noite - Good evening / Good night

Use this phrase in the evening or when saying goodbye late in the day.

• Tchau / Adeus - Goodbye.

Say tchau in casual settings and adeus when parting in a more formal or permanent manner.

• Gostaria de.. . - I would like…

Use this phrase when ordering at a restaurant, making a request, or stating your preferences.

These useful Portuguese phrases are versatile and can be used in a wide range of situations. Whether you're greeting someone, seeking assistance, or expressing gratitude, these expressions will be invaluable throughout your journey.

Portuguese Phrases for Asking Directions

Navigating through unfamiliar streets is an adventure in itself, but it can also be challenging. To ensure you reach your intended destinations with ease, here are seven basic Portuguese phrases for asking directions:

• Como chego a...? - How do I get to...? Use this phrase when you need directions to a specific location or when asking for guidance to reach a place.
• Estou perdido/a - I am lost Express your confusion or need for assistance when you're unsure of your location.
• Pode mostrar-me no mapa? - Can you show me on the map? Ask someone to use a map to visually guide you to a location. Useful when you have a map available.
• Fica longe/perto daqui? - Is it far/close from here? Use these questions to determine the distance between your current location and the destination you're asking about.
• Vire à direita/esquerda - Turn right/left Provide or follow directions by indicating the direction to turn when navigating streets or pathways.
• Continue em frente - Go straight ahead Use this phrase to advise someone to keep moving in the same direction without turning.
• Estou à procura de... - I'm looking for… Let someone know that you are searching for a specific item or place, which can be helpful when seeking assistance or directions.

These useful Portuguese phrases will not only help you find your way but also enable you to engage with locals and make your journey more interactive and enjoyable.

Portuguese Phrases for Shopping

No trip is complete without a bit of retail therapy. Whether you're picking up souvenirs, clothing, or local products, these phrases will be your allies in the shopping world:

• Quanto custa isso? - How much does this cost?

Use this question when you want to inquire about the price of a specific item or product.

• Gostaria de comprar isto - I would like to buy this

Use this phrase when you're ready to make a purchase and want to indicate your choice.

• Aceita cartão de crédito? - Do you accept credit cards?

Ask this question when you're making a payment and want to know if the establishment accepts credit card payments.

• Posso experimentar isto? - Can I try this on?

Use this phrase when you're shopping for clothing or trying out any item that requires testing or fitting.

• Tem algum desconto? - Is there any discount?

Inquire about discounts or promotions when you want to know if the product you're interested in is available at a reduced price.

• Esta cor/tamanho está disponível? - Is this color/size available?

Use this question when you want to check if a particular colour or size of an item is in stock.

• Onde fica a casa de câmbio? - Where is the currency exchange?

Use this question to ask for directions to a currency exchange facility or booth when you need to exchange money while travelling.

These phrases will not only make your shopping experience smoother but also help you strike up conversations with local shopkeepers, providing insights into their culture and products.

Portuguese Phrases for Restaurants

Exploring local cuisine is a highlight of any journey, and ordering food in Portuguese restaurants can be a delightful experience. Here are seven Portuguese phrases to enhance your dining adventures:

• Mesa para dois, por favor - Table for two, please

Use this phrase when you arrive at a restaurant and want to request a table for a specific number of people.

• O menu, por favor - The menu, please

Request the menu from the server to browse the list of available dishes and drinks.

• A recomendação do chef - Chef's recommendation

Ask for the chef's recommendation when you want to try a special dish that the chef recommends.

• Gostaria de um café / vinho - I would like coffee / wine

Use these phrases to order beverages, specifying whether you'd like a coffee or a glass of wine.

• Está delicioso! - It 's delicious!

Express your appreciation for the food when you find it tasty. It's a compliment to the chef.

Request the bill when you're ready to pay for your meal.

• O serviço está incluído? - Is the service charge included?

Ask about the service charge if you're unsure whether the tip or service fee is already included in the bill.

Using these phrases not only ensures you enjoy a delicious meal but also fosters a deeper connection with the local culture and cuisine.

Portuguese Phrases for Accommodations and Hotels

Comfortable lodgings are essential for any traveller. These Portuguese phrases will help you secure accommodations and ensure a pleasant stay:

• Tenho uma reserva - I have a reservation

Use this phrase when you arrive at a hotel to inform the staff that you have a pre-booked room.

• Quarto individual/duplo - Single/double room

Specify the type of room you want when booking or checking in. Individual means a single room, while duplo is a double room.

• Preciso de toalhas extras - I need extra towels

Request additional towels if you require more than what is provided in your room.

• O meu quarto não está limpo - My room is not clean

Inform the hotel staff if you find your room to be unclean or if it requires cleaning.

• A que horas é o check-out? - What time is check-out?

Ask about the check-out time to ensure you leave your room at the appropriate time on your departure day.

• O Wi-Fi é gratuito? - Is the Wi-Fi free?

Inquire about the availability and cost of Wi-Fi access in the hotel. This is especially important if you rely on internet connectivity.

• Posso guardar a minha bagagem aqui? - Can I store my luggage here?

Ask the hotel staff if they offer luggage storage services if you need to leave your bags after check-out or before check-in.

These phrases will ensure you have a comfortable and hassle-free stay in your chosen accommodations.

Portuguese: A Language of Diversity

Before we dive into the intricacies of the language, it's crucial to understand that Portuguese, like English, has regional variations. The two primary branches of Portuguese are European Portuguese (Português Europeu or pt-PT) and Brazilian Portuguese (Português Brasileiro or pt-BR). These regional distinctions encompass pronunciation, vocabulary, and even certain idiomatic expressions. Understanding these differences is essential for travellers, as it can greatly impact their ability to communicate effectively and immerse themselves in the local culture.

European Portuguese vs. Brazilian Portuguese

• Pronunciation:

One of the most noticeable differences between European Portuguese and Brazilian Portuguese is pronunciation. For instance, in European Portuguese, the 's' at the end of words is often pronounced like 'sh', whereas in Brazilian Portuguese, it's pronounced as 's'. So, "Portugal" would be pronounced "Pur-tu-gal" in European Portuguese and "Pur-tu-gau" in Brazilian Portuguese.

• Vocabulary:

There are also variations in vocabulary. Some words are unique to one region or have different meanings. For example, the word for bus in European Portuguese is autocarro , while in Brazilian Portuguese, it's ônibus .

• Idioms and Expressions:

Regional idioms and expressions can also differ. A classic example is the use of tudo ótimo , which means "everything's great", but is more commonly used in Brazil. In Portugal, you might hear ( está) tudo bem instead.

Grammar rules, such as verb conjugation, remain largely consistent between the two versions. However, there are subtle differences, especially in verb conjugation and verb tense usage, that might be noticed by more advanced speakers.

If you are still wondering which dialect to learn, check out our blog about how European and Brazilian Portuguese differ .  

Are There Any Similar Common Phrases in Brazilian and European Portuguese?

Yes, many common phrases are shared between Brazilian Portuguese (pt-BR) and European Portuguese (pt-PT). While there are some regional variations in pronunciation and vocabulary, you can generally use the phrases mentioned above in both regions. Native speakers will understand you, and your efforts to communicate in their language will be greatly appreciated.

Don’t hesitate to test your knowledge on Portuguese and Brazilian culture.  

How Drops Language Learning Can Help you in your Language Journey

Learning these everyday Portuguese phrases can greatly enhance your travel experience, fostering deeper connections with the local culture and people. To expedite your language learning journey, consider using language learning apps like Drops . Drops offers bite-sized lessons, vocabulary exercises, and pronunciation practice tailored to your specific needs. Here are some benefits of learning Portuguese:

• Enhanced Cultural Experience: speaking the local language opens doors to deeper cultural connections and authentic experiences, allowing you to engage with locals on a more profound level.
• Improved Communication: being able to communicate in Portuguese helps you navigate various situations, from ordering food to asking for directions, with confidence and ease.
• Friendship and Connection: locals often appreciate when travellers make an effort to speak their language. Your attempts to communicate in Portuguese can lead to meaningful connections and friendships that enhance your journey.

In conclusion, learning common Portuguese phrases is a valuable investment for any traveller heading to a Portuguese-speaking destination. With these Portuguese  expressions in your toolkit, you'll not only enrich your travel experience but also build bridges of communication and connection with the people you meet along the way. So, whether you're strolling along the beaches of Rio de Janeiro or exploring the historic sites of Lisbon, embrace the Portuguese language , and embark on a journey filled with meaningful interactions and unforgettable moments. Start learning Portuguese now! 

Javier Gil is our Senior Language Operations Manager. He loves linguistics, reading, skincare, 90s music, and Zumba. He currently lives in Spain.

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PortuguesePod101’s Essential Portuguese Travel Phrase Guide

Travel: Is there any other activity that demands so much planning, money, and time…or that generates so many interesting and fulfilling discoveries?

Yes, traveling can be both a pleasure and a challenge. Leisure in newfound places walks hand in hand with language and cultural barriers. Learning Portuguese basics for travel can be helpful, but it might not be enough to help you generate a truly rich and comfortable experience.

There are many sources online with common Portuguese travel phrases, but many of them fail to illustrate the nuances of the daily vernacular you’ll actually be hearing on your trip. It’s not uncommon to learn some Portuguese travel phrases but neglect to brush up on local manners and signs of politeness. After all, there are many unspoken rules and other subtleties to be mindful of…

In this article, we’ll present to you a list of Portuguese travel phrases that go beyond the basics. This includes some less common phrases as well as cultural information that will allow you to speak in a more flexible and comprehensive manner during your travels in Brazil!

• Basic Portuguese for Travel
• Portuguese Travel Phrases for Transportation
• Portuguese Travel Phrases for Shopping
• Portuguese Travel Phrases for Restaurants
• Asking for and Giving Directions
• Emergencies
• Flattery Phrases
• Useful Phrases to Go Through Language Problems

1. Basic Portuguese for Travel

To travel in Portuguese-speaking countries, one must be well-equipped with some fundamental words and expressions.

A- Greetings

Because first impressions are very important, let’s start with some concise greetings. 

• Oi! – “Hi!”
• Olá! – “Hello!”
• Bom dia. – “Good morning.”
• Boa tarde. – “Good afternoon.”
• Boa noite. – “Good evening.”

B- Informal greetings

Friends often greet each other in a very casual manner. 

These phrases sound caring, but they’re not always met with answers or reciprocity. In fact, their informal meaning is closer to “hi,” or even just to signal that you see the other person. Generally, you’ll use these phrases to greet people with whom you’ve had plenty of interactions already.

• Tudo bem? – “How are you doing?”
• Beleza? – “Howdy?”
• E aí? – “What’s up?”
• Salve! – “Ay!”

C- Short answers

Essential communication is at the core of basic Portuguese phrases for travel. Therefore, these short answers will come in handy in a variety of situations.

• Sim – “Yes”
• Não – “No”
• Talvez – “Maybe”
• Pode ser? – “Why not?”
• Eu gostei. / Eu não gostei. – “I liked it.” / “I didn’t like it.” 
• Bom – “Good”
• Ruim – “Bad”
• Bem – “Well” 
• Mal – “Badly”

D- Being polite

Learning some basic etiquette rules can make a big difference in how you’re received when approaching people during your travels. Being polite to a friend, a host, or a stranger shows them that you care to interact properly according to local customs—and this might make them more open to helping you.

• Obrigado. (male) / Obrigada. (female) – “Thank you.”
• Often, people simply say desculpa , which is informal.  
• This is a less common and more formal expression.
• Com licença. – “Excuse me.”
• Por favor. – “Please.”
• Prazer em conhecê-lo. (male) / Prazer em conhecê-la. (female) – “Pleased to meet you.”

Finally, here’s a bonus phrase you’ll definitely need when traveling in a Portuguese-speaking country:

• Você pode tirar uma foto minha, por favor? – “Would you please take a picture of me?”

2. Portuguese Travel Phrases for Transportation

Whether you depend on taxis, subways, trains, or buses for transportation , you can count on the following phrases:

A- Taxi, please!

• Vamos para a [Avenida Presidente Vargas], por favor. – “We are heading to [Presidente Vargas Avenue] please.”
• Você aceita cartão de crédito? – “Do you accept credit card?”
• Você pode esperar um minuto, por favor? – “Could you hold on for a minute, please?”
• Vamos fazer uma parada em outro lugar antes. – “We’re making a stop-by in another place first.”
• Aqui está bom. – “Here is fine.”

Taxis are often an expensive form of transportation in Brazil, though the recent diffusion of ride apps has pushed fare prices down in the last couple of years.  

B- Traveling by bus

A mere bus can take you to so many places…

• Pode me avisar quando estiver perto do [Parque do Ibirapuera]? – “Would you let me know when we get close to [Ibirapuera Park]?”
• Em que ponto eu desço para chegar no [ Elevador Lacerda ]? – “Where should I get off to get to [Lacerda Elevator]?”
• Quero visitar o [MASP]. Quanto tempo demora até lá? – “I’d like to visit [MASP]. How long does it take until we reach it?”
• Você tem troco para vinte reais? – “May I have change for twenty reais?”
• Este ônibus vai até a estação de metrô/estação de trem? – “Does this bus get to the subway/train station?”
• Até que horas este ônibus funciona? – “When does this bus stop?”

The bus is the most common form of public transportation in Brazilian cities and between municipalities. Commercial flights are not an affordable option for long-distance travel for most of the country’s population.

Some cities offer air-conditioned buses, and some places also have vans and microbuses for public transportation, which are called micro-ônibus or peruas .

C- Riding the train

• Onde eu posso comprar o bilhete? – “Where can I buy a ticket?”
• Eu vou querer dois bilhetes, por favor. – “Two tickets, please.”
• A que horas passa o ultimo trem? – “When does the last train arrive?”
• De que lado fica a saída para a rua [Domingos de Moraes]? – “How can I get from here to [Domingos de Moraes] street?”
• Onde fica o mapa das linhas do metrô? – “Where is the map of the subway lines?”
• Esta é a linha verde do metrô? – “Is this the green subway line?”
• Esta é a plataforma correta para ir até [o Flamengo]? – “Is this the right platform to [Flamengo]?”

Trains in Brazil are reserved for urban and freight transportation only. The railways were a popular long-distance transport decades ago, before cars became popular in the country.

3. Portuguese Travel Phrases for Shopping

So many options to choose from, so many phrases to learn… Don’t panic, let’s be practical.

Our social interactions while shopping tend to be brief and no-nonsense, so an elaborate vocabulary isn’t necessary to get what you need. For example: If you spot a nice fruit , you can point at it, ask for the price using gestures, and finish the purchase. Or, if shopping online , you could use a digital translator.

On the other hand, it might not always turn out this way. Buying a gift for a friend in a foreign country, for instance, could be confusing. It’s not always easy to explain your interests or to formulate questions to a native speaker.  

