How to avoid foreign transaction fees in Portugal?

Using a credit card A travel-friendly credit card like the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card card will allow you to make daily payments in Portugal without charging currency conversion fees or foreign transaction fees.



To avoid foreign transaction fees (which are typically 3%) in Portugal, the most effective method is to use a travel-focused credit card with no foreign transaction fees, such as the Chase Sapphire Preferred or any Capital One card. In 2026, digital banks like Revolut or Wise are also highly popular; they allow you to hold a balance in Euros (EUR) and pay with a physical or virtual card at the mid-market exchange rate without extra hidden markups. When paying at a restaurant or shop in Portugal, always choose to pay in the local currency (EUR) if the card machine asks you to choose between EUR and your home currency. This avoids "Dynamic Currency Conversion" (DCC), a practice where the local merchant applies a much worse exchange rate than your bank would. Using a no-fee debit card for ATM withdrawals at the official Multibanco machines (rather than the "Euronet" blue and yellow machines) will also save you significant money on withdrawal fees.

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Cards are by far the most popular cashless payment method in Portugal, including international cards from Visa and Mastercard. Both credit and debit cards are used, but debit cards are much more common.

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Cards are by far the most popular cashless payment method in Portugal, including international cards from Visa and Mastercard. Both credit and debit cards are used, but debit cards are much more common.

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The best bet is to use an ATM/Cashpoint to obtain Euros from your home bank account, or use a non-fee credit card where possible. To read more about fees associated with exchanging currency, using credit cards, etc. take a look at this extensive information posted on the Flyerguide wiki.

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Using your debit card in Portugal In general, Portuguese ATMs will accept most foreign debit cards, but it's always a good idea to confirm this with your bank before you go. It's also smart to tell your bank that you're planning to travel to Italy so they don't block your card while you're away.

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?? Tip #2: Carry at least $20 worth of cash while traveling in Portugal. You'll rarely need cash in Portugal, especially if you're staying in Lisbon and Porto. During my 1-week trip, I spent roughly $20 in cash on tipping tour guides, buying small souvenirs and paying for the Airbnb city tax.

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ActivoBank Portugal With a network of branches across Portugal, ActivoBank is known for its straightforward consumer banking services. It charges no account maintenance fees or annual card fees,³ and has an innovative mobile banking app.

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Once you've reached your destination, avoid airport kiosks or other exchange houses. Your bank's ATM network is likely the best option. You may be able to withdraw cash in the local currency with competitive exchange rates and low fees (1% to 3%). Use your institution's app to find an ATM near you.

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Currency exchange shops and kiosks in airports are not the best places to exchange money. For the best rates, try a local bank or a bank ATM to make your currency exchanges. Check to see if your U.S. bank offers foreign ATM fee refunds for using a foreign ATM.

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How to Avoid ATM Fees When Traveling Abroad
  1. Use an ATM in Your Bank's International Network. ...
  2. Use Your Debit Card to Get Cash Back at a Store. ...
  3. Don't Use the ATM's Conversion Offer. ...
  4. Use a Bank That Doesn't Charge International ATM Fees. ...
  5. Use a Bank That Refunds ATM Fees. ...
  6. Use a Credit Card Without a Foreign Transaction Fee.


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Taxis usually accept the payment of the fare by credit card, but it's better to ask the driver before you get in. You usually get a receipt at the end of the ride. If you don't speak Portuguese, have your address written down and ready to show the driver.

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