I need to convert US dollars to Euros. What's the cheapest way to do it?

Question

Currency exchanges like Travelex want a 19 cent premium.

Answer 1

If you travel to Europe, the cheapest way to get money out of an ATM in a country using the Euro, using a debit or bank card.
Check with your bank whether your card is ready for use abroad and what it will cost you to use it.
Credit cards can be used for paying in many but not all shops and restaurants, but mostly they have a high fee for use in an ATM, but it is still worth checking with your card company.

If you want to change a few dollars, try to find an exchange office that claims to charge no fee, they give a poor rate but overall you pay less.
If you want to change a big amount of cash, a bank or an exchange office that charges a fee is likely to be cheaper.

Answer 2

When I travel I use ATM cards. Just be sure to check before you leave that your card will work overseas. Some cards need to be 'activated' for foreign banks. Other than that, it's a safe and economical way to get any foreign currency as you travel.

Answer 3

Usually the best rates are at a bank and the more you convert, the less the charge is proportionally.