Are you planning a trip to the enchanting city of Paris and wondering where to get euros? Getting your hands on euros in Paris is simple, and eurodripusa.net offers insights to ensure a smooth experience. This guide will walk you through the best places to exchange currency, avoid unnecessary fees, and make the most of your Parisian adventure, ensuring you have the local currency for everything from transportation to those delightful Parisian pastries. Discover efficient ways to handle your travel finances, secure the best exchange rates, and navigate payment options in Paris, along with practical tips to enhance your European excursion.
1. Does Paris Use Euros?
Yes, Paris, like most countries in the European Union, uses the euro (€) as its currency. This makes traveling between Eurozone countries seamless and convenient. Keep in mind that if you plan to visit countries like Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Hungary, Poland, Romania, or Sweden, you’ll need their local currencies instead of euros.
2. Is it Necessary to Exchange Currency Before Arriving in Paris?
While it’s not mandatory to exchange your currency for euros before arriving in Paris, having a small amount of cash on hand – say, €100-€200 – can be incredibly useful. Having some cash can be beneficial.
- Airport Convenience: You might want to grab a coffee and croissant at the airport. Some places require a minimum purchase for card payments.
- Transportation: Paying for taxis, RER trains, or buses is easier with cash. For instance, the Roissy bus allows onboard ticket purchases with euros, saving you time.
- Emergency Fund: Credit cards can sometimes fail due to travel alerts or acceptance issues (like Discover or Apple Pay). A bit of euro cash can tide you over.
- Tipping: While many establishments accept cards, tipping in cash is common and appreciated.
Bringing a small amount of euros offers peace of mind and convenience right from the moment you land.
ATM machine (inset in stone wall near door in lower left corner) at Crédit Mutuel on Rue Monge in Paris
3. Where Can I Exchange Currency in the USA Before Travelling?
Before your trip, the best place to get euros in the U.S. is generally your bank or credit union.
- Banks and Credit Unions: These often offer the best exchange rates and low or no service fees. Keep in mind that they may need a week or more to order the currency, so plan ahead. Banks in urban areas usually have faster turnaround times.
- Travel Service Clubs: Organizations like AAA (United States) and CAA (Canada) are other options. However, their exchange rates might be less favorable, and you may have to pay service and delivery fees. Order at least a week in advance.
- Travelex: While Travelex and similar money exchange companies may offer less competitive exchange rates, they can be the fastest and most convenient choice. Travelex allows you to pick up your euros at a local office or airport, or have them delivered to your home. Shipping is free for orders over a certain amount (usually $1,000).
Ultimately, the cheapest route is through your bank, while Travelex offers speed and convenience. For a small amount like €100-€200, the cost difference is minimal.
4. What Are the Best Euro Denominations to Have While Traveling?
When getting euros, ask for denominations of €5, €10, and €20. Avoid getting large bills like €50 or €100, as many businesses are wary of accepting them due to concerns about forgery. Smaller stores may refuse them altogether, and some cashiers might even scan them to verify their authenticity.
5. How Much Cash Should I Have on Hand on a Daily Basis?
Daily cash needs vary, but many travelers use this strategy to manage costs:
- Prepay Expenses: Book hotels, tours, museum passes (consider the Paris Museum Pass), and attraction tickets in advance using platforms like Get Your Guide, which allows you to pay in your home currency.
- Carry Cash: Bring €100-€200 in cash to cover small expenses, tips, and transportation upon arrival.
- Use Credit/Debit Cards: Use cards from banks with low or no foreign transaction fees for most purchases, like restaurant meals and shopping.
- ATM Replenishment: Withdraw cash as needed from local ATMs, and plan to have €100-€200 left over for future trips to Eurozone countries.
Estimate your daily needs for tips and small expenses and multiply that by the number of days you’ll be in Paris. This approach ensures you’re well-prepared without carrying excessive cash.
6. Are Traveler’s Checks a Good Idea for My Paris Trip?
No, traveler’s checks are not recommended. They’re rarely accepted in Paris hotels, restaurants, or stores. ATMs and credit/debit cards have made them obsolete.
7. Can I Get Euros at Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG)?
Yes, you can find Travelex machines at CDG, especially in Terminal 2. However, be aware of dynamic currency conversion (DCC).
DCC Pitfalls:
- Travelex machines may offer to charge your transaction in your home currency, like dollars, but this can be expensive.
- DCC allows the ATM owner to add fees up to 15% on top of the basic international conversion fee (usually 1%), potentially costing you up to 20% extra.
How to Avoid DCC:
- If you use Travelex, always choose to be charged in the local currency, euros.
- Limit your transaction to €100-€200, as you can get a better deal at bank ATMs in Paris.
Bank ATMs:
- HSBC is the only bank with an office and ATM at CDG, located in Terminal 2.
- If you can find it, you’ll get a better exchange rate without DCC.
