Money in Madeira: cards, cash machines and tipping
Practical money tips for Madeira: paying by card, which cash machines to use, how much cash to carry, tipping in restaurants and taxis, and tax-free shopping.
Cards
Debit and credit cards are accepted in almost all hotels, restaurants, supermarkets and shops, and contactless payment and phone wallets are common. Some small village cafés, market stalls and festival stands prefer cash.
Cash machines
Portuguese bank cash machines are marked Multibanco (MB). They are found in every town and usually charge no fee to the machine user, though your own bank may.
- Prefer Multibanco machines attached to banks.
- Avoid independent machines in tourist areas that add high fees and offer poor exchange rates.
- If a machine or card terminal offers to charge you in your home currency, decline and pay in euros. It is almost always cheaper.
How much cash?
A small amount, for cafés, markets, festivals, taxis and tips. Everything else can go on a card.
Tipping
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory, and service is not usually added to the bill.
- Restaurants: round up or leave 5 to 10% for good service.
- Cafés and bars: leave small change.
- Taxis: round up the fare.
- Guides and drivers: a tip at the end of a good tour is welcome.
Prices
Prices in shops and restaurants include VAT. Remember the couvert: bread and starters brought to the table are charged if you eat them. See eating on a budget.
Tax-free shopping
Visitors from outside the EU can claim back VAT on larger purchases in shops that offer tax-free shopping. Ask for the form when you pay and validate it at the airport before you check in.
See also what a trip costs.