Scam in PortugalChanging money
Poor rates at tourist exchange counters in Portugal
How it works
Exchange counters appear wherever tourists gather. Those closest to attractions typically offer worse rates, so you receive fewer euros for your money.
Warning signs
- The counter is beside a busy tourist attraction.
- The final euro amount is lower than at other counters.
How to avoid it
- Compare the final amount you will receive at more than one counter.
- Ask about all charges before handing over cash.
- Look beyond the counters closest to attractions.
If it happens to you
Check the receipt and money before leaving. Raise any difference between the agreed amount and the amount paid immediately.
- Move to a safe, busy place. Do not chase a thief or confront a group.
- Call 112 if anyone is injured, you are being threatened or there is immediate danger.
- Block stolen cards and contact your card issuer about any unauthorised payments.
- Save receipts, messages, transaction details and any photos. Write down what happened while you remember it.
- Report the incident to police. Ask for a report or reference number for insurance or bank follow-up.
- Contact your insurer, rental company or embassy as needed. Ask your embassy or consulate about replacing stolen travel documents.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
Questions
What is the poor rates at tourist exchange counters scam in Portugal?
Exchange counters appear wherever tourists gather. Those closest to attractions typically offer worse rates, so you receive fewer euros for your money.
How can I spot it early?
The counter is beside a busy tourist attraction. The final euro amount is lower than at other counters.
How do I avoid poor rates at tourist exchange counters in Portugal?
Compare the final amount you will receive at more than one counter. Ask about all charges before handing over cash. Look beyond the counters closest to attractions.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Check the receipt and money before leaving. Raise any difference between the agreed amount and the amount paid immediately.
Where in Portugal does this happen?
Currency exchange counters near tourist attractions.
How common is this scam in Portugal?
Common. Portugal is relatively safe, but pickpocketing is the most common crime against visitors. Other risks include theft from rental cars, street scams in Lisbon, and poor value at some ATMs, exchange counters and music venues.
Who can I report it to?
PSP — Public Security Police: report theft, robbery or fraud in major urban areas. Approach an officer or visit a police station. GNR — National Republican Guards: report incidents outside major urban centres and in rural areas. Approach an officer or visit a police station. Emergency services: call 112 for urgent police, fire or medical help. Your bank or card issuer: use its official app or contact number to freeze cards and report unauthorised transactions. Your embassy or consulate: use its official contact details if your passport or other travel documents are stolen. Your insurer or rental company: contact them through official channels after a covered loss or theft from a rental car. Keep the police report, receipts and photos.
What number do I call in an emergency in Portugal?
Police, fire and medical emergencies: 112.
Reviewed by @snuck