💶 Traveling to Europe? Money Tips for Americans
The Euro (EUR) is the official currency across 20 countries in the Eurozone (including France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Ireland, Greece, Portugal, and the Netherlands). When visiting Europe with US Dollars:
- Always pay in Euros: When a card machine asks whether you want to be charged in USD or EUR, select EUR. Paying in USD triggers Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC), which adds high markup rates.
- Contactless is Universal: Apple Pay, Google Pay, and contactless tap-to-pay are standard across transit systems, restaurants, and convenience stores throughout Europe.
- Keep some Euro coins: 1€ and 2€ are coins (not banknotes). You'll need them for public restrooms, luggage lockers, and tipping.