Here are just a few survival phrases in Portuguese for making the most of your trip to the store or mall: 

• Quanto custa isto? – “How much does it cost?”
• Qual peça você recomenda? – “What piece/item do you recommend?”
• Qual é a lembrança mais popular da loja? – “What is this store’s most popular souvenir?”
• Vocês aceitam pagamento por PayPal? – “Can I use PayPal for payment?”
• O preço está em reais ou em dólares? – “Is the pricing in reais or in dollars?”
• Você tem esta camiseta em tamanho médio? – “Does this T-shirt come in medium size?”
• Será que este item chega até terça-feira? – “Might this item be in stock by Tuesday?”

4. Portuguese Travel Phrases for Restaurants

The most common activity we can all relate to? Eating. Whether you’re ordering food or asking your waiter/waitress a question, this basic Portuguese travel phrases list for restaurants has got you covered. 

• Uma mesa para quatro, por favor. – “Table for four, please.”
• Posso ver o menu, por favor? – “May I see the menu, please?”
• Água, por favor. – “Water, please.”
• Uma cerveja, por favor. – “Beer, please.”
• Um copo de suco de laranja, por favor. – “A glass of orange juice, please.”
• Vocês têm opções vegetarianas/veganas? – “Do you have vegetarian/vegan options?”
• A sobremesa está inclusa? – “Does it include the dessert?”
• Sou alérgico a glúten. (male) / Sou alérgica a glúten. (female) – “I am allergic to gluten.”
• Garçom! – “Waiter!”
• Garçonete! – “Waitress!”
• Pode dividir a conta em dois? – “Would you split the bill?”
• Está delicioso! – “It’s delicious!”
• Como se chama este prato? – “What do you call this dish?”
• Não acredito que isso é peixe… – “I can’t believe it’s fish…”

5. Asking for and Giving Directions

How can I get to Christ, the Redeemer?

Some of the most important Portuguese phrases for travelers are those used to ask for and give directions. Finding yourself lost with no means of communication never makes for a nice vacation or business trip! 

• Onde fica o banheiro? – “Where is the toilet?”
• A estação [Santa Cruz] fica aqui perto? – “Is [Santa Cruz] station nearby?”
• Onde fica a estação de metrô mais próxima? – “Where is the nearest metro station?”
• Pode me dizer para que lado é o Jardim Botânico ? – “Could you tell me which way to Jardim Botânico?”
• Como eu faço para chegar ao [Cristo Redentor]? – “How can I get to [Christ, the Redeemer]?”
• Vire à direita. – “Turn right.”
• Vire à esquerda. – “Turn left.”
• Siga em frente. – “Go ahead.”
• Siga reto. – “Go straight.”
• Atravesse a rua. – “Cross the street.”
• Para o outro lado – “To the other side”

6. Emergencies

To get help, one must learn to ask for it.

Travels are full of discoveries and opportunities for adventure. Of course, there’s always room for unexpected events…some of which might not be pleasant. Here are some crucial Portuguese basics for travel to help you out in an emergency: 

• Ajuda, por favor! – “Help, please!”
• Você pode me ajudar? – “Can you help me?”
• Chame uma ambulância. – “Call an ambulance.”
• Chame a polícia. – “Call the police.”
• Chame os bombeiros. – “Call the firemen.”
• Tem algum médico aqui? – “Is there a doctor around here?”
• Perdi meu passaporte. – “I lost my passport.”
• Roubaram minha carteira. – “Someone stole my wallet.”

The most useful emergency numbers for travelers in Brazil are:

Police: Call 190 to report emergencies, and 197 to make inquiries and give information to the police.

Medical ambulance: Medical emergencies can be reported through calls to 192.

Fire service: Call 193.

Don’t forget to read our vocabulary list for useful phone call phrases , so you can act correctly on the spot if needed. Also, check the emergency phone numbers in Portugal and Angola .

7. Flattery Phrases

Embrace the confetti and throw some of it too: it makes people happier.

Flattery often pays off for tourists and foreigners. Pick people from any culture you want: they’ll most likely react in a positive way to flattery, especially if it’s genuine. To use a Brazilian expression for this universal vanity: Everyone likes to get some confetti thrown at them.

So, basic Portuguese travel phrases for flattery might open doors and build bridges between people! You can use them at the gym , during a meeting with friends, on a date , or in other contexts. Just use them at your discretion.

• As pessoas no Brasil são muito gentis. – “People in Brazil are very kind.”
• Eu adoro os brasileiros. – “I love Brazilians.”
• Eu gosto muito da comida portuguesa. – “I like Portuguese food very much.”
• Eu amo Angola. – “I love Angola.”
• Eu amo o seu país. – “I love your country.”
• Quero ser seu amigo. (male) / amiga. (female) Você tem Instagram? – “I want to be your friend. Do you use Instagram?”
• Eu quero morar aqui. – “I want to live here.”
• Você é lindo! (male) / Você é linda! (female) – “You are pretty!”

8. Useful Phrases to Go Through Language Problems

One common error that learners of a foreign language make is “overthinking” instead of talking intuitively, because they want to speak everything perfectly. This pretension might be an obstacle to developing oral fluency .

Sometimes, just learning the phrases isn’t enough and we need to ask native speakers for help. But why not at least do it correctly and in the foreign language? This self-improving and humble attitude is very constructive toward a speedier learning process.

• Você fala inglês? – “Can you speak English?”
• Não estou te entendendo. – “I don’t understand you.”
• Pode repetir? – “Can you repeat?”
• Fale mais devagar, por favor. – “Please speak slowly.”
• Você pode escrever, por favor? – “Would you write it down, please?”
• Como se lê isto? – “How do you read this?”
• Você pode soletrar para mim? – “Could you spell it out for me?”
• Eu não falo português muito bem. – “I don’t speak Portuguese very well.”
• Eu não falo nada de português. – “I don’t speak Portuguese at all.”

9. Conclusion

In this article, you learned a lot of basic Portuguese travel phrases that will keep you busy for some time and hopefully provide you with good cultural insight. The best part is that you have access to these expressions for free—all it takes is a few clicks or taps on your computer or cellphone. 

It’s a good idea to write down these expressions and practice them often. Indeed, reading and understanding content is nice, but active learning is the best way to build complex knowledge.

Are there any travel phrases you would still like to know or a situation we didn’t cover? Let us know in the comments, and we’ll get back to you! 

PortuguesePod101 provides many resources that are guaranteed to put you on a thrilling and productive learning path. Apart from vocabulary lists that are easy to consult and focused on practical situations, PortuguesePod101 provides a variety of multimedia lessons and content for Portuguese learners at every level. By subscribing to a Premium PLUS account, you also gain access to private lessons to boost your conversation skills and help you absorb important cultural information.

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Portuguese Phrases

Essential Portuguese Phrases: Guide to Learning Portuguese

If you require additional Portuguese phrases, you can use our online English to Portuguese translation tool , which can convert English sentences and phrases into Portuguese.

Greetings and Pleasantries in Portuguese

In Portuguese culture, exchanging greetings and pleasantries plays a crucial role in establishing social connections . The language offers a diverse range of greetings tailored for different times of the day and various occasions, emphasizing the cultural value placed on warm and respectful interactions

For example, "Obrigado (for males) / Obrigada (for females)" can be used to express gratitude, appreciation , or acknowledge help, kindness, or a favor in Portuguese-speaking contexts. Regarding specific times of the day, "Bom dia" is used for "good morning" , and "Boa noite" is used for "good evening" .

• Hello. Olá.
• Thank you. Obrigado.
• Thank you very much. Muito obrigado.
• You are welcome. De nada.
• Yes. / No. Sim. / Não.
• Please. Por favor.
• Excuse me. / Sorry. Com licença. / Desculpe.
• Don`t worry. Não se preocupe.
• Good morning. Bom dia.
• Good afternoon. Boa tarde.
• Good evening. Boa noite.
• Good night. Boa noite.
• See you later. Até mais.
• Goodbye. Adeus.
• Bye. Tchau.
• How are you? Como vai você?
• I am fine. And you? Estou bem. E você?
• What is your name? Qual o seu nome?
• My name is … . Meu nome é … .
• I am pleased to meet you. É um prazer conhecê-lo.
• Bless you! (when sneezing) Abençoe! (ao espirrar)
• Cheers! Saúde!
• Good Luck! Boa sorte!
• Happy Birthday! Feliz aniversário!
• Congratulation! Parabéns!

Starting Conversation Between People

• Do you live here? Você mora aqui?
• Where are you going? Onde você está indo?
• What are you doing? O que você está fazendo?
• Today is a nice day, isn`t it? Hoje está um belo dia, não é?
• Where are you from? De onde você é?
• I am from … . Eu sou de … .
• Do you like it here? Você gosta daqui?
• Yes, I like it here. Sim, eu gosto daqui.
• How long are you here for? Há quanto tempo você está aqui?
• I am here for three days / weeks. Estou aqui há três dias/semanas.
• How old are you? Quantos anos você tem?
• I am … years old. Eu tenho anos de idade.
• What is your occupation? Qual é a tua ocupação?
• I am a … Eu sou um …
• I work in … Eu trabalho em …
• I am a student. Eu sou um estudante.
• I am studying … Estou estudando …
• I am retired. Estou aposentado.
• What is your … ? (email, phone number, address) Qual é o seu … ? (e-mail, telefone, endereço)
• Here is my …. (email, phone number, address) Aqui está o meu … . (e-mail, telefone, endereço)
• Are you on Facebook or Twitter? Você está no facebook ou no twitter?
• Keep in touch! Mantenha contato!
• It has been great meeting you. Foi ótimo conhecer você.

Pronouns in Portuguese

Portuguese has various types of pronouns, each serving a specific grammatical function . Below is an overview:

1. Personal Pronouns

Personal pronouns refer to the subject or object of a sentence. For e.g., She is going to the store. ( Ela está indo para a loja.) .

• You (singular) Tu ( informal ), Você ( formal
• You (plural) Vós ( informal ), Vocês ( formal )
• He Ele ( masculine )
• She Ela ( feminine)
• It Ele ( masculine ) / Ela ( feminine )
• They Eles ( masculine ) / Elas ( feminine )

2. Possessive Pronouns

Possessive pronouns indicate ownership . For e.g., Is this your book? (Este é o seu livro?) .

• My / Mine Meu ( masculine ) / Minha ( feminine )
• Your / Yours (singular) Teu ( masculine ) / Tua ( feminine )
• His / Her / Its / Your (singular) Seu
• Our / Ours Vosso ( Nosso ) / Nossa ( feminine )
• Your / Yours (plural) Vosso ( masculine ) / Vossa ( feminine )
• Their / Theirs Seus ( masculine ) / Suas ( feminine )

3. Demonstrative Pronouns

Demonstrative pronouns emphasize a specific person or a thing . For e.g., This is my new laptop. ( Este é meu novo laptop.)

• This Este ( masculine ) / Esta ( feminine )
• That (singular, informal) (Esse masculine ) / Essa ( feminine )
• That (singular, formal) (Aquele masculine ) / Aquela ( feminine )
• These (Estes masculine ) / Estas ( feminine )
• Those (informal) Esses ( masculine ) / Essas ( feminine )
• TThose (formal) Aqueles ( masculine ) / Aquelas ( feminine )

Transportation

When traveling to Portugal, it is highly beneficial to learn phrases related to transportation . Portugal boasts a rich tapestry of landscapes, historic sites, and vibrant cities, making it an enticing destination for exploration. However, navigating the country efficiently requires familiarity with local transportation options and communication .

Learning phrases related to transportation, such as asking for directions, purchasing tickets, and understanding public transport announcements, enhances the overall travel experience.

Getting Around

Whether exploring the narrow streets of Lisbon, the historic districts of Porto, or the scenic landscapes of the Algarve, knowing how to ask for directions, use public transportation, or seek assistance becomes invaluable .

• How do I get to the Zoo? Como faço para chegar ao Zoológico?
• Can we get there by public transport? Podemos chegar lá de transporte público?
• What time does the bus / train / plane leave? A que horas sai o ônibus/trem/avião?
• What time does it arrive? Que horas chega?
• How long will it be delayed Por quanto tempo vai ser adiado
• Is this seat free? Esta cadeira está livre?
• I want to get off here. Eu quero descer aqui.

Buying Tickets

Whether enjoying cultural events, using public transportation or visiting museums and monuments, having the ability to communicate effectively during ticket purchases is essential . Here are a few essential phrases to facilitate these interactions:

• Where can I buy a ticket? Onde posso comprar um bilhete?
• Do I need to book a ticket in advance? Preciso reservar ingresso com antecedência?
• Can I have a one-way / return ticket, please? Posso ter uma passagem só de ida/ida e volta, por favor?
• Can I have 1st-class / 2nd-class ticket to … ? Posso ter passagem de 1ª / 2ª classe para … ?
• I would like an aisle / a window seat. Eu gostaria de um assento no corredor/janela.
• Can I get a day / weekly ticket? Posso obter um ingresso diário/semanal?
• I would like to cancel / change / confirm my ticket, please. Gostaria de cancelar/alterar/confirmar passagem, por favor.

Bus / Coach

The phrases provided below empower tourists to confidently navigate the local transport system, whether they are inquiring about bus schedules, confirming destinations, or purchasing tickets .

• Which bus goes to (the station)? Qual ônibus vai para (a estação)?
• What is the bus number? O que é um número de ônibus?
• Where is the bus stop? Onde é o ponto de ônibus?
• What is the next stop? Qual é a próxima parada?
• I would like to get off at … . Eu gostaria de descer em … .

Learn the necessary phrases to confidently navigate the railway system, including inquiries about train schedules, confirming destinations, and purchasing tickets.

• Where is the nearest underground / subway / metro station? Onde fica a estação de metrô/metrô mais próxima?
• What station is this? Que estação é esta?
• Which platform does the train leave from? De qual plataforma sai o trem?
• Which line goes to Victoria Station? Qual linha vai para a Estação Victoria?
• Do I need to change trains? Preciso trocar de trem?
• Which carriage is for Heathrow? Qual carruagem é para Heathrow?

Becoming familiar with phrases associated with booking a taxi, including specifying destinations, confirming availability, and negotiating prices with the taxi driver, empowers tourists to navigate efficiently. This knowledge enables travellers to ensure fair prices for their journeys, contributing to a smoother and more cost-effective travel experience .

• I would like a taxi at (2pm). Eu gostaria de um táxi às (14h).
• Where is the taxi stand? Onde fica o ponto de táxi?
• Please take me to (this address). Por favor, leve-me para (este endereço).
• Could you please take me to [restaurant/hotel/shop], please? Você poderia me levar ao [restaurante/hotel/loja], por favor?
• Could you please take me to the airport/train station/bus station? Você poderia me levar ao aeroporto/estação de trem/rodoviária?
• How much does this cost? Quanto custa isso?
• Is the price negotiable? O preço é negociável?
• Can you give me a discount? Você pode me dar um desconto?
• Please turn on the meter. Por favor, ligue o medidor.
• How long will it take to get to [destination]? Quanto tempo levará para chegar ao [destino]?
• Stop here. Pare aqui.
• Can you give me a receipt, please? Você pode me dar um recibo, por favor?

