Staying connected across borders is essential in today’s globalized world. Whether you have family, friends, or business contacts in Portugal, knowing how to reach them from the Netherlands efficiently can save you time and money. This guide walks you through every step of making a successful international call from the Netherlands to Portugal.

It covers traditional calling methods, modern alternatives, and key considerations like dialing codes, time zones, and costs. Let’s make sure your next call to Portugal goes smoothly.

Understanding the Basics: International Calling Structure

Making an international call involves a specific sequence of numbers. You need to tell your phone provider you are calling outside your country. Then, you specify the country you wish to reach, followed by the specific area within that country, and finally, the local phone number.

This structure is universal for international calling Portugal from Netherlands. It helps telephone networks route your call correctly. For more details on international dialing, you can refer to resources like World Population Review’s guide on country codes.

The Essential Codes: Netherlands to Portugal Dialing Code

To call Portugal from Netherlands, you must know a few crucial digits. This combination acts like an address for your call, ensuring it reaches the right destination.

Here’s the standard sequence you’ll use:

1. International Exit Code (Netherlands): This tells your phone system you are making an international call. For the Netherlands, this code is 00.
2. Portugal Country Code: This code identifies Portugal as the destination country. Portugal’s country code is 351.
3. Area Code (Portugal): This code specifies the region within Portugal you are calling. Portugal uses various area codes for different cities and regions.
4. Local Phone Number: This is the specific 9-digit local number of the person or business you want to reach.

So, the general format to make calls Netherlands to Portugal looks like this:

00 (Netherlands Exit Code) + 351 (Portugal Country Code) + Area Code + Local Phone Number

Calling from a Landline in the Netherlands

Calling Portugal from a landline requires you to dial the full international sequence. This method is straightforward, but it can sometimes incur higher costs compared to other options.

Here are the steps to follow:

1. Dial 00: First, dial the international exit code for the Netherlands.
2. Dial 351: Next, enter Portugal’s country code.
3. Dial the Area Code: Find the specific area code for the city or region in Portugal you are calling. For example, Lisbon’s area code is typically part of the nine-digit number itself, starting with 21.
4. Dial the Local Number: Finally, dial the 9-digit local Portuguese phone number.

Example for a Landline Call to Lisbon:

If the local number in Lisbon is 123 456 789, you would dial:

00 351 21 123 456 789 (assuming ’21’ is the Lisbon area code prefix within the full 9-digit number)

Calling from a Mobile Phone in the Netherlands

Calling Portugal from your mobile phone follows a similar pattern to landlines. However, you have an alternative way to enter the international exit code. This method is often more convenient for frequent international callers.

Here are the steps for mobile calling:

1. Dial + (plus sign): On a mobile phone, you can often substitute the 00 exit code with a + symbol. To get the + symbol, press and hold the 0 key on most smartphones. This tells your phone you are making an international call.
2. Dial 351: Enter Portugal’s country code.
3. Dial the Area Code: Add the relevant Portuguese area code.
4. Dial the Local Number: Enter the 9-digit local phone number.

Example for a Mobile Call to Porto:

If the local number in Porto is 987 654 321, you would dial:

+ 351 987 654 321 (assuming the full 9-digit number already includes its regional prefix)

Using the + sign is especially useful if you are calling while roaming or from different countries. It automatically adjusts to the correct international exit code for your location.

Understanding Portuguese Phone Number Formats and Area Codes

Portuguese phone numbers are generally 9 digits long. These numbers usually incorporate the area identification within their structure. This differs from some countries where you dial a separate, shorter area code before the local number.

Here’s a breakdown of common prefixes and what they indicate:

So, when someone gives you a Portuguese phone number, it will typically be the full 9-digit number. You just need to add the international codes in front of it.

For instance:

• A Lisbon landline number might look like 21 XXX XXX XX.
• A mobile number might look like 93 XXX XXX XX.

When you call Portugal from Netherlands, you simply append the 00 351 or +351 before this 9-digit number.

