1 January: New Year's Day
12 February: Carnival
25 April: Freedom Day
1 May: Labour Day
30 May: Sacrament Day
10 June: Portugal Day
13 June: St Anthony
5 October: Republic Day
1 November: All Saints
1 December: Restoration of Independence Day
8 December: Immaculate Conception
25 December: Christmas
Good Friday, Easter and the Assumption of the Holy Virgin are also public holidays



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Like all the other EU countries, Portugal's national emergency number is 112. When you call this number you'll be connected to the central exchange. You then choose police, fire brigade or ambulance. To contact the Lisbon police, you can also call 3466141. Compared to other European cities, Lisbon is relatively safe, although pickpockets do operate on public transport in the older districts. Always report any incidences of theft. [Read more]

The Portuguese are, in general, a formal people. If you're able to speak a few words of Portuguese, this will be appreciated. The majority of Portuguese speak a bit of English, French or German thanks partly to the development of tourism. However the further you go from Lisbon and the big cities, the less proficient people are. Revealing clothing is not suitable for wearing at restaurants and (semi) official functions. Tipping in restaurants is customary in Portugal. [Read more]