Money Exchange

Please share your experience of exchanging money for euros. I imagine when one arrives to an airport, the only way out to pay for transportation: a bus/metro, is to go straight to an Exchange Office in the airport to get some euros? What place will be better for exchange: a bank, exchange office, hotel?...

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Koza,

I always suggest bringing about 100-150 euros with you from home. Sort of pocket/taxi/tip money once you arrive. That should be adequate to get you to your hotel.

If you need more, plan on using an ATM with your ATM or debit card. I truly believe they offer the best exchange rates, even if your bank charges a transaction fee. I usually go once every day or so and take the maximum out to get me by until I run out. You need a card that uses a 4 digit PIN code. ATMs are everywhere, including the airport and train stations. DO NOT use an exchange office unless you enjoy getting ripped off.

Credit cards are widely accepted for use in Paris and offer the 2nd best exchange rate. Most charge a 3-4% surcharge, which is added to the transaction price on your statement (not at the point of sale).

Next best are big banks.

Exchange offices and hotels are the worst for a decent exchange rate.

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snavaro said it perfectly...

when i went to paris last week i took about 60-70 euros that i had ordered from my bank for %26quot;safety money%26quot;.

i bought my train ticket using my credit card.

then i took out money at an ATM ( $3 fee per transaction)

and i used my credit card for paying the hotel bill

as suggested... don%26#39;t use an exchange office. stick to the ATM card and credit card.

also don%26#39;t forget to notify your bank that you will be in Paris so that they can put notes on your account so that they won%26#39;t freeze your account for suspicous activity , etc.

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Ditto on the above. We ordered $300 Euros via our bank to have in hand. Charge was 1.5% or $2.00 whichever was greater.