'They will rip you off!' Expat in Portugal shares a warning when eating in the European hotspot

'They will rip you off!' Expat in Portugal shares a warning when eating in the European hotspot

An expat in Portugal discusses living there

GB NEWS
Sarra Gray

By Sarra Gray


Published: 28/04/2024

- 08:00

Updated: 29/04/2024

- 14:56

An expat living in Portugal shared a word of warning for anyone visiting the holiday destination

Portugal is a European country that expats and tourists often choose to visit. It is known for its lively culture, stunning beaches and delicious food.

However, one man who moved there explained why many Britons may get ripped off when trying to sample the local food.


He said thanks to "tourist trap" restaurants, expats are often charged more to try bad, unauthentic cuisine.

The expat, Dave, shared advice on what "not to do" in Lisbon if you "don't want to get ripped off" or into "hot water".

Expat in Portugal / Buildings in Lisbon

An expat shared a warning if visiting Lisbon

GETTY/YOUTUBE

He warned against eating in the Baixa District as people are often overcharged there.

"These restaurants are complete tourist traps that will rip you off," the expat said on YouTube channel 'Dave in Portugal'.

"Usually they are not owned by Portuguese people and the cuisine is absolutely terrible."

The expat warned that tourists and those moving to the area could be charged "three or four times" more than in a traditional Portuguese restaurant.

Such restaurants are one of the main reasons visitors might think they don't like food in Portugal, the expat claimed.

On a similar note, he warned visitors not to get "trapped" in the popular nightlife spot Bairro Alto.

While it has a lot of bars, he said it can get "a little bit dodgy and crazy there". Dave added many bars will offer promotions such as free shots to enter, however this is often a very watered-down drink and is "not worth it".

He added the best bars will not need to "lure people in" with freebies and that there are plenty of good places worth visiting.

Lisbon beach

He warned Britons if eating in the city

GETTY

One man who lives in the country shared the "unspoken rule" you shouldn't "break" if heading to Spain.

He said: "It's critical to understand if you want to go to restaurants and shops when they're actually open.

"It's about how the Spaniards schedule their lives and how you should think about scheduling your day as a tourist."

The expat added it is an "unspoken rule" but opening hours may vary and places may not be open when expected.

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