Do I need to take euros to Amsterdam from UK?

CURRENCY. In Amsterdam, as well as in all the Netherlands and many other countries of European Community the accepted currency is Euro (EUR, €), no other currencies are commonly accepted, so you will have to change your dollars, sterling, yens, etc to Euros.



While Amsterdam uses the Euro, in 2026 you actually do not need to carry physical cash for the vast majority of your trip. The Netherlands is one of the most "cashless" societies in Europe; almost every shop, from high-end boutiques to the smallest "Haring" stand or public toilet, accepts (and often prefers) contactless payment via debit card, credit card, or Apple/Google Pay. In fact, many "Albert Heijn" supermarkets and cafes are strictly "Pin Only" (cards only). However, it is a "peer-to-peer" best practice to carry about €20-€50 in cash just as a backup for small locker rentals at museums or if a card machine fails. When traveling from the UK, ensure your card doesn't charge foreign transaction fees. If you do need cash, avoid the "Travelex" booths at Schiphol Airport or Centraal Station, as they have poor rates; instead, use a local bank ATM (Geldmaat) for the best conversion. For most travelers, your smartphone will be your primary wallet throughout the city.

People Also Ask

Resist the urge to buy foreign currency before your trip. Some tourists feel like they just have to have euros or British pounds in their pockets when they step off the airplane, but they pay the price in bad stateside exchange rates. Wait until you arrive to withdraw money.

MORE DETAILS

Dutch currency Many shops and restaurants in Amsterdam accept credit cards, but not all. It is therefore recommended to either ask before you order or ensure you have a sufficient amount in cash to cover the bill. Most shops and restaurants do not accept €200 or €500 notes.

MORE DETAILS

Exchange rates are generally much more favourable when you withdraw your cash from an ATM in the foreign country than when you purchase from a foreign exchange office in the UK. Your Barclays Bank debit card should work in any Dutch ATM and instructions will be offered to you in English.

MORE DETAILS

Debit cards and ATMs in the Netherlands If you have a foreign debit or credit card, you can usually get by just fine in our country. You can use it directly in stores or withdraw money at an ATM.

MORE DETAILS

Debit Cards Debit cards are the top payment method across the entire retail sector in the Netherlands, despite the high number of iDEAL transactions online.

MORE DETAILS

That's because, in the Netherlands, there is no social or written requirement to tip a restaurant worker. However, if you received good service or thoroughly enjoyed the food, it's customary to give a small tip — around 5-10% of the bill. If your service was just average, round up the bill or leave some change.

MORE DETAILS

This is so entirely dependent on your own travel preferences that it's tough to estimate but we recommend putting aside roughly €700 to €1700 for spending money for one week in Europe.

MORE DETAILS

ATMs are the best way to access money abroad and are increasingly available. Your bank or credit card company may charge fees for withdrawals overseas and may have a limit on the amount you can withdraw daily, so be sure to consult with your bank about this.

MORE DETAILS

CURRENCY. In Amsterdam, as well as in all the Netherlands and many other countries of European Community the accepted currency is Euro (EUR, €), no other currencies are commonly accepted, so you will have to change your dollars, sterling, yens, etc to Euros.

MORE DETAILS

As a general guideline, budget travelers may be able to get by with around €50-75 per day for accommodation, food, and transportation, while those looking for more luxury may need to budget around €150-200 per day or more.

MORE DETAILS

The easiest and simplest (and cheapest) way is probably ATM withdrawal but ask your bank about fees (Dutch banks don't charge).

MORE DETAILS

Currency exchange shops and kiosks in airports are not the best places to exchange money. For the best rates, try a local bank or a bank ATM to make your currency exchanges. Check to see if your U.S. bank offers foreign ATM fee refunds for using a foreign ATM.

MORE DETAILS

Apple Pay can only be used in-store at certain merchants in the Netherlands. However, most cafes, shops, grocery chains, and petrol kiosks, from ALDI to McDonald's, should accept Apple Pay as long as the store has a POS terminal that accepts tap-and-go payments.

MORE DETAILS