Moving to Portugal has been an incredible experience—one that has challenged us, surprised us, and taught us to adapt in ways we never expected. When we packed up our life in Vancouver and landed in Estoril, we thought we had a pretty good idea of what life here would be like. But no matter how much research you do, there are always unexpected surprises when adjusting to a new country.
Some of these have been wonderful, some frustrating, and some are just strange. So, here are 10 things we didn’t expect about life in Portugal—the good, the bad, and the moldy.
1. No Dryers in Apartments (And the Art of Air Drying Clothes)
Coming from Canada, we never really thought about how essential dryers are—until we didn’t have one. In Portugal, most homes don’t have a dryer, and instead, people dry their clothes on balconies, rooftops, or drying racks inside the apartment.
On a sunny day, this works great—clothes dry quickly, and the fresh air makes them smell amazing. But during the rainy season? You learn patience. There’s nothing like waking up, realizing your clothes are still damp, and having to plan an outfit around what’s actually dry.
2. The Battle with Mold (Winter’s Uninvited Guest)
If there’s one thing we weren’t prepared for, it’s the mold. The damp, humid winters mean that mold becomes a real daily battle. It creeps onto walls, furniture, shoes, and even inside closets.
We quickly learned that dehumidifiers are essential, along with opening windows daily—even when it’s cold—to keep airflow going. We’ve also stocked up on vinegar, anti-mold sprays, and a serious amount of moisture-absorbing packets.
Lesson learned: Mold wins if you don’t fight back.
3. It Can Be Warmer Outside Than Inside
One of the strangest things about winter in Portugal is that it often feels colder inside the house than outside. Why? Most homes don’t have central heating.
The thick concrete walls and tiled floors, which are great in summer, trap the cold in winter, making it feel like you’re living in a fridge. Solution? We’ve mastered the art of layering—even indoors—and small space heaters have become our best friends.
But on a sunny day? Step outside, and suddenly it’s 15°C and glorious, while inside you’re still wrapped in blankets.
4. The Pace of Life (And Why It’s Actually Better)
Portugal has a much slower pace of life compared to North America, and honestly, it’s one of the best things about living here.
People take their time. Meals are leisurely, conversations aren’t rushed, and there’s a strong emphasis on enjoying life rather than racing through it.
Shops and businesses have their own rhythm. Some close for a few hours in the afternoon, and that’s just the way it is.
No one is in a hurry—except on the roads. (More on that later.)
At first, it was an adjustment—especially when we needed things done quickly. But now, we’ve embraced it. Life is meant to be enjoyed, not rushed.
5. Setting Up Essentials (Bank Accounts, NIFs, Phones, and Internet)
If you ever want to test your patience, try setting up bank accounts, tax numbers (NIFs), phones, and internet in Portugal.
Getting a NIF (Número de Identificação Fiscal): You can’t do anything without it, yet getting one as a foreigner requires a small bureaucratic miracle (and ideally, a Portuguese friend to help).
Opening a Bank Account: Requires multiple visits, more paperwork than you think is necessary, and often an appointment that isn’t for weeks.
Setting Up Internet & Phones: Can be comically slow. If someone tells you they’ll install your internet on Tuesday, be sure to ask which Tuesday.
The lesson? Be persistent, patient, and bring snacks.
6. Driving is…An Experience
Driving in Portugal is a mix of stunning coastal roads and heart-stopping roundabouts where no one seems to follow the rules.
Speed limits? Optional for some.
Roundabouts? A test of bravery.
Parking? If your car fits, it’s legal.
That being said, once you adjust to the organized chaos, driving here is actually enjoyable. Plus, the highways are great, and road trips across Portugal are absolutely worth it.
7. The Coffee Culture (Say Goodbye to Large Coffees)
In Portugal, coffee is a ritual. But if you’re used to ordering a large coffee to-go, prepare for a change.
Here’s what you need to know:
A “café” is an espresso.
Lattes don’t exist. If you want milk in your coffee, order a “galão” (lots of milk) or “meia de leite” (half milk).
Coffee breaks are sacred. People sit, sip, and chat—there’s no rush.
At first, we missed our big cups of coffee, but now? There’s something special about sipping a strong espresso while watching the world go by.
8. Fresh Markets & Local Produce (Goodbye Processed Food)
One of the biggest pleasant surprises has been the quality of food.
Fresh fruit, vegetables, and seafood are everywhere. And they actually taste like they should!
Supermarkets have fewer processed options. (Which is good—but sometimes you just want an old-school snack from back home.)
The price of fresh food is shockingly affordable. A full bag of market-fresh produce? Less than 10€.
The food quality has actually made us eat healthier without even trying.
9. Beaches Are a Part of Daily Life (Even in Winter)
Living near the coast means that the beach isn’t just a summer destination—it’s part of everyday life.
Morning walks along the seawall.
Sunsets by the ocean.
People surfing year-round.
Even in winter, people head to the beach to relax, have coffee, or just enjoy the view. It’s a lifestyle we never realized we needed.
10. We Feel at Home (Even When Everything is New)
Despite all the adjustments—the mold, the slow-moving paperwork, the tiny coffees—we feel at home in Portugal.
The people are warm and welcoming.
The slower pace of life has given us more time together as a family.
We’re experiencing something completely new every single day.
Moving to Portugal has been one of the best decisions we’ve ever made. It hasn’t always been easy, but every challenge has been worth it.
BONUS: Wine is Cheaper Than Water (Seriously!) 🍷💧
If there’s one unexpected yet amazing discovery we’ve made in Portugal, it’s this: a decent bottle of wine is often cheaper than a bottle of water.
Yes, you read that right. Walk into any supermarket, and you’ll find quality local wines for as little as €2-€3, while a large bottle of water can easily cost the same—or more, if you’re in a tourist area.
At first, we thought this was a mistake. But no, Portugal simply produces amazing wine at incredible prices—and it’s completely normal for people to enjoy a glass with lunch or dinner without breaking the bank.
So, when faced with the decision at the grocery store—a bottle of wine or a bottle of water?—let’s just say… we’re staying hydrated the Portuguese way. 🍷🇵🇹
What’s Next?
We’re still learning, adapting, and laughing our way through life in Portugal, and we can’t wait to share more.
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And let us know—what’s the biggest surprise you’ve ever had while living abroad? ⬇️
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