Banks & Money Exchange

Actually there is only one bank in Praia da Luz. It is called Crédito Agricola you can find it along the main cobbled road about 100m or so in the direction of Lagos from the Church. Look out for a fountain on the other side of the road. The Bank is not actually that obvious but the first thing you'll see is the ATM machine outside. The staff are very helpful and speak excellent English. Like any bank they will change traveler's cheques or sterling, but do make sure you understand what rate you're getting and ask what commission will be charged. The Bank has an ATM machine outside, remember your pin number as the bank has no over the counter facilities for credit card transactions. It is worth noting that in peak season this machine is often empty especially at weekends, so don't rely on it! Opening Hours: 9am - 3pm Monday to Friday Closed on Public holidays.
If you find yourself short of Escudos, most Bars & Restaurants will accept sterling or travelers cheques (with passport), their rate will be less than the Banks but they shouldn't charge commission.

The Post Office

Luz has a fully modern air-conditioned post office with all the usual facilities, there is a bank of phone booths as well as a stamp machine outside. You'll find it 100m or so on from the bank along the cobbled road in the Lagos direction. Look for the Red sign Correio. The external post box marked Resto do pais e Estrangeiro is the one to put your post cards in!! Opening hours:9am -12.30pm & 2.30pm - 6pm Monday - Friday Closed on Public Holidays.

Medical & Emergency services

Should you be unfortunate enough to fall ill or have an accident whilst on holiday in Praia da Luz there is a very efficient and modern medical center located 70m or so from the Church on the Burgau road. At LUZDOC the staff are all multilingual and there is a highly qualified team of medical professionals available at any time of day or night. They also have a sister facility in Lagos, for in-patient referals. For more information have a look at their webpage.
24 hour Emergency no: LuzDoc 917 811 988
The moral here is to make sure that you & your family are covered by Insurance!! If you don't have insurance you can always go to the Hospital in Lagos, take your passport and present yourself in the Accident & Emergency department, don't expect it to be like anything your used to, it's pretty basic and always busy!! But the treatment is modern and there is nearly always an English speaking doctor to hand.