Easter Holidays Portugal: Expat Guide

How does Easter affect daily life in Portugal?

Now, let's get into the practical aspects of life in Portugal during Easter week.

1. Schools during Easter in Portugal

• School Holidays for Easter in Portugal: Schools in Portugal have a two-week break for Easter, known as Férias da Páscoa. The exact dates can vary slightly each year and between different school levels (primary, secondary, university), but they typically encompass the week before and the week after Easter Sunday. Expect school closures from approximately April 7th to April 21st in 2025, but always verify with your specific school.
• Impact on Childcare: Prepare for the two-week school closure if you have children. The closure means you'll need to arrange childcare if both parents work. Options include:
• Family Support: If you have family in Portugal, they might be able to help with childcare.
• ATLs (Atividades de Tempos Livres): These are organized leisure activities for children during school holidays. They can range from sports camps to arts and crafts workshops. Many are run by local councils (Câmaras Municipais) or private organizations. It's highly recommended to book ATLs very early, as spaces fill up rapidly, sometimes months in advance. Start looking for ATLs in January or February, and be prepared to put your child's name on a waiting list.
• Babysitters/Nannies: Hiring a babysitter or nanny is another option, but it can be pricier. Online groups often have recommendations for reputable babysitters and nannies in specific areas. Expat Tip: Ask for references and check backgrounds carefully when hiring a babysitter or nanny.
• Vacation Time: Many parents take some vacation time during the Easter break to be with their children.
• School Activities: Before the break, schools often organize Easter-related activities, such as crafts, plays, or period education sessions. Such events can be a good opportunity for your children to learn about Portuguese Easter traditions.

2. Work during Easter in Portugal

• Public Holiday: Good Friday (April 18th, 2025) is a public holiday in Portugal. This day of rest means most businesses and government offices will be closed.
• Reduced Workload: Even though Easter Monday is not a public holiday, many businesses operate with a reduced workload or have a more relaxed atmosphere during Holy Week. Some companies may allow employees to take extra days off, especially if they have children. You may feel an "unwritten rule" of taking it easier during Holy Week, even if it's not officially sanctioned. Don't expect to get a lot of important work done during Holy Week. Be aware that many people will be out of the office or working slower, which affects services from providers and government offices.
• Industry Variations: The impact of Easter on workplaces varies by industry.
• Tourism: The tourism sector (hotels, restaurants, tour operators) is very busy during Easter, as it's a popular time for both domestic and international travel.
• Retail: Retail stores, especially supermarkets, are busy in the days leading up to Easter, as people stock up on food and supplies.
• Manufacturing/Offices: Many factories and offices may close or operate with reduced staff during Holy Week.
• Communication is Key: If you're unsure about your workplace's policies during Easter, talk to your manager or HR department. It's always best to clarify expectations in advance. Don't be afraid to ask colleagues about typical practices—Portuguese are generally very helpful.

3. Stores and services during Easter in Portugal

• Good Friday Closures: Expect most stores, including supermarkets, to be closed on Good Friday. Smaller, local shops may have more flexibility, but don't rely on it. Some larger supermarkets, like Continente and Pingo Doce, generally have limited opening hours on Good Friday, but their availability is not guaranteed. Check their websites or social media pages for updates closer to the date.
• Easter Sunday Closures: Many stores will also be closed on Easter Sunday, although some larger supermarkets might open for limited hours. Check websites for specific store opening hours, as they can vary by location and chain.
• Saturday Shopping: Saturday before Easter is typically a very busy shopping day, as people prepare for the holiday. Expect long lines and crowded stores. Some expats recommend shopping very early in the morning or late at night on Saturday to avoid the worst of the crowds. If you have a large supermarket nearby that offers online ordering and delivery (like "Mercadão" from Pingo Doce), consider using this service to avoid the crowds.
• Shopping in Advance: It's highly recommended to do your grocery shopping and any other essential shopping well in advance of Good Friday. Don't leave it until the last minute; keep in mind traditional Easter produce may run out very early.
• Restaurants: Many restaurants will be open on Easter Sunday, but it's essential to make reservations, especially for lunch. Traditional Portuguese restaurants serving Easter meals (like cabrito or borrego) will be particularly popular. Book your Easter Sunday lunch reservation at least 2-3 weeks in advance, especially if you have a large group or a specific restaurant in mind.
• Pharmacies: Pharmacies operate on a rotating schedule for holidays and weekends. There will always be at least one pharmacy open in each area, even on Good Friday and Easter Sunday, but it might not be your usual one. Look for signs posted on pharmacy doors indicating the farmácia de serviço (duty pharmacy). You can also find the Farmacia de Serviço information online or in local newspapers.
• Public Transportation: Public transportation (buses, trains, metro) will likely operate on a reduced schedule on Good Friday and Easter Sunday. Check the websites of the relevant transport providers for specific timetables. If you're planning to travel by train during Holy Week, book your tickets in advance, as trains can get very full.
• Banks: They will remain closed on Good Friday. ATMs will still be operational, but it's wise to withdraw cash in advance, as they might run low on busy days.
• Post Office: On Good Friday, the post office will remain closed.

4. Other considerations for Easter in Portugal as an Expat

• If planning to travel, be sure to book in advance, as prices will be higher. Check travel forums for deals and recommendations on Easter destinations in Portugal. Consider visiting smaller towns and villages for a more authentic Easter experience, rather than the major tourist hotspots.
• Be mindful and respectful of religious observances, even if you don't personally participate. If you're invited to attend a religious service or procession, it's polite to dress modestly (covering shoulders and knees).