In 2026, you do not need to physically convert cash for a trip to Amsterdam if you have a contactless-enabled credit or debit card. Amsterdam is one of the most "cash-averse" cities in Europe; many cafes, supermarkets, and public transport systems are strictly "Pin Only," meaning they do not accept paper money at all. The official currency is the Euro (€), but digital payments via Apple Pay, Google Pay, and contactless cards (Visa/Mastercard) are the standard for 99% of transactions. If you choose to use a card, it is a peer-to-peer "pro-tip" to always pay in the local currency (EUR) when prompted by a card terminal, rather than choosing "Dynamic Currency Conversion" (DCC) into your home currency, which often hides poor exchange rates and extra fees. While carrying a small €20 note as an emergency backup is wise, most 2026 travelers will find they can navigate the entire city, from the Anne Frank House to the canal boats, without ever touching a physical coin or banknote.