Best way to convert US dollars to Euro.?

Question

Taking a trip to Italy shortly and not sure when and where to convert dollars to euro with a minimum of exchange fees. Is it best to buy travelers checks in U.S. and convert them at a bank in italy or to bring dollars from U.S. and convert them at the airport in italy???

Thanks for any suggestions.

Answer 1

An airport is the worst place to exchange money, period. Their rates are significantly higher than virtually anywhere else.

We use a credit card for absolutely everything that we can. The cc companies get a fabulous rate and our credit card company only charge a 1% fee.

For cash, we usually order several hundred Euro from Bank Of America. They repeatedly have the best exchange rates that I can find on the net, and you don't have to be a member to use the service.

Once we arrive, we use ATMs that are attached to banks that are open. This way if there is a problem with the ATM, you can walk inside and speak to someone right away. There are some fees associated with using the ATMs, so call your bank before you go to find out how to minimize them.

Answer 2

Convert as little as possible and use a credit or debit card. That will give you the best exchange rate. Never use a travelers check in a store. That will give you the worst exchange rate. Don't forget there is a fee each time you exchange so if you convert to euros there is another charge the convert the excess back into dollars. You can also use ATM machines all over Europe with your debit or credit card.

It is usually difficult to convert to Euros in the US because most banks want to sell you a minimum size package and they have to order it from the head office.

Answer 3

When I was in Florence, I found a place that had some awesome deals on exchange and the best deals on international phone cards (that actually work!). The rate was 75 euro for 100 dollars on exchanging...and I paid 10 euro for a phone card and it was loaded with like 9 hours and 30 minutes. You should check it out if you're there. Go to the Palazzo Vecchio and go down the street that is between it and the Uffizzi Gallery, you'll find it on the south side of the street.

Answer 4

I'm pretty sure if you just run your card like normal, it will take out the equivalent amount in dollars to the price. You don't need to convert money in a bank from dollars to euros as technically it's all just ones and zeroes anyway.

Answer 5

when you go, take about 100 euros with you, get dollars exchanged in the airport in the U.S. then use your card when possible instead of cash. when coming back, exchange your leftover euros for dollars at the italy airport or bank.

Answer 6

if you buy travelers ck. then convert you are paying twice. i have found ATM check card visa is the best convert when you get to where you are going you will get bank rate of exchange. you may want to change in the us just enough to get taxie money or pocket money.

Answer 7

I agree with all of the above the ATM gives you the best rate. Make sure and let your bank know ahead that you are traveling or they may block your card due to identity theft.

Answer 8

Use your ATM bank card, not your credit card for this.

If you bring about €100 with you this will cover getting to your hotel, a few coffees, and something to eat, for your first few hours.

Answer 9

your own bank will give you the best exchange rate. Just use your ATM card over there,

Answer 10

It's bad