Dot maps are one of the best ways to visualize absolute values in thematic cartography. Dots represent quantitative data on a map. Population is often used in this type of representation. This paper presents a population dot density map for the year 2011 on two scales: (1) for mainland Portugal, and (2) for the Lisbon and Oporto regions. We have used dots with constant values and sizes at the most detailed statistical level (i.e. statistical subsection) for localities with less than 5000 inhabitants, and proportional circles for localities with more than 5000 inhabitants. These two scales of analysis coupled with two cartographic representation techniques used on a single map allow for a clear reading of the distribution of population.