Common Portuguese City Prefixes (first two digits of the 9-digit number):

• Lisbon: 21
• Porto: 22
• Coimbra: 239
• Faro: 289
• Braga: 253
• Madeira (Funchal): 291
• Azores (Ponta Delgada): 296

This information helps clarify the phone number format you will encounter. You do not typically need to find a separate “area code” in the traditional sense. The regional prefix is part of the 9-digit number itself.

The Best Time for Calling Portugal

Considering the time difference is crucial for a polite and effective call. Portugal observes Western European Time (WET) and Western European Summer Time (WEST). The Netherlands uses Central European Time (CET) and Central European Summer Time (CEST).

Here’s how the time difference usually works:

• Standard Time (Winter): Portugal is 1 hour behind the Netherlands.

Example: If it’s 10:00 AM in the Netherlands, it’s 9:00 AM in Portugal.

• Daylight Saving Time (Summer): Portugal is still 1 hour behind the Netherlands. Both countries adjust their clocks.

Example: If it’s 3:00 PM in the Netherlands, it’s 2:00 PM in Portugal.

Always aim to call during Portugal’s business hours (typically 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM local time) or at a convenient time for personal contacts. A quick online search for “time in Lisbon” or “time in Portugal” will give you the current local time.

Cost of Calling Portugal from the Netherlands

The cost of international calling Portugal from Netherlands can vary significantly. Several factors influence how much you pay for each minute. Understanding these helps you choose the most economical option.

Key factors include:

• Your Dutch Phone Provider: Different mobile and landline operators offer various international calling rates. Some providers have specific bundles or add-ons for international calls.
• Type of Number You Call: Calling a Portuguese landline is often cheaper than calling a Portuguese mobile number.
• Time of Day: Some traditional plans might offer lower rates during off-peak hours, though this is less common with modern international calling plans.
• Calling Method: Using traditional phone lines, VoIP services, or specialized apps will have different pricing structures.

Typical Cost Considerations:

• Standard Rates: Without any special bundles, traditional landline or mobile calls can range from €0.20 to €1.00 or more per minute. These costs can quickly add up, especially for longer conversations.
• International Bundles: Many Dutch providers offer international calling bundles for an additional monthly fee. These bundles usually include a set number of minutes to EU countries, including Portugal, at a much lower per-minute rate.
• VoIP and Calling Apps: Services like Skype, WhatsApp, or specialized virtual number providers like Telfon often offer the most competitive rates, sometimes even free calls if both parties use the same app and have an internet connection.

It’s wise to check with your current Dutch phone provider about their specific rates to Portugal. Compare these with the cost-effective solutions available through virtual phone systems.

Why Do You Need to Call Portugal from the Netherlands?

There are many reasons why you might need to make calls Netherlands to Portugal. These calls bridge distances, support businesses, and maintain personal connections.

Common reasons include:

• Family and Friends: Many Dutch residents have family or friends living, working, or studying in Portugal. Regular calls are essential for keeping these relationships strong.
• Business Operations: Companies in the Netherlands often conduct business with Portuguese partners, clients, or suppliers. This includes trade, logistics, tourism, and various other sectors. Efficient communication is vital for smooth operations.
• Travel and Tourism: If you are planning a trip to Portugal, you might need to call hotels, tour operators, or car rental agencies to make reservations or confirm details.
• Relocation or Expat Support: Individuals moving to Portugal or Dutch expats living there frequently need to contact banks, real estate agents, government offices, or other services.
• Healthcare and Emergencies: In rare cases, you might need to contact emergency services or hospitals in Portugal from the Netherlands.
• Education: Students studying abroad in Portugal or Dutch universities collaborating with Portuguese institutions require regular contact.
• Real Estate: Investing in Portuguese property or managing existing holdings often involves frequent calls to agents, lawyers, and property managers.

For all these scenarios, reliable and affordable international calling Portugal from Netherlands is a necessity.

Challenges with Traditional International Calling

While traditional methods work, they often come with their own set of challenges. These can make calling Portugal from Netherlands less convenient or more expensive than it needs to be.

