Planning a trip to Europe and wondering about handling your finances? Many first-time visitors, especially from the US, often ask, “How Much Is Euros and how much cash should I bring?”. While credit and debit cards are widely accepted in many parts of Europe, relying solely on them can be limiting, especially when venturing beyond major tourist hubs. Based on personal experience traveling across France, here’s why having some euros in cash is still a smart travel strategy.
Why You’ll Appreciate Having Euros in Cash
In many charming European towns and villages, the pace of life is slower, and so is the adoption of card payment systems. Imagine strolling through a bustling Wednesday market in a place like Sarlat, France. While some vendors might have card machines, you’ll likely find many, especially smaller produce sellers, who only deal in cash. This was our experience, and euro coins became essential for those delightful market purchases.
Beyond markets, consider smaller expenses. Public restrooms at train stations, for instance, might have card machines that are out of order, leaving you reliant on coins for access. Similarly, tipping in cash is often preferred for services, and small, family-run businesses might still operate on a cash-only basis. In our travels through the Dordogne region, we even needed cash to pay our gite caretakers for the pre-arranged cleaning service. It’s also a thoughtful gesture to give grandkids or travel companions a small amount of euros in cash for souvenirs, allowing them a sense of independent spending in local shops.
Exploring local festivals and community events in smaller towns like Taulignan often reveals unique crafts and food stalls that primarily accept cash, reflecting the local, community-focused nature of these gatherings. Having euros readily available ensures you don’t miss out on these authentic experiences.
ATMs: Your Go-To Source for Euros
The good news is, accessing euros in Europe is straightforward. ATMs are widely available, and generally offer competitive exchange rates, often minimizing any difference you might find exchanging currency beforehand. However, it’s crucial to use ATMs wisely.
Opt for ATMs located at reputable banks. These are generally safer and more secure than standalone ATMs you might find in tourist traps. Bank ATMs are often situated inside a bank vestibule or even within the bank itself, providing an added layer of security.
Before you travel, check with your bank about debit card usage in Europe. Inquire about any foreign transaction fees or ATM withdrawal fees. Ideally, your bank may have partnerships with European banks, potentially waiving fees when you use partner ATMs. This can save you money and make accessing cash in Europe even more convenient.
How Much Euros to Carry? A Practical Approach
So, circling back to the initial question, “how much is euros and how much should you carry?”. There’s no magic number, but a sensible approach is to start with a reasonable amount for immediate needs and smaller purchases upon arrival. In our experience, around 100 euros per person as a starting point is practical for a trip. This provides enough for those initial cash-only situations, market buys, or tips, without carrying excessive amounts.
The beauty of ATMs is that you can always withdraw more euros if needed. As you become more familiar with the cash-friendliness of the places you visit, you can adjust your cash holdings accordingly. And don’t worry about leftover euros! We often find ourselves bringing some euros home, ready for our next European adventure, perhaps even buying a bottle of Pastis at duty-free on the way back! Having some euros on hand offers peace of mind and ensures you’re ready to embrace all aspects of your European travels, especially the hidden gems in smaller towns.
