Telephone service in Portugal is provided by Portugal Telecom (PT), which was government-owned but has now been privatized. Telephone communications are generally of a very high standard, although fixed-line coverage is not as widespread as mobile coverage.

Direct-dialing abroad is possible from most areas. In a few remote regions it may be necessary to obtain operator assistance for international calls.

Public telephones are available in most towns and in all Post Offices. Calls from public telephones can be made with cash and "CrediPhone" cards. Cards may be purchased at many retail outlets and Post Offices nationwide.

Some restaurants and bars have public telephones from which international calls can be made.

Mobile phone use is prevalent throughout Portugal, and is significantly greater than residential fixed line use. There are several mobile phone service providers from whom to choose, among them Vodaphone, Optimus and TSM.