Lisbon Money

Lisbon Money — Currency, Costs & Payment Tips

Understanding money in Lisbon is essential for planning your trip efficiently. The city is part of the Eurozone, using the euro (€) as its official currency. Prices are generally affordable compared to most Western European capitals, especially for dining and public transportation. Credit cards are widely accepted, but small coins and notes are still useful for trams, cafés, and local markets. This guide covers everything from currency exchange and ATM fees to tipping culture, payment apps, and daily budgeting for different traveler types.

Currency Basics

• Official Currency: Euro (€)
• Banknotes: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, €500 (higher notes rarely used)
• Coins: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 cents, €1, €2
• Currency Code: EUR

Smaller notes (€5, €10, €20) are preferred in shops, cafés, and taxis. Many small businesses may refuse €100+ bills or ask for smaller denominations. For convenience, carry a mix of coins and smaller notes when exploring.

Exchange Rates & Currency Conversion

Exchange rates fluctuate daily, but as of late 2025, €1 equals roughly **USD 1.05** or **GBP 0.88**. Rates vary slightly across exchange bureaus. Always compare at least two before changing cash, and avoid airport kiosks unless necessary — they tend to charge higher commissions.

ATMs usually offer better rates than exchange counters. Withdraw in euros directly, but decline dynamic currency conversion (DCC) on-screen to avoid extra fees. This ensures your home bank sets the rate, not the local ATM operator.

Using ATMs in Lisbon

Lisbon has a reliable ATM network known locally as Multibanco (MB). Machines are widely available in metro stations, shopping centers, and bank entrances. They operate 24/7 and offer English menus.

• Withdrawal Limit: Around €200–€400 per transaction (depends on bank).
• Accepted Cards: Visa, MasterCard, Maestro, Cirrus, Plus.
• Fees: Most Portuguese banks don’t charge local fees, but your bank may add a 2–3% foreign transaction fee.

Be cautious of stand-alone “Euronet” machines in tourist zones — they often charge high fees and poor exchange rates. Instead, look for ATMs attached to major banks like Caixa Geral, Millennium BCP, Novo Banco, or Santander.

Credit & Debit Card Usage

Lisbon is increasingly cashless. Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted, especially in hotels, restaurants, and major stores. American Express is less common. Contactless payments are standard, and locals often use MB Way — Portugal’s mobile payment system linked to Multibanco cards.

For travelers, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Revolut cards work flawlessly across Lisbon’s terminals. However, small family-owned cafés or vintage shops might prefer cash for bills under €5.

Daily Budget Estimates (Per Person)

Lisbon offers excellent value for money. Below are approximate daily budgets for different traveler types:

Public transportation costs are low — a metro ticket is €1.80, while a 24-hour travel pass is €6.80 (see Lisbon Transportation for more details). Average restaurant meals cost €10–€18 per person; coffee averages €1.50, and pastries €2–€3.

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping in Lisbon is appreciated but not mandatory. Locals typically round bills or add small percentages. Guidelines:

• Restaurants: 5–10% if service is good (cash preferred).
• Cafés: Round up to the nearest euro.
• Taxis: Round up or add €1–€2 for short rides.
• Hotel Staff: €1–€2 per bag for porters; €2–€3 per night for housekeeping.

Some bills include a “Serviço” line (service charge); in that case, extra tipping is optional. Leaving coins directly on the table is fine — tipping via card isn’t common.

Cost of Living Snapshot

• Coffee (espresso / “bica”): €1.20–€1.50
• Lunch menu (set meal): €10–€12
• Metro ticket: €1.80
• Taxi start fare: €3.50
• Beer (local): €2–€3
• Water bottle (0.5L): €1
• Pastry: €2

For more safety-related spending tips — like avoiding overcharging or scams — see Lisbon Health & Safety.

Taxes & VAT Refunds

Portugal’s VAT (Value Added Tax) is 23% for most goods and services. Non-EU visitors can request a **tax refund** for purchases above €50 from participating stores. Ask for a “Tax Free Form” at checkout, show your passport, and validate it at the airport before departure. Refunds are usually processed via Global Blue or Planet Tax Free.

Keep receipts and allow extra time at Lisbon Airport to complete paperwork. The refund may be paid to your card or in cash (in euros) at refund counters.

Banking Hours & Currency Exchange Locations

• Banks: Open Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM – 3:00 PM.
• Exchange Bureaus: Found in Baixa, Chiado, and near Rossio; most open until 7:00 PM.
• Airport: Exchange desks operate daily, but with less favorable rates.

For convenience, use ATMs for smaller withdrawals instead of exchanging large sums. Lisbon’s Multibanco system is trusted, efficient, and multilingual.

Digital Payments & Apps

Locals often use MB Way, a mobile wallet linked to Portuguese bank accounts. Visitors can rely on Revolut, Wise, or N26 for easy euro transactions and currency exchange at live rates.

Contactless payment is accepted almost everywhere — metro gates, grocery stores, taxis, and even small markets. However, carry some coins for older trams, funiculars, and kiosks that may not yet support cards. For transport-related tips, see Transportation in Lisbon.

Budgeting Tips for Travelers

• Plan for around €60–€100 per day for comfortable mid-range travel.
• Book museums and attractions online to lock in prices and skip queues.
• Tap water is safe and free — carry a reusable bottle to save on bottled water.
• Eat at “Prato do Dia” (daily menu) spots for authentic, low-cost lunches.
• For local markets, cash is still preferred — especially in Alfama or Feira da Ladra.

Safety & Scam Awareness

Lisbon is a safe city, but always verify card readers and avoid unsolicited exchange offers in tourist areas. Use ATMs inside banks rather than on the street. Receipts are provided automatically in most restaurants and taxis — check them for accuracy before leaving. For full safety guidance, visit Health & Safety.

Eco-Friendly Spending

Many shops and cafés offer discounts for bringing reusable cups or bags. Support local artisans at fair-trade markets instead of mass-produced souvenir shops. Lisbon’s growing sustainable economy encourages mindful spending — an easy way to align with Sustainable Tourism principles.