Accommodation

Familiarise yourself with phrases ranging from booking a hotel room to inquiring about amenities when booking accommodation in Portugal.

Finding Accommodation, Booking, Checking In & Out

Learning essential phrases related to finding accommodation, booking, checking in, and checking out is indispensable when embarking on a journey to Portugal.

• Where is a hotel? Onde fica um hotel?
• How much is it per night? Quanto custa por noite?
• Is breakfast included? O pequeno-almoço incluído?
• I would like to book a room, please. Gostaria de reservar um quarto, por favor.
• I have a reservation for 2 nights / weeks. Tenho uma reserva para 2 noites/semanas.
• Is there wireless internet access here? Há acesso à internet sem fio aqui?
• Do you have a double / single / family room? Você tem um quarto duplo/individual/familiar?
• Can I see the room? Posso ver o quarto?
• When/Where is breakfast served? Quando/Onde é servido o café da manhã?
• Can I use the laundry? Posso usar a roupa?
• Do you arrange tours here? Você organiza passeios aqui?
• Could I have my key, please? Poderia me dar minha chave, por favor?
• Sorry, I lost my key! Desculpe, perdi minha chave!
• There is no hot water. Não tem água quente.
• The air conditioner / heater / fan does not work. O ar condicionado/aquecedor/ventilador não funciona.
• What time is checkout? Que horas são check-out?
• I am leaving now. Estou saindo agora.
• Could I have my deposit, please? Poderia me dar meu depósito, por favor?
• Can you call a taxi for me? Você pode chamar um táxi para mim?

Exploring camping options in Portugal opens up a world of natural beauty and outdoor adventure . For example, Parque de Campismo da Ilha do Pessegueiro , located near Porto Covo on the Alentejo coast, offers a picturesque camping site by the sea, allowing travellers to immerse themselves in the serene landscapes of Portugal. To navigate camping experiences effectively, it's essential to learn basic phrases related to camping facilities, rules, and reservation procedures .

• Where is the nearest camp site? Você pode chamar um táxi para mim?
• Can I camp here? Posso acampar aqui?
• Who do I ask to stay here? A quem peço para ficar aqui?
• Is the water drinkable? Esta água é potável?
• How much do you charge for a caravan / tent? Quanto se cobra por uma caravana/tenda?
• Gas cylinder / Sleeping bag / Tent / Torch Cilindro de gás / Saco de dormir / Tenda / Tocha

Home Staying / Staying with Locals

Choosing to stay with locals in Portugal provides a distinctive and enriching travel experience. Enhance your connection by learning how to inquire about local customs, share meals, and appreciate the hospitality of your hosts . These actions not only express gratitude and courtesy but also foster meaningful interactions.

• Can I stay at your place? Posso ficar na sua casa?
• I have my own sleeping bag. Eu tenho meu próprio saco de dormir.
• Can I bring anything for the meal? Posso levar alguma coisa para a refeição?
• Can I do the dishes? Posso lavar a louça?
• Thank you for your hospitality. Obrigado por sua hospitalidade.

When shopping, familiarising yourself with some Portuguese phrases can enrich your retail experience and foster delightful interactions with shopkeepers

Here are some essential shopping phrases in English with Portuguese translations:

• Where is (a/the supermarket)? Onde fica (o supermercado)?
• Where can I buy … ? Onde posso comprar… ?
• I would like to buy … Eu gostaria de comprar…
• How much is it? Quanto isso custa?
• Can you write down the price? Você pode anotar o preço?
• Do you accept credit/debit cards? Você aceita cartões de crédito/débito?
• Do you accept crypto currencies? Você aceita moedas criptografadas?
• Could I have a bag, please? Poderia me dar uma bolsa, por favor?
• I don't need a bag, thanks. Não preciso de bolsa, obrigado.
• Could I have a receipt, please? Poderia me dar um recibo, por favor?
• I would like to return this, please. Eu gostaria de devolver isso, por favor.
• I would like my money back, please. Gostaria do meu dinheiro de volta, por favor.
• That's too expensive. Isso é muito caro.
• Can you lower the price? Você pode baixar o preço?
• I will give you … Eu vou te dar…

Safe Travel

While learning basic phrases is beneficial, it is crucial to prioritize phrases and sentences for emergencies . In situations such as reporting incidents to the police, dealing with robberies, or seeking medical assistance from a doctor or hospital due to health issues, having these specific phrases at your disposal is essential for safe travel.

Emergencies

Understanding emergency phrases is essential for ensuring safety and seeking immediate help during unforeseen situations. Here are a few of them:

• Help! Ajuda!
• There's been an accident. Houve um acidente.
• Thief! Ladrão!
• Fire! Fogo!
• Stop! Parar!
• It's an emergency! É uma emergência!
• Do you have a first-aid kit? Você tem um kit de primeiros socorros?
• Call a doctor/police! Chame um médico/polícia!
• Call an ambulance? Chame uma ambulância?
• Could you please help us/me? Você poderia nos ajudar/me ajudar?
• I'm lost Estou perdido

If you ever find yourself in a situation where you need assistance from the police , here are some phrases.

• Where is the police station? Onde fica a esquadra da polícia?
• I want to report a robbery. Quero denunciar um assalto.
• I have been robbed. Eu fui roubado.
• He/She has been assaulted. Ele/Ela foi agredido.
• My wallet was stolen? Roubaram a minha carteira?
• I have lost my … Eu perdi meu …
• I have been wrongly accused by her. Fui acusado injustamente por ela.
• Can I call someone? Posso ligar para alguém?
• Can I call a lawyer? Posso ligar para um advogado?
• I want to contact my embassy. Quero entrar em contato com minha embaixada.

Here is a set of phrases that could be helpful in seeking medical attention and explaining your symptoms while traveling or residing in Portugal.

• Where is the nearest hospital/doctor? Onde fica o hospital/médico mais próximo?
• I need a doctor who speaks English/Portuguese. Preciso de um médico que fale inglês/português.
• Could I see a male/female doctor? Posso consultar um médico homem/mulher?
• Where is a nearest chemist? Onde fica a farmácia mais próxima?
• I have been vaccinated for Covid/Hepatitis. Fui vacinado contra Covid/Hepatite.
• I have a fever. Estou com febre.
• I am sick. Estou doente.
• He/She/My friend is sick. Ele/Ela/Meu amigo está doente.
• I have been vomiting. Estou vomitando.
• I have altitude sickness. Tenho o mal da altitude.
• I am seasick. Estou enjoado por causa do mar.
• I am allergic to … Sou alérgico a …
• I can't move my … Não consigo mover meu …
• My (hand/leg) is swollen. Minha (mão/perna) está inchada.
• I have a toothache. Estou com dor de dentes.
• My dentures are broken. Minhas dentaduras estão quebradas.
• My gum hurts. Minha gengiva dói.
• I have run out of medication. Fiquei sem medicação.
• I need a prescription for … Preciso de uma receita para…
• I am on medication for … Estou tomando medicação para…

Disabilities

If you need wheelchair accessibility , sign language interpretation , or support for visual impairments , the following phrases will help ensure a smoother journey.

• I have a disability. Eu tenho uma deficiência.
• I need assistance. Eu preciso de ajuda.
• Is there a wheelchair access? Existe acesso para cadeiras de rodas?
• Is there a disabled toilet? Existe um banheiro para deficientes?
• Is there a lift? Há um elevador?
• Could you help me cross this street? Você poderia me ajudar a atravessar esta rua?
• Is there a wheelchair space? Existe espaço para cadeiras de rodas?

Time, Day and Dates in Portuguese

Understanding and articulating time, days, and dates in Portuguese are essential skills for effective communication and planning . These elements are categorized into the following groups:

Past, Present and Future Time

Learning phrases related to past, present, and future time is fundamental in any language , including Portuguese. Acquiring knowledge in these areas empowers individuals to share experiences , discuss current situations , and make plans for the future .

• Morning Manhã
• Afternoon Tarde
• Evening Noite
• Night Noite
• Tomorrow Amanhã
• Tomorrow Morning Amanhã de manhã
• Day After Tomorrow Dia depois de Amanhã
• Yesterday Ontem
• Yesterday Evening Ontem à noite
• Day Before Yesterday Anteontem
• This Week / Next Week / Last Week Esta semana / próxima semana / semana passada
• This Month / Next Month / Last Month Este mês / próximo mês / último mês
• This Year / Next Year / Last Year Este ano / ano que vem / ano passado
• Later Mais tarde
• Before Antes
• Until May Até maio
• Within a Week Dentro de uma semana
• Within an hour Dentro de uma hora
• In (three) days Em três dias
• In (ten) minutes Em dez minutos

The Calender

In Portuguese, the week begins with "segunda-feira" (Monday) and concludes with "domingo" (Sunday) . Months are referred to as "meses," ranging from the brisk beginnings of "janeiro" (January) to the festive closures of "dezembro" (December).

• Sunday Domingo
• Monday Segunda-feira
• Tuesday Terça-feira
• Wednesday Quarta-feira
• Thursday Quinta-feira
• Friday Sexta-feira
• Saturday Sábado
• January Janeiro
• February Fevereiro
• March Marchar
• April abril
• May Poderia
• August Agosto
• September Setembro
• October Outubro
• November novembro
• December dezembro
• Summer Verão
• Autumn Outono
• Winter Inverno
• Spring Primavera

Clock Basic in Portuguese

In Portuguese, the concept of time is denoted as "tempo," with hours and minutes being designated as "horas" and "minutos" , respectively. Dates are communicated in the format day/month/year, and the individual units of time within a year are known as "meses" (months).

• What time is it? Que horas são?
• Quarter past one / two. Uma e duas e quinze.
• Quarter to one / two. Um quarto para uma/duas.
• Half past one / two. Uma e duas e meia.
• Twenty past one / two. Uma e vinte e duas.
• Twenty to one / two. Vinte para um/dois.
• It's 1:30 pm / 2:15 am. São 13h30/2h15.
• At what time? Em que momento?
• Second(s) Segundo(s)
• Minute(s) Minuto(s)
• Hours(s) Hora(s)
• Week Semana
• Decade Década
• Century Século

Numbers and Amount in Portuguese

Having the capability to communicate and write numbers and amounts is an essential aspect of learning any language. This skill becomes exceptionally valuable in various situations, including negotiations , shopping , dealing with exchange rates , and various other scenarios .

Cardinal Numbers

• 0 (zero) 0 (zero)
• 1 (one) 1 (um)
• 2 (two) 2 (dois)
• 3 (three) 3 (três)
• 4 (four) 4 (quatro)
• 5 (five) 5 (cinco)
• 6 (six) 6 (seis)
• 7 (seven) 7 (sete)
• 8 (eight) 8 (oito)
• 9 (nine) 9 (nove)
• 10 (ten) 10 (dez)
• 11 (eleven) 11 (onze)
• 12 (twelve) 12 (doze)
• 13 (thirteen) 13 (treze)
• 14 (fourteen) 14 (quatorze)
• 15 (fifteen) 15 (quinze)
• 16 (sixteen) 16 (dezesseis)
• 17 (seventeen) 17 (dezessete)
• 18 (eighteen) 18 (dezoito)
• 19 (nineteen) 19 (dezenove)
• 20 (twenty) 20 (vinte)
• 21 (twenty one) 21 (vinte e um)
• 30 (thirty) 30 (trinta)
• 40 (forty) 40 (quarenta)
• 50 (fifty) 50 (cinquenta)
• 60 (sixty) 60 (sessenta)
• 70 (seventy) 70 (setenta)
• 80 (eighty) 80 (oitenta)
• 90 (ninety) 90 (noventa)
• 100 (one hundred) 100 (cem)
• 101 (one hundred one) 101 (cento e um)
• 200 (two hundred) 200 (duzentos)
• 201 (two hundred one) 201 (duzentos e um)
• 500 (five hundred) 500 (quinhentos)
• 1000 (one thousand) 1000 (mil)
• 2000 (two thousand) 2000 (dois mil)
• 2001 (two thousand one) 2001 (dois mil e um)
• 2102 (two thousand one hundred two) 2102 (dois mil cento e dois)
• 10000 (ten thousand) 10.000 (dez mil)
• 100000 (one hundred thousand) 100.000 (cem mil)
• 1000000 (one million) 1.000.000 (um milhão)
• 1000000000 (one billion) 1000000000 (um bilhão)

Ordinal Numbers

• First (1 st ) Primeiro (1 st )
• Second (2 nd ) Segundo (2 segundo )
• Third (3 rd ) Terceiro (3 terceiro )
• Fourth (4 th ) Quarto (4 º )
• Fifth (5 th ) Quinto (5 º )
• Sixth (6 th ) Sexto (6 º )
• Seventh (7 th ) Sétimo (7 º )
• Eighth (8 th ) Oitavo (8 º )
• Ninth (9 th ) Nono (9 º )
• Tenth (10 th ) Décimo (10 º )
• 1/2 (a half) 1/2 (meio)
• 1/4 (a quarter) 1/4 (um quarto)
• 1/3 (a third) 1/3 (um terço)
• All / None Todos/Nenhum
• Some / Many Alguns
• How Much? Quanto?
• How Many? Quantos?

Portuguese Phrases for Travel: A Guide

If you’re dreaming of lazy days in Lisbon or the spicy culture of Brasília, then you'll need to learn a thing or two about Portuguese so that you're ready to converse with any native Portuguese speaker you meet on your travels.

Our handy guide will tell you all you need to know so that you can start learning Portuguese right away.

An Introduction to the Portuguese Language

Before taking you through the vocal necessities, let’s look at the Portuguese language in greater detail.

Portuguese is widely spoken. In fact, it's the third most spoken European language and the ninth most spoken language worldwide.

It is one of the Romance languages , which means that it's based on Latin. But over the centuries, Portuguese has taken on a number of influences, so you'll spot Germanic and even Greek influences in some of its words.

But this rich variety of Portuguese-speaking countries does mean that there are some notable nuances in the way the language is spoken. It's important to learn these as you progress in the language.

Brazilian and European Portuguese: How different are they?

The two primary forms of Portuguese are European and Brazilian Portuguese.

These two forms of Portuguese are closely connected, so native speakers from either country can easily converse with one another. However, there are some differences – primarily in pronunciation.

The end result can sound less musical to the ear.

Basic Portuguese Phrases for Travel

If you’re preparing for your next trip to a Portuguese-speaking country, you'll find the experience a lot easier, and much more sociable, if you learn a few basic Portuguese phrases first.

It's well worth committing to memory the following...

I speak a little Portuguese - Falo um pouco de Português

Sorry, I don't speak Portuguese - Desculpe, eu não falo Português

Yes, please - Sim, por favor

No, thank you - Não, obrigado/a

Do you speak English? - Você fala inglês?

I don't know - Não sei

Like many European languages, Portuguese uses gendered language. In this case, the gender depends on the person speaking, not the person they're speaking to.

