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Country guide

Travel money in Portugal

Euros in the Algarve, Lisbon and Porto: cards, cash and motorway tolls for British visitors.

At a glance

Portugal for UK travellers

Destination basics to help you plan cash, cards and when to compare rates before you fly.

  • Capital

    Lisbon

  • Currency

    Euro (EUR)

  • Time from UK

    Same as the UK in winter; 1 hour ahead in summer

  • Flight from London

    ~2h 30m to Lisbon

  • Distance from UK

    ~985 miles from London

Map of Portugal · Map data

Portugal uses the euro. The Algarve remains a favourite for UK families; Lisbon and Porto city breaks mean heavy contactless use alongside cash for markets and some older taxis.

Tolls and hire cars

If you are driving, understand how motorway tolls are paid — some hire setups use electronic tolls billed later; others need cash or card at gates. Read your rental agreement before you leave the UK.

Ordering euros

Line up euros using our holiday money comparison. Pair cash with a fee-aware travel card for meals and larger shops.

Beach and resort spend

Ice creams, sunbeds and boat trips often want cash. Keep a daily float separate from your hotel deposit.

Currency help

See euros and plan holiday extras such as parking before you reach a busy UK departure airport. For Algarve and Lisbon summer trips, read Portugal euro planning May 2026.