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Brazil Brazil Currency Guide

The currency of Brazil and how to prepare for payments — all on one page.

Currency

Brazilian Real

BRL · R$

Checking rates

Check with your bank app or card issuer before you go

The rate and fees you actually pay differ by bank and card issuer.

Payment Tips to Remember

Always pay in the local currency

If a terminal asks whether to charge in your home currency, always choose the local currency. Choosing your home currency triggers DCC (dynamic currency conversion), which adds a hidden markup.

Set up a travel card before you fly

Prepaid multi-currency travel cards let you convert money in the app beforehand and pay like a debit card locally. Fees are usually lower than cash exchange counters, and you can freeze the card instantly from the app if lost.

Airport exchange counters: last resort

Airport counters are convenient but tend to offer some of the worst rates. If you need cash, exchange via your bank's app before departure or consider withdrawing from a local ATM.

Check ATM fees on screen

Local ATMs may add their own operator fee. Check the fee shown on the confirmation screen before proceeding. If the ATM offers conversion to your home currency (DCC), choosing the local currency is usually better.

Keep some small cash

Every country has places that don't take cards — markets, tips, small transport. Carrying a small amount of cash in separate places keeps you covered.

Cards for Abroad

Explore the Wise multi-currency card

One account holding 40+ currencies, converting and paying at mid-market based rates. Handy for multi-country trips — no need to exchange for each currency separately.

Learn more

Local data

Get an eSIM for Brazil before you go

Activate mobile data with a QR code instead of swapping SIM cards. Buy it before departure and switch it on the moment you land.

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Check prices and availability on the booking sites.

City Guides in Brazil

Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro is the capital of Rio de Janeiro State on Brazil's southeastern Atlantic coast. It's the birthplace of samba and bossa nova, making it a great place to stroll to a lively rhythm.

Curitiba

Curitiba is the capital of Paraná State in Brazil, offering attractions such as its Botanical Garden and the Oscar Niemeyer Museum. At the Wire Opera House, visitors can also admire its striking architecture.

São Paulo

São Paulo is the capital of São Paulo State and the most densely populated metropolis in South America. It offers a lively atmosphere where commerce, finance, and art all come together.

Brasília

Brasília is the capital of Brazil, a planned city built in the 1950s to develop the country's interior. Its distinctive urban landscape has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.