Currency Exchange in Lisbon Portugal
Currency in Lisbon: How to Pay, Tip & Exchange Money in Portugal
If you’re visiting Lisbon, you’ll be using the Euro (€), the official currency of Portugal. This guide covers everything you need to know about currency in Lisbon, including the best ways to exchange money, tips on using cash vs card, how much to tip, and where to find reliable money exchange offices and ATMs. You might already have euros or need to exchange foreign currency. Either way, we’ve got you covered with this guide.
What Currency is Used in Lisbon?
The official currency in Lisbon is the Euro (€), which is used throughout Portugal and many other European countries. Euros are available in coins and banknotes: coins range from 1 cent to €2, while banknotes start at €5 and go up to €500. It’s a good idea to carry smaller denominations for coffee shops, taxis and local shops, as large notes or cards might not be accepted, even in 2025.
If you’re arriving from outside the Eurozone, you’ll need to exchange your currency into euros. This can be done at Lisbon Airport, in banks, or at currency exchange kiosks in the city centre.
Where to Exchange Money in Lisbon
Exchanging currency in Lisbon can be straightforward if you know where to go.
Local banks like Millennium BCP, Novo Banco and Santander Totta often offer the best exchange rates and have the added advantage of being trusted establishments. However, they do have limited operating hours and may not be open on weekends and public holidays.
Currency exchange kiosks are a more flexible option, especially if you arrive outside of banking hours. You’ll find them at Lisbon Airport and in tourist areas like Baixa or Avenida da Liberdade. While they offer the convenience of longer opening hours, be wary of higher fees and less favourable exchange rates.
Best Places to Exchange Money in Lisbon in 2025
| Provider Type | Name | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bank | Millennium BCP | Common in Lisbon, especially in the city centre |
| Bank | Novo Banco | Also widely available across Lisbon |
| Bank | Santander Totta | Branches throughout Lisbon |
| Exchange Kiosk | Unicâmbio | Found at Lisbon Airport and in popular tourist areas |
| Exchange Kiosk | Money Change | Located at Lisbon Airport |
| Exchange Kiosk | Eurochange | In city centre and shopping malls. Official Website |
Using ATMs in Lisbon
ATMs are everywhere in Lisbon, making it super easy to grab some cash when you need it. You’ll see them in banks, metro stations, shopping areas, and popular streets like Rua Augusta. Most machines offer multiple language options, including English, to make things easier.
We recommend using ATMs that are attached to actual banks like Millennium BCP or Santander Totta. These are part of Portugal’s trusted Multibanco network, known for low fees and fair exchange rates. Avoid any machines placed in tourist areas or souvenir shops (like Euronet), which can have hidden charges.
We’ve found that international cards like Monzo or Revolut work well at most Portuguese ATMs. If the machine offers a conversion in your home currency is best to decline and to choose to be charged in euros instead.
Tipping in Lisbon
Tipping in Lisbon isn’t a must, but it’s nice to do if you’ve had good service. At restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving 10% is a good rule of thumb. In cafes, people usually just leave the small change. Taxi drivers appreciate it if you round up to the nearest euro. And if you’re staying at a hotel, a euro or two for the bellman or housekeeping is a kind gesture. So, while tipping isn’t required in Lisbon (and generally in Portugal), it’s a good way to show you’re happy with the service.
Money & Currency in Lisbon: Frequently Asked Questions
Is it better to exchange money in my home country or in Lisbon?
It’s usually more cost-effective to exchange some money into euros before you arrive. However, you can also find reasonable rates at local banks and currency exchange kiosks in Lisbon.
Are credit and debit cards widely accepted in Lisbon?
Yes, cards are accepted at most restaurants, hotels, and shops in Lisbon. However, it’s smart to carry some cash for smaller places like local cafés, markets, or bakeries, where cards might not be accepted for small transactions.
Do I need to carry my passport to exchange money?
Yes, most banks and exchange kiosks will ask for your passport or a valid photo ID to complete the transaction. It’s standard for identity verification in Portugal.
What are the working hours for banks in Lisbon?
Banks in Lisbon usually open from 08:30AM to 03:00PM, Monday to Friday. They’re closed on weekends and public holidays. Some banks in tourist areas might have extended hours, but that’s not very common. It’s a good idea to get your banking done during weekdays if you can.
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