Some common issues include:

• High Costs: As mentioned, per-minute rates can quickly become expensive, leading to shorter conversations or unexpected phone bills.
• Complex Dialing Codes: Remembering the exit codes, country codes, and understanding regional prefixes can be confusing for those who don’t frequently make international calls.
• Lack of Flexibility: Traditional landlines tie you to a physical location. Mobile plans might have limited international minutes or roaming charges if you travel.
• Poor Call Quality: Depending on the network and routing, traditional international calls can sometimes suffer from dropped calls, echoes, or poor audio clarity.
• Limited Features: Standard phone services usually offer basic calling without additional features like call recording, virtual numbers, or integration with other communication tools.

These challenges highlight the need for modern, efficient communication solutions.

How Telfon Can Be Useful for Calling Portugal from the Netherlands

This is where a service like Telfon truly shines. Telfon is a virtual phone calling app that simplifies and enhances international calling Portugal from Netherlands. It offers a modern, cloud-based solution for individuals and businesses alike.

Telfon provides a robust VoIP phone system, acting as a virtual phone system and a comprehensive business phone system. It leverages internet technology to deliver high-quality, affordable international calls.

Here’s how Telfon makes make calls Netherlands to Portugal easier and more beneficial:

• Virtual Phone Numbers for Portugal: Telfon allows you to purchase a virtual phone number for Portugal. This means your contacts in Portugal can call you on a local Portuguese number, often at their local rates, making it seem like you are just around the corner. You receive these calls directly in your Telfon app, no matter where you are in the Netherlands.
• Cost-Effective International Calls: Telfon offers highly competitive rates for Netherlands to Portugal dialing code calls. By using VoIP technology, it bypasses the expensive traditional phone networks, significantly reducing your per-minute costs.
• Ease of Use: The Telfon app is designed for simplicity. You can make calls directly from your smartphone or computer, managing your communications with ease.
• Advanced Features: Telfon goes beyond basic calling. It includes features like:

Call Recordings: Essential for business, training, or simply remembering important details.

SMS & Broadcast Messages: Send and receive text messages, and even send bulk messages for marketing or announcements.

WhatsApp Integration: Connect multiple WhatsApp accounts, streamlining your communication.

Multi-Country Numbers: Manage virtual numbers for multiple countries simultaneously, perfect for businesses with international reach.

Voicemail & Voicemail to Text: Never miss a message, and read voicemails when listening is not convenient.

Call Forwarding: Redirect calls to another number, ensuring you are always reachable.

• Reliable Call Quality: Leveraging stable internet connections, Telfon provides clear and consistent call quality, reducing the frustration of dropped calls.
• B2B and B2C Capabilities: Whether you are an individual wanting to connect with family or a business managing international clients, Telfon caters to both. Its B2B features include user analytics, dashboard filters, user management, and budget assignment. This makes it ideal for real estate, international hiring, customer support, and sales teams.

By choosing Telfon, you gain a powerful communication tool that transforms how you call Portugal from Netherlands. It makes connecting effortless, efficient, and economical.

Step-by-Step Calling Portugal with Telfon

Using Telfon to call Portugal from Netherlands is straightforward. Follow these steps to set up and make your first call.

1. Download and Set Up the Telfon App

First, download the Telfon app from your device’s app store (available for iOS and Android) or access it via your web browser.

• Create an Account: Sign up with your details.
• Top Up or Choose a Plan: Add credit to your account or select a subscription plan that suits your calling needs.
• Purchase a Virtual Portugal Number (Optional but Recommended): If you want people in Portugal to call you locally, go to the “Virtual Numbers” section and select a Portuguese number. This feature is particularly useful for businesses.

2. Making a Call to Portugal

Once your account is set up and you have credit, making a call is simple:

1. Open the Telfon App: Launch the application on your device.
2. Navigate to the Dialpad: Find the dialpad icon within the app.
3. Enter the Portugal Number:

If you’re dialing a standard Portuguese number, type +351 followed by the 9-digit local number (e.g., +351 91 XXX XXX XX). The + sign automatically handles the international exit code.

Alternatively, you can select Portugal from the country list, and the +351 will populate automatically.

