Traditional markets are a fun place to browse, particularly the enormous Thursday market in Barcelos. Top value for shoppers include wine, lacework and embroidered linen, ceramics, carpets (a long-time specialty in Arraiolos), leather goods, copper, handcrafted silver and gold, woodcarving, cork products, porcelain and china, crystal and glassware.
Shopping hours
Generally Mon-Fri 0900-1200 and 1400-1900, Sat 0900-1300. Shopping centers are usually open Mon-Sun 1000-2200.
Currency Information:CurrencyEuro (EUR; symbol
€) = 100 cents. Notes are in denominations of €500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10 and 5. Coins are in denominations of €2 and 1, and 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 cents.
Currency ExchangeMany banks offer differing exchange rates depending on the denominations of Portuguese currency being bought or sold. It is common practice for banks to charge 0.5% commission with a minimum charge of approximately €10. However, some banks do not charge any commission on transactions of less than €25. Check with banks for details and current rates. Additionally, ATMs, identified by the symbol MB (MultiBanco), are widely available and only charge 1 to 2% commission. There are also many bureaux de change.
Credit/Debit Cards and ATMsAmerican Express, MasterCard and Visa are widely accepted.
Traveller's ChequesThese are readily exchanged. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travelers are advised to take traveller's cheques in Euros.
Banking HoursGenerally, Mon-Fri 0830-1500 (certain banks in Lisbon are open until 1800).
Exchange Rate Indicators| Date | Jan 09 |
| £1.00= | €1.06 |
| $1.00= | €0.73 |
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