Take your bank debit card and use an automated teller machine (ATM) or guichet automatique. You will get a good rate of exchange, and you will not have the exorbitant money exchange fees charged by a bank or bureau de change. Your own bank may impose a surcharge, but I tink you will do best in the long run with an ATM machine.
Europe was slower than the U.S. and Canada to join the ATM bandwagon, but today you'll find ATMs nearly everywhere you look in Western Europe. The names may vary--"Bancomat" is popular in Italy, for example--but the machines are easy to recognize. Just as important, many European ATMs have instructions in several languages to make life easier for the tourist.
Make sure your ATM card is compatible. Does your bank's ATM card have a Plus, Cirrus, Visa, MasterCard, or EuroCard logo? These networks operate throughout Europe, so you should be able to find a compatible machine if the answer is "yes." (Still, it's a good idea to check with your bank, since a handful of banks put restrictions on overseas use.)
Have the right kind of PIN. MasterCard/Cirrus recommends a four-digit PIN (personal identification number) for use with ATMs in its European network. The Visa/Plus network accepts four- to six-digit PINs. Your pin should be numeric, not alphanumeric--e.g., "1245," not "ab12." If necessary, ask your bank to change your PIN or translate it into numbers before you leave home.
Don't change small sums. Most banks charge a flat fee for each ATM transaction outside their own networks. (For example, my bank now charges US $3 for each withdrawal from a "foreign" machine at home or abroad.) If a withdrawal of 50 euros costs as much as a 300-euro transaction, it makes sense to get the higher amount--assuming, of course, that you have a safe place for the extra cash and will be in the country long enough to spend it.
2007-04-25 14:58:35
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answer #1
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answered by Mark 7
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Any banks in France. Airports (in Paris) can rip you off a bit. Done that.
2007-04-25 12:57:41
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answer #2
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answered by Servette 6
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LMAO a garbage can! My first kiss grew to change into in my most suitable chum's brother's room. including her brother the optimal eldritch position i have were given ever kissed someone grew to change into in paintings class precise in the front of the instructor. Very remarkable
2016-12-04 21:11:10
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answer #3
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answered by ? 4
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What country are you coming from? I travel to Europe a lot from the US and withdrawing money directly from ATM machines has always been the least expensive way.
2007-04-26 19:42:00
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answer #4
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answered by phe 3
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Since the french are such jerks towards americans, they'd probably try to screw you somehow. I'd get them here. Normally you do get the best rate in the country you're visiting, at a local bank.
2007-04-25 12:57:57
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answer #5
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answered by EarthGirl 6
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get a few euros from the post office then just use your cash card in the machine when your here,far cheaper.
2007-04-26 23:40:17
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answer #6
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answered by Shots 3
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u can get ur money exchanged for euros at Aeroport Charles De Gaulle at the money exchange booths
2007-04-26 10:17:21
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answer #7
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answered by apceacatura 2
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