🕺 How to Go Out in Portugal: Real Rules You Need to Know
Going out in Portugal is amazing, great music, good vibes, and late nights. But there are rules here that you really have to respect, or you might not even get past the door. Here's what actually matters for a smooth night out:
🗓️ 1. Minimum Age
- Clubs: Legally, you must be at least 16 to enter most nightclubs, but a lot only allow 18+ (their own policy).
- Alcohol: The law is strict—only 18+ can buy or drink alcohol, even at private parties.
- Warning: Using a fake ID (Cartão de Cidadão) is a serious crime in Portugal. You risk police trouble, court, and a criminal record.
🪪 2. Always bring your ID
- Bring your Cartão de Cidadão, passport, or driving license. No school cards or photos on your phone—they're not accepted.
- If you can't show proper ID at the door or during a police check, you'll be refused or asked to leave.
👔 3. Dress code is real
- Most Portuguese clubs and bars want smart casual: clean trainers, trousers, nice shirts/dresses, no caps or flip-flops.
- Sportswear rarely gets in.
- The bouncer can refuse you just for not following the dress code, even if you have a ticket and are old enough.
📝 4. Guest list & pre-sale tickets
- Many places, especially for special nights, require you to be on a guest list or to buy a ticket in advance.
- If you're not on the list, you won't get in—even if you "know someone inside".
⏰ 5. Opening hours
- Portugal has strict rules for opening and closing hours because of noise laws.
- Clubs usually open late and close around 6am, but don't show up after the door closes—you won't get in.
- Summer and festival times can be different, always check before you go.
🥃 6. Behaviour & alcohol
- If you arrive obviously drunk or high, you won't get in—no discussion.
- Inside: aggressive, rude, or out of control? You're out, and the police can be called if it's serious.
🚫 7. Don't bring banned stuff
- No weapons, sprays, knives, or even motorbike helmets. Security will check your bag.
- Drugs are illegal: if you're caught, it can get complicated fast (including police detention).
💳 8. Payment & minimum spend
- Some places have a minimum spend or different prices depending on the time of night.
- Most accept cards (and MB Way), but it's smart to check before you go and have some cash just in case.
🏳️🌈 9. Your rights
- Portuguese law protects you from discrimination (race, gender, sexuality, etc). If you're refused entry for these reasons, you can complain to the authorities (ASAE or police).
- However, clubs can refuse you for dress code, behaviour, or being too drunk.