Money & Payments in Lisbon

Withdrawal Limits

The standard ATM limit in Portugal is generally €400 per day, but your ATM might limit you to €200 per withdrawal. If so, try making a second withdrawal, even at the same machine, to get to the €400 limit.

Dynamic Currency Conversion Warning

Some ATMs may ask Accept OR Decline Conversion. If you 'Accept', ATM converts your money at ATM's set exchange rate and you pay an extra % fee. If you 'Decline', ATM will convert at exchange rate of the bank/card logo. To avoid extra fees while withdrawing cash, select 'Decline/Without' Conversion or 'Charge in EUR'.

Taxis

The general practice is to round up the fare to the nearest euro as a gesture of gratitude. For example, if your fare comes to €7.50, it's customary to pay €8 and let the driver keep the change.

Hotels

A gratuity of around €1-2 per day for housekeeping is considered generous. For bellhops who help with your luggage, a tip of around €1-2 per bag is customary.

Guided Tours

A standard gratuity of 5-10 euros per person is a generous way to show appreciation for the guide's knowledge and hospitality. For group tours, a collective tip can be given, while private guides may expect a slightly higher amount due to the personalized service.

General Stance

Tipping is not customary or obligatory in Portugal the way it is in countries like the United States. However, small tips are appreciated for good service, particularly in restaurants, taxis, and hotels.

Cultural Note

Wages are low in Portugal (and property prices are increasing) so a tip is always appreciated. However, even though wages are low in Portugal, unlike the US, servers aren't paid with the expectation that they'll be getting tips on top.

Details

Both cash and card are widely accepted across Portugal, and many things can be paid for by card at most places like groceries, drinks and restaurants. Visa and Mastercard are commonly accepted, while American Express is accepted in some places, but not as frequently as the first two.

Exceptions

Small convenience stores sometimes only take cash or have broken card machines. Certain smaller shops and petrol stations only accept chip and pin cards.

Widely Accepted

Yes

Range

€2.00

Note

Waived for students, young people, or specific account types; ActivoBank and digital banks offer free accounts

Note

Must be obtained before opening account. Can be obtained at Finanças (tax office) in person or remotely via fiscal representative or services like GETNIFPortugal

Digital Alternatives

• N26 (German bank, app-based, fee-free, EU regulated)
• Revolut (multi-currency, app-based, international transfers optimized)
• Wise (multi-currency, low-cost transfers, not a full bank)

Fee Structure

Typically €30 flat fee or percentage-based; transfers under €50,000 incur fees under €15

Processing Time

3–5 working days