Why I Decided to Learn European Portuguese

I originally started to learn Portuguese because I went on holiday to Madeira and I always like to learn a few words before I go anywhere. Then I moved to Portugal and had to start my studies in earnest.

Most learners choose Brazilian Portuguese (at least the people from outside of Europe). It’s more popular, has more media content, and seems more accessible.

But I chose to learn European Portuguese and I’ve never regretted it.

🌍 Geography and Life Choice

I live in Portugal, in a rural area, so European Portuguese is what I hear and use every day.

Learning the local variant was never just about vocabulary or pronunciation, it was about being able to function and connect in real life. There is a sizable Brazilian community in Portugal and most locals will understand most of what you're saying but it makes much more sense to speak European Portuguese in Portugal.

🧠 A Mental Shift

It was actually harder to find good materials for European Portuguese, especially at the beginning. But that made me more intentional about how I studied. Online materials in particular are hard to find, for example Duolingo still only has Brazilian Portuguese.

I had to build my own system, test resources, and focus on real-world usage.

That challenge made me a more active learner.

🎯 Goals and Identity

I eventually want to apply for Portuguese citizenship, so knowing the official language is a practical step.

But beyond that, learning European Portuguese has helped me feel more rooted, more integrated, and more aware of the culture I live in.

Final Thought

If your goal is to live, work, or truly engage with Portugal choose the version people around you actually speak.

It might not be the most popular online, but for me, it’s the most meaningful.