Are You Limiting Your Portuguese to Restaurant Small Talk?

As a Portuguese teacher, I’ve had the pleasure of working with many students who want to connect more with the language, often because they have Portuguese family members or are planning to spend more time in Portugal. A lot of them enjoy trying out what they’ve learned in class when dining out, ordering food, and making small talk. While this is a lovely start, I’ve noticed that many don’t go much further than restaurant conversations, and I believe there’s so much more to be gained from expanding beyond this.

The real progress happens when you step beyond these familiar settings. By immersing yourself in everyday conversations—whether at local markets, with neighbours, or just chatting with people you meet—you’ll not only build your vocabulary but also deepen your connection to Portuguese culture. It’s in these moments that your learning becomes more rewarding and personal, helping you move beyond the basics and truly engage with the language

With that in mind, I thought it would be helpful to share a few suggestions for those visiting Portugal who want to take their Portuguese beyond the typical restaurant conversations. I hope you find these ideas useful, and if you have any other suggestions, feel free to share them in the comments!

Places to Practise Portuguese in Portugal

Local Feiras: Head to the bustling markets of Lisbon, São Paulo, or the Algarve and strike up conversations with vendors as you browse fresh produce, handicrafts, and local delicacies. In Portugal, don’t miss the chance to visit local feiras—these are traditional open-air fairs held in many towns and cities where you’ll find everything from food to crafts and clothing. You’ll not only practise your Portuguese but also discover hidden gems and insider tips while experiencing a vibrant part of Portuguese culture. In this website you can find a detailed event calendar for the Feiras in Portugal.

Going to the hairdresser (cabeleireiro): It’s a real-life situation where you can immerse yourself in the language while doing something routine. Simple services like a wash and blow-dry give you the chance to use everyday vocabulary and engage in small talk. Letting the hairdresser know that you're learning Portuguese often leads to a more patient and enjoyable conversation, making the experience not only about getting your hair done but also about expanding your language skills in a natural and rewarding way.

Portuguese Cinema: Going to a cinema in Portugal is another fantastic way to immerse yourself in the language. If your Portuguese level is high enough, you can challenge yourself by watching a Portuguese film. If you prefer something more comfortable, opt for an English-speaking film with Portuguese subtitles. In Portugal, foreign films are typically shown with either subtitles or dubbed, providing a great opportunity to see Portuguese translations of the dialogue on the big screen. It’s a fun and relaxed way to pick up new words, phrases, and expressions while enjoying a movie. You may even find yourself learning in ways you didn’t expect!

Watching Portuguese TV and listening to local radio: By tuning in to news programs, shows, or even soap operas, you’ll get used to the natural rhythm, accents, and expressions of spoken Portuguese. Local radio is another great option, offering a mix of regional music, talk shows, and interviews that expose you to different dialects and everyday conversations. Portugal’s public broadcaster, RTP, is available for free and provides a variety of content, from news to cultural programs. Both TV and radio allow you to practice your listening skills while immersing yourself in Portuguese life and culture.

Language Exchange Meetups: Connect with fellow language learners and locals through language exchange meetups and conversation groups. Join online communities, attend meetups organised by language schools, or create your own language exchange events in your area. By practicing with language partners of different proficiency levels, you'll gain valuable insights and feedback while making new friends along the way.

Local One-Day Workshops: Take advantage of workshops, classes, and cultural activities offered in your host city. These hands-on experiences provide valuable opportunities to practise your Portuguese while learning new skills and connecting with locals. You can explore workshops and events happening in Portugal by visiting websites like Event Brite or Trip Advisor which list a variety of cultural activities across the country, making it easy to find something that interests you.

Portuguese Guided Walking-Tour In many cities across Portugal, you’ll find tours guided in Portuguese, which can be an excellent way to challenge your language skills in a natural setting. By joining a Portuguese-speaking tour, you'll not only improve your listening and comprehension but also have the chance to engage in conversation with fellow participants and the guide. This immersive experience helps you pick up local expressions and vocabulary while learning about the country’s history and culture, making it a rewarding way to practice your Portuguese in real-life situations.

It's up to you! So, as you embark on your language journey, remember that unlocking the full potential of your Portuguese skills is truly in your hands. While books, classroom lessons, and apps provide a strong foundation, real progress comes when you take that first step outside your comfort zone. It’s all about finding the courage to use the language in real-life situations, even if it feels challenging at first. Stepping out of your shell and risking a few mistakes is how you'll grow. So don’t hold back—embrace the moment, speak up, and dive into the adventure of language immersion. You’ll be amazed at how much you can achieve!