nsalerno

First time travelling to France--What is the best way to buy Euro while in France;bank? ATM? Exchange?

janisj

ATM by far - be sure it is linked to a checking account (not savings) . . . .

LoveItaly

ATM nsalerno. You will see many posts here on Fodor's about this very subject. Some people like to buy about $100.00 worth of euro with them so they do not have to use the ATM the moment they arrive in Europe. Others just use the ATM for euro's when arriving at the airport in Europe.

Most use their credit cards and their ATM card(s) after that. Be sure to notify the different credit card companies and banks where you have ATM cards that you will be in Europe and the dates so that their security branch does not put a freeze on your accounts thinking that fraud is involved.

Again, use the search box here on Fodor's and read other threads for even more advice. Enjoy your time in France!!

nsalerno

Thanks for reminding me about notifying the credit card companies--a freeze would be a disaster. Do most of the restaurants in Paris and Provence accept credit cards?

GSteed

Experiment. Check total cost for ATM debit card conversions. Try direct dollar - euro conversion. Most posts are suggesting least cost methods. You need to factor in 'safety'. Consider a separate debit card for travel purposes. A debit card exposes your entire checking account to fraud. TCs still offer replacement if lost or stolen. Usage fees at ATMs are not the same.

suze

I do a little of everything:
1) ATM card to withdraw euro direct
2) Credit card for major expenses
3) $300 USD cash kept in reserve
4) 300 euro bought at bank or airport
5) traveler checks optional