Just as in most other European Union countries, the Portuguese currency is the Euro (€). One euro corresponds to 100 cents. Bills come in 5 euros, 10 euros, 20 euros, 50 euros, 100 euros and 200 euros. A 500 euros bill existed but stopped being produced in 2019. Coins come in 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents and in 1 and 2 euros.
Although cash was king in Lisbon for years, the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated a shift to debit card and mobile/app payments. Below are the modes of payment that you might use when visiting Portugal and Lisbon
Cash
Cash is still a very popular payment method, especially for small amounts. Portuguese people normally carry up to 50€, split in 20€ bills and coins. 20€, 10€ and 5€ bills are the most common. You are likely to be frowned upon for using bigger bills to pay even for low-cost items, not on big chain supermarkets, but on small stores and caffés.
The fastest and safest way to get euros is by using an ATM machine. Most ATMs will accept all kinds of cards and the language will automatically change to the card issue country. ATMs in Portugal are easy to spot as they use the Multibanco or MB logo.
Credit/Debit Cards
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted and contactless is encouraged for values up to 50€. If possible, don't pay small values with your card. Although it is possible to do so, it's frowned upon especially in small establishments.
Mobile Payments
The same payment terminals that accept debit and credit cards will also allow you to pay using your mobile phones. You are able to pay by tapping your phone NFC or by scanning a QR code.
