Why It’s Worth Learning a Bit of Portuguese Before Traveling
Learn Basic Portuguese for Your Trip to Brazil – If you’re visiting Brazil soon, knowing a few basic Portuguese words and expressions can make all the difference.
Even if you don’t speak fluently, locals really appreciate when you try — and you’ll instantly feel more welcomed.
From ordering a meal to asking for directions, every “Olá” or “Obrigado” opens new doors. Plus, it helps you avoid misunderstandings, save time, and enjoy Brazil like a local.
💡 Start learning now with our Portuguese online courses — perfect for travelers and beginners who want to feel confident abroad.
Everyday Phrases to Use in Brazil
Here are some simple and friendly expressions you’ll hear every day:
| English | Portuguese | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello | Olá | oh-LAH |
| How are you? | Como vai? | KOH-moo VA-ee |
| Good morning | Bom dia | bohn JEE-ah |
| Thank you | Obrigado / Obrigada | oh-bree-GAH-do / dah |
| Please | Por favor | por fah-VOR |
| Excuse me | Com licença | kohm lee-SEN-sah |
| Sorry | Desculpe | des-KOOL-pee |
| Goodbye | Tchau | chow |
👉 Use these words with a smile — Brazilians love warm communication!
Ordering Food Like a Local
Brazilian food is full of color, flavor, and stories.
Knowing just a few words can make your dining experience even better:
| English | Portuguese |
|---|---|
| I’d like… | Eu gostaria de… |
| The menu, please | O cardápio, por favor |
| Water | Água |
| Coffee | Café |
| Juice | Suco |
| Bill, please | A conta, por favor |
| Delicious! | Delicioso! |
To learn these words in a fun way, read this great guide:
Learn Portuguese through Brazilian songs and movies
Getting Around the City
Even in big cities like São Paulo or Rio, English is not common in every area.
That’s why these short phrases are life-savers:
| English | Portuguese |
|---|---|
| Where is the hotel? | Onde fica o hotel? |
| How do I get to the beach? | Como chego à praia? |
| I need a taxi | Preciso de um táxi |
| Left / Right | Esquerda / Direita |
| Straight ahead | Em frente |
| Airport | Aeroporto |
📍 Locals are friendly and helpful — don’t be afraid to ask for directions!
Talk About Yourself and Make Friends
Brazilians are social people who love talking and meeting new friends.
Here are some phrases that help you connect naturally:
| English | Portuguese |
|---|---|
| I’m from… | Eu sou de… |
| I’m visiting Brazil | Estou a visitar o Brasil |
| I love this city! | Eu adoro esta cidade! |
| It’s beautiful here | É lindo aqui |
| I’m staying for two weeks | Vou ficar por duas semanas |
The more you talk, the more confident you’ll feel — and the faster you’ll learn.
Easy Ways to Practice Every Day and Learn Basic Portuguese
Learning Portuguese doesn’t have to be hard. Here’s how you can practice daily, even if you’re busy:
- Listen to Brazilian music 🎧 — repeat short phrases you like.
- Watch movies with subtitles 🎬 — you’ll learn pronunciation fast.
- Use simple apps 📱 — 10 minutes a day is enough.
- Join online classes 💻 — at Portuguese Native, we make learning fun and practical.
- Speak with locals online 🌍 — there are free language exchange groups everywhere.
Small daily habits lead to real progress — and soon, you’ll start thinking in Portuguese!
Discover the Culture Behind the Words for Learn Basic Portuguese
Portuguese isn’t just a language — it’s a reflection of Brazil’s heart.
When you learn words like “saudade” (a deep emotional longing) or “jeitinho” (creative problem-solving), you begin to understand how Brazilians see the world.
Learning these cultural details helps you not only speak the language but live it.
Final Thoughts
Traveling to Brazil becomes much easier and more enjoyable when you know basic Portuguese.
You’ll connect better, feel more confident, and enjoy real experiences that go beyond the tourist route.
So start today — even a few minutes of study can change how you experience your next trip.
👉 Join our Portuguese courses for beginners and prepare to speak Portuguese with confidence when you land in Brazil!