Portuguese TV Shows with Subtitles You Can Watch for Free

Listening practice is essential for becoming fluent in Portuguese, but finding European Portuguese TV shows with subtitles can be challenging.

That’s why I’ve compiled this list of Portuguese TV shows with subtitles that you can watch for free—perfect for improving your listening skills, pronunciation, and cultural knowledge. Not only will you enhance your language abilities, but you’ll also learn about Portuguese traditions, history, and unique places across the country!

Fiction

Codex 632

Tomás de Noronha, a renowned historian, is drawn into a groundbreaking investigation started by his late mentor, Martinho Toscano—one that has the potential to reshape our understanding of world history.

Cuba Libre

Based on true events, this series follows the remarkable life of Annie Silva Pais, the daughter of a prominent figure in the Portuguese regime. After marrying a Swiss diplomat and moving to Havana, she makes a radical decision—leaving her husband and family behind to join the Cuban revolution.

O Sábio

This drama follows Pedro, who returns to his hometown in Portugal after spending 20 years in a distant Eastern land, immersed in a completely different culture. Spanning 300 episodes, the series unravels his journey of rediscovery, adaptation, and the challenges of reconnecting with his past.

Os Nossos Dias

This 2015 Portuguese soap opera, with hundreds of episodes available to stream, offers a compelling glimpse into the lives of ordinary people in contemporary Portugal—filled with drama, love, and everyday challenges.

Sitcoms

Agora a Sério

This 2015 comedy series, with 13 episodes available, follows the hectic and often hilarious daily lives of journalists at a daily newspaper, offering a witty take on the world of news and media.

Bem-vindos a Beirais

This drama-comedy explores the contrast between city life and the countryside, highlighting the challenges rural communities face, such as unemployment, depopulation, and isolation—all wrapped in a mix of humor and heartfelt storytelling.

Nelo & Idália

Nelio & Idália is a hilarious sitcom starring one of Portugal’s most celebrated comedians, Herman José. With 50 episodes available, it’s packed with sharp humor and memorable characters.

Documentary

Sou Autor do Meu Nome

Acclaimed author Mia Couto shares the story of his upbringing in Mozambique, the country’s independence war, and the civil war that followed. This program also offers a glimpse into contemporary Mozambique and the challenges it faces today.

Uma Montanha do Tamanho do Homem

Discover a hidden, dream-like rural settlement in northern Portugal, once forgotten but now rediscovered. This captivating place offers a unique glimpse into a forgotten corner of the country.

O Mundo dos Sentidos

This 6-episode documentary takes you on a sensory journey, exploring sight, hearing, smell, taste, touch, and, last but not least, intuition—unveiling the fascinating world of human perception.

Portugal tem Lata

This insightful documentary delves into Portugal’s traditional seafood-processing industry. With two episodes available, only the first one includes subtitles, offering a deeper look at this important part of Portuguese culture.

Show Me Lisbon

Explore Lisbon through the eyes of passionate Portuguese celebrities. In this captivating series, they guide you through the city’s iconic spots and hidden gems, revealing the heart of Portugal’s vibrant capital.

Histórias do Mar

This 14-episode series explores life at sea, giving a voice to small Portuguese fishing communities. It captures both the charms and challenges of their trade, offering a thoughtful reflection on the deep connection between man and the sea.

Água Vai, Pedra Leva

This program focuses on the Madeira Islands, tracing their history from the first settlement in the fifteenth century to the present day. It tells the story of how nature, landscape, and human society have evolved together over the centuries.

Madeira-Prima

This documentary showcases carpenters, artists, craftsmen, and designers as they reveal the secrets behind their craft. The one thing they all share in common? Wood is their raw material.

Portugueses pelo Mundo

This program tells the heartfelt stories of Portuguese emigrants living around the world. Each episode features an individual sharing their dreams, challenges, and the struggles of life far from home. Currently, the program is in its tenth season.

Music, Arts & History

Literatura Agora

The host of this literature-focused program recites, comments on, and discusses works by renowned authors, both Portuguese and international. With 22 episodes available, it offers deep insights into the world of literature.

Visita Guiada

This program offers an in-depth look at Portuguese history, traditions, gastronomy, architecture, and arts. Each episode acts as a “guided visit” to a place of interest. There are 10 seasons available, with Portuguese subtitles provided for seasons 2, 3, and 4.

Palcos Agora

This cultural program is dedicated to exploring the performing arts in Portugal, showcasing the country’s rich artistic heritage. With 22 episodes available, it offers an insightful look into the world of Portuguese performance.

O Povo que Ainda Canta

This cultural series takes you on a journey to every corner of Portugal, exploring the country’s rich musical traditions and vibrant folk culture. With 26 episodes available, it’s a wonderful way to experience the essence of Portugal’s cultural heritage.

Parque da Pena

If you’re a fan of architecture, landscapes, and Portuguese history, this program is a must-watch. It uncovers the fascinating history behind the Park and National Palace of Pena in Sintra, Portugal.

Os Filhos do Rock – Making Of

This show tells the story of a generation of musicians who laid the foundation for today’s Portuguese rock music scene, exploring their influence and legacy in the genre.

A Arte Elétrica em Portugal

Divided into two seasons of 6 episodes each, this documentary series takes you through the history of Portuguese pop music, from the 1960s to the present. Only the first season includes subtitles.

Educational

Cuidado com a Língua

This program explores the Portuguese language, highlighting common grammar mistakes made by native speakers, the origins of Portuguese idiomatic expressions, and other fascinating language curiosities.

Biosfera

This educational program focuses on environmental and sustainability issues, offering insightful content on important global topics. Currently in its eighteenth season, some episodes include subtitles, while others do not.

Voz do Cidadão

This program gives voice to RTP’s audience, allowing viewers to share their thoughts and opinions. As Portugal’s public service broadcaster, RTP is constantly under scrutiny, and this show offers a platform for open dialogue.

Reading tips! If you’ve found this post useful, you might also enjoy this one: 16 Podcast Shows to Nurture Your Portuguese Language Skills (and Get to Know More About Portugal).

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