Faux Pas in Lisbon
Planning a trip to Lisbon? With its historic neighborhoods, delicious food, and friendly locals, the Portuguese capital is a dream destination. But like any place, Lisbon has its own cultural norms and unwritten rules. Avoiding common mistakes can help you connect with the locals, enjoy smoother travel, and make your experience much more enjoyable.
Here are 10 faux pas to avoid in Lisbon—plus a few Lisbon travel tips to help you blend in and feel like a local.
—so you can blend in with the locals, avoid any awkward moments, and fully embrace the Lisbon lifestyle.
10 Faux Pas to Avoid When Visiting Lisbon: A Traveler’s Guide
1. Calling Portuguese “Spanish”
One of the biggest faux pas in Lisbon is assuming Portuguese people speak Spanish. Although Portuguese and Spanish sound similar to some travelers, they are different languages. Locals take great pride in their language and culture.
👉 Learn a few basic phrases like “Bom dia” (Good morning), “Por favor” (Please), and “Obrigado/a” (Thank you). Even a small effort goes a long way.
2. Assuming Everyone Speaks English
Lisbon is tourist-friendly, and many locals speak English—especially younger people and those in tourism. But it’s polite to ask first, especially in small cafés or markets.
🗣️ Try saying: “Desculpe, fala inglês?” (Excuse me, do you speak English?)
📱 Tip: Use a translation app or hand gestures if needed. A little patience shows respect.
3. Eating the “Couvert” Without Realizing It Costs Extra
At many restaurants in Lisbon, small dishes like bread, olives, or cheese may appear before your order. This is called a “couvert”, and it’s not free.
💡 Tip: If you don’t want it, just politely say no when the waiter offers it.
💸 Tipping: A 5–10% tip is fine—more than that isn’t expected.
4. Rushing Through Meals
Portuguese dining is relaxed and social. Don’t expect fast service—it’s part of the charm! Lunch and dinner can take time, especially at local spots.
🥘 Tip: If you’re short on time, visit a pastelaria (bakery) or grab a bifana (pork sandwich) from a local kiosk.
5. Disrespecting the ‘Saudade’
Saudade is a unique Portuguese word that means a feeling of longing or nostalgia. It’s deeply tied to Fado music, a traditional and emotional style of singing.
🎶 If you go to a Fado performance, stay quiet and listen respectfully.
😬 Don’t: Talk loudly or treat it like background music—it’s an experience, not a concert.
6. Being Inconsiderate on Public Transport
Public transport in Lisbon is efficient, but it’s important to be respectful when using it.
🚋 Do:
Offer your seat to elderly people or those with mobility needs.
Avoid blocking tram/bus doors.
Keep your backpack off during rush hour.
🟡 Tram 28 is especially busy with tourists—be patient and watch your belongings.
7. Only Visiting Tourist Hotspots
It’s tempting to stick to Belém Tower, Alfama, and Baixa, but Lisbon has amazing neighborhoods beyond the tourist trail.
🌿 Try exploring:
Mouraria for authentic vibes and street art.
Campo de Ourique for local cafés and peaceful parks.
Graça for great views and fewer crowds.
🧭 Tip: Wandering off the beaten path gives you a real taste of local life.
8. Dressing Too Casually or Inappropriately
Lisbon locals generally dress well, even for casual outings. Wearing flip-flops or beachwear away from the beach can look out of place.
🕍 Visiting churches like Jerónimos Monastery or Lisbon Cathedral? Wear modest clothing—no short shorts or tank tops.
👔 Tip: You don’t need to be fancy, but neat and tidy always works.
9. Being Late for Appointments or Events
Portugal has a relaxed attitude about time, but punctuality still matters in certain situations.
⏰ Social gatherings: Being 15–20 minutes late is fine.
💼 Business meetings or tours: Try to be on time or let someone know if you’re running late.
10. Thinking Pastéis de Belém Are the Only Custard Tarts in Town
We get it—Pastéis de Belém are amazing! But many tourists stop there and miss out on the rest of Lisbon’s food scene.
🥧 Try custard tarts at Manteigaria or Fábrica da Nata—many locals actually prefer them!
🍽️ Also try:
Bacalhau à Brás (salted cod with eggs and potatoes)
Sardinhas assadas (grilled sardines)
Ginjinha (cherry liqueur in a chocolate cup)
🧠 Final Thoughts: Embrace the Local Way of Life
Lisbon is more than a pretty postcard. It’s a city full of soul, history, and everyday beauty. By avoiding these common tourist mistakes in Lisbon, you’ll connect more deeply with the culture—and the people who make it special.
🇵🇹 Be open, be curious, and most of all, be respectful. That’s the best way to experience Lisbon like a local.
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