RoundaboutPortugal

An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of Portugal. Learn about driving, road safety and much more in our illustrated book, with answers to frequently asked questions.

For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.


9. Roundabout

A roundabout is a circular road arrangement in which traffic travels around a central island in one designated direction. Vehicles enter and leave through connecting roads, and traffic signs or local rules determine who has priority.

Drivers should reduce speed, choose a suitable lane, observe all road users and signal as required when leaving. The direction of travel, entry priority, lane use and rules for cyclists and pedestrians depend on local traffic signs and regulations.

Globe Roundabout on Avenida dos Descobrimentos. (Albufeira, Algarve, Portugal)
Wikimedia.org • Kolforn • CC BY-SA
Who has priority at a roundabout in Portugal?

At a Portuguese rotunda, entering drivers must yield to vehicles already circulating, whichever lane those vehicles are using. The Road Code then imposes specific lane-selection rules for the intended exit.

🔗 pgdlisboa.pt • Portugal, Código da Estrada — articles 14-A, 21, 29, 31–32, 35, 103; RST B1 and D4

🔗 ansr.pt • ANSR official RST — corrected 2019 republication, sign descriptions and markings

🔗 pgdlisboa.pt • PGDL Road Code, second page — pedestrian and crossing provisions, articles 99–104

How should you choose a roundabout lane in Portugal?

For an ordinary motor vehicle taking the first exit, use the right lane. For a later exit, move to the rightmost lane only after passing the exit immediately before yours, taking the required precautions. The Code has separate provisions for cycles, animal-drawn vehicles and heavy vehicles.

🔗 pgdlisboa.pt • Portugal, Código da Estrada — articles 14-A, 21, 29, 31–32, 35, 103; RST B1 and D4

🔗 ansr.pt • ANSR official RST — corrected 2019 republication, sign descriptions and markings

🔗 pgdlisboa.pt • PGDL Road Code, second page — pedestrian and crossing provisions, articles 99–104

What should you check when leaving a roundabout in Portugal?

Check the lane you will cross or enter, signal the manoeuvre as required and look for cyclists and pedestrians at the exit. Obey any separate crossing controls and do not force an exit across another vehicle’s path.

🔗 pgdlisboa.pt • Portugal, Código da Estrada — articles 14-A, 21, 29, 31–32, 35, 103; RST B1 and D4

🔗 ansr.pt • ANSR official RST — corrected 2019 republication, sign descriptions and markings

🔗 pgdlisboa.pt • PGDL Road Code, second page — pedestrian and crossing provisions, articles 99–104

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