Banks & Money

Portugal is part of the Eurozone — the currency is the Euro (€), as in Germany, Austria, and most EU countries. No currency exchange needed.

Cash & Cards

Card payment is widespread in Portugal. Even in small cafes, markets, and taxis, you can pay by card (Visa and Mastercard are accepted everywhere). Contactless/NFC works almost everywhere. However, it is advisable to always have some cash on hand — some Tascas (traditional taverns), beach vendors, and small shops only accept cash.

ATMs (Multibanco)

The Portuguese Multibanco network is one of the best in Europe. ATMs are everywhere (even in small villages), work reliably, and offer a German-language menu. Important: If the ATM asks if it should settle in your home currency (Dynamic Currency Conversion), always choose "Settle in Euros" — the ATM's conversion rates are significantly worse than those of your bank.

Bank Fees

Most German banks charge no fees for card payments in the Eurozone. When withdrawing from ATMs, some banks charge €3–5 per withdrawal. Travel credit cards (DKB, ING, Revolut, N26) often offer free withdrawals worldwide. Tip: Revolut and Wise offer the best exchange rates and no hidden fees.

Bank Opening Hours

Bank branches are generally open Mon–Fri 8:30–15:00. In tourist areas and shopping centers, sometimes longer.