Language

In Portugal, the official language is Portuguese! If it is a Romance language derived from Latin which shares tonic accents and words with French and Italian, it is nevertheless less easy (for the French) to guess than Spanish. Melodious and expressive, it is a language with beautiful musicality, which you will enjoy listening to spoken. Did you know that it is the 6th most spoken language in the world? It is found particularly in Brazil. In Porto, the inhabitants speak a slightly different dialect, we are in the North of the territory and as in France, there are specificities from one end of the country to the other.

Don't worry if you don't speak any Portuguese, most people speak a little English and very often you will be recognized if you are French and addressed in the language of Molière! The Portuguese are smiling and welcoming, warm and often happy to provide information to tourists who need help. Don’t hesitate to strike up a conversation with locals, ask questions about the city, and ask for recommendations. It's a great way to discover places off the beaten track and have an authentic travel experience.

As with any tourist destination, respect customs and culture to be well received and enjoy a great experience in Porto. By smiling and being friendly, you will be even more touched by the joyful and hospitable spirit of the Portuguese!

Travel glossary of Portuguese expressions for conversation

• Hello/Good evening: Bom dia (to say hello in the morning), Boa tarde (to say hello in the afternoon), Boa noite (to say good evening).
• Please: Por favor
• Thank you: Obrigado (for men) / Obrigada (for women)
• Excuse me: Com licenses
• Do you speak English? : Fala inglês?
• I don't speak Portuguese: Não falo português
• West...? : Fica wave...?
• How much does it cost? : How much?
• Delicious: Delicioso
• Health!: Saude!

Glossary of traditional dishes and gastronomy in Porto

You are hungry? Here are some dishes and specialties that you will find in Porto, in restaurants or in one of the many bakeries that you come across throughout the city and where you can enjoy delicacies at all hours. In Porto, it is better to have a good appetite to be tempted by the many savory or sweet specialties to enjoy on the go.

Francesinha - An emblematic dish of Porto, unmissable and absolutely worth trying! A slice of bread (sandwich type), different types of meat (usually ham, sausage and beef, yes all 3 at the same time!), covered with melted cheese and accompanied by a spicy sauce, orange and tomato-based fluid. Served with fries (if you're still hungry)

Tripas à Moda do Porto - A traditional Porto dish, made with pork tripe cooked with white beans, vegetables and spices.

Caldo Verde - A popular soup in Portugal, prepared with finely sliced kale, potatoes, onions and olive oil. Usually served with slices of sausage.

Frango de Churrasco - Spit-grilled chicken, marinated in spices and herbs.

Prego - A Portuguese sandwich, usually 2 slices of bread with grilled beef, garlic, spices. There are many versions of this sandwich with different meats, which can be enjoyed at any time.

Queijo da Serra – You’ll see it everywhere! A typical Portuguese sheep's cheese, originating from the Serra da Estrela region. It is soft, creamy and delicious.

Bacalhau in Gomes de Sá - A dish made from cod, one of the most popular fish in Portugal. The cod is cooked with potatoes, onions, garlic, hard-boiled eggs and olives, all baked in the oven.

Sweet specialties are also numerous, the Portuguese are particularly fond of croissants, which can be found in various forms, covered with chocolate chips, filled with almonds, jam or more commonly with custard. It is quite different from the French croissant…

Pastel de Nata - An iconic Portuguese pastry, also known as “pastéis de Belém”. These are small custard flans, crispy on the outside and slightly caramelized. Hummmmm!!!

Pão de Ló - A soft and light sponge cake, flavored with vanilla or lemon.

Fogaça - A sweet brioche originating from the nearby town of Santa Maria da Feira, but popular in Porto.