Money Tips For Your First Europe Trip
Heading to Europe for the first time? There are a few things you need to know about money before you go! From which bills to keep on hand to when to use cash or card, here are eight money tips you need as an American visiting Europe for the first time.
(This post may contain affiliate links. We may earn a commission from your purchase(s) at no cost to you, but every little bit helps us keep sharing the magic and logistics of visiting Europe. Thanks!)
1. Not Every European Country Uses the Euro
Many European countries (19 of them!) use the Euro as their currency, but eight major exceptions remain. While we’re only listing those within the EU (and Switzerland, a popular tourist destination), most Eastern European and Balkan countries also have their own currency. Familiarize yourself with the local currency to avoid any hiccups during your journey!
If the country you’re visiting isn't listed here, it likely uses the Euro! And to squash any strange ideas now - no, they absolutely do not want and will not take your US Dollar.
Czech Republic - Czech Koruna
Denmark - Danish Krone
Hungary - Hungarian Forint
Poland - Polish Zloty
Romania - Romanian Leu
Sweden - Swedish Krona
Switzerland - Swiss Franc
UK - British Pound
What to Do in Case of a Train Strike in Europe
Have a plan A, B, and C when it comes to relying on train travel in Europe!
Get the guide of what to know before you go here!
2. Cash Does Not Mean Dollars
We feel like we shouldn’t even have to clarify this, but after overhearing an American woman in Italy exclaim, “I don’t have cash, I only have euros!” Apparently, some things must be said. Cash is not an American thing. Cash refers to bills and coins in any currency. Cash is euros, coins, pounds, Swiss francs, krone, etc. Any money you can physically hold is cash. (The more you knoooow.)
3. Cash Versus Cards
Before your first European trip, it's crucial to understand the currency and payment options in your chosen destination. While most cities across Europe widely accept credit and debit cards, it's always wise to carry some cash, especially for smaller establishments and markets. As a general rule, keep small bills on hand for purchases under $20. Why small bills? Because even though a 20 euro bill seems perfectly adequate to most, we have seen far too many scoffs over breaking a ten for a 3 euro gelato. They'll do it, but they'll often give attitude for "excessive" change-making.
4. Get Cash & Use ATMs
The best (and cheapest) practice for having cash on hand in a new country is to go to your bank 5-10 business days before your trip and ask for the local currency. Depending on your bank, this transaction will either be free or incur a small fee of just a few dollars. If you’re like us and realize the airplane tires hit foreign soil and you forgot to do it, find an ATM and withdraw cash! You can do this even with an international debit card, as well as with some credit cards (though we don’t recommend using a credit card unless you’re absolutely desperate for cash and nothing else is working).
ATMs in Europe will almost always have an English option to help you navigate the machine. We recommend using ATMs attached to a national or international brand, rather than randomly placed or branded ones, to reduce fraud risk. If you can, we recommend using ATMs inside a bank to withdraw cash as needed. You will typically pay a small transaction fee in addition to the exchange rate. It’s still cheaper to withdraw cash this way than to use a money exchange or Western Union.
5. Some Change Is Worth More Than You Think
While in America, anything over 99 cents is a bill. In Europe, coins go up to 2 euros! Ironically, the 2 euro coin is also one of the smallest. You’ll find 5, 10, 20, and 50-cent coins, as well as 1- and 2-euro coins. So, unless you’re feeling extra generous, maybe consider the coins you’re tossing into a street performer’s guitar case or throwing into the Trevi Fountain in Italy.
Apps to Have Before Your Europe Trip
Heading to Europe? There are a few apps you’ll need to have downloaded on your phone before you go for the smoothest trip possible!
Get the full list here!
6. Tipping Culture
Tipping practices in Europe differ from those in the United States. In America, tipping is customary and often expected, but it's less common in Europe. Some countries include service charges in their bills, but tipping in Europe is not common. It’s always courteous to leave a few euros as a tip when service is phenomenal, but it’s rarely expected. In fact, some countries consider tipping rude. Always check local customs and norms in the country you’re visiting, as each country may have unique tipping practices.
7. You'll Need Coins for Most Public Restrooms
Finding public restrooms in some European cities can be challenging, and many require a small fee to use them. Carry some coins (typically 50 cents to 1 Euro) to access public restrooms in train stations, museums, and other public spaces. In some cases, making a small purchase at a café or restaurant may grant you access to their restroom.
While we’re on the topic, please note that the rules are not the same as they are in the US. Hotels, stores, and cafes aren't required to provide restrooms. You can't demand to use a place’s toilet, nor can you expect to find one at every attraction or shop you visit. Also, don’t ask for a “bathroom” or “restroom.” If you need to go, look for WC (water closet) or toilet (or toilette) signs. “Bathroom” doesn’t translate the same in Europe! Think toilet, toilet, toilet.
8. Use Small Bills For Local Public Transportation
One of the best ways to explore Europe is through its efficient and extensive public transportation networks. Trains, buses, trams, and metros are commonly used to get around, and they provide a budget-friendly option to travel between and within cities and towns. Unless you’re using a transportation app like Trainline, you’ll often need small bills or coins on hand for most public buses, trolleys, trams, and boats for staff-operated journeys costing under $10. This doesn’t mean you need to pay for every train ticket in cash! It’s easier to keep a little cash on hand for bus, tram, or trolley operators when you need a short ride for 50 cents - 5 euros per ride, instead of figuring out how to buy a ticket in advance.