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Moving to Portugal offers more than sunshine, scenic towns, and great food – it’s a chance to create a new life. But settling in isn’t just about getting your visa, signing a lease, or learning the bus routes. What makes life abroad truly feel like home is building friendships. The kind of relationships that help you feel supported, connected, and part of something bigger.
Whether you’re an expat in Lisbon, a retiree in the Algarve, or a remote worker in Porto, finding people you can share a meal or laugh with makes all the difference. Portugal may be warm in climate, but it’s the people you meet who truly make it welcoming.
And it’s not just a few newcomers anymore. According to The Portugal News, the number of foreign residents in Portugal has surpassed 1.5 million, showing just how many people are starting new chapters here. The total population now exceeds 10 million, meaning over 15% are foreign residents – a growing part of daily life in many cities. This guide is for those looking to make that chapter feel more like a community and less like an island.
Understanding Portuguese Culture & Social Habits
To make friends in Portugal, it helps to understand how friendships naturally form here. Portuguese culture tends to value sincerity over small talk, warmth over showmanship, and trust over speed. Relationships aren’t rushed – they grow slowly through shared meals, repeated encounters, and consistency.
It’s common for Portuguese people to be cautious at first, especially in smaller towns or older communities. But once you’re welcomed into someone’s circle, you’ll experience a depth of friendship that’s rooted in loyalty and care. People gather over long lunches, family dinners, football matches, and even local religious festivals. And while some social norms might feel different, the intention behind them is the same: connection.
The Portuguese are known for a sense of “saudade” – a kind of emotional depth that makes them great listeners and thoughtful friends. Expect to be invited over for coffee rather than a big party. Friendships often start small and deepen over time, with a strong emphasis on reliability and mutual support.
Being aware of this cultural rhythm means you won’t feel discouraged if you don’t make close friends in the first few weeks. Stick around, show up, and be yourself so that people will notice.
Start Small – Everyday Moments That Build Connections
You don’t need to wait for a big social event to meet new people in Portugal. Many friendships begin in everyday moments – at your local bakery, at the laundromat, or walking your dog in the same park. Numbeo’s Crime Index 2024 reports that Portugal scores highly on safety (68.8%), helping new arrivals feel secure in social settings.
Saying “bom dia” (good morning) to your neighbors or the café staff isn’t just polite – it’s a sign you’re present and open. Over time, those small exchanges lead to longer chats, shared coffee breaks, and even weekend invitations. This is especially true in smaller towns, where people notice who’s around and appreciate consistency.
Make use of local businesses. Visit the same fruit stand, hairdresser, or market stall. Ask questions in Portuguese, even if it’s just a few words. People tend to respond kindly to anyone making the effort – even with a thick accent or a few grammatical errors.
It also helps to stay visible in your neighborhood. Attend local events, use public transport, and take your time while doing everyday errands. Building friendships in Portugal often begins with familiarity – not speed. Be patient, be present, and let those daily connections do their quiet work.
Join Local Groups and Activities
One of the most effective ways to meet people in Portugal is by joining shared-interest activities. Whether you’re into sports, music, arts, or just want to stay active, there’s always a local group or club to join. And it doesn’t matter if you speak fluent Portuguese – many groups are open to beginners or English speakers, especially in bigger cities.
Start with something simple:
- Sign up for a yoga class or fitness group
- Take part in a walking or hiking club
- Join a cooking class or pottery workshop
- Volunteer at a local shelter or food drive
- Attend municipal events like festivals, theater nights, or public talks
Volunteering, in particular, is a powerful way to meet people who care about the same causes you do. It’s also a great way to practice the language and learn more about the community you’ve moved into.
If you’re new to the country and still handling residency or visa matters, it’s also worth knowing that since October 2023, the Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum (AIMA) is now the central body assisting with migrant reception and support in Portugal. They occasionally offer integration workshops and local initiatives where you can meet others in a similar stage of relocation.
Whether you’re in Porto, Faro, or Setúbal, finding a local group helps build friendships and creates a deeper connection to the place you now call home.
Use Social Apps & Expat Forums
For those who feel more comfortable starting online, Portugal has no shortage of expat-friendly apps, websites, and digital groups that make meeting people easier – especially in your first few months.
Facebook groups like “Expats in Portugal,” “Lisbon Digital Nomads,” or city-specific community pages are often the go-to for meetups, local events, apartment shares, or just casual advice. Many people post looking for friends to grab coffee, go hiking, or attend language exchanges.
Apps like Meetup list regular gatherings, from wine tastings and photography walks to business networking or coding clubs. You can join as a guest, test the vibe, and go again if it clicks. TimeOut’s solo female travel rankings name Portugal as one of the best countries for women traveling or living alone – thanks to its calm, friendly atmosphere.
If you’re still outside Portugal and organizing your visa or move, you might’ve already encountered services like VFS Global, which handle visa appointments. While they don’t help with social life, they’re part of that early stage where community building can feel distant – so once you’re in the country, it’s even more important to focus on making real-world connections.
Apps and forums are useful tools, but they work best when paired with offline follow-through. Use them to find people, but make the leap to in-person meetups. Friendships in Portugal often begin in cafés, not just comment threads.
Attend Workshops, Co-Working, and Cultural Events
Portugal is full of low-pressure opportunities to meet people without needing to introduce yourself at a party or speak perfect Portuguese. Events where you learn, create, or simply show up regularly are excellent for forming organic friendships.
Start with workshops from ceramic making and photography to wine tasting and local cooking classes. These are often held in both English and Portuguese and attract locals, travelers, and fellow expats. It gives you a reason to engage with others over something you’re all doing together, plus you learn a new skill.
