Portugal is one of the European Union countries belonging to the Euro Zone. Euro notes are issued in the following denominations: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 euros. The following coins are used: 1 and 2 euro coins and 1, 2 , 5, 10, 20 and 50 cent coins.
Tips on money withdrawal
The ATMs (Automatic Teller Machines) in Portugal are known as Multibanco or MB and are widespread in the country. The machines operate similarly to ATMs worldwide. You can use either a debit card or a credit card at the ATMs. The most widely accepted are American Express, Visa, Visa Electron, and Mastercard.
The cheapest way to call home is by buying an international SIM card, which you can pick up in most convenience stores from 5 Euros upwards. The card gives you a special pin number and will give you up to two hours of international calls on your mobile phone.
Try shopping in the markets for your fruit and vegetables. It is usually much cheaper than in the bigger supermarkets.
Always try to give the right money. Loose change is a rare commodity, especially in smaller shops.
Average Costs
Monthly Expenses
Random prices
Housing in Lisbon
€300 - €900
Meal at CATÓLICA-LISBON - cafeteria
€3.79
Meals, groceries, and other essentials
€150
Expresso
€0.65
Public transport (monthly pass for metro and buses/trams)
€36.20
Cinema
Cinema with student discount
€6.95
€6.25
Other living expenses
€100
Big Mac Menu
€5.50
Beer
€1 - €1.5
Cartão Viva (rechargeable with either bus, metro or train ticket)