How to Change Money in Portugal: Best Tips for Tourists (2025 Guide)

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If you’re planning a trip to Portugal and wondering how to get euros — you’re not alone. Whether you’re visiting Lisbon, Porto or the Algarve, knowing the best way to exchange money can save you time, hassle, and unnecessary fees.

Here’s a full guide to help you handle your money like a local during your stay in Portugal.

💳 Should You Bring Cash or Use Your Card in Portugal?

Portugal is generally card-friendly, especially in larger cities and tourist areas. However, carrying some cash is still recommended, especially for:

  • Small cafés or bakeries
  • Local markets
  • Street vendors or small taxis
  • Rural towns or remote beaches

Bring a debit or credit card with no foreign transaction fees (like Wise, Revolut or N26), and withdraw euros as needed once you arrive.

💶 Currency in Portugal: What You Need to Know

  • Currency: Euro (€)
  • Coins: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 cents + €1 and €2
  • Bills: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, €500 (note: €200 and €500 rarely used)

Make sure your notes are in good condition — very damaged or old bills can be rejected by some vendors.

🏦 Where to Exchange Money in Portugal (and Where to Avoid)

✅ Best Options:

  • ATMs (Multibanco system): Widely available, secure, and typically offer good exchange rates.
  • Reputable Banks: Like Santander, Millennium BCP, Novo Banco — exchange rates tend to be better than at currency booths.
  • Exchange Offices in City Centers: Some have decent rates, especially if you compare before exchanging. Always ask for the final amount in euros after fees.

❌ Avoid:

  • Airport exchange booths: Convenient, but often have the worst rates and high fees.
  • Tourist-heavy areas: Exchange offices in these zones may offer unfavorable rates or hidden commissions.

🏧 Best Way to Get Euros in Lisbon

The safest and smartest way to get euros in Lisbon is to withdraw directly from Multibanco ATMs using a debit card with low international fees.

You’ll find them:

  • At the airport (but try to wait until you’re in the city for better rates)
  • In metro stations and shopping areas
  • At major landmarks (Rossio, Baixa, Avenida da Liberdade)

👉 Tip: Always decline the ATM’s conversion offer — choose to be charged in euros, not your home currency. The “conversion” is usually more expensive.

💸 Watch Out for These Common Traps

  • Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC): When a card terminal asks if you want to pay in your home currency, always say NO — choose euros.
  • Flat withdrawal fees: Some ATMs (like Euronet) may charge high fixed fees. Stick with Multibanco-branded machines.
  • Hidden commissions: Ask clearly before exchanging cash — “Is there a commission?”

🔐 Are ATMs Safe in Portugal?

Yes — Multibanco is one of the most secure ATM networks in Europe. Still, follow basic safety:

  • Use ATMs attached to banks during business hours
  • Cover your PIN
  • Be cautious in very busy tourist areas at night

✨ Quick Money Tips for First-Time Visitors

  • Don’t exchange all your cash at once — rates vary
  • Keep small change for cafés and public transport
  • Withdraw during weekdays (weekend surcharges may apply with some cards)
  • Tipping is optional but appreciated (round up or leave €1-2 at restaurants)

📩 Stay Connected

I’m Martim — a local photographer in Lisbon who loves helping travelers make the most of their trip to Portugal. Besides travel guides, I also offer photo sessions to help visitors create lasting memories in the city’s most beautiful spots.

You can:

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  1. Pingback: How to Get Around Lisbon: A Complete Transport Guide (2025 Edition) – MD Fotografia

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