Useful information about Porto

Time Zone

Porto belongs to the Western European Time Zone. No UTC/GMT offset.

Banks & Currency exchange

Currency

The Euro is the official currency of Portugal. Bank notes come in denominations of 5,10,20,50,100,200,500 Euro. Coins come in amount of 1,2,5,10,20,50 cents and 1 Euro and 2 Euro coins.

ATMs

ATMs can be found all over the country. They all have foreign language options and only pay out in Euros. Cash withdrawal limits vary between banks.

Exchanging Currencies

Foreign exchange offices, are widespread. Operating hours are mostly Monday to Saturday from 09:00, closing time depends on the area they are located. Banks are open from 08:30 until 15:00. No other currency besides the Euro is accepted in Portugal.

Credit cards

Credit cards are widely used and accepted. All credit cards are accepted besides Amex and Diner’s.

Traveler’s cheques

Traveler’s Checks are accepted in most places and shops, especially in touristic areas. Traveler’s cheque can be changed at the Banks by showing a valid passport

Pharmacies

Monday to Friday 09:00 am to 07:00 pm (Some pharmacies close at lunchtime). Saturdays from 09:00 am to 01:00 pm (When closed all pharmacies indicate the nearest open pharmacy on duty, where there is a 24-hour service).

Electricity and Voltage

230 / 400 volts, on a 50-hertz frequency. The electric sockets adhere to European standards. Blade plugs (US standard) must be used in conjunction with a 230 volts transformer, as well as an adaptor.

Shopping in Porto

Most street shops in Porto open from 9h-10h, and often close at around 19h. Some offices and smaller businesses close for lunch, usually between 13h-15h. The shopping malls open their doors at 10h and only close at midnight. On Saturdays, small shops generally open between 9h-13h, and are closed on Sundays.

Most restaurants open between 19h-20h, and stay open until past 23h or midnight. Lunch times vary, with some opening at around 11h or 12h and serving until about 14h30-15h. All close for one day during the week, often on Sunday or Monday. Cafés are usually open from 7h in the morning onwards.

VAT

Value added tax (Imposto sobre o Valor Acrescentado – IVA) is paid at the time of purchase of a product or service. It is paid by everyone and there is no distinction between residents and non-residents. There are three levels of VAT for mainland Portugal, Madeira and Azores. More information can be found on https://www.angloinfo.com/how-to/portugal/money/portuguese-taxes/value-added-tax