Gas stations are much like the ones in the United States. In Portugal pumping gas is a self-service affair. It is important to pay in cash, as some gas stations may not accept the magnetic swipe cards common in the U.S. (The ones that do accept these cards will encounter a surcharge of 50 Euro cents.) In rural areas, at night, or on weekends, automated pumps may be the only ones available, so fill up ahead of time and plan accordingly.

Many gas stations in Portugal are open 24 hours, but in smaller towns they may close for the evening at 10 p.m., and open the next morning at 7 a.m. Unleaded gasoline (`gasolina sin plomo` or `sem chumbo`) typically has an octane rating of 95 and 98. `Gasoleo` means `diesel` so be careful which type you choose before filling up. Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is `gaz liquido`.