Drinking Age in Portugal: What You Need To Know

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I’ll cut right to the chase: the legal drinking age in Portugal is 18 years old. In this post, I’ll tell you about the most important regulations and rules around drinking in Portugal.

At the end, we’ll also have a look at the most famous alcoholic drinks originating in Portugal. The most famous among them is for sure the traditional port wine.

I have to admit, usually, I don’t drink alcohol but in Portugal even I had to try the traditional port wine. It’s a very unique Portuguese experience to sip a glass of port wine in one of the port wine cellars in Porto or the origin of this unique wine, in the Douro Valley.

But before you can set out to experience this for yourself, keep reading to learn all about the Portugal drinking laws.

Table of Contents

Legal Drinking Age in Portugal

Laws and Regulations

In Portugal, the legal drinking age is set at 18 years of age. This means that once you turn 18, you are allowed to purchase and consume alcohol within the country. It’s important to note that this law applies to both residents and visitors alike.

It is illegal to buy or consume alcohol if you’re under 18 years old. It is also illegal to sell alcohol to people under 18 years old as well as to buy alcohol for them.

This law applies across the entire country, encompassing mainland Portugal and its islands, including Madeira.

Interesting fact: The legal drinking age for beer and wine used to be 16 in Portugal but they increased it in 2015, now the drinking age is always 18 no matter what kind of alcoholic drink.

Tina sitting on the grass, having a drink on her one day in Porto Portugal — Usually, I don’t really drink alcohol

Things to Know about Drinking in Portugal

When drinking in Portugal, there are a few key things to remember. It’s not just the age limit but specific regulations that visitors should know:

Don’t forget to bring an ID if you want to buy or consume alcohol and you look underage.
Most establishments are allowed to sell alcohol from 8 am to midnight with the exception of nightclubs.
You can buy alcohol in normal supermarkets in Portugal but only before 8 pm.
Portugal has strict drunk-driving laws. The legal blood alcohol concentration limit is 0.05%.
Alcohol prohibition in certain public places – Drinking is not allowed in specific public spaces such as hospitals, schools, and service stations.

Hand holding a drink up in a dark bar — It’s all about moderation!

Comparison to Other Countries

Portugal’s legal drinking age is 18, similar to many other countries in Europe. The neighboring country Spain has the same legal drinking age for example. So, when you’re on a Spain and Portugal trip for 2 weeks you don’t need to worry about different laws.

This contrasts with the United States where the legal age is 21, one of the highest worldwide.

Meanwhile, some countries like Germany and Austria allow beer and wine consumption at 16.

Therefore, Portugal’s drinking age is in line with many European nations, lower than the U.S., but higher than certain countries for specific types of alcohol.

People sitting around a table drinking, they're all over the legal drinking age in Portugal — Drinking is a big part of socialising in Portugal

Drinking Culture and Social Norms

In Portugal, you’ll find that the drinking culture is centered around socializing and enjoying oneself in a relaxed atmosphere. This is evident in the vibrant nightlife that many cities and towns have to offer.

It’s not uncommon for friends and family to gather together at bars, cafes, and restaurants in the evenings to share a drink and engage in conversation. Try it out when you’re in Portugal for 10 days.

Drinking in moderation is generally encouraged, and you’ll notice that many locals sip on a variety of alcoholic beverages such as beer, wine, and spirits – sometimes even during lunch and dinner.

It’s important to note that Portugal’s drinking culture does not promote excessive consumption; rather, it emphasizes responsible and moderate consumption as part of socializing.

Traditional Portuguese Alcoholic Drinks

Port Wine

Port is probably the first drink that comes to your mind when thinking about traditional Portuguese alcohol. This fortified wine is produced exclusively in the Douro Valley and is famous worldwide for its rich flavor and aroma.

You can enjoy it in several varieties, such as ruby, tawny, and white. The best place to try port wine is on a tour to the Douro Valley from Porto, the only place that produces the traditional port wine.

In Porto, Portugal’s second biggest city, you can visit the port wine cellars and do a wine tasting there. That’s what we did when we spent a month in Porto and our friend came to visit for three days. You can also enjoy a glass of port wine on a boat tour from Porto.

Focus on a vineyard, in the back is a river through the countryside — Vineyards in Portugal

Vinho Verde

Another well-loved Portuguese drink is vinho verde. This light and fresh wine is perfect for a hot summer day.

It is produced in the Minho region, in the north of Portugal. You can find it in three main types: red, white, and rosé.

Ginjinha

Now, let’s move on to something stronger: Ginjinha or simply Ginja. This sweet cherry liqueur originated in Lisbon and quickly spread throughout the country.

Typically served in a small glass or a chocolate cup, Ginja is made by infusing sour cherries, sugar, and aguardente (Portuguese brandy).

If you happen to visit Portugal during the colder months, this heartwarming liqueur will be a delightful treat.

This liqueur also makes for a great souvenir from Portugal.

Licor Beirão

Lastly, we cannot forget Licor Beirão, a traditional herbal liqueur from the Beira region. Its secret recipe consists of a mix of seeds, herbs, and spices, giving it a unique taste that pleasantly lingers in your mouth.

You can enjoy Licor Beirão as a digestif, on the rocks, or in cocktails.

Final thoughts: Drinking age limit in Portugal

In Portugal, the legal drinking age is 18, which is consistent with most European countries. This means that when you’re 18 years old or older, you’re allowed to purchase and consume alcohol without any restrictions.

Keep in mind that establishments and vendors may request identification to confirm your age, so it’s a good idea to carry an appropriate ID with you when you’re exploring the local nightlife.

Drinking in Portugal, just like anywhere else, should be done responsibly and in moderation. As a visitor, you can enjoy the local beverages and nightlife while contributing to a respectful and enjoyable atmosphere for both locals and fellow travelers.

Drinking Age in Portugal: What You Need To Know