Let's look at the common term thank you as an example. The female version is ' obrigad a', while ' obrigado ' is the masculine form.

Times of the Day in Portuguese

Good day/Good morning - Bom dia

A cheerful greeting will get you far. As is the case in America, it's polite to greet the salesperson as you enter a shop or the waiter when you enter a restaurant.

' Bom dia ' is a handy multipurpose phrase because it can mean 'good morning' or 'good day'.

Good afternoon – Boa tarde

Good evening/ good night - Boa noite

See you later - Até logo

See you tomorrow- Até amanhã

Goodbye - Adeus

Note that in English, 'good night' effectively closes a conversation. However, in Portuguese, ' boa noite ' is more of a greeting.

It can be used interchangeably to mean this or 'good evening.'

Essential questions for travelers in Portuguese

Can I check-in, please? - Eu tenho uma reserva

Where is the bus stop? - Onde é o ponto de ônibus?

Where is the train station? - Onde é a estação de trem?

Where can I find a taxi? - Onde posso encontrar um táxi?

Portuguese phrases when out for dinner

One of the best reasons to visit Portugal – or, indeed, Brazil – is to sample the cuisine.

From alheira de Mirandela (Portuguese sausage) to quindim (a Brazilian egg-based pudding), you can try something new for every meal.

So it stands to reason, of course, that you'll need to know how to get yourself served in a restaurant.

These useful phrases will help...

A table for two people, please - Uma mesa para dois, por favor

Can I have the menu, please? - Pode dar-nos a ementa, por favor?

I would like to drink wine - Eu gostaria de beber vinho

Do you have Caipirinha? - Você tem Caipirinha?

The bill, please. - Posso receber a conta, por favor?

Where is the bathroom? (Brazilian Portuguese) - Onde é o banheiro?

Where is the bathroom? (European Portuguese) - Onde fica a casa de banho?

Basic Portuguese Greetings: How to greet someone in Portuguese

Whether you're meeting a study partner, a Tinder match, or a friendly shopkeeper, knowing how to start a conversation politely is key to learning Portuguese.

Hello - olá

Nice to meet you - Prazer em conhecê lo

This is the most commonly used casual form of this phrase, though this can be shortened to ' prazer ', which literally just means 'pleasure.'

How are you? - Como está?/Como vai?

This will be one of the first phrases you commit to memory, purely because you'll hear it so much!

Plus, it's almost the same as the Spanish equivalent. To reply, you can say:

Very well - ' Muito bem '

I'm fine - ' Estou bem '

Or, if you want to try your hand at flirting, go with the following...

' Agora estou melhor – tu chegaste! ' That literally means 'I'm doing much better now you've arrived!'

To return the question, say:

'And you?' - E você? '

Basic Portuguese words to get someone's attention in Portuguese

There are several accepted ways to catch the attention of a waiter or shopkeeper.

However, the best way to go will depend on whether you're in a European Portuguese environment or a Brazilian Portuguese one.

In Brazilian Portuguese, you can try:

This is a commonly used attention grabber and an easy one to pick up while you're learning Portuguese.

Any kind of greeting – whether it's 'bom dia' or a time-based substitute, is a polite way to get someone's attention.

This one effectively means 'excuse me' and is an easy word to pick up in your new language.

If you're in Portugal, greetings such as 'bom dia' are equally effective. Or try...

Com licença

Just like 'desculpa', this basically means the same as 'excuse me.'

However, in Portugal, you'd use this to catch someone's attention and then use ' desculpa ' before asking a question – such as:

Excuse me, where are the toilets? - Com licença, onde estão os banheiros?

Common Portuguese phrases to flirt in Portuguese

Good afternoon, how's it going? - Boa tarde, como vai?

I'm good - Eu estou bem

What's your name? - Qual é o seu nome?

Where are you from? - De onde você é?

I am from... - Eu sou de ...

Other phrases to flirt in Portuguese

Hmm, those were a little tame, right?

Give these phrases a whirl...

I couldn't help but notice you - Não pude deixar de te notar

This is one to use when you've spotted the object of your affections across a crowded bar.

What ugly clothes you have on! Take them off. - Que roupa feia. Tira isso agora.

Look, it's bold if nothing else!

Is your father a painter? Because he made a masterpiece! - Sue pai é pintor? Porque ele fez uma obra-prima!

Perhaps it's best to tell your mother not to expect any grandchildren.

Of course, if none of the above work, you can easily shrug it off to your friends by saying...

There's no chemistry - Não tem química

More Portuguese phrases for travel

There are a few more phrases you'll find handy to know. For example...

My name is... – Meu nome é...

See you – Até mais

All good - Tudo bem

And your name? - É o seu nome?

Thank you – Muito obrigada/o

No problem/You're welcome – De nada

Tips to learning Portuguese fast

Whether you plan on visiting Portugal, you're heading to Brazil, or you just want to start learning the most common Portuguese phrases for fun, there are plenty of great hacks you can use to do so quickly and easily.

Learn Portuguese through video

One great way to learn languages is to watch authentic videos in the language. This makes the whole process of learning a new language a bit more fun and natural.

No matter how much free time you have to devote to language learning, Lingopie has the tools to suit you.

With plenty of Portuguese and Brazilian TV shows and movies available on-demand, you'll be able to learn easily with subtitles.

Learning languages like Portuguese through video is also a great way to learn about formal versions of the language, as well as the masculine and feminine rules.

Build on the essential phrases you're learning

So, you've already picked up the most common Portuguese phrases. That's a great start!

Now you're ready to progress your comprehension through conversations with natives, or by consuming content in the language, such as podcasts, audiobooks, and YouTube videos.

Practice a little each day and you'll be fluent in Portuguese more quickly than you think.

Summing Up: Portuguese Phrases for Travel

Even though learning a language may seem intimidating right now, Portuguese is actually relatively easy to learn.

With its Latin and Germanic roots, there are so many similarities to English. Once you've picked up some key basics, you'll find yourself flying through your language learning journey and learning phrases for fun.

Whatever your goals, Lingopie makes learning a language and becoming fluent easier than ever.

Sign up for a free trial now and discover a wealth of great resources designed to help you speak Portuguese confidently and capably this year.

If conversation is your thing and you want to make your travelling experience an absolute breeze, pick up these french conversation starters .

Not everyone is up for the challenge of learning two languages at once , so you may want to know even more about Portuguese and how it compares to Spanish .

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The 17 Best European Portuguese Phrases to Know if You’re Visiting Portugal in 2023

Whether you’re moving to Portugal in 2023 or just visiting the country, learning useful phrases has many advantages. You don’t need to sound like a native Portuguese speaker, but you should be able to maintain short conversations.

These are the essential Portuguese phrases for tourists to learn:

• Bom dia / Boa tarde / Boa noite / Olá / Adeus
• Muito prazer!

O meu nome é…

Tudo bem /como está /como vai, onde é …., desculpe. onde é a casa de banho, o que recomenda, o que é tradicional, quanto custa, queria um ….

• Por favor /Se faz favor ; Obrigado(a)

Aceita cartão?

• Não percebi. /Não entendi

Mais devagar, por favor.

Fala inglês.

You might have visited a Portuguese-speaking country or been in contact with the Portuguese language before. After all, it is the  7th most spoken language in the world .

When in Portugal, you’ll notice most natives speak English pretty well. Nevertheless, rest assured your efforts in learning a few basics will not go unnoticed. 

Familiarizing yourself with the local language is the first step to enjoying your stay all the more. So let’s take a closer look at each expression.

Basic Portuguese Phrases For Travelers

Check out the most common Portuguese phrases for travel, their English equivalents, and when to use them. You can find even more expressions with the correct pronunciation in our video:  100 Common Expressions in European Portuguese.

Most language learning methods start with greetings, usually simple phrases or words. Plus, they often associate with different periods of the day and are easier to remember.

Bom dia / Boa tarde / Boa noite

In European Portuguese, you’ll use “Bom dia” (Good morning ) earlier in the day. Then, after lunch, you’ll switch to “Boa tarde” (Good afternoon ). Finally, resort to “Boa noite” (Good night ) in the evening/nighttime.

Olá and Adeus

“Olá” is a simple greeting you can use when you first arrive somewhere or if you want to greet someone. It’s the Portuguese word for “ Hello ,” so it’s not related to a specific time of day, and it’s one you’ll repeat time and time again.

“Adeus” means “ Goodbye ,” and you use it the same way as the English word. If you expect to see the person later in the day, say: “Até logo!”

Introductions

Next up, we’re tackling introductions. Hospitality is common practice for the Portuguese people. Hence, you will surely make lots of new acquaintances during your trip.

Muito prazer

Whenever you meet someone new, it’s polite to say: “Muito prazer.” This phrase is short for “Prazer em conhecê-lo.” which means “ Pleased to meet you. ” You might also hear a native use: “Muito gosto.”

Like the English “ My name is …”, “O meu nome é…” followed by your first name is a simple way to introduce yourself. It also answers the question “Como se chama?” or “What’s your name?.”

These are different ways of asking: “ How are you? “. You can apply the first one universally, while the other two bear a more formal tone suited for introductions or people you don’t know so well.

The expression “Tudo bem” can be both a question and a statement, so a native Portuguese speaker might use it to answer you. Another possible reply would be: “Eu estou bem.”

Questions and Requests

“Sim” means “ Yes ,” and “Não” means “ No .” Nasal vowel sounds are standard in Portuguese, but it can be tricky for foreigners to learn to pronounce them. Here’s a trick: try to repeat the word “Sound” without the first and last letters (“oun”).

According to the situation, “Desculpe” can mean “ Sorry ” or “ Excuse me .” You can use it to say you’re sorry about something you’ve done inadvertently. But, like in English, it is also a polite way to draw someone’s attention.

“Onde é…?” or “Onde fica…?” are ways to ask for directions and literally translate to “ Where is …?”. For example, if you’re looking for the bus stop, you would say: “Onde é a paragem do autocarro?”

If you’re at a restaurant and need to use the bathroom, you might say: “Desculpe. Onde é a casa de banho?” which translates to “Excuse me. Where is the bathroom?”

Let’s stick to the restaurant example for a while longer. If you’re unsure what to order and want to ask for a recommendation, you can say: “O que recomenda?” ( What do you recommend? ).

Besides learning a new language of the place you’re visiting, you probably also enjoy getting to know its culture. Asking “O que é tradicional?” which in English means “ What’s traditional? ” can help you discover everything from tasty dishes to cultural souvenirs.

“Quanto custa?” translates to “How much does it cost?”. You can also say “Quanto é?” to ask: “ How much is it? “. Don’t forget to point at whatever you’re speaking about to avoid misunderstandings.

You’ll say: “Queria um…” or “ I’d like a …” followed by the name of whatever you’re ordering. It applies to all sorts of situations. You can ask for a meal, a room, or a rental car. The possibilities are endless.

Por favor /Se faz favor e Obrigado(a)

“Por favor” and “Se faz favor” are two ways of saying “ Please .” You can use them the same way as you would in English. Picking up on the restaurant illustration from before, when asking for the bill, you would say: “Queria a conta, por favor.”

“Obrigado” or “Obrigada” is one of the most basic Portuguese words and literally translates to the English word “Obliged.” It is how you say “ Thank you ” in Portuguese and incites the answer “De nada.”

Portuguese is a gendered language. So usually, you’ll hear men say “Obrigado” and women say “Obrigada.” Regardless, you can use either one as they are often mixed.

Find more details about saying the feminine or masculine form of the word in the video:  How to say thank you in Portuguese – Obrigado or Obrigada?

After asking for the bill, you might want to ensure the establishment accepts payments by card. For that, you’ll use “Aceita cartão?” which will get you a “Sim” or “Não” answer.

When in Doubt

Portuguese natives often speak rapidly. If you’re not fluent, these common Portuguese phrases will help you communicate better with others.

Não percebi. / Não entendi

When you don’t understand what a native speaker is saying, tell them “Não percebi/entendi.” or “Desculpe. Não percebi/entendi.” Because Portugal has so many different accents, it’s one of the phrases you’ll use the most while learning Portuguese.

Use “Mais devagar, por favor.” which means “ Slower, please. ” if the person you’re speaking with is doing it much too fast for you to follow along. It is among the essential phrases for tourists to learn.

You can always resort to your mother tongue if you’re in a rush or simply can’t understand what’s being said. Most native speakers know English and will be happy to oblige.

That makes “Fala Inglês?” ( Do you speak English? ) one of the most practical and basic Portuguese phrases you can learn. If you’re feeling brave, add “Eu não falo português.” which means “ I don’t speak Portuguese. “

Summing Up On European Portuguese Phrases to Learn

These are the best basic Portuguese phrases to learn before visiting Portugal. Tap into authentic videos, like How to Reply in Common Situations – European Portuguese , to learn Portuguese expressions for everyday use. Try these suggestions, and let us know your thoughts in the comment section below!

Portuguese With Carla offers a 7-day free trial to our interactive European Portuguese course: “The Journey.” Its first section, the “Pre-Journey,” teaches everything you need to know for your first trip to Portugal.

You won’t feel forced to memorize tiresome grammar rules. Instead, you’ll discover how to speak Portuguese naturally and with confidence. Click the link to join us!

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Essential Portuguese phrases to know before you go

We’ve said it before and we’re sticking to it: One of the best ways to prepare for any trip is to learn a few phrases in the local language! Making an effort to communicate means a lot to the locals, and having a handle on the basics will help you get even more out of your cultural experience. To help you prepare for a tour of Portugal , here are a few Portuguese phrases to know before you go.

(pronounced: oh-la)

A simple “ hello ” will get you far when you’re out and about on tour in Portugal . Kick it up a notch with bom dia (pronounced: bom DEEya) to say good morning until around noon, and boa tarde (pronounced: BOa TARde) to say good evening. You’re also likely to hear oi (pronounced: oy), which is a casual “hi.”

(pronounced: chow)

This is the easy, informal way to say “ bye ” to friends and acquaintances. If you want to be a bit more formal, adeus (pronounced: a-day-ush) will do the trick—you’ll usually hear older Portuguese locals using this phrase.

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Basic Portuguese Phrases to Learn for Travel

Keen to travel to Portugal, Brazil or a Portuguese speaking country? Want to impress the locals and make your trip easier? Learn some of the local language before departing!

Although in Portugal a lot of people speak basic English in the main tourist hotspots like Lisbon, Porto and the Algarve, not everyone does. Also if you plan to visit another country like Brazil, Mozambique and Cape Verde for example, not many local people are fluent in English.

There are so many benefits of learning some simple Portuguese words and phrases. Firstly, it is polite and respectful to the local people and culture. Secondly it will make everything easy like getting around, asking questions and when visiting shops, cafes, restaurants and tourist locations.

Where is Portuguese Spoken?

Portuguese is the official language of several independent countries and regions: Angola, Brazil, Cape Verde, East Timor, Guinea Bissau, Macau, Mozambique, Portugal, & São Tomé and Príncipe.

