Porto isn’t just about historic architecture, vibrant festivals, and Port wine; it’s also a bustling city with every practical service travelers and locals might need. Whether you’re moving to Porto for an extended stay or just visiting and want to know where to find essential amenities, this guide covers the banks, pharmacies, and supermarkets that can make your time in Porto comfortable and hassle-free.
1. Banking Services in Porto
Major Portuguese Banks
- Millennium BCP
- Why It’s Popular: One of Portugal’s largest banks, offering comprehensive personal and business banking services.
- Branches & ATMs: Widely available across Porto, particularly in central areas like Avenida dos Aliados or Boavista.
- Santander Totta
- Highlights: Part of the international Santander Group, which can be convenient if you already bank with Santander in your home country.
- Online Banking: Offers user-friendly apps and services in English.
- Caixa Geral de Depósitos (CGD)
- Overview: A state-owned bank that’s present in almost every neighborhood, making it easy to find an ATM.
- Student-Friendly: Known for student and youth accounts with lower fees.
Foreign and Niche Banks
- Revolut / Wise: These digital-only banks offer great currency exchange rates and can complement local accounts.
- HSBC / BNP Paribas: Global banking giants with some presence in Portugal, though you may find fewer physical branches than local banks.
Banking Tips
- Documentation: If you plan on opening an account, bring your passport, proof of address (e.g., rental contract), and a Portuguese NIF (tax number).
- ATMs: Known locally as Multibanco, these are widespread. Most support international cards, but check for foreign transaction fees.
- Security: Always shield your PIN at the ATM and avoid using machines in poorly lit or isolated areas.
2. Pharmacies in Porto
Identifying Pharmacies (Farmácias)
- Green Cross Symbol: Pharmacies in Portugal are clearly marked with a green cross sign.
- Operating Hours: Most are open Monday to Friday (9:00 AM–7:00 PM) and Saturday (9:00 AM–1:00 PM). Some close for lunch (1:00 PM–3:00 PM).
24-Hour Pharmacies
- Farmácia Porto: Central Porto often has at least one 24-hour pharmacy on rotation. Look for “Farmácia de Serviço” listings in local newspapers or online.
- Online Search: Websites like Farmácias de Serviço show which pharmacies are open after hours or on Sundays.
What You Can Find
- Prescription Medications: Bring your prescription; the Portuguese system often requires a local doctor’s prescription for many drugs.
- Over-the-Counter Items: Pain relievers, allergy meds, first aid supplies, vitamins, and more.
- Health & Beauty Products: Many pharmacies also sell skincare items and medical supplies.
Pharmacy Tips
- Language: Staff typically speak enough English to assist with basic medical queries, but having medication names or generic terms on hand can help.
- Emergency Needs: If you urgently need medication after standard hours, check for pharmacies marked “Farmácia de Serviço” or “Farmácia de Turno.”
3. Supermarkets in Porto
Major Supermarket Chains
- Continente
- Why It’s Popular: Large stores with extensive product ranges, including fresh produce, household goods, and electronics.
- Locations: Found throughout Porto; look for their hypermarket format in shopping centers like NorteShopping.
- Pingo Doce
- Highlights: Mid-sized stores focusing on fresh produce, bakery items, and weekly promotions.
- Cafeteria: Many branches have a small café serving meals at reasonable prices.
- Lidl
- Affordable Groceries: Known for low-cost items, weekly specials, and limited but good-quality produce.
- Central & Suburban Locations: You can find branches near tourist zones and in residential neighborhoods.
- Aldi
- Why Shop Here: Another discount retailer with an emphasis on budget-friendly groceries and rotating special offers.
- Good for: Bulk buys, simple meal solutions, and snacks.
Local Markets
- Mercado do Bolhão
- What to Find: Fresh fruit, vegetables, fish, and regional specialties.
- Atmosphere: A must-visit landmark for a taste of authentic Porto life—though under renovation at times, it remains an excellent spot for local delicacies.
- Mercado Municipal de Matosinhos
- Ideal For: Fresh fish and seafood if you’re near the coastal area.
Supermarket Tips
- Operating Hours: Generally from 8:30 AM or 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM. Larger branches may stay open until midnight.
- Bring Your Own Bags: Portuguese supermarkets often charge for plastic bags.
- Discount Cards: Many chains (e.g., Continente) offer loyalty cards that provide immediate savings or points toward future purchases.
4. Additional Practical Services
Post Offices (CTT)
- Main Office: Look for the red CTT signs; they handle mail, parcels, and various payment services (like utility bills).
- Hours: Typically open weekdays (9:00 AM–6:00 PM), with some locations operating on Saturday mornings.
Laundry Services
- Self-Service Laundromats: Known as “Lavandaria self-service,” you’ll find them in central Porto districts. Perfect for travelers staying longer.
- Full-Service Laundry: Many hotels offer laundry services, though they can be pricey. Local laundromats also provide wash-and-fold options.
Luggage Storage
- Bagage Locker: A convenient choice if you need to store suitcases before check-in or after check-out.
- Train Stations: Campanhã Station sometimes has lockers, but availability can be limited.
5. Navigating Language and Local Etiquette
- Language Basics: Portuguese is the official language, but many service staff speak English—especially in central Porto. A few words in Portuguese (e.g., “por favor,” “obrigado”) can go a long way.
- Politeness: Expect a friendly greeting like “Bom dia” (good morning) or “Boa tarde” (good afternoon) when entering a pharmacy or bank.
- Queue Etiquette: In banks and post offices, take a ticket from the dispenser and wait for your number to be called.
6. Safety and Security Tips
- Pickpocket Awareness: Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas like markets and busy downtown streets.
- Emergency Services: Dial 112 for any urgent help (medical, police, fire).
- Lost Card Protocol: If you lose your bank card, call the relevant emergency hotline immediately to cancel it.
Conclusion
Whether you need to open a bank account, pick up medication from a pharmacy, or stock up on groceries at a supermarket, Porto provides a well-rounded selection of practical services. By knowing where to go and what to expect, you can spend less time worrying about day-to-day tasks and more time enjoying this enchanting coastal city. From the bustling corridors of Mercado do Bolhão to the convenience of 24-hour ATMs, Porto caters to travelers and residents alike. Safe travels and happy exploring!