Where do you receive the best Euro exchange rates?

[FUN33]

We will be going to Europe for 6 weeks this May on a cruise. Where do you get the best Dollar to Euro exchange rate?

 

At a local bank in Europe, on board ship at the Purser, in the US before we leave for Europe, at a dedicated currency exchange storefront in Europe?

 

We have credit cards and will be using them also, but I would like to hear from anyone who has found the best place to exchange currency.

[paul929207]

Generally, a bank in Europe is the best of the choices you listed. Also, check with your bank on fees they charge for using an ATM in Europe. We find this to be as good as any one option.

[whale-watcher]

We use ATM's...but also exchange larger amounts at banks if needed.

[98Charlie]

Yup, ATM's generally have the best exchange rate.

 

Check with your bank about fees. We usually take out our cash needs for a 2-3 day period.

 

Charlie

[happy cruzer]

There is a Europe board on the this site. The way to exchange your dollars is discussed there many times in alot of detail.

 

The concensus seems to be take out the largest amount that you can from an ATM. Know the fees to be sure which ATM card you want to use.

 

Credit card fees vary alot from 1 to 3%.

 

Check out the other board you could find lots of Europe info there including the exchange details!

 

Bon Voyage!

[Andee]

Although we generally pefer to charge purchases on our credit card, we found the best rate (and no fees) using our debit card for purchasaes in Europe.

 

We use the ATMs for walking around money in local currency.

[snaebyllej]

Credit cards start at 0% (for example C1), not 1%.

 

True debit cards (Visa or MC logo) generally charge 1% for foreign exchange, plus any fees that the bank has added. Basic ATM cards (no Visa or MC logo) may not even charge the 1%.

[chasetf]

So... as you can see from the above posters.... and I agree... ATMs are the way to go. Avoid the hotels, ship, and Travelex as there fees, charges, exchange rates are horrible.

 

ATMs are convenient and you should find on in the airport as you get off the plane.