How much cash should I take for Europe?

US dollars: I carry $100–200 as a backup. While you won't use it for day-to-day purchases, American cash in your money belt comes in handy for emergencies, such as when banks go on strike or your ATM card stops working. I've been in Greece and Ireland when every bank went on strike, shutting down without warning.



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Backpackers should expect to spend between $40 – $70 USD/day in Eastern Europe, $70 – $100/day in Western Europe, and $150 – $200/day in the Nordic countries.

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You don't need to bring too much cash, but it's good to have some Euro (about $100 per person) to bring along if you want to grab a quick bite or a taxi before you have time to hit a cash machine. I think there are some Citibanks and tons of ATMs in general.

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By far one of the easiest ways to secure cash in Europe is to simply withdraw the right currency from ATMs during your travels. ATM withdrawals are often a hassle-free way to get cash. ATMs are everywhere across Europe, especially in the busiest hubs and almost all machines have English language options.

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European travelers should always have some cash on hand; getting it from an ATM abroad is usually the easiest, most advantageous way. If you need cash from an ATM, it's usually better to use a debit card, because credit cards often charge a high interest rate for a cash advance.

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If you prefer dealing in cash, then by all means get some euros out before your trip. But actually, you'll find that debit and credit cards are widely accepted in most European cities. Paying by card can be easier and more convenient, without the potential security risk of carrying cash around you.

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In Italy, cash is still preferred in most restaurants, cafes and other establishments, although credit and debit cards are becoming more widely used throughout Italy and are an increasingly convenient way to pay for things. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted, although American Express is not.

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Italy's currency is the Euro (€). We recommend that you take a mixture of cash along with currency on a pre-paid currency card. Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, shops and autostrada tollbooths.

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If you ask locals “Do you tip in Italy?”, they'll explain that while they sometimes leave a small tip, it's generally not necessary. In Italy, gratuity (or una mancia, pronounced oo-nah MAN-chah) is considered a bonus for exceptional service. And it's not often that you'll find a tip jar at a register.

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With 10,000 USD, you could easily travel around Europe for a few weeks. You could stay in budget hostels and eat at local restaurants or cook your own meals. If you plan carefully and look for deals, it's possible to stretch that amount even further.

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Portugal offers the lowest cost of living in Western Europe, where a couple can live nicely on $2,500 to $3,000 a month outside of the major cities.

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A mid-range traveler might spend around 150-250 euros per day, or 450-750 euros total, for a 2-night, 3-day trip to Italy. This would include comfortable accommodation, local transportation, meals at mid-range restaurants, and some paid sightseeing activities.

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The easiest and cheapest way is to use an ATM at the airport in Rome to get some Euros, although there is usually no need to get Euros before you leave. You can buy Euros in the US but you will pay a premium.

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When it comes to tipping at restaurants, Italians will tell you they only tip on truly exceptional service or when dining in the finest restaurants. Even then, they usually only tip an extra 10 to 15 percent, or often just the change left over from the bill.

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Compared to many other countries in Europe and around the world, Italy remains a predominantly cash-driven society.

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Advantages of using cash If your spending discipline breaks down when you use credit cards, cash may be a better choice while you let loose on vacation. No foreign transaction fees: Many credit cards charge an extra fee of up to 3% on purchases made outside the country, although you can find cards that don't.

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While credit cards are easy to carry and more secure than cash, you should always have some local cash on you when traveling. It's just good sense.

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There is no limit on the amount of cash you can carry with you when flying domestically within the United States. However, if you are traveling internationally, you are required to declare any amounts over $10,000 USD to customs. Failure to do so can result in a penalty.

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