Want to Learn Portuguese? Here Are 5 Things You Should Know

by | Apr 30, 2026 | Beginner classes, Business language courses, courses, Evening classes, Interpreting, Language classes, Language for Holidays, Language school, Languages, Local Knowledge, Portuguese classes, Skype language classes

A younh man and woman standing in front of a map of the world on the wall behind them, holding up a Portuguese flag.

5th May might be the casting vote to get off the fence and signing up to learn Portuguese.

Why this date specifically? Because every 5th May is World Portuguese Language Day, when people worldwide celebrate one of the planet’s most spoken tongues.

But there’s more to it than meets the eye. In fact, there are five good reasons why learning Portuguese is more than just learning a new language.

Let’s run through them and see what sways you the most. 

So, Why Learn Portuguese?

Global data giant Statista ranks Portuguese in the Top 10 of The most spoken languages worldwide in 2026, with 269 million Portuguese speakers across the globe.

It’s flourishing across South America, Europe, and expanding African nations. Not to mention Brazil’s economic hub São Paulo alone has more Portuguese speakers than the whole of Portugal.

José Mourinho made it look cool. But here’s how Portuguese is vying for a spot on your language learning list, besides the “Special One” effect:

  1. Career gold – Portuguese is an official language of both the EU and African Union, making your CV stand out by association.
  1. Booming tech – Lisbon is Europe’s hottest startup scene. And Brazil’s fintech sector is exploding.
  1. Business doors swinging open – Opportunity is everywhere, from Brazilian agritech to Mozambican markets.
  1. Easier than you think – Music to any language student’s ears. So, you’ve already got a head start if you know any French or Spanish.
  1. Travel like you belong – Picture yourself roaming Rio’s vibrant streets or Lisbon’s pastéis de nata sweet spots with total confidence. Learn Portuguese and you can.

 Your Next Chapter? It’s Written in Portuguese

At award winning la Academia, we’re only a por favor away when you decide now is the time to learn Portuguese.

Get in touch to start your Portuguese language learning adventure your way, whether your needs are professional or cultural.