Finding the best place to exchange money in Brazil goes far beyond convenience. The choice of location directly affects the amount received, the fees charged, and even the security of the transaction, both for tourists and for Brazilians on the move.
In practice, many travelers lose money due to lack of information. Differences between commercial and tourism exchange rates, hidden costs, variations between institutions, and unsuitable locations make currency exchange a decision that requires care.
Based on continuous market analysis, traveler behavior, and practices adopted across the country, Brasil ATM brings together clear and up-to-date guidance in this guide to help you exchange money with greater efficiency, savings, and predictability.
What is the best place to exchange money in Brazil?
Identifying the best place to exchange money in Brazil involves evaluating more than one alternative available in the country. Although exchange offices are the most well-known option, they are not the only efficient way to access Brazilian reais during a trip.
In addition to direct currency exchange, Brazil has an extensive network of ATM24h cash machines, located in airports, shopping malls, supermarkets, hotels, and central areas of cities. These terminals allow direct withdrawal of Brazilian reais using international cards, functioning as a practical alternative to physical currency exchange.
In practice, many travelers combine both strategies. Exchange offices offer predictability in the exchange rate and are ideal for those who prefer cash from the beginning. ATM24h machines, on the other hand, offer flexibility, allowing withdrawals as needed throughout the trip.
The key point is comparison. International withdrawal fees, IOF tax, dynamic currency conversion, and limits imposed by the issuing bank must be analyzed before choosing to withdraw cash from an ATM. When used correctly, ATM24h can be as efficient as a traditional exchange office.
Exchange offices in Brazil: when are they worth it?
Exchange offices are currently the most balanced option in terms of rate, convenience, and security.
Main advantages:
- More competitive rates than airports
- Possibility of checking rates in advance
- Service in Portuguese and, in many cases, other languages
- Operations regulated by the Central Bank
Point of attention: always confirm that the quoted amount is final, with no additional hidden fees.
Is exchanging money at a bank in Brazil worth it?
It depends on the customer’s profile and the institution.
When it may be worth it:
- For account holders with premium banking relationships
- For higher amounts, previously scheduled
Common limitations:
- Limited availability of currencies
- More bureaucratic process
- Less competitive rates for tourists
In practice, banks are usually not the best place to exchange money in Brazil for those seeking speed and simplicity.
Exchanging money at the airport: last resort
Currency exchange at airports should be considered an emergency solution.
Why?
- Higher fees
- Less room for negotiation
- Convenience already built into the price
It works for small amounts, but it is not recommended for larger volumes.
Quick comparison: where to exchange money in Brazil?
| Location | Fees | Convenience | Recommendation |
| Exchange offices (city center/malls) | Low to medium | High | Best option for physical exchange |
| ATM24h machines | Variable | Very high | Good alternative for gradual withdrawals |
| Banks | Medium | Medium | Specific situations |
| Airports | High | Very high | Emergencies only |
| Hotels | Very high | High | Avoid |
Best place to exchange money in Brazil for foreigners
For foreigners, identifying the best place to exchange money in Brazil depends on the balance between cost, security, and flexibility. The country offers alternatives beyond traditional exchange, and understanding how each one works helps avoid unnecessary losses.
Main options available in Brazil:
- Exchange offices in central areas and shopping malls, with predictable rates
- Withdrawals at ATM24h machines using international cards
- Complementary use of debit and credit cards, widely accepted in the country
When each option makes more sense:
Exchange offices
- Ideal for exchanging larger amounts at once
- Lower risk of short-term exchange rate variation
- Good option upon arrival in Brazil
ATM24h
- Allows withdrawals in reais gradually, as needed
- Widely available in cities, malls, and airports
- Reduces the need to carry large amounts of cash
Points of attention for foreigners:
- International withdrawals are subject to IOF tax
- There may be a fixed fee per withdrawal charged by the issuing bank
- Dynamic currency conversion offered on the ATM screen may be less advantageous
- Daily limits vary according to the card and issuing bank
Practical comparison: exchange offices vs. ATM24h
| Criteria | Exchange offices | ATM24h |
| Access method | Direct currency exchange | Withdrawal with international card |
| Exchange rate control | High | Medium |
| Flexibility | Medium | High |
| Risk of carrying cash | Higher | Lower |
| Main indication | Larger amounts | Gradual withdrawals |
Exchange money or use a card in Brazil?
Today, Brazil widely accepts international cards and digital payment methods. Even so, cash remains important in markets, local transportation, and small towns.
The ideal approach is to combine both options, avoiding reliance on a single payment method.
Common mistakes when exchanging money in Brazil
Avoiding simple mistakes helps preserve your budget.
- Exchanging everything at the airport
- Not comparing exchange rates
- Ignoring hidden fees
- Trusting informal money changers
- Not keeping receipts
Planning reduces risks and costs.
Conclusion: where it really pays to exchange money in Brazil
The best place to exchange money in Brazil is, in most situations, an exchange office outside airports, with prior research and attention to final fees.
There is no single solution for every profile, but there is a method. Information, comparison, and caution make the difference between losing money and optimizing every real.
Brasil ATM continues to monitor the exchange market, traveler behavior, and consumption patterns to provide practical, up-to-date, and reliable guidance for anyone traveling through Brazil.
Where to withdraw cash at ATM24h machines in Brazil
To make the most of your trip around Brazil, carry some cash. It ensures a smoother and more enjoyable experience. In some locations, cash is essential for food, transportation, attraction entrances, and more.
See the table below with some ATM24h locations in the regions mentioned in this article:
| Where | Location |
| Guarulhos Airport – São Paulo | See all locations |
| Congonhas Airport – São Paulo | See all locations |
| Curitiba Airport | See all locations |
| Brasília Airport | See all locations |
| Florianópolis Airport | See all locations |
Get to know Brasil ATM
At Brasil ATM, we see Brazil as a country full of unique beauty and a fascinating culture. Our portal, supported by the global ATM24h brand, reflects our passion for Brazil. We aim to inspire tourists to explore its wonders safely and with confidence.
We provide accurate, up-to-date, and inspiring information in three languages, so you can plan your trip with confidence. We offer complete resources for travelers, including travel guides, detailed itineraries, and planning tips.
Our goal is to help create lasting memories. We showcase Brazil’s natural and cultural highlights, from famous destinations like Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo to hidden gems such as Lençóis Maranhenses and Fernando de Noronha. We are here to help you make the most of your journey.
Read more about Brazil:
- How to Use ATM in Brazil – Quick Step by Step Guide
- Brazil on a budget: how to plan a trip spending less (without losing the experience)
- Best Restaurants in Brazil – Gastronomic Experiences You Can’t Miss
- Best hostels in Brazil: 9 you can’t miss
Frequently asked questions about the best place to exchange money in Brazil
The best place to exchange money in Brazil is usually an exchange office outside airports, especially in central areas and shopping malls, where rates are more competitive and pricing is more transparent. To compare options and avoid common mistakes, consult the updated guides from Brasil ATM.
In addition to exchange offices, it is possible to withdraw Brazilian reais from ATM24h machines using international cards. This option offers flexibility but requires attention to IOF tax and issuing bank fees. Brasil ATM explains when each alternative works best in practice.
No. Currency exchange at airports should only be used in emergencies, as fees are higher and convenience is already built into the price. For larger amounts, other options are more advantageous. See how to plan your exchange before boarding with Brasil ATM.
Yes. Foreigners can use exchange offices, ATM24h machines, and international cards widely accepted across the country. The ideal strategy is to combine these options to reduce costs and increase security. Brasil ATM provides practical guidance for foreigners traveling with greater predictability.
