When you’re visiting a Portuguese-speaking country, whether it’s the sun-kissed beaches of Brazil or the charming streets of Portugal, getting around using taxis or public transport can be a vital part of your travel experience. Knowing some key Portuguese phrases can enhance your trips and help you communicate better with locals. Here are important Portuguese phrases that you should familiarize yourself with before hopping into a taxi or boarding a bus or metro.

Táxi – Taxi
The word for taxi remains the same in Portuguese, making it easily recognizable. When you want to request a taxi, just look for the distinctive taxi sign or go to a taxi stand.
Posso chamar um táxi para o aeroporto?

Autocarro – Bus
In Portugal, buses are referred to as ‘autocarros’. Make sure you know the number or the destination of the bus you need to take.
Qual é o autocarro para o centro da cidade?

Paragem de autocarro – Bus stop
This is where you’ll wait for the bus. There are usually signs indicating the bus routes that pass through each stop.
Onde fica a próxima paragem de autocarro?

Metro – Subway/Metro
Many of the larger cities in Portuguese-speaking countries have metro systems. They are an efficient way to get around the city.
Você pode me dizer como chegar à estação de metro?

Estação – Station
This term applies to both train and metro stations. It’s important to know the name of the station you’re heading towards.
A estação fica longe daqui?

Bilhete – Ticket
Whether you’re taking the bus, the metro, or the train, you’ll need to purchase a ‘bilhete.’ Make sure to buy the correct one for your intended journey.
Onde posso comprar um bilhete?

Uma viagem – One way (ticket)
If you’re planning to travel to a destination without returning, you’ll need a ‘uma viagem’ ticket.
Eu gostaria de um bilhete de uma viagem, por favor.

Ida e volta – Round trip
If you’re planning on returning to your starting point, it’s best to purchase an ‘ida e volta’ ticket, which can be cheaper than buying two separate tickets.
Por favor, um bilhete de ida e volta para Porto.

Horário – Schedule
Whether it’s for a bus, train, or metro, knowing the schedule can save you a lot of waiting time.
Você pode me mostrar o horário dos autocarros?

Quantas paragens? – How many stops?
Essential to know when you’re trying to get off at the right place. Always check how many stops before your destination.
São quantas paragens até o museu de arte?

Desculpe, eu perdi a minha paragem. – Sorry, I missed my stop.
Use this phrase when you’ve accidentally stayed on the transport too long and need help to get back on track.
Desculpe, eu perdi a minha paragem. O que eu faço agora?

Este lugar está ocupado? – Is this seat taken?
Polite way to ask if a seat is free, especially during crowded times on buses or trains.
Este lugar está ocupado?

Como eu posso chegar em [destination]? – How can I get to [destination]?
When you need directions or want assistance with the best route to your destination.
Como eu posso chegar no hotel Tivoli?

Armed with these phrases, you’ll be more comfortable navigating the transportation systems in any Portuguese-speaking region. Always speak clearly and don’t be afraid to ask questions or seek help if you’re uncertain – people are often willing to assist travelers. Boa viagem! (Have a good trip!)