Co-working spaces are especially popular in cities like Lisbon and Porto. Many offer day passes, making them ideal for freelancers or remote workers wanting a change of pace and a chance to chat with someone new over coffee. Names like Avila Spaces in Lisbon or Porto i/o in Porto are more than desks; they’re communities.
Don’t overlook cultural festivals and fairs. From the Marchas Populares in Lisbon to São João in Porto or smaller town celebrations, these public events offer live music, street food, and easy-going social energy. Even if you go alone, you’re bound to strike up a conversation with someone nearby. Consistently showing up at the same events helps others recognize you, which is often the first step to being invited into deeper circles.
Learn Portuguese – More Than a Language Skill
It’s tempting to get by in English, especially in Lisbon, where many locals speak it fluently. But if your goal is to build strong, lasting friendships with Portuguese people, learning the language makes a real difference.
You don’t have to be fluent to connect. Even basic greetings, small talk, or asking questions in Portuguese shows effort. Locals notice and often warm up immediately when someone tries, even imperfectly. It signals that you’re not just passing through: you’re here to stay and respect the culture.
Language schools across Portugal offer flexible group classes for all levels. You can also find tutors through expat forums or apps like Tandem. Municipalities often sponsor free or low-cost courses for immigrants, especially those who’ve recently moved to the area.
Practicing in real-life settings like markets, cafés, or community centers helps you pick up the rhythm and tone naturally. Over time, it becomes easier to take part in deeper conversations and group gatherings. And as your confidence grows, so does your social circle.
Be Open to Invitations and Make Your Own
Many expats wait for someone to invite them out or include them in a social plan. But in Portugal, just like anywhere else, you sometimes have to take the first step. Accepting an invite, or extending one, can be the spark that turns casual interactions into real friendships.
If a neighbor mentions a local festival or invites you to a meal, say yes. Even if you’re nervous or don’t know anyone else there. Most Portuguese hosts are warm, generous, and happy to include newcomers. Showing up matters more than fitting in perfectly.
Once you’ve met a few people, try hosting a small get-together yourself. It doesn’t need to be fancy – a coffee morning, beach picnic, or board game night works well. People in Portugal value personal connection over polished presentation.
And follow up. Send a quick message after you’ve met someone. Ask if they’d like to meet again. This shows that you’re genuinely interested, not just being polite. Friendships grow through consistency, not one-time meetings.
Friends in Different Seasons—Short-Term vs Long-Term Bonds
In Portugal’s growing international community, you’ll meet all kinds of people. Tourists passing through, digital nomads staying for a season, and long-term residents building a life. Each type of friendship adds something to your experience, but it helps to know what to expect.
Short-term friends might be fellow travelers or nomads you meet at events or coworking spaces. These relationships can be warm and fun but may not last beyond a few weeks or months. Still, they offer support, shared meals, and good memories and can grow into long-distance friendships if you stay in touch.
Long-term friendships, often with locals or expats who’ve put down roots, take longer to form but offer more depth. These are the people you call when you’re sick, celebrate birthdays with, or spend holidays together.
You don’t need to choose one over the other. What matters is being present and genuine in each interaction. Not every connection will grow into a lifelong bond and that’s okay. Some friendships are for a season, others for a lifetime.
Conclusion – Friendship Starts with Showing Up
Building a new life in Portugal isn’t just about paperwork or finding the perfect beach; it’s about people. The ones you share a morning coffee with, bump into at the local market, or invite over for dinner. Friendships take time, but they’re worth every small effort you put in. From learning a few Portuguese phrases to joining local events or simply saying “hello” first, every step brings you closer to feeling at home.
Portugal is a welcoming place, and whether you’re in Lisbon, Porto, or a quiet coastal town, connection is always possible, if you stay open to it.
And if you’re just settling in and still figuring out where to live, work, or meet like-minded people, we’re here to help. Whether you need a long-term rental, a cozy shared flat, or a co-working space where community thrives, Portugal Residency Advisors is the best place to start.
We specialize in helping expats find not just housing, but places where friendships begin. Reach out today, and let’s make your move more than a relocation – let’s make it a real start.
Frequently Asked Questions About Making Friends in Portugal: Expat Guide for 2025
Is it easy to make friends with locals in Portugal?
It takes time, but yes, once you break the ice, Portuguese people are known for being loyal, warm, and generous friends.
Do I need to speak Portuguese to make friends?
Not necessarily. Many locals speak English, especially in larger cities. But learning even basic Portuguese helps build trust and opens more doors.
Are there specific places where expats hang out?
Yes. Cities like Lisbon, Porto, and Faro have active expat communities, with regular meetups in co-working spaces, cafés, and language exchanges.
Is Portugal safe for solo travelers trying to make connections?
Yes. Portugal is one of the safest countries in Europe for solo and female travelers.
How can I meet people outside of the expat bubble?
Join local clubs, take Portuguese classes, volunteer, or attend community events like festivals or cooking workshops.
What’s the best app to meet new people in Portugal?
Meetup is great for group activities, while Facebook expat groups are useful for casual get-togethers and advice.
Are friendships usually formal or casual in Portugal?
Friendships tend to be close and sincere. Once you’re accepted into someone’s circle, it usually becomes a long-lasting connection.
How long does it take to build real friendships in Portugal?
It varies – some find close friends within weeks, others take a few months. The key is consistency and patience.
Can I make friends while living in a rural village?
Yes, though it may take longer. Rural communities are tight-knit, but once they know you, friendships can be very meaningful.
Can your company help me find a place where I’ll meet people easily?
Yes! At Portugal Residency Advisors, we help you find housing, shared flats, and co-working spaces where building a community is part of daily life.
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