Having a few essential Portuguese phrases up your sleeve can really enhance your trip to Portugal and make it easier to connect with the locals. While many Portuguese people speak English, particularly in tourist areas, learning some key phrases can demonstrate respect for the local culture and ensure that you have a great time on your travels. So here is a list of some useful Portuguese phrases for tourists.
Greetings and Basic Phrases
Olá (oh-LAH) – Hello
Bom dia (bohm DEE-ah) – Good morning
Boa tarde (BOH-ah TAHR-deh) – Good afternoon
Boa noite (BOH-ah NOY-teh) – Good evening / Good night
Adeus (ah-DEH-oosh) – Goodbye
Até logo (ah-TEH LOH-goo) – See you later
Por favor (poor fah-VOHR) – Please
Obrigado / Obrigada (oh-bree-GAH-doo / oh-bree-GAH-dah) – Thank you (masculine / feminine)
Desculpe (des-KOOL-peh) – Excuse me / Sorry
Sim (seem) – Yes
Não (now) – No
Asking for Directions
Onde fica…? (ON-deh FEE-kah) – Where is…?
Como chego a…? (KOH-mo SHEH-goo ah) – How do I get to…?
Pode me ajudar? (POH-jee mee ah-zhoo-DAHR) – Can you help me?
Qual é o caminho para…? (KWOW eh oo kah-MEE-nyoo PAH-rah) – What is the way to…?
Dining and Shopping
Eu gostaria de… – I would like…
O cardápio, por favor – The menu, please
Quanto custa? – How much is it?
A conta, por favor – The check please
Tem alguma recomendação? – Do you have any recommendations?
Accommodation
Eu tenho uma reserva – I have a reservation
Tem um quarto disponível? – Do you have a room available?
Quanto custa por noite? – How much is it per night?
Emergencies
Ajuda! – Help!
Eu preciso de um médico. – I need a doctor.
Onde fica o hospital? – Where’s the hospital?
Chame a polícia! – Call the police!
Transportation
Onde está a estação de trem/autocarro? Where is the train/bus station?
Qual é o próximo ônibus para…? What’s the next bus to…?
Useful Expressions
Não falo português muito bem. I don’t speak Portuguese very well.
Pode falar mais devagar? Can you speak more slowly?
Eu não entendo. I don’t understand.
Você fala inglês? Do you speak English?
These basic Portuguese phrases will enable you to communicate more effectively and show that you value their culture. Most Portuguese people are grateful for any effort made by visitors to speak their language so enjoy your trip in Portugal and all its rich experiences!
