Lisbon is relaxed, but a few rules catch stag groups out – especially the night-time ban on takeaway alcohol sales introduced in 2026. Here are the rules that matter and how to stay on the right side of them.
The rules at a glance
23:00
takeaway alcohol sales stop Sun–Thu (00:00 Fri–Sat)
€150–1,000
fine for individuals under the alcohol sales rules
18
minimum age to be served alcohol
23–07
night noise period
ID
show photo ID if the police ask
What to know
🛒 Takeaway alcohol
Since 14 February 2026, shops and bars may not sell alcohol to take away at night – from 23:00 Sunday to Thursday and from midnight on Friday, Saturday and the eve of public holidays, until 08:00.
🍷 Bars and terraces
The ban is on selling drinks to take away – drinking at a seated terrace is not affected.
🔊 Noise
The night period runs from 23:00 to 07:00 and police can order noise to stop immediately.
🪪 ID
Carry photo ID – you must show it if the police ask.
🔞 Age
Alcohol may not be sold or served to anyone under 18.
How to avoid trouble
Before
Stock up early
Buy drinks for the apartment before 23:00 (midnight at weekends).
During
Keep it down
Be quiet on the stairs and in the streets after 23:00.
After
Get home safely
Use a licensed taxi or a ride-hailing app.
Organised fun
FAQ
Can we buy alcohol at night in Lisbon?
Not to take away. Since February 2026, takeaway sales stop at 23:00 from Sunday to Thursday and at midnight on Friday, Saturday and the eve of public holidays, until 08:00.
What are the fines?
Under the takeaway alcohol rules, fines are €150–1,000 for individuals and €350–3,000 for companies.
Do we need to carry ID?
Yes. You must show photo ID if the police ask – carry your passport or ID card.
What is the drinking age in Portugal?
Alcohol may not be sold or served to anyone under 18.
