Relocating to Portugal is an exciting journey, but adjusting to a new culture can take time and patience. As a family, settling into daily routines, understanding cultural nuances, and building connections with the local community are all part of the process. Portugal’s unique blend of rich traditions, friendly people, and a relaxed pace of life offers an incredible opportunity to create a home that feels both comfortable and inspiring. With the right approach, your family can not only adapt but thrive in this welcoming country.
Here are some practical tips to help families relocating to Portugal feel at home and embrace the cultural differences with ease.
1. Learn the Basics of Portuguese
While many people in Portugal speak English, especially in urban areas, learning some basic Portuguese phrases can go a long way in showing respect for the local culture. Simple greetings like “Bom dia” (Good morning) or “Obrigado/Obrigada” (Thank you) can open doors to friendly conversations.
Consider enrolling your family in a language class or using apps like Practice Portuguese to practice together. Engaging in the local language also helps children integrate into Portuguese schools easier.
2. Embrace the Portuguese Pace of Life
Life in Portugal often feels more relaxed compared to other countries. For example, mealtimes are longer, and there’s a strong emphasis on family gatherings. Lunch is often the main meal of the day and can last over an hour. Adapting to this slower pace can help your family feel less rushed and more connected to the community.
3. Understand the School System
If you’re relocating to Portugal with children, learning about the Portuguese education system is crucial. Public schools, international schools, or alternative schools, each offer different approaches, and each comes with its own benefits and challenges. For example, public schools often provide a more immersive cultural experience, while private and international schools may offer curricula tailored to specific educational philosophies or international standards.
Our founder, Naomi, explored these options in detail in The Importance of Holistic Education for Child Well-being. She highlights how schools in Portugal often integrate cultural activities into their programs, helping children adapt and thrive. However, she also notes potential pitfalls, such as differences in teaching methods or language barriers in certain settings.
Engaging with your child’s school and other parents is a great way to build connections and gain insights. Don’t hesitate to ask for guidance or recommendations from local families to ensure the best fit for your child’s needs.
4. Get Involved in School and Community Events
Schools in Portugal often host events like festas (festivals) and parent-teacher gatherings. Attending these is a great way to connect with other families and understand more about local traditions. Don’t hesitate to ask your child’s school about upcoming events—they’re an invaluable resource for cultural integration.
For parents who wants to involve in their children’s school can join Associações de Pais – Parent Teacher Association (PTA). However, we recommend improving your Portuguese skill as all PTA meeting primarily held in Portuguese.
5. Explore the Local Cuisine Together
Food is at the heart of Portuguese culture. Trying dishes like bacalhau (salt cod), pastel de nata (custard tart), and caldo verde (kale soup) can be a fun family activity. Visiting local markets and learning how to cook these dishes together can also be an adventure.
Encourage your children to try new flavours—they might discover a new favourite dish! Additionally, mealtimes are seen as family moments, so embrace the opportunity to connect over shared meals.
6. Explore Beyond the Tourist Spots
While Lisbon and Porto are captivating, there’s a lot more to Portugal. Discover nearby towns, hiking trails, or even the smaller festivals in rural areas. Exploring these helps you connect with the country’s quieter rhythms and traditions.
7. Be Patient with Bureaucracy
From school registrations to setting up utilities, Portuguese bureaucracy can feel slow and sometimes overwhelming. Keep organised with extra copies of important documents and allocate more time than you think you’ll need for appointments. Patience is essential here—it’s a cultural lesson in itself!
If you need advice surrounding the registration or help improving your profile, or someone to manage the whole process, we will help you to take care of the administrative work, however you may need support.
Why These Tips Matter for Families Relocating to Portugal
Adjusting to a new culture isn’t just about logistics—it’s about building a sense of belonging. Taking these steps not only helps your family adapt but also strengthens connections with your new community.
Need help navigating the school system or finding the right neighborhood? Alesco specialises in helping families searching the right school for your loved ones in Portugal with ease. Whether you’re navigating the education system or seeking advice on local resources, we’re here to make your transition as smooth as possible.