Money & Currency
Brazilian Real (BRL)
The Brazilian currency is the Real (plural: Reais). Coins: 5, 10, 25, 50 Centavos and 1 BRL. Notes: 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 BRL.
Exchange rate (reference 2025/26): 1 EUR ≈ 5.5–6.5 BRL
ATMs (ATM / Caixa Eletrônico)
ATMs are everywhere. The main banks: Banco do Brasil (yellow), Bradesco (red), Itaú (orange), Santander, Banco24Horas (network ATMs in supermarkets and gas stations). Tips:
- Withdrawal limit: Usually 1,000–1,500 BRL per transaction (165–250€).
- Fees: Brazilian banks charge 6–15 BRL (1–2.50€) per withdrawal + possible fees from your home bank.
- Best cards: DKB Visa, Wise Debit Card, or Revolut — minimal foreign fees.
- Safety: Only withdraw in busy, well-lit areas. Supermarkets and shopping centers are the safest.
Credit Cards & PIX
Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted in hotels, upscale restaurants, and shops. Many smaller stores accept only cash or PIX — Brazil's ubiquitous instant payment system (via QR code). Not directly usable as a tourist, but Wise or Revolut partially offer PIX functionality.
💡 Tipp
Never exchange money at the airport — the rate is terrible. Withdraw Reais from ATMs or use a Wise/Revolut card for the best exchange rates. Always carry enough cash in rural areas!