Portugal Travel Guide

Browse the Portugal Photo Gallery

Shopping

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

Euro (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 Exchange

Many 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 bureau de change.

Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and ATMs

American Express, MasterCard and Visa are widely accepted.

Travelers Checks

These are readily exchanged. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travelers are advised to take traveler's checks in Euros.

Currency Restrictions

There are no restrictions on the import or export of local or foreign currency.

Banking Hours

Generally, Mon-Fri 0830-1500 (certain banks in Lisbon are open until 1800).

Exchange Rate