4. Initiate the Call: Press the call button.

Telfon will then route your call over the internet, connecting you to Portugal efficiently.

Why Choose a Virtual Phone Number for Portugal?

A virtual phone number for Portugal offers significant advantages, especially for frequent callers or businesses. It essentially gives you a local presence without needing a physical office in Portugal.

Here are compelling reasons to consider one:

• Local Presence: Your Portuguese contacts can call you at local rates, making it more appealing for them to reach out. This builds trust and accessibility.
• Cost Savings for Incoming Calls: If your Portuguese contacts have unlimited local calls, they can reach you for free, instead of paying international rates.
• Professional Image: For businesses, a local number creates a professional image, making your company appear more established in the Portuguese market.
• Flexibility and Mobility: Receive calls from your Portuguese virtual number anywhere in the world, as long as you have an internet connection. Your physical location in the Netherlands (or anywhere else) becomes irrelevant.
• Enhanced Customer Service: Offer better customer support to your Portuguese clients by providing an easy and affordable way for them to contact you.
• Privacy: Keep your personal Dutch phone number private while managing business or specific international communications through your virtual number.
• Easy Setup: Setting up a virtual number with Telfon is quick and hassle-free, often taking just a few minutes.

A virtual number transforms international calling Portugal from Netherlands from a potential hurdle into a seamless bridge.

What Are People Asking About Calling Portugal?

Many people have similar questions when looking to call internationally. Here are some common queries and their quick answers, often found in search engine results:

Q: What is the Netherlands to Portugal dialing code?

A: The full sequence is 00 (exit code for Netherlands) + 351 (country code for Portugal) + the 9-digit Portuguese phone number. On mobile, you can use +351 followed by the 9-digit number.

Q: Is it expensive to call Portugal from Netherlands?

A: It can be, depending on your phone provider and plan. Traditional calls often have higher per-minute rates. Services like Telfon offer more affordable options using VoIP.

Q: Can I use WhatsApp to make calls Netherlands to Portugal?

A: Yes, if both you and the recipient have WhatsApp and an internet connection, you can make free calls over the app. However, this relies on both parties using the same app and having data/Wi-Fi.

Q: Do I need a special plan for international calling Portugal from Netherlands?</p

A: Not necessarily, but an international calling bundle from your provider or a virtual phone service like Telfon can significantly reduce costs compared to standard rates.

Q: What’s the time difference between the Netherlands and Portugal?

A: Portugal is typically 1 hour behind the Netherlands year-round (both during standard and daylight saving times).

Q: How do I get a virtual phone number for Portugal?

A: You can purchase one through a virtual phone system provider like Telfon. Simply sign up for their service, select Portugal, and choose your desired number.

Key Takeaways for Calling Portugal from the Netherlands

• Dialing Sequence: Always start with the international exit code (00 or +), followed by Portugal’s country code (351), then the 9-digit local Portuguese number.
• Time Difference: Portugal is 1 hour behind the Netherlands. Plan your calls accordingly.
• Cost Matters: Traditional calls can be expensive. Explore international bundles from your provider or cost-effective VoIP solutions.
• Telfon’s Advantage: For reliability, features, and affordability, Telfon offers a superior solution, especially with its virtual Portugal numbers and advanced communication tools.
• Virtual Numbers: A virtual phone number for Portugal creates a local presence, reduces costs for incoming calls, and projects a professional image.

Conclusion: Bridging the Distance with Smart Calling

Connecting from the Netherlands to Portugal, whether for personal or business reasons, is now easier and more efficient than ever. While traditional dialing methods remain an option, modern solutions like Telfon offer a compelling alternative. They combine affordability, advanced features, and user-friendly interfaces.

By understanding the correct dialing codes, considering time zones, and choosing the right calling service, you can maintain seamless communication. Telfon’s virtual phone numbers for Portugal and its comprehensive VoIP system stand out as an excellent choice. It simplifies the process of calling Portugal from Netherlands and ensures your conversations are clear, reliable, and cost-effective. Embrace the future of international communication and connect with confidence.