Portugal · Practical · 2026
The operational basics
Plug type, voltage, time zone, drinking water, emergency numbers — the answers every guidebook tucks into the back inset. Here as a single card.
Power
Same as Spain — EU plug + dual-voltage modern chargers work without conversion.
Time
Same EU DST schedule as Spain (last Sunday of March / October).
Emergency
Drinking water
Tap water is safe across mainland Portugal and the Algarve. Madeira and the Azores: also safe. Many locals prefer bottled for taste, not safety.
Business hours
Shops 10:00-19:00 (smaller traditional shops still close 13:00-15:00). Banks 8:30-15:00 weekdays. Restaurant service: lunch 12:30-14:30, dinner 19:30-22:00.
Public holidays
Closures on January 1, Good Friday, Easter Sunday, April 25 (Liberty Day), May 1, June 10 (Portugal Day), August 15, October 5 (Republic Day), November 1, December 1 (Restoration of Independence), December 8 + 25.
Last reviewed .
See also: visa & entry · connectivity & SIM.