Is Portuguese Easy or Hard to Learn?

Portuguese is a fairly easy language to learn, especially when compared with German , Arabic and Asian languages. With some practice Portuguese vocabulary can be learnt quickly and it really isn’t as hard as you might think. Don’t be daunted if you are learning Portuguese as a complete beginner, most of the words and phrases we have included are very easy to learn, memorise and pronounce. If you can already speak basic Spanish then you will have a big advantage when studying and learning Portuguese.

Portuguese from Portugal vs Brazilian Portuguese

Is there a difference between Portuguese from Portuguese and Portuguese spoken in Brazil? People from Portugal and Brazil speak the same language, but it has evolved in slightly different ways over the years due to cultural and historical differences. Although most words and the same or similar, the biggest difference is the accents and Brazilian Portuguese is generally regarded as easier to speak and understand.

Best Portuguese Words & Phrases to Know

Check out our list of essential basic Portuguese phrases for travellers and tourists below. These phrases highly recommended to learn before visiting Portugal, Brazil or a Portuguese speaking destination.

These are some of the essentials you need to learn and memorise:

Hello – Ola Hi – Oi Good morning – Bom dia Good afternoon – Boa tarde Good night – Boa noite Pleasure to meet you/Very nice to meet you – Muito prazer

These are some of the most useful words to know which you will likely use a lot:

Please – Por Favor Sorry – Desculpe Excuse me – Com licença Thank You (male speaker) – Obrigado Thank You (female speaker) – Obrigada You’re welcome – De nada Sir – Senhor Madam – Senhora Yes – Sim No – Não When? – Quando? Why? – Por quê? Your – sua (in Brazil) tua (in Portugal) Vamos! — Let’s go!

Conversational

Keen to strike up a conversation? These phrases will help:

Do you speak English? – Você fala inglês? Does anyone here speak English? – Alguém aqui fala inglês? I don’t understand – Não compreendo I understand – Eu compreendo I don’t understand – Não entendi I understand – Entendi I don’t know – Eu não sei What is your name? – Qual é o seu nome? My name is… – Meu nome é… Please speak more slowly – Fala mais devagar, por favor How do you say… (in Portuguese)? – Como se diz… (em Português)?

When you are out and about buying things these phrases will help:

Supermarket – Supermercado Grocer’s – Mercearia Shopping Centre – Centro Commercial Baker’s – Armazém How much does this cost? – Quanto custa? — What time does this place open/close? – Que horas abre/fecha? Do you have… – Você tem… How much does it cost? – Quanto custa? Do you have more of this? – Você tem mais deste? Which size is that? – Qual é o tamanho? I’d like to try it on – Gostaria de experimentar Where are the changing rooms? – Onde fica o provador? I’ll take it – Vou levar I like it – Eu gosto

How do I get to…? – Como chego ao…? Could you show me on the map? – Você pode me mostrar no mapa? Where does this train/bus go? – Para onde vai esse trem/ônibus?

Restaurants

Where is the bathroom? – Onde é o banheiro? (Brazilian Portuguese) Where is the bathroom? – Onde fica a casa de banho? (Portugal Portuguese) I would like a table for two – Eu queria uma mesa para duas pessoas I would like the menu, please – Eu queria o menu, por favor What do you recommend? – O que você recomenda? What is the daily special? – Qual é o prato do dia? To eat I would like… – Para comer queria… To drink I would like… – Para beber queria… I’d like the chicken, please – Eu gostaria do frango, por favor Do you have a vegetarian option? – Você tem uma opção vegetariana? I’d like to order dessert, please – Eu gostaria de pedir a sobremesa, por favor I would like a coffee – Queria um café I would like to pay – Queria pagar The bill, please – A conta, por favor

Food & Drink

Sugar – Açúcar Butter – Manteiga Milk – Leite Eggs – Ovos Flour – Farinha Bread – Pão Pasta – Massa Rice – Arroz Salt – Sal Pepper – Pimenta Vinegar – Vinagre Mustard – Mostarda Tea – Chá Coffee – Café

Transport and Directions

What time is it? – Que horas são? Next to – ao lado de Close, near – perto Far – longe Where can I get a taxi? – Onde posso arranjar um taxi? Where does this bus go? – Este autocarro vai para onde? Where can I find a taxi? – Onde posso encontrar um táxi? Where do you catch the metro? – Onde se apanha o metro?

Love & Romance

These are some more advanced Portuguese phrases if you happen to meet someone special:

I miss you – Estou com saudades de você Where would you like to go? – Onde gostarias de ir? How about going to the cinema? – Que tal irmos ao cinema? Sorry, I’m not free – Desculpe, não estou livre Perhaps we could go next week – Talvez pudéssemos ir na próxima semana That would be great! – Isso era óptimo! I like you – Eu gusto de voce I love you – Eu te amo

Medical & Emergencies

The pharmacy – A farmácia I’m sick – Eu estou doente I need your help – Preciso de sua/tua ajuda I feel unwell – Não me sinto bem I feel ill – Sinto-me doente I have a headache – Tenho uma dor de cabeça I have stomach ache. – Tenho dores de estômago. Can you give me something for the pain? – Pode dar-me qualquer coisa para a dor? I have a temperature – Tenho febre I feel dizzy – Sinto-me tonto/a I have been sick – Vomitei I would like some plasters, please – Queria adesivos, por favor Do you have anything for a cold? – Tem alguma coisa para a constipação? I need some tissues – Preciso de lenços de papel Can you recommend an insect repellant? – Pode recomendar um repelente para insectos?

1 – Um/uma 2 – Dois/duas 3 – Três 4 – Quatro 5 – Cinco 6 – Seis 7 – Sete 8 – Oito 9 – Nove 10 – Dez 20 – Vinte 30 – Trinta 40 – Quarenta 50 – Cinquenta 60 – Sessenta 70 – Setenta 80 – Oitenta 90 – Noventa 100 – Cem 101 – Cento e um/uma 200 – Duzentos/duzentas 300 – Trezentos/trezentas 400 – Quatrocentos/quatrocentas 500 – Quinhentos/quinhentas 600 – Seiscentos/seiscentas 700 – Setecentos/setecentas 800 – Oitocentos/oitocentas 900 – Novecentos/novecentas

Days of the Week

Monday – Segunda-feira Tuesday – Terça-feira Wednesday – Quarta-feira Thursday – Quinta-feira Friday – Sexta-feira Saturday – Sábado Sunday – Domingo Today – O dia Week – A semana Weekend – O fim de semana Today – Hoje Tomorrow – Amanhã

Hopefully our guide to the best basic Portuguese words and phrases has been useful. There are so many amazing countries you can practise your Portuguese, you could even print our basic Portuguese phrases as a pdf and take them with you on your trip. Or download a language app which can really boost your progress.

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Beginner Portuguese: 105 Common Portuguese Phrases To Learn

The first step to learning Portuguese, much like learning any other language, is to memorize a few basic phrases that you can use in everyday conversation. 

Once you’ve learned a few phrases to help you get around you can then work on building up your vocabulary and learn the rules of grammar and pronunciation in order to formulate sentences on your own.

In this post, we’ve gathered the most common Portuguese phrases that you are likely to hear from native speakers. Memorize these phrases and learn how and when to use them.

Words of Greeting In Portuguese

Of course, the first Portuguese phrases that you should learn are basic greetings. You can use the following phrases to cheerfully great Portuguese speakers. 

1. Olá– Hello

These are both acceptable greetings, though “Oi” is considered a bit more informal, so maybe save that for people you are already friendly with and stick to “Ola” if you are in a formal business setting or meeting someone for the first time.

You can also use one of the following phrases to greet a Portuguese speaker. As you can see, there are “time-sensitive” greetings that refer to a particular time of day, so consider that when deciding which to use. 

3. Bom dia – Good morning

4. Boa tarde – Good afternoon

5. Boa noite – Good evening

How to Say Goodbye In Portuguese

The first two words here are basic phrases to say goodbye in Portuguese. The first is a little more formal than the other but either is acceptable.

6. Adeus - Goodbye

7. Tchau – Bye

You can also use the following phrases to take your leave of your current companion, especially if you have plans to see each other again.

8. Até logo – See you later

9. Até amanhã – See you tomorrow

10. Até breve – See you soon

How to Answer the Basic Question In Portuguese

Here’s how to say  “yes” or “no” in Portuguese.

11. Sim – Yes

12. Nao - No

Polite Expressions to Use In Portuguese

Portuguese speakers tend to belong to cultures that are known for being warm and friendly to strangers, however, that doesn’t mean that they will tolerate rudeness. 

As a beginner language learner, it’s always best to make sure you know how to be polite in whatever language you seek to learn. This means knowing how to say “please” and “thank you” at the very least.

13. Por favor – Please. 

14. Origado/a – Thank you. If you are speaking to a male person, it should end in “o”, if you are speaking to a female, you should end it with an “a”

15. Como licenca – Excuse me

16. Perdão – Pardon me

17. Desculpa  – I’m sorry. You can also say “desculpe”, which is considered a bit more formal.

Polite Forms of Address In Portuguese 

If you don’t know someone’s name, or if you want to get the attention of a stranger, you can use one of these phrases first.

18. O senhor- Sir

19. A senhora – Ma’am

Making Introductions In Portuguese

Before you start having a really deep conversation with a Portuguese language speaker about the best restaurant in town or that episode of that hit TV series you just caught, you need to introduce yourself – and get the name of your potential new friend as well. 

20. Meu nome é – My name is

21. Qual é o seu nome? – What is your name? 

Here are a few other introductory phrases that you can use or that you might hear from Portuguese speakers.

22. Este e o meu amigo/amiga – This is my friend. If you are referring to a male, use “amigo”. If you are referring to a female, use “amiga”.

23. Queria apresentar... – I would like to introduce...

After initial introductions have been made, you might want to politely acknowledge the persons you have just met by saying the following.

24. Muito prazer em conhecê-lo – I am pleased to meet you. You can also shorten it to just “prazer”.

Common Portuguese Phrases to Start a Conversation 

After you have greeted someone and exchanged your name, you can then ask them how they are, using one of the following phrases.

25. Tudo bem? – How are you?

26. Como vai? – How is it going?

27. Como vai você? – How are you?

If the person you are talking to you, however, asks “Tudo bem?” or “Como vai?” the polite initial response is one of the following.

28. Eu estour bem e tú? – I’m good, how are you?

29. Estou bem, obrigado – I’m fine, thanks.

Portuguese Phrases That Language Learners Should Use

Of course, one of your goals to striking a conversation with a native language speaker is to practice your own language skills. But you should probably let them know beforehand that you are a learner and as such, they might need to be more patient with you.

30. Fala inglês? – Do you speak English?

31. Alguém aqui fala inglês? – Does anyone speak English?

32. Não falo muito português – I speak a little Portuguese

33. Preciso praticar meu português – I need to practice my Portuguese

34. Não compreendo – I don’t understand

35. Não entendi – I don’t understand what you said

36. Entendi – I understand

37. Pode dizer outra vez? – Can you say that again?

38. Fale mals devagar, por favor – Please speak slowly

39. Eu não sei – I don’t know

40. Como se diz _____em Português? – How do you say ____ in Portuguese?

41. O que quer dizer _____  em inglês? What does ____ mean in English?

How to Understand Directions In Portuguese

Before traveling to a country with a lot of Portuguese speakers, you should know how to ask for directions. Memorize the following phrases.

42. Como chego ao/a - How do I get to (place)? Portuguese is a gendered language so, you use “ao” if it is masculine and “a” if it is feminine.

43. Onde está ___? Where is (place)

It’s one thing to be able to ask where a place is, but it’s another thing altogether to use the directions you are given to successfully find the place. Here are a few phrases you need to understand when asking for directions in Portuguese.

44. Ao lado de – Next to

45. Perto – Near

46. Longe – Far

47. É perto/longe? – Is it near/Is it far?

48. Esquerda - Left

49. Direita- Right

50. Vire à esquerda/direita – Turn left/right

51. Sempre em frente – Straight ahead

52. Em direcção à – Towards the

53. Depois do/a – Past the

54. Antes do/a – Before the

55. Você pode me mostrar no mapa? – Can you show me where it is on the map?

Common Portuguese Phrases That Will Help You Navigate Public Transportation

If you want to take public transportation while in Portugal, these phrases can be useful to know.

56. Como chego a estacao de trem?– How do I get to the train station?

57. Como chego ao ponto de ônibus? – How do I get to the bus stop?

58. Para onde vai esse trem? – Where does this train go?

59. Para onde vai esse ônibus? – Where does this bus go?

60. Onde posso encontrar um táxi? – Where can I find a taxi? 

Portuguese Phrases to Use at a Restaurant

Once you’ve found a good restaurant, you can use the following phrases to order food and drinks.

61. Moco – Waiter

62. Eu queria uma mesa – I’d like a table

63. Eu queria o menu, por favor – I’d like a menu, please

64. O que você recomenda? – What would you recommend?

65. Queria – I’d like

66. Para comer queria – To eat I would like

67. Para beber queria – To drink I would like

68. A conta, por favor – The bill please

69. Queria pagar – I would like to pay

Common Portuguese Phrases You Can Use When Going Shopping

Remember, when in a Portuguese speaking country, you can use the phrase “onde está” to ask for a place. If you are going shopping and are looking for a specific type of store, you say “onde está” and add one of these phrases.  

70. A loja – The store

71. O shopping – The shopping center

72. O mercado – The market

73. O supermercado – Supermarket

74. A farmácia – Pharmacy

75. A livraria – Bookstore

76. A padaria – Bakery

77. A confeitaria – Pastry shop

78. A loja de música – Music store

After you’ve found your way to a store or shopping center, you can use the following Portuguese phrases to make purchases.

79. Onde fica? – Where is? You can use this phrase when asking about where to find an item or a particular store.

80. Estou procurando – I am looking for. You can use this when referring to a specific item.

81. Você tem – Do you have (item)?

82. Quanto custa? – How much? When inquiring about the cost of an item.

83. Estou só a ver, orgigado/a – I’m just looking, thank you. 

84. Vou levar – I’ll take it.

85. Aceita cartão de crédito? – Do you accept credit card?

86. Gostaria de pagar com cartão de crédito – I’d like to pay by credit card.

87. Gostaria de pagar em dinheiro – I’d like to pay in cash

Basic Portuguese Phrases Should Know

Whether you are traveling to Portugal or just another country where Portugal is commonly spoken, you should know how to say the following.

88. Preciso tua ajuda – I need your help

89. Você pode me ajudar? – Can you help me?

90. Estou perdido/perdida – I’m lost

It’s probably a good idea to know how to make some basic inquiries about time. 

91. Que horas são? – What time is it?

92. Que horas abra? – What time does it open?

93. Que horas fecha? – What time does it close? 

94. Que horas vocês abrem? – What time do you open?

95. Que horas vocês fecham? – What time do you open?

Here are three phrases you should know to make sure some basic needs are taken care of.

