Top 50 phrases to get by Portugal — Getting around and shopping

Onde é...?

Where is...?

Use this to start any question asking for directions.

Portuguese people are generally helpful with directions.

Onde é a casa de banho?

Where is the bathroom?

Casa de banho literally means 'bath house'.

Public restrooms are usually labeled with 'WC' in Portugal.

Onde é a estação de metro?

Where is the metro station?

Metro is commonly used in urban areas like Lisbon and Porto.

Metro stations are often marked with an 'M' sign.

Táxi

Taxi

Pronounced very similarly to English.

Taxis in Portugal are usually beige or black and green.

Esquerda

Left

Helpful for navigating streets or in conversations with taxi drivers.

When giving directions, hand gestures are often used.

Direita

Right

It's the opposite of esquerda (left).

A polite way to ask for directions includes a 'por favor' at the end.

Em frente

Straight ahead

Useful to keep moving towards your destination.

Direct and simple instructions are often appreciated.

Quero ir para...

I want to go to...

Great for starting conversations about your destination.

Portuguese people value personal space but will assist with directions.

Esta morada

This address

Point to the address for clarity.

Addresses are usually detailed with street name and number.