Currency & Payment

Portugal uses the euro (EUR, symbol EUR). Notes come in 5 to 500 euros and coins from 1 cent to 2 euros. Cards are accepted almost everywhere, but keep some small notes and coins for markets, small cafes and tips. Prices are shown with the euro sign after or before the amount.

You rarely need to exchange cash in Portugal, since cards and ATMs are everywhere. If you do bring foreign cash, use banks or reputable exchange offices rather than airport counters, which give poorer rates. Withdrawing euros from a bank ATM is usually the simplest and best-value option.

Cards are accepted very widely in Portugal, including contactless, and Visa and Mastercard work almost everywhere. American Express is less common. A few small cafes, markets and rural spots may still be cash-only or set a minimum, so carry a little cash as backup. Contactless and mobile wallets are common in cities.

ATMs, known locally as Multibanco, are everywhere and reliable, offering menus in English. Use bank-branded machines rather than standalone kiosks, and always choose to be charged in euros, not your home currency, to avoid poor conversion. Check whether your bank adds foreign withdrawal fees before you travel.

Contactless mobile payment via Apple Pay and Google Pay works widely wherever cards are accepted. Portugal also has its own popular system, MB WAY, used by locals for transfers and payments, though visitors usually rely on tap-to-pay with their phone or card. Set up your mobile wallet before arrival for a smooth experience.

Tipping in Portugal is modest and not obligatory. In restaurants many people round up the bill or leave around 5 to 10 percent for good service; cafes and bars often just get the small change. Taxi fares are commonly rounded up. Tips are appreciated but never expected the way they are in some countries.

Portugal is one of Western Europe's better-value destinations. A simple coffee (bica) costs about 1 euro, a casual lunch around 8 to 12 euros, and a mid-range dinner roughly 15 to 25 euros per person. Lisbon and the Algarve are pricier than smaller towns and the interior. Prices rise in the summer peak season.

Non-EU residents can often reclaim VAT on eligible purchases above a minimum amount when taking the goods out of the EU. Ask the shop for a tax-free form, then validate it at customs on departure, using the electronic e-taxfree kiosks at Portuguese airports. Keep receipts and unused goods accessible for inspection.