96. Onde fica a case de banho? – Where is the bathroom?

97. Estou com fome – I’m hungry

98. Estou com sede – I’m thirsty

If you need to find a hotel room, you can use the following phrases.

99. Quatro de hotel – Hotel room

100. Vocês tem un quarto disponível? – Do you have a room available

101. Quanto custo por noite – How much does it cost per night?

Just in case, you should know how to say the following phrases for your safety.

102. Ajuda! – Help

103. Sinto-me mau – I feel sick

104. Preciso de um medico – I need a doctor

105. Chame a polícia – Call the police.

Whatever your reasons to travel to Portugal or a country where Portuguese is commonly spoken – such as Brazil, it’s important that you start to learn how to understand and speak the language.

Aside from memorizing basic phrases such as the 105 common ones that we have here, it’s probably a good idea to do a online language course.

To expand your Portuguese vocabulary, consider these dynamic learning options:

Try Babbel’s fun, easy-to-follow lessons that fit effortlessly into your daily life.

For those desiring an in-depth study of Portuguese, check out Udemy’s extensive course that spans from essential vocabulary to sophisticated linguistic structures.

If you prefer a more interactive approach, enroll in Lingoda’s classes with native Portuguese speakers to enhance your speaking and comprehension skills.

How to say goodbye in Portuguese?

Adeus or Tchau

What are some polite expressions to use in Portuguese?

Portuguese speakers tend to belong to cultures that are known for being warm and friendly to strangers, however, that doesn’t mean that they will tolerate rudeness. As a beginner language learner, it’s always best to make sure you know how to be polite in whatever language you seek to learn. This means knowing how to say “please” and “thank you” at the very least. Por favor – Please. Origado/a – Thank you. If you are speaking to a male person, it should end in “o”, if you are speaking to a female, you should end it with an “a”. Como licenca – Excuse me

What are some common phrases in Portuguese?

Tudo bem? – How are you? Como vai? – How is it going? Eu estour bem e tu? – I’m good, how are you? Estou bem, obrigado – I’m fine, thanks.

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Basic Portuguese Phrases For Travel

• Last Updated: April 5, 2024

If you’re looking for a simple introduction to some essential Portuguese words and phrases, you’ve come to the right place.

I lived in Portugal for a bit earlier this year and fell in love with the country, its landscapes, sun-kissed beaches , welcoming people, and lyrical language.

The Portuguese language is as warm and inviting as the country itself. It’s a language that sings with a rhythm of its own.

With over 250 million native speakers in countries as diverse as Brazil , Angola, Mozambique, Cape Verde, and (of course) Portugal, it’s also one of the most widely spoken languages in the world.

Knowing some basic phrases and words in Portuguese shows respect for the local culture and can help you navigate through daily interactions.

Table of Contents

Basic Words in Portuguese

From the idyllic beaches of Brazil to the cobbled streets of Lisbon, getting familiar with some basic Portuguese vocabulary will greatly enhance your travel experience.

Portuguese is a beautiful language, with unique intonations and lyrical phrases. Begin your Portuguese language adventure with these essential words.

• Olá – Hello
• Adeus – Goodbye
• Obrigado (if you’re male) / Obrigada (if you’re female) – Thank you
• De nada – You’re welcome
• Por favor – Please
• Sim – Yes
• Não – No
• Bom dia – Good morning
• Boa noite – Good evening
• Boa tarde – Good afternoon
• Comida – Food
• Água – Water
• Banheiro (Brazil) / Casa de banho (Portugal) – Bathroom
• Eu – I
• Você – You
• Nós – We
• Eles/Elas – They (male group/female group or mixed)
• Amor – Love
• Amigo/Amiga – Friend (male/female)
• Família – Family

Common Portuguese Phrases

These common Portuguese phrases are your gateway to daily life. Ideal for casual interactions, they open doors to the hearts of Portuguese-speaking cultures.

• Olá, como você está? – Hello, how are you?
• Olá, tudo bem? – Hello, all good? (common, less formal)
• Estou bem, obrigado/a – I’m good, thanks
• Prazer em conhecê-lo/a – Nice to meet you
• Meu nome é… – My name is…
• Desculpe – I’m sorry
• Com licença – Excuse me
• Pode me ajudar? – Can you help me?
• Que lindo/a! – How beautiful!
• Até logo – See you
• Até mais – See you later
• Boa sorte! – Good luck!
• Eu falo um pouco de português – I speak a little Portuguese

Basic Portuguese Phrases for Travellers

The following phrases are essential for anyone exploring a Portuguese-speaking region. They’ll enhance your journey, wherever you are.

• Tenho uma reserva – I have a reservation
• Onde ficam os banheiros, por favor? – Where are the bathrooms, please?
• _Como chego em __ ? – How do I get to ___?
• Quanto custa isso? – How much is this?
• Você fala inglês? – Do you speak English?
• Onde fica o hotel mais próximo? – Where is the nearest hotel?
• Estou perdido/a. Pode me ajudar? – I’m lost. Can you help me?
• Esta área é segura? – Is this area safe?
• Esta área é segura à noite? – Is this area safe at night?
• Obrigado/a pela sua hospitalidade – Thank you for your hospitality

Useful Portuguese Phrases for Information

When you’re curious or need guidance, here are some helpful Portuguese phrases for acquiring information.

• Tenho uma pergunta – I have a question
• Como se chama isso em português? – What is this called in Portuguese?
• Você pode falar mais devagar, por favor? – Can you speak slower, please?
• Não falo bem português – I do not speak Portuguese very well
• Não entendo – I do not understand
• Você pode repetir, por favor? – Can you repeat that please?
• Preciso de informações – I need information
• Onde fica o posto de informações? – Where is the information office?
• O que isso significa? – What does this mean?
• Que horas são? – What time is it?
• Qual é o seu endereço de email? – What’s your email address?
• Como se diz ____ em português? – How do you say ____ in Portuguese?
• O que é isto/aquilo? – What is this/that?
• Posso usar o seu telefone? – Can I use your phone?

Useful Phrases for Directions in Portuguese

Find your way around with these direction phrases. Whether you’re navigating through buzzing cities, timeless colonial towns , quiet villages, or serene countryside, they’ll help you stay on the right track.

• Onde fica…? – Where is the…?
• Como chego em…? – How do I get to…?
• Você pode me mostrar no mapa? – Can you show me on the map?
• Siga em frente – Go straight ahead
• Vire à direita/esquerda – Turn right/left
• É perto/longe – It’s near/far
• É logo ali na esquina – It’s around the corner
• Esta é a esquina – This is the corner
• Para qual direção fica…? – Which way is it to…?
• Posso ir a pé ou preciso de um táxi? – Can I walk there or do I need a taxi?

Basic Portuguese Phrases for Transportation

From local buses to long-distance travel, these Portuguese transportation phrases will help ensure your journeys are easy and stress-free.

• Onde posso pegar um táxi? – Where can I get a taxi?
• Quanto custa para ir até…? – How much does it cost to go to…?
• Eu quero ir para… – I want to go to…
• Onde fica a parada de ônibus? – Where is the bus stop?
• Onde fica a estação de ônibus? – Where is the bus station?
• A que horas sai o próximo trem? – What time does the next train leave?
• Quanto tempo leva para chegar a…? – How long does it take to get to…?
• Como chego ao aeroporto? – How do I get to the airport?
• Este ônibus vai para…? – Does this bus go to…?
• Preciso de uma passagem de ida e volta – I need a round trip ticket
• Onde compro bilhetes? – Where do I buy tickets?

Basic Portuguese Phrases About Accommodation

Settle into your accommodation effortlessly. These phrases will help you communicate your needs, helping ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

• Vocês têm quartos disponíveis? – Do you have any rooms available?
• Quanto custa por noite? – How much does it cost per night?
• O café da manhã está incluído no preço? – Is breakfast included in the price?
• Preciso de um quarto duplo – I need a double room
• Há um quarto com duas camas? – Is there a room with two beds?
• Quero um quarto com uma bela vista – I want a room with a nice view
• Há Wi-Fi gratuito? – Is there free Wi-Fi?
• Há ar-condicionado? – Is there air conditioning?
• Onde fica o elevador? – Where is the elevator?
• Onde fica a academia? – Where is the gym?
• Gostaria de reservar um quarto – I would like to book a room
• Há serviço de quarto? – Is there room service?
• O quarto está sujo – The room is dirty
• Me sinto seguro neste hotel – I feel safe in this hotel
• Vocês têm adaptador de tomada? – Do you have a plug adaptor?
• Há um cofre no quarto? – Is there a safe in the room?
• Você pode me acordar às (sete) da manhã? – Can you wake me up at (seven) a.m.?
• Preciso de um berço para o bebê – I need a crib for the baby
• Qual é o horário do check-out? – What’s the check-out time?

Helpful Portuguese Phrases for Shopping

Mastering a few phrases in Portuguese will significantly enhance your shopping experience. From asking the price of an item to inquiring about discounts, these shopping phrases can be quite handy.

You’ll be able to interact with vendors more naturally, which may even bag you some discounts!

• Estou procurando… – I am looking for…
• Quanto custa? – How much does it cost?
• Há algum desconto? – Is there any discount?
• Quanto é o desconto? – How much is the discount?
• Isso é muito caro – That’s too expensive
• Você pode baixar o preço? – Can you lower the price?
• Posso pagar com cartão de crédito? – Can I pay with a credit card?
• Somente em dinheiro – Cash only
• Vocês têm isso em um tamanho maior? – Do you have this in a larger size?
• Vocês têm isso em outra cor? – Do you have this in another colour?
• Quero devolver isso – I want to return this
• Onde são os provadores? – Where are the fitting rooms?
• Com licença, onde fica o supermercado? – Excuse me, where’s the supermarket?
• Onde fica a loja de roupas? – Where’s the clothing store?
• Preciso de uma bolsa – I need a bag
• Onde posso encontrar produtos locais? – Where can I find local products?

Helpful Phrases for Dining Out in Portuguese-Speaking Countries

Sample the diverse flavours throughout the Portuguese-speaking world with these dining phrases. Navigate menus, order your favourite dishes, and immerse yourself in a rich culinary scene.

• Posso ter uma mesa para dois? – Can I get a table for two?
• Você pode me mostrar o cardápio, por favor? – Can you please show me the menu?
• Qual é o prato do dia? – What is the dish of the day?
• Eu gostaria de… – I would like…
• Você poderia sugerir algo para mim? – Could you suggest something for me?
• O que você recomenda para comer? – What do you recommend to eat?
• Sou alérgico a… – I’m allergic to…
• Este prato contém…? – Does this dish contain…?
• Vocês têm opções vegetarianas/veganas? – Do you have vegetarian/vegan options?
• Não como carne/peixe/laticínios – I don’t eat meat/fish/dairy
• Isso é adequado para vegetarianos? – Is this suitable for vegetarians?
• O que é isso? – What is this?
• Gosto disso – I like it
• Posso ter a conta, por favor? – Can I have the bill, please?
• Estava delicioso! Obrigado/a – It was delicious! Thank you

Portuguese Question Words

Mastering the art of questioning is an essential skill in any language. These Portuguese question words will allow for deeper conversations, allowing you to gain a greater understanding of the language and culture.

• O que? – What?
• Onde? – Where?
• Quando? – When?
• Quem? – Who?
• Por quê? – Why?
• Como? – How?
• Qual? – Which?
• Quanto? – How much?
• Quantos? – How many?
• De quem? – Whose?
• É…? – Is it…?
• Posso…? – Can I…
• Vai…? – Will…
• Quem é aquele/aquela? – Who is that?
• Como está? – How is it?
• Por que é assim? – Why is it?
• Por que isso? – Why this?
• O que tem em…? – What is in …?
• Onde fica…? – Where is …?
• Há…? – Is there a …?

Numbers in Portuguese

Understanding the Portuguese numbering system is useful in a wide range of scenarios, especially when it comes to transactions, discussing times, and navigating transportation.

Below is a list of simple numbers along with some larger ones:

• Zero – 0
• Um – 1
• Dois – 2
• Três – 3
• Quatro – 4
• Cinco – 5
• Seis – 6
• Sete – 7
• Oito – 8
• Nove – 9
• Dez – 10
• Onze – 11
• Doze – 12
• Treze – 13
• Catorze / Quatorze – 14
• Quinze – 15
• Dezesseis – 16
• Dezessete – 17
• Dezoito – 18
• Dezenove – 19
• Vinte – 20
• Trinta – 30
• Quarenta – 40
• Cinquenta – 50
• Sessenta – 60
• Setenta – 70
• Oitenta – 80
• Noventa – 90
• Cem – 100
• Mil – 1,000
• Dez mil – 10,000
• Cem mil – 100,000
• Um milhão – 1,000,000

To create numbers in between these, combine the tens and units. For example:

• “Twenty-one” is Vinte e um (20 + 1)
• “Thirty-two” is Trinta e dois (30 + 2)

For numbers in the hundreds, thousands, and beyond, combine the larger number with the smaller. For instance:

• “One hundred and twenty-three” is Cento e vinte e três
• “Two thousand and nineteen” is Dois mil e dezenove

Differences Between Brazilian Portuguese and European Portuguese

Although both the Brazilian and European versions of Portuguese are fairly similar overall, there are a few notable differences.

Brazilian Portuguese sounds more open and melodious, thanks to its clear vowel sounds. European Portuguese, in contrast, is more concise, often swallowing vowels in conversation.

The vocabulary varies too. Take “train” and “bus” for example. In Brazil, it’s trem and ônibus , but in Portugal, they say comboio and autocarro .

Grammar-wise, Brazilians tend to use você for “you”, while in Portugal, tu is more common in casual chats.

There’s also a formality aspect. Brazilian Portuguese feels more informal, especially in everyday speech. European Portuguese often keeps a more formal tone, both in writing and speaking.

Lastly, there are cultural influences. Brazilian Portuguese has indigenous and African influences, reflecting Brazil’s diverse culture. European Portuguese, meanwhile, is shaped by its European history and regional influences.

Check out some of my other posts on learning languages for travel:

• Basic French Phrases For Travel
• Basic Italian Phrases For Travel
• Basic Spanish Phrases For Travel
• Basic Romanian Phrases For Travel

Final Thoughts

With a bit of practice and dedication, you’ll find yourself mastering some simple Portuguese in no time. Now you know the basics, it’s time to start exploring and putting that knowledge into practice.

You might be surprised just how many people will appreciate your effort. And if nothing else, you’ve added something new to your skill set. 

So why not give it a go? Have fun with it, make mistakes, learn from them – it’s all part of the process!

I hope this guide comes in handy during your travels throughout the Portuguese-speaking world.

Lastly, if you want to take your Portuguese learning to the next level, I can recommend PracticePortuguese.com .

