Piped Gas vs. Gas Bottles

Many older apartments in Portugal do not have piped natural gas and rely on butane or propane bottles (Gás de Botija) for cooking and water heating. You buy these from gas stations or schedule delivery services like Rubis or Galp.

When renting, check the water heater. If it uses a bottle, you will need to monitor your usage to avoid running out of hot water mid-shower. An empty bottle is exchanged for a full one, costing around €30-€35 depending on global prices.