Avoid Bureaux de Change:
- These currency exchange offices offer poor exchange rates and charge high fees.
By being cautious and informed, you can avoid unnecessary costs when obtaining euros at the airport.
HSBC ATM machine (near stoplight) in the Marais
8. How Can I Keep My Money Safe in Paris?
Paris has a low crime rate, but pickpocketing is common, especially targeting tourists. Protect your cash with these tips:
- Use Common Sense: Keep your wallet in a front, zippered pocket, hold onto your pocketbook, and don’t leave your phone on the table at outdoor cafes.
- Use Security Aids: Consider a money belt or neck wallet for extra protection.
- Be Alert: Avoid scams designed to distract you, such as petitions.
Staying vigilant and taking simple precautions can significantly reduce your risk.
9. What Is the Best Place to Get Euros in Paris?
The best place to get euros in Paris is at a bank or credit union ATM, known as a “distributeur” in French. Look for ATMs next to banks or inside their entrance lobbies. Using ATMs in lobbies can protect you from prying eyes.
Here are eight French banks with numerous branches and ATMs throughout Paris:
- BNP Paribas
- CIC – Crédit Industriel et Commercial
- Crédit du Nord
- Crédit Municipal de Paris
- Crédit Mutuel
- HSBC France
- LCL – Le Crédit Lyonnais
- Société Générale
Using your ATM card is straightforward. Most French ATMs offer instructions in multiple languages, including English.
Woman using ATM machine (lower right corner) at LCL on Place Maubert in Paris
10. Are There Any Fees Associated With Using Bank ATMs in Paris?
French banks do not add withdrawal fees or charges on ATM withdrawals, regardless of the ATM card you use. They offer the same exchange rate at any given time, although this rate can change slightly throughout the day.
Your home bank, however, might add fees for “out of network” withdrawals and currency conversion. Check your bank’s fee structure before you go. If you travel internationally often, consider using a bank that does not add these additional fees.
Avoid withdrawing cash with your debit card unless you confirm with your bank that it won’t be classified as a “cash advance,” which can come with high fees and interest.
Société Général ATM (near the couple holding hands) on Boulevard Beaumarchais in the 3rd arrondissement
11. What Are Some Important Tips for Using My ATM Card in Paris?
- Notify Your Bank: Inform your bank about your trip dates and destination.
- Verify Fees: Understand your bank’s fee policies for international transactions and “out of network” ATMs.
- Know Your PIN: Make sure you know your card’s numeric PIN code.
- Make Copies: Before leaving, make copies of both sides of your ATM card for account information and the bank’s customer service phone number.
- Sufficient Funds: Ensure you have enough money in your checking account.
- Backup Card: Consider bringing a second ATM card as a backup.
- Shield Your PIN: Protect your movements when entering your PIN. If you feel uncomfortable, walk away.
- Use Lobby ATMs: Use ATM machines in the bank’s lobby for added safety.
- Withdraw During Open Hours: If possible, make ATM withdrawals during the bank’s open hours for immediate assistance if needed.
- Know Your Limits: Be aware of your bank’s daily ATM withdrawal limits in both dollars and euros, as well as any withdrawal limits set by the Paris bank.
- Secure Your Cash: Store extra cash in your hotel room’s safe.
12. What Is the Worst Place to Get Euros in Paris, and What Should I Avoid?
Avoid any ATM machine that looks questionable, especially those in buildings under construction or demolition. Do not risk having your card disappear.
Unless you’re at Charles de Gaulle Airport without other options, avoid non-bank ATMs like Travelex and Euronet due to potential DCC and poor exchange rates. Also, avoid bureaux de change for the same reasons.
13. Should I Bring Dollars to Exchange for Euros in Paris?
No, do not bring dollars to Paris to exchange for euros if you have an ATM card. Bureaux de change offer poor exchange rates and high fees, and many Paris banks only exchange currency for their own customers. Hotels rarely offer currency exchange services. Using your ATM card at bank ATMs will almost always get you a better deal.
14. Should I Bring a Prepaid Cash Card to Use in Paris?
It depends on the availability and cost in your home country. In the US, prepaid cards often come with fees that make them less economical than using your regular ATM, credit, or debit card, especially if you pay off your credit card balance each month. In some countries like Canada, prepaid cash cards without extra fees might be a good alternative. Always bring an ATM and/or credit/debit card as a backup.
15. Can I Use My Credit Card to Get Cash?
You can, but it’s generally not advisable except in emergencies. Credit card companies treat these transactions as “cash advances,” charging high fees and interest rates. If you must, ensure you know your PIN. Also, confirm with your bank that using your debit card for cash withdrawals won’t incur “cash advance” fees.
16. What Are Some Basic Facts About Euros?
Euros come in bills and coins:
- Bills: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, and €500
- Coins: €1 and €2
The euro is divided into 100 centimes:
- Centimes Coins: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 cents
Currently, you can use euros in 19 Eurozone countries within the European Union:
Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Spain.