Alex Tiffany

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• I’m Alex Tiffany.  Former corporate city robot; lifelong travel addict.
• I’m on a mission to make adventurous travel accessible to all.
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Free Portuguese Travel Phrasebook

Table of contents

Get your free portuguese phrasebook sent right to your inbox, what’s inside your free portuguese travel guide, 🙋‍♀️  the basics, 🧉  eating and drinking, 🏠  accommodation, 🚃  transportation, 🛍  shopping, 🏀  hobbies/fun, 🥂  socializing, 🗣  conversation aids, 🌤  time and weather, 💻  telecommunications, 🚨  emergencies, download our free english-to-portuguese phrasebook, take your portuguese a step further.

To get your free Portuguese phrasebook PDF and start learning essential Portuguese vocabulary for travel and other common scenarios, please enter your info below and be sure to click “I want my free kit.” (Why a kit? Our Portuguese conversation guide is just one of the resources in the free MosaLingua Language Learning Kit, a complete set of goodies for independent learners. You’ll love the rest of the resources in the kit, too, and it’s all free of charge! 😉):

This eBook contains 45 pages and 10 00+ words and phrases in Portuguese, with English translations of course. It is organized by travel – related themes and ordered according to frequency of use (from the most commonly used vocabulary to more specialized terms).

If you’re planning a trip to Brazil or Portugal, or if you simply want to improve your conversational Portuguese, you’ll want to have this Portuguese phrasebook by your side!

Topics in Your Portuguese Travel Guide

To give you an idea of the themes covered in our phrasebook, here are some of the topics you’ll be able to talk about with the help of this Brazilian Portuguese travel guide :

• Polite phrases
• The essentials
• Starting a conversation
• Eating out, going to restaurants
• Meat and fish
• At a hostel
• Household chores
• Daily life at home
• Asking for things
• Going camping
• Public transportation
• Asking for directions
• The cardinal points
• Traveling by car
• At the airport
• Buying and negotiating
• Buying food
• Going shopping
• Arts and crafts
• Banking and dealing with money
• Outdoor activities
• Cultural and religious differences
• At the beach
• Meeting new people
• Going out, nightlife
• Feelings and opinions
• Common mistakes and difficulties
• Expressing agreement and disagreement
• Ending a conversation
• Talking about your love life
• Personality traits
• The human body
• Physical appearance
• At the barbershop or hair salon
• Occupations
• Talking about the future
• Temporal phrases
• Making phone calls
• Electronic devices
• Road accidents
• Important signs

All of the Portuguese content above and more is available to you for free! To download your phrasebook, just click the “I want my free kit” button below. Then, keep an eye on your inbox for your free Brazilian Portuguese Travel Phrasebook PDF  (we promise not to send you any spam, you have our word!):

If you want to learn more about the Portuguese language, its vocabulary, grammar, culture, and more, have a look around our blog . If you’re not sure where to start, here are a few popular articles and guides our readers love:

• Tips and tools to learn Portuguese, fast
• To find tools to help you with other important skills, check out the best online Portuguese resources
• And for much, much more vocabulary, and a scientifically proven method for learning it, download the MosaLingua Learn Portuguese app .

Happy learning and hope to see you again soon!

Back to the Passport

Vita, vino, e viaggio!

Travel Portuguese: Useful phrases

We’re getting ever closer to our trip to Portugal and though we’ve got out travel itinerary pretty much nailed down, we still have to perfect a few phrases we’ll be using as we travel around Lisbon!

I love learning new languages and while I have no hopes of being fluent in Portuguese by the time we board our flight to Lisbon, I hope to at least have mastered the basics and can speak to the hotel staff, tour guides, and servers in Portuguese as we explore the city.

I always think it’s important to have a few phrases memorized in the language of your travel destination just to help cross that language barrier–even if it’s simply saying I don’t speak the language outside of hello, bye, and thank you.

So, as we prepare for our Portugal getaway, I’ve been rounding up some travel phrases that will probably come in handy on our trip.

Portuguese phrases for travel

English | Portuguese | Pronunciation

Portuguese greetings

Hello …  Olá (oh-lah)

Good day …  Bom dia (bom dee-ah)

Good evening …  Boa tarde (bo-ah tar-deh)

Good night …  Boa noite (bo-ah noyt)

Goodbye …   Tchau (chow)

How are you? …  Como está? (ko-mo es-tah) or tudo bem (too-do beng)

I’m fine, thanks … Estou bem, obrigado/a (es-tou behm, oh-bri-gah-do/da)

Nice to meet you …  Prazer (prah-zer)

Polite phrases and expressions in Portuguese 

Yes …  Sim (seem)

No …  Não (now)

Please …  Por favor (por fa-vor)

You’re welcome… De nada (de na-dah)

Thank you …  Obrigado (oh-bri-gah-do) (male speaker)/Obrigada (oh-bri-gah-da) (female speaker)

I’m sorry …  Desculpa (des-kool-pah)

Excuse me …  Com licença (kom lee-sen-sah)

I don’t understand …  Não compreendo (now kom-preh-en-do)

I don’t speak Portuguese …  Eu não falo portuguese (Eh-oh now fah-lo portu-gues)

Do you speak English? …  Fala inglês (faa-laa een-gles)

Questions and directions in Portuguese 

Who? …  Quem (key-em)

What? …  Que (key)

When? …  Quando (kwan-doh)

Why? …  Por quê (pohr kay)

Where is….?  Onde fica (ohn-djeh fin-cah)

The bathroom …  O banheiro (oh bahn-yea-roh)

The train station … A estação de comboio (ah esta-see-yoh dje kom-boy-o)

A hotel …  Hotel (hoh-tel)

The airport …  O aeroporto (oh ah-eh-ro-por-toh)

Left …  Esquerda (es-ker-dah)

Right …  Direita (djee-rey-ta)

Straight …  Sempre em frente (sem-pre em fren-chee)

Entrance …  Entrada (en-tra-dah)

Exit …  Saida (sigh-da)

Dining & shopping

Do you have…? …  Você tem (voh-sey tem)

I’d like…  Eu gostaria (ee-oh goh-star-e-ah)

A ticket … Um ingresso (uhm in-greh-so)

Wine …  Vinho (veen-yo)

Beer …  Cerveja (ser-vey-jah)

Water …  Agua (ah-gwah)

How much is…?  Quanto custa? (kwang-to koos-taa)

The bill, please …  A conta, por favor (a kon-tah, por fah-vor)

Time & numbers in Portuguese 

What time is it? …  Que horas são (key oh-ras so)

One …  Um (uhm)

Two …  Dois (doys)

Three …  Três (treh-s)

Four …  Quatro (kwa-tro)

Five …  Cinco (sin-ko)

Six …  Seis (seys)

Seven …  Sete (seh-chee)

Eight …  Oito (oy-to)

Nine …  Nove (noh0ve)

Ten …  Dez (dez)

Like most traveling experiences in other countries, people appreciate the effort even if it’s just a simple please and thank you in their native tongue. After some amazing port wine you might not remember all of these Portuguese travel phrases but it’s the thought that counts when greeting people or saying thank you. 

What other handy phrases would be helpful for travelers exploring Portugal? Sound off in the comments below!

Hey, I'm Stephanie! I'm a copywriter living in beautiful Denver with my husband Rick, and our dog Rocco. I love traveling, writing, reading, and being outside as much as possible - unless I'm on the couch binge watching Stranger Things with a glass of wine! Thanks for reading and being a part of the adventure with Back to the Passport! ❤️

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101 Basic Portuguese Words for Travel in Brazil

Brazil is a country that’s rich in language and culture. This article teaches you some of the most common and basic words and phrases in Portuguese so that you can make the most out of your trip.

Tamar Smith

With approximately 1.35 billion English speakers worldwide , it’s easy to assume that there will be people who speak English in any foreign country you travel to. After all, English is the universal language, isn’t it? But it may surprise you to learn that this is not always the case. There are many instances when locals of the foreign country you are visiting can’t speak English at all. That’s why it’s better to be prepared when you travel.

Basic Words That Any Portuguese Language Learners Must Know

Brazil is a wonderful country ; not only is it full of beautiful nature, impressive sandy beaches, and other attractions, but it is also a country that’s rich in language and culture. If you’re planning to travel there, it would be a great idea to learn some basic Portuguese words and phrases to help you get around and make the most of your trip. Below is compilation of basic Portuguese words and phrases that you can keep in your back pocket as you travel around (and if you're curious about how to properly pronounce words in Portuguese, refer to this Speechling article ).

Basic Greetings

Many locals appreciate and love it when you try to at least greet them in their own language. When travelling and exploring around in Brazil, sometimes all it takes is a simple “Bom día” to put a smile on a local’s face.

1. Bom día: Good morning 2. Boa tarde: Good afternoon 3. Boa noite: Good night 4. Oí/Olá: Hello 5. Tchau: Goodbye 6. Até mais/logo: See you later/soon

Additionally, it never hurts to learn how to say “thank you” or “excuse me” in Portuguese.

7. Por favor: Please 8. De nada: You're welcome 9. Obrigado/a: Thank you

(Note: If you are male, you would say obrigado, and if you are a female, you would say obrigada.)

10. Sim: Yes 11. Não: No 12.Com licença: Excuse me 13.Desculpa: Sorry/ pardon me

Making Yourself Understood

Learning Portuguese, or any other language for that matter, is a journey that takes time and patience. Whether you’re an absolute beginner in Portuguese, advanced in the language, or know nothing at all, there will most likely come a point when a native speaker says something that you don’t understand. When that happens, you can always fall back on these simple phrases to make your point.

14. Você fala inglês? Do you speak English? 15. Falo um pouco de português. I speak a little bit of Portuguese 16. Eu não falo português (bem). I don’t speak Portuguese (well). 17. (Eu) Não sei. I don’t know. 18. Não entendo. I don’t understand. 19. Não entendi. Você pode repetir, por favor? I didn’t understand. Can you repeat that, please?

Introducing Yourself

Brazilians are known to be super friendly and social people. Why not make the most of your experience in Brazil by introducing yourself when meeting someone new? Below are some phrases to get a conversation started. Additionally, you could read the " Top 10 Conversational Topics to Learn Portuguese " article on Speechling's Portuguese blog to get more ideas.

20. Como está/vai? How are you/ How’s it going? 21. Estou bem, obrigado/a. I’m fine, thanks.

Alternatively, when someone asks you how you are doing, you can also quickly reply with “Tudo bem”, which means everything is going well.

22. Meu nome é... My name is...

A more formal way to introduce yourself is to say, “Me chamo...”

23. Cuál é o seu nome? What is your name?

If you’d like to be a little bit more formal you can ask, “Como se chama?”

24. Um prazer. A pleasure.

You can say this after meeting someone for the first time.

25. Prazer em conhecê-lo. It’s nice to meet you. 26. De ònde você ê? Where are you from? 27. Eu sou... I am... a) do Canada. From Canada. b) dos estados Unidos. From the United States. c) da frança. From France. d) da russía. From Russia. e) do japāo. From Japan. f) da africa do sul. From South Africa.

How to Ask Questions in Portuguese

Do you need to ask a local a question? Here are five ways you can start your questions.

28. Quem: Who? 29. Que: What? 30. Onde: Where? 31. Quando: When? 32. Por qûe: Why?

Counting in Portuguese

While it’s not necessary to know all the numbers in Portuguese, learning to count to at least the number 10 may be helpful for you as you shop, eat, and travel around in Brazil.

33. Um/uma: One 34. Dois/duas: Two 35. Três: Three 36. Quatro: Four 37. Cinco: Five 38. Seis: Six 39. Sete: Seven 40. Oito: Eight 41. Nove: Nine 42. Dez: Ten 43. Vinte: Twenty 44. Trinta: Thirty 45. Quarenta: Forty 46. Cinquenta: Fifty 47. Sessenta: Sixty 48. Setenta: Seventy 49. Oitenta: Eighty 50. Noventa: Ninety 51. Cem: One hundred 52. Cento e um/uma: One hundred and one 53. Cuanto custa?: How much does this cost?

At the Restaurant

Depending on the restaurant you end up eating at, English might not be an option for you. If that’s the case, it’s better to err on the side of caution and learn some useful phrases for ordering your meal.

54. Restaurante: Restaurant 55. Café da manhã: Breakfast 56. Almoço: Lunch 57. Jantar: Dinner 58. Eu gostaria de pedir/comer... I would like to order/eat... 59. Cerveja: Beer 60. Vinho tinto: Red wine 61. Vinho branco: White wine 62. Agua: Water 63. Suma: Juice 64. Chá: Tea 65. Café: Coffee 66. Sopa: Soup 67. Carne: Meat 68. Peixe: Fish 69. Pão: Bread 70. Queijo: Cheese 71. Sorvete: Ice cream 72. Chocolate: Chocolate 73. Onde fica este restuarante? Where is this restaurant? 74. Eu gostaria da conta, por favor. I would like the bill, please.

Transportation, Accommodations, and Directions

Did you know that Brazil is the fifth largest country in the world? With that being said, getting around in Brazil is not always easy. In larger cities, like São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, there are taxis, buses, metro stations, and major international airports you can use as a means of transportation to get to where you need to go, but in smaller communities, you’ll be limited to fewer options. In any case, some basic vocabulary may go a long way for you.

75. Ônibus: Bus 76. Táxi: Taxi 77. Tren: Train 78. Aviaõ: Airplane 79. Bilhete: Ticket 80. Um bilhete, por favor. One ticket, please. 81. Para onde vai esse ônibus? Where does this bus go? 82. A que horas? At what time? 83. Hotel: Hotel 84. Hostel: Hostel 85. A Praia: The beach 86. A loja: The store 87. Onde fica este hotel/hostel? Where is this hotel/hostel? 88. Siga em frente: Go straight ahead 89. Vire a direita: Turn right 90. Vire a esquerda: Turn left 91. Rua: Street 92. Avenida: Avenue 93. Qual é a distância? How far is it? 94. É muito longe? Is it far from here?

Asking for Help in Portuguese

We all need some help from time to time. If you find yourself in a situation where you are lost, need help, or in an emergency, it’s always handy to know how to express yourself in Portuguese.

95. Por favor, me ajude. Eu estou perdido/a. Please help me. I am lost. 96. Eu sou um turista. I’m a tourist. 97. Onde está... Where is... a) Minha carteira? My wallet? b) Meu passaporte? My passport?

98. Estou perdido/a... I’ve lost my... a) Minha carteira. My wallet. b) Meu passaporte. My passport.

99. Chame uma ambulância! Call an ambulance! 100.Chame a polícia! Call the police! 101.Eu preciso de um/uma... I need a... a) Táxi: Taxi b) Mapa: Map

Learn Portuguese While Traveling in Brazil

And there you have it!

Ultimately, language plays a big role in culture. Learning Portuguese will not only help you to travel around in Brazil, but it will also allow you to experience Brazilian culture firsthand. Brazilians are generally very expressive when they talk, which adds a certain dynamic dimension to their culture. We want to encourage you to get the most out of your experience in Brazil by taking your Portuguese to the next level with one of our Speechling tools . In doing so, you’ll be able to experience a whole new side of Brazilian culture and be able to connect with the locals in a deeper way. Who knows: maybe these basic starter phrases will inspire you to learn Portuguese so you can speak it fluently the next time you visit Brazil!

