Is it better to travel to France with cash or card?

Key Takeaways. 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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In small towns or away from tourist areas, it is always useful to have some cash with you. Good to know: Taxis in France should accept card payments.

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Generally, debit card transactions are cheaper and credit cards incur heavy fees while abroad. So, keeping your debit card in France is a better option. Yet, the taxes and withdrawal fees may vary from bank to bank.

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Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in most European cities. American Express is too, but perhaps less widely. Paying by card can be easier and more convenient. You don't need to worry about changing money at a foreign exchange counter, or worry about security when carrying cash around with you.

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Before your trip, exchange money at your bank or credit union, which likely offers better rates and fewer and/or lower fees. See if your bank or credit union will buy back any leftover foreign currency for when you return.

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Do hotels in France accept cash? Cash is accepted everywhere. However, it is better to pay in Euros, as few institutions accept a different currency. If you haven't exchanged your currency before leaving, it is possible to do so at a bank, but it is easier to go to a bureau de change.

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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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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.

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Keep a small amount of currency before traveling to cover immediate expenses upon arrival. Yet, obtaining Euros upon arrival in France is often more cost-effective, as exchange rates and fees may be more favorable in local banks or currency exchange offices.

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A good rule of thumb, though, is that, on average, you should plan to carry between $50 and $100 per day in the currency of the country in which you're travelling.

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Restaurants. Tipping is not considered etiquette by French people in French restaurants, but if you enjoyed your meal, it's nice to