Euro bills and centimes
17. How Can I Ensure I’m Getting the Right Dollar to Euro Exchange Rate?
Use your ATM card at a bank ATM to get the best available exchange rate for individuals (the “retail” rate). To check the current institutional exchange rate, use XE Corporations’ currency converter, but remember that the rate you get as a consumer will be slightly less favorable.
18. What Should I Do With Leftover Euros at the End of My Trip?
If you plan to return to France or another Eurozone country, keep €100-€200 in bills for your next trip. Otherwise, spend your coins and exchange the bills at your local bank, which usually offers a decent conversion rate. Alternatively, use them in the tax-free airport boutiques after border control.
Duty-free shops at Charles de Gaulle Airport
19. How Can I Reduce My Need for Euros During My Trip?
Reduce your need for euros by prepaying as much as possible:
- Book in Advance: Reserve tickets for museum passes, priority entrances, guided tours, cruises, food and wine tastings, and entertainment online through services like GetYourGuide.
- Pay in Your Currency: Pay in your own currency through these booking services.
- Flexible Plans: Most events can be canceled or rebooked with as little as 24 hours’ notice.
20. Will Credit Cards Be Accepted in Paris?
While Discover and American Express are not widely accepted, Visa and Mastercard are commonly used in Paris. American Express may be accepted in higher-end establishments, but it’s not guaranteed.
Tip: Bring a Visa and/or Mastercard, and preferably bring a couple of back-ups, just in case.
21. Do I Need a PIN for Credit Card Transactions in France?
Most European credit cards use a chip-and-pin system for security. Many U.S. banks now issue Visa and Mastercards with this technology, allowing you to tap your card for charges up to €50. For higher amounts, insert your card into the payment machine and enter your pin or sign. If your card doesn’t support the chip-and-pin technology, ask your bank for a pin number. If a cashier asks for a pin, you can say “pas de broche, désolé” (no pin, sorry), and they’ll process the transaction for you.
22. Bonus Tip: When Is a Distributeur NOT an ATM?
“Distributeur” means a machine (or person) that disburses something. You might see a “distributeur” offering something other than cash. Always mention “Euros” when asking for directions to avoid confusion.
Distributeur (vending machine) offering tasty Japanese snacks in the Rue Sainte-Anne neighborhood
FAQ: Getting Euros in Paris
Here are some frequently asked questions to help you navigate getting euros in Paris:
1. Can I use US dollars everywhere in Paris?
No, US dollars are not widely accepted in Paris. The official currency of France is the Euro (€), and it’s best to use Euros for most of your transactions.
2. What are the opening hours for banks in Paris?
Most banks in Paris are open from Monday to Friday, typically between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM. Some banks may close for lunch or have limited hours on certain days.
3. What should I do if an ATM in Paris eats my card?
If an ATM in Paris eats your card, contact the bank immediately to report the issue. If it happens during business hours, go inside the bank for assistance. Otherwise, call the bank’s customer service number to retrieve your card.
4. Is it better to use cash or credit cards in Paris?
It depends on the situation. Credit cards are widely accepted in major establishments, but cash is useful for smaller purchases, tips, and street vendors. It’s good to have a mix of both.
5. What are common scams tourists should be aware of when withdrawing cash in Paris?
Be aware of people offering help at ATMs or trying to distract you while you’re entering your PIN. Always shield your PIN and be cautious of anyone getting too close.
6. Can I exchange currency at my hotel in Paris?
Some hotels in Paris may offer currency exchange services, but the exchange rates are often less favorable compared to banks or ATMs. It’s generally better to use bank ATMs for the best rates.
7. Are there currency exchange services at Paris train stations?
Yes, there are currency exchange services available at major train stations in Paris, but like airports, they often have less competitive exchange rates and higher fees.
8. Is it safe to carry large amounts of cash in Paris?
It’s generally not recommended to carry large amounts of cash in Paris. Use ATMs to withdraw smaller amounts as needed and keep the rest in a secure place, such as a hotel safe.
9. Are there any apps that help track exchange rates while traveling in Paris?
Yes, there are several apps like XE Currency Converter and Google Finance that help track exchange rates in real-time. These apps can assist you in making informed decisions about when and where to exchange your currency.
10. What should I do if my credit card is declined in Paris?
If your credit card is declined in Paris, first ensure you have notified your bank about your travel plans. If the issue persists, try using a different credit card or withdrawing cash from an ATM as a backup payment method.
Navigating currency exchange in Paris doesn’t have to be stressful. By following these tips, you can ensure a smooth, cost-effective experience, leaving you more time to enjoy the magic of the City of Lights. And remember, for all your drip irrigation needs in the USA, visit eurodripusa.net for quality European products and expert advice.
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