Speechling is a nonprofit app and website that combines human coaching with technology to improve your foreign language speaking.

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GBN expat secrets - Portugal: 'The Portuguese are the friendliest people you will ever meet - and they love feeding you'

Expat shares the best thing about living in Portugal

By Anna Barry

Published: 13/05/2024

Updated: 15/05/2024

GB News is talking to expats across Europe and the world who have exclusively revealed the best places to live, tips and tricks for moving abroad, and the potential pitfalls to avoid. This week, an expat in Portugal revealed the best things about her new life

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Keely Capel, 38, moved to Portugal in 2008 following in the footsteps of her parents who had made the move years three years before.

Starting a new life in Portugal was a lifelong dream for Keely's parents, who had bought a ruin to build up as a home, and they even enrolled Keely in a local school when she was a young child - but they didn't end up relocating until years later.

When they eventually made the move Keely was 21 and settled into London life, so she turned down an invite to join them. However, she soon regretted this decision and took the plunge to join her family overseas, in turn finding that Portugal was right up her street. She spoke to GB News about why she made the move - and why she's "never looked back".

Keely resides in the Algarve, where she works as a real estate agent . She told GB News: "Portuguese is a very difficult language to master, and jobs for English-speaking individuals - especially at the time I moved here - were quite limited.

"Jobs would typically be in the hospitality industry and real estate - and I've worked in both."

'I can take my kids to the beach on a Friday evening and we can sit, play and watch the sunset, that kind of thing'

GETTY IMAGES

For those considering the move, learning Portuguese is advisable but you can probably get away with minimal proficiency.

Keely said: "I think it varies very much on where you want to be in the country. The further north you go, the more necessary it becomes to speak Portuguese."

In places like the Algarve - where expat communities are plenty - English is quite widely spoken.

Keely added: "They teach English in the schools here from a very young age. My children are six and eight and they learn English as a second language."

The expat has been able to meet people from all over the world living in the Algarve.

"There's a big expatriate community here," she said, "not just English but a whole mix of nationalities". "There are German expats, Dutch, and lots of Americans recently moving here, so English tends to be the go-to language that other nationalities will use if they don't speak Portuguese."

However, Keely provided a word of warning to those moving to Portugal. While many residents are English speakers, navigating the healthcare, education and tax systems can be tricky. She explained: "These typically stick to Portuguese and usually expect you to be able to speak it."

The expat added: "I guess it comes down to who you deal with, because sometimes you'll talk to somebody and they'll be very open to speaking English with you, and other times they won't. So it's not a total necessity.

"And there is always somebody around - if you ask enough people, you'll find somebody who could come and help you to translate and stuff. But it definitely helps."

Keely advised that expats try their best to learn Portuguese though - at least a few key phrases: "If you attempt to start the conversation in Portuguese, they respect that a lot."

After 17 years in Portugal, part of which she was married to a Portuguese man, Keely can speak the language and gets by comfortably.

According to Keely, the best way to learn Portuguese is by enrolling in a free language course for adults that runs in the country. This will focus on European Portuguese rather than Brazilian Portuguese, as this is what is spoken in Portugal.

Speaking about the "best thing" about living in the European country, Keely revealed that the near-constant "sunshine" is an amazing perk.

She said: "We get something like 300 days of sunshine a year and it doesn't matter whether it's winter or summer, I can take my kids to the beach on a Friday evening and we can sit, play and watch the sunset, that kind of thing.

"There's a lot more of an outdoor lifestyle. You know, we sit outside, we eat outside, we cook outside. Even in the winter we're outside walking. If we're not on the beaches, we're walking through the trails in the forests and the hillsides."

The quality of life is also excellent in Portugal, and wonderful for those who have little ones. Keely said: "I have two young children who are British-Portuguese, and I wouldn't ever think of bringing them back to the UK now."

She claimed that life in Portugal is safer: "I see the news and I see things that go on and I just think, 'I don't want to raise my children in England'. They will experience and understand their heritage, but I feel like they have a better quality of life here."

Keely also loves the welcoming nature of the Portuguese people, claiming that they are "the friendliest people you will ever meet".

"They are very hospitable - and they love feeding you," the Briton continued. "If you go anywhere and there's food on the table, they will bring you in, sit you down and give you a plate. And every time that plate's empty, they'll fill it up again.

"My neighbours and I chat across the fence. They helped me look for my cat when she went missing. What I love here that I think England misses now is the sense of community."

The expat revealed that the Portuguese love a party, and will host one at any opportunity. Get-togethers are incredibly popular on bank holidays - there are 13 mandatory ones in Portugal - and even more local holidays.

"Drinking is part of the social fabric," Keely said, "and it's typical to enjoy a glass of wine". But the expat revealed that there isn't a culture of "going out on a Friday and Saturday night and drinking as much as you can".

As for the less than favourable aspects of Portugal living, Keely revealed that it can get incredibly busy in the summer months due to tourism.

She said: "It can be a little bit frustrating when you live in the area where everybody just descends and takes over for the summer.

"Going to the supermarket is a bit stressful when it's August and you're trying to work and cook a dinner and you've got everybody on holiday who have got all the time in the world to buy their shopping."

The "worst thing" about living in Portugal, according to Keely, is the bureaucracy. She said: "I've noticed that post-Covid there have been improvements, but they still love a piece of paper and they love a ticket. You can take a ticket at 8am and still be waiting to be seen at 4pm.

"There's definitely a slower pace here. I love it - there's not so much stress - but when you are trying to do things like more than one thing in a day, it can be very stressful."

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Expect blue skies and beautiful waters

Asked which places in Portugal she'd recommend for British expats, Keely recommended Lisbon for a taste of home. She said: "Lisbon is amazing. It reminds me of London in many ways, and there's so much to do - I generally go up to Lisbon to watch musicians and concerts.

"Porto is beautiful as well, but it's a lot cooler and probably more like an English climate. Make sure you take an umbrella out with you even in August, because it can rain.

"As for the Algarve, May through to October, it's warm, sunny and hot. Faro - the capital of the region - is vibrant and there's a university there, so there's always a lot of life. And then you go to Vila Real de Santo António and it feels like real old, authentic Portugal."

While she is far from retiring age, she "100 per cent" believes that Portugal would be a great place to live out this next stage of her life.

Praising the healthcare system and reasonable cost of living, she recommended it for those in their 50s, 60s and beyond - "plus you won't have to heat your house so much".

Offering advice to Britons thinking of making the move, she warned them to "adjust their mindset".

She said: "I've been here 17 years and still I have to check myself sometimes because of my 'let's get it done, let's go, I've got a million things to do' attitude.

"I can get very stressed when things aren't happening as I think they should, but stress doesn't exist here, and getting stressed will get you no further forward.

"If you can learn that if you achieve one thing in a day, you've had a success, that's great.

"Everything still happens - it just doesn't all happen like that minute. But it will still all get done. And everybody's a lot calmer and a lot less stressed."

She also provided a warning for foodies in Portugal. She said: "The food is beautiful, and the bread is dangerous, so if you want to keep your waistline, limit your bread consumption."

Moving to Portugal

What you need to know

Portugal is a beautiful choice for expats and is popular among Britons looking to relocate. For those considering the move, it's important to be aware of a few things regarding visa and residency information, how to find accommodation and driving in Portugal.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has provided essential guidance for Britons considering the move.

On GOV.UK, the Government office said: "You must tell the UK government offices that deal with your benefits, pension and tax if you are moving or retiring abroad."

Britons must check the entry requirements for Portugal. They must read the Portuguese government’s general entry requirements for Portugal, information about visas on the Portuguese Ministry of Foreign Affairs Page, and the Portuguese Immigration authority’s website for information on residence, working and studying in Portugal (in Portuguese).

Get Golden Visa provides a definitive guide on Portugal's Golden Visa in 2024, including eligibility and requirements.

The Government also has detailed guidance on buying property abroad. Britons were warned: "If you’re considering buying a property overseas you’ll need to bear in mind that the legal system and steps to follow may be very different from those you have experienced in the UK."

The FCDO offered some key points Britons should be aware of when purchasing property in Portugal.

The Government said: "If you are buying property in Portugal, consider taking advice from a lawyer who is experienced in land law and property transactions. Make sure that they are registered with the law society, Ordem dos Advogados (in Portuguese).

"Some notaries, who are trained lawyers in Portugal, offer an independent property purchasing service known as Casa Simples, Casa Segura (in Portuguese).

"If you are thinking of buying a coastal, river or lakeside property, ensure it’s not affected by the 2005 water resources law (in Portuguese).

"If you buy rural property, make sure you comply with the law on preventing forest fires."

A recent agreement means that driving in Portugal is very straightforward for Britons. The FDCO explained: "A new bilateral agreement between the UK and Portugal on the mutual recognition and exchange of driving licences entered into force on December 31, 2023.

"This means that if you are a resident in Portugal and hold a full and valid driving licence issued in the UK or Gibraltar, you can drive in Portugal on your current licence until it expires, provided you have registered your licence with IMT, or exchange your licence for a Portuguese one without needing to take a test (see exception below)."

Best places for retirees

• The Silver Coast
• The Algarve

Why Britons choose to live in Portugal

• Warm climate
• Affordable (depending on where you decide to live)
• Incredible landscapes
• Excellent healthcare
• English is widely spoken (although more so in major cities than in smaller towns)
• Slower pace of life - may suit expats who have relocated for their retirement
• Sociable and fun - perfect for those who love a party
• Community is important

Possible pitfalls

• Language barrier (officials in government offices will likely not speak English)
• Some places operate on a cash-only basis so you will need to remember to carry change
• Bureaucracy can be laborious
• Slower pace of life means that things may not get done as quickly as you might like
• Homes can get cold at night as many do not come with a radiator - you may need to purchase your own heater

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Drukkje min broderѕ blod! Why the best Eurovision songs are no longer in English

While Europe’s lingua franca remains dominant, there has been a definite shift since a Portuguese song triumphed in 2017

T here was a time when in order to win Eurovision you had to “fly on the wings of love”, “take me to your heaven” or “sail into infinity while reaching for divinity”. This year, however, there’s a fair chance the winner will estar comiendo el mundo ( be eating the world), ridere in queste notti bruciate (laugh in these burnt nights) , or even drukkje min broderѕ blod (drink my brother’s blood) .

The metaphors may have been mixed, but for the first two decades of the 21st century, the English language reigned supreme at the Eurovision song contest. In the run-up to the millennium, the so-called language rule restricted English songs to countries that counted it among their official languages, such as Britain, Ireland and Malta. But when the rule was scrapped in 1999, the floodgates opened.

Out of the next 18 winners, only Serbia’s Molitva in 2007 did not feature any English lyrics at all. Such was Eurovision’s anglophilia that even Russia triumphed with a song containing the line, “Cause I got something to believe in as long as I’m breathing”. By 2014, more than three-quarters of entries were sung entirely in English, rising above 80% in the three years that followed.

Then, in 2017, something unexpected happened: Portugal’s Salvador Sobral won the grand final with Amar Pelos Dois, a song sung not in one of Europe’s most common languages, but in a tongue with only about 10 million native speakers on the continent. Sobral’s Portuguese upset changed the formula for Eurovision success: of the last six winners, three have been in a language other than English, with leather rockers Måneskin proving Italian-language songs can also work outside the giddy delirium of the five-day competition.

English, Europe’s lingua franca, remains dominant, and the shift towards non-English songs at Eurovision has been subtle. Yet it has followed a distinct trend. Of the 37 songs in the semi-finals this year, 49% are at least partially sung in a non-English language – up 11 percentage points from last year’s contest, and a 16-year-high. The entries with the biggest pre-competition buzz – Angelina Mango’s taut piece of steelpan pop La Noia, Marina Satti’s Rosalia-esque Zari and Joost Klein’s gabber-infused Europapa – are sung in Italian, Greek and Dutch, with no more than a few English phrases sprinkled over the top.

Is it too obvious to identify Britain’s vote to leave the EU as the point at which the tide began to turn? In May 2017, amid tense negotiations over Brexit, then European Commission president, Jean-Claude Juncker, said, “slowly but surely English is losing importance in Europe” . What may have been intended as a tactical tease gained a prophetic ring when Sobral triumphed in Kyiv just days later.

“It was an act of liberation,” says Irving Wolther, a German linguist and Eurovision historian. “For years, the Brits had treated [Eurovision] as this freak show that was just badly copying music first pioneered in the UK, when in fact there is plenty of dreck in the British charts too. After Brexit, there was a sense of ‘Now we are no longer being patronised by the Brits, we Europeans can express our own voice.’”

Others see less overtly political developments behind the shift. “I wouldn’t go as far as saying this is all about Brexit,” says André Wilkens, director of the Amsterdam-based European Cultural Foundation. English may be nothing less than Europe’s lingua franca, but also nothing more, Wilkens argues – a tool that has enabled different European countries to communicate with each other. “But with the rise of machine translation, you no longer need to sing in English to be understood.”

As Eurovision approaches its 70th anniversary, it has grown in size and reach, with last year’s concerts in Liverpool being followed by 162 million people across various media. The competing songs are released weeks or months in advance on social media, with translations of the lyrics displayed in the subtitles.

The newfound belief in the power of non-English pop songs to transcend national barriers appears to be driven by Eurovision’s fans rather than the music and television executives who cook up each year’s entries, said Solveig Bollig, a linguist who coordinates a course called Linguistics and the Eurovision song contest at Umeå University in mid-northern Sweden .

“The jury voters usually favour marketable songs in English that stand a chance of penetrating the charts in as many countries as possible,” Bollig says. “The audience vote tends to be more open to songs in other languages. They value it as an expression of identity.”

Last year’s final featured another triumph for Eurovision record-holder and resolute English-language stalwart Sweden, which has not submitted a single Swedish-language song since the scrapping of the language rule in 1999. “All I care about is you / You’re stuck on me like a tattoo,” sang Loreen, last year’s Swedish Eurovision winner. But a poll of the audience at the M&S Bank Arena Liverpool had by a considerable margin chosen a different favourite: Finland’s Käärijä, with a chorus that went Cha, cha, cha, toinen silmä jo karsastaa .

The decline of linguistic competence as a requisite for communication and its rise as a marker of identity may also explain the growing prevalence of minority languages at the contest. Australia’s entry is sung in English, but has lines in Yankunytjatjara, an Australian Aboriginal language. Norway has entered a reinterpretation of a Norwegian medieval ballad, its lyrics written in a partially modernised version of the non-standardised Telemark dialect.

“All this has quite sad implications for the UK,” says academic Kajsa Törmä, who co-conceived the course on Eurovision linguistics at Umeå University. “You are not on a roll and haven’t been for quite a while, and now that the dynamics at Eurovision are changing, you haven’t even got another language to fall back on.”

• Eurovision 2024

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