Portugal Travel Guide

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Business protocol in Portugal generally follows that of the rest of modern Europe. However, in rural areas, and when dealing with the elder generation, people may still cling onto customs of the past. Formal dress is necessary only in banking, government or law; otherwise smart-casual attire will suffice, and is often how the host may dress. However, being a fashion conscious country means that it may simply be easier to dress in a conventional formal manner. Handshakes for men and women are the common form of greeting. Face-to-face relationships are preferred but this is changing. It is a good idea to be punctual for all meetings, which may be over lunch, or a simple to-the-point meeting depending. Printed material should be available in both English and Portuguese. Business cards are often exchanged. Business hours vary but are generally 8.30am to 1pm and 3pm to 6pm Monday to Friday.