Should you bring cash to Europe?
Don't Expect to Get Too Far Without Cash
If you prefer dealing in cash, then by all means get some euros out before your trip. But actually, you'll find that debit and credit cards are widely accepted in most European cities. Paying by card can be easier and more convenient, without the potential security risk of carrying cash around you.
If you budget $100 per day, you can visit most places in Western Europe. Of course, it's easy to spend more in the major cities. If you know what to look for, you can still have an affordable trip to some of the most iconic destinations in the world! Again, this is all about how you like to travel.
Expense | Estimated cost |
---|---|
Local transportation | $0 to $30 per day, depending on whether you walk, drive, or use public transportation |
Food & drink | $25 to $100 per day, depending on whether you are cooking or eating out |
Attractions | $0 to $100 per day |
Spending money | $0 to $100 per day |
The amount of money you should bring on a trip to Europe for two weeks can vary depending on your travel style and destination. However, a general rule of thumb is to budget around $100-150 per day for transportation, accommodation, food, and activities.
ATMs are the best way to access money abroad and are increasingly available. Your bank or credit card company may charge fees for withdrawals overseas and may have a limit on the amount you can withdraw daily, so be sure to consult with your bank about this.
Above all, cash reigns supreme mostly in the German-speaking countries. Austria and Germany showed a higher preference for cash payments when related to the other countries in the survey. Finland has far fewer people that prefer cash, at only 43%.
As a rough estimate, a budget-conscious traveler could expect to spend around $1,500 to $2,000 for a week-long vacation in Europe, including the cost of flights, accommodations, food, transportation, and activities.
It's often more cost-effective to exchange a small amount of euros in America for initial expenses and then withdraw euros from ATMs in Europe for a better exchange rate and lower fees.
The general consensus is that you should have $50 to $100 in cash per day for each traveler. However, this amount could vary considerably depending on where you are vacationing. Some destinations are more cash-friendly than others.
How many euros should I take for 2 weeks in Europe?
Here is an overview of what two weeks in Europe on a high budget may look like: Accommodation: 200 Euros per night for 14 nights = 2,800 Euros. Food: 80 Euros per day for 14 days = 1,120 Euros. Transportation: 30 Euros per day for 14 days = 420 Euros.
- Keep your belongings safe in crowded areas with our expert tips.
- Leave some items in the hotel safe so that you don't have to carry everything with you.
- Keep your money close with a money belt.
- Always try to visit ATMs within banks while travelling.
While tips are appreciated no matter where you travel, tipping in Europe isn't as automatic nor as generous as it is in the US, and in many countries, tips aren't expected at all. The proper amount depends not only on the country you're in, but also on your resources, tipping philosophy, and the circ*mstances.
You need to declare it when traveling internationally
However, during international travel, you need to report currency and monetary instruments in excess of $10,000. When entering or departing the United States with this much money, you're required to file FinCen Form 105 with the U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
Don't bring any more cash with you than you'd normally carry with you in your own country on a daily basis. Bear in mind the increased pickpocketing risk for a tourist in Rome. When you get to the airport, get one or two hundred euros out of one of the ATMs in the baggage hall just in case (they don't charge fees).
If you plan to visit any markets in Paris, having physical cash on hand is advisable.
Resist the urge to buy foreign currency before your trip.
Some tourists feel like they must have euros or British pounds in their pockets when they step off the airplane, but they pay the price in bad stateside exchange rates. Wait until you arrive to withdraw money.
The cheapest way to buy euros in the US is usually online.
Choose a specialist provider which has multi-currency accounts to support international spending - like Wise or Revolut.
Consider ordering foreign currency before you fly. Most banks allow you to order foreign currencies, which you can typically pick up at a local branch before your trip. Some banks offer to ship currencies to you, and sometimes they don't even charge extra for postage if you order a certain amount.
If you do want to wait until you arrive in Europe to get your euros, a word of caution. It's not usually a good idea to exchange currency at the airport, or even at your hotel. These places are definitely convenient, but you're likely to pay a premium for it. Commission fees can be high and exchange rates unfavorable.
What is the best form of payment in Europe?
The most commonly used payment methods in Europe include debit cards, credit cards, digital wallets like PayPal, and bank transfers.
Many European banks place their ATMs in a small entry lobby, which protects users from snoopers and bad weather. To get in, look for a credit-card-size slot next to the door and insert your card. Avoid "independent" ATMs, such as Travelex, Euronet, Your Cash, Cardpoint, and Cashzone.
Debit cards with a Mastercard or Visa logo are widely accepted in Europe. American Express is somewhat less common, except at tourist destinations. Most banks charge a foreign transaction fee and/or a currency conversion fee, so it is worth double-checking these costs before departure.
- Albania. Albania, situated in the Balkan Peninsula, offers a unique blend of rich history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitalityāall without breaking the bank. ...
- Austria. ...
- Bulgaria. ...
- Estonia. ...
- Croatia. ...
- Czech Republic. ...
- Hungary. ...
- Slovenia.
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