Money isn’t the sexiest aspect of travel, but without it you don’t get very far. Get acquainted with Portugal’s notes and coins, plus a few other crucial bits of information, and you’ll minimise the chances of awkwardness, theft or abuse. Here’s what you need to know.
Credit Cards, Travellers Cheques & Currency
The local currency is Euro ( ˆ ).Money can be changed at Banks, Bureau De Change (cambio) or at one of the currency exchange machines in the streets. These facilities will offer a better rate than in Hotels and Receptions. Printed Euro notes come in the following values: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 ˆ. Euro coins are as follows: 1 cent, 5 cents, 10 cents, 20 cents, 50 cents, 1and 2 ˆ. Euro-cheque is a cheaper method than a Travelers Cheque to obtain cash. Traveller's cheques are accepted mainly for exchange in banks and exchange booths. All major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Eurocard, etc) are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, tourist oriented enterprises, even at the grocery store. The rate is exceptionally good and no extra charge is added to the bill for using the card.
