What is the Azores Currency?

If you are wondering what the Azores Currency is, and where to get it, you have come to the right place.

What is the Currency in the Azores?

If you are wondering what the currency in the Azores is, and how to access it, you are in the right place. It’s one of the most common questions travelers have when planning a trip, and fortunately, it’s very simple.

The Azores are part of Portugal, and Portugal is part of the European Union. That means the official currency used across all nine islands is the Euro (€).

At one time, Portugal used the Escudo. So if you happen to have Azorean Escudos from a past visit, they are now just a meaningful souvenir. Today, all transactions in the Azores are done in Euros.

Using Credit and Debit Cards in the Azores

One of the biggest changes for travelers in recent years is how widely credit and debit cards are accepted.

In most cases, you can expect:

  • Hotels, restaurants, and larger shops → Accept credit cards (Visa and Mastercard are most common)
  • Contactless (“tap”) payments → Widely available
  • Tour operators and rental companies → Almost always accept cards

However, there are a few important exceptions:

  • Smaller cafés, local bakeries, or rural restaurants may be cash-only
  • Some places may have a minimum purchase amount for card use
  • American Express is less commonly accepted

Tip: Always carry a small amount of cash for convenience, especially when exploring smaller towns, less touristy areas or smaller islands.

ATMs in the Azores (Multibanco Network)

ATMs are easy to find across the Azores and are part of Portugal’s Multibanco network, which is reliable and widely used.

You will find ATMs:

  • At airports on the main islands
  • In towns and city centers
  • Near banks, grocery stores, and shopping areas

Most ATMs accept international cards and allow you to withdraw Euros directly.

Tips for using ATMs:

  • Choose to be charged in Euros (not your home currency) to avoid poor exchange rates
  • Notify your bank before traveling to prevent card blocks
  • Expect small withdrawal fees depending on your bank

Should You Exchange Money Before You Go?

Many travelers wonder whether they should bring Euros with them or exchange money once they arrive.

You have three main options:

1. Exchange before you travel
This is convenient and ensures you arrive with cash in hand.

2. Withdraw from ATMs in the Azores
Often the best exchange rate—this is what many experienced travelers do.

3. Exchange at local banks or exchange offices
Available, but usually less convenient than ATMs.

My advice: Bring a small amount of Euros with you, then use ATMs as needed. I tend to use credit card for many transactions.

Practical Money Tips for Visiting the Azores

  • The Azores are a safe place. Just Use normal precautions with cash
  • Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory (rounding up or 5–10% is typical)
  • Prices are generally lower than mainland Europe’s major cities
  • Keep some coins handy for small purchases, cafés, or parking meters


    • Final Tips on Azores Currency

    The good news is that handling money in the Azores is straightforward. With the Euro as the official currency, widely available ATMs, and growing acceptance of credit cards, you will have no trouble paying for your trip.

    I find that a simple mix of card payments and some cash is the easiest way to navigate daily spending while enjoying everything the islands have to offer.

    Now that you know what the currency in the Azores is you might have other questions. Click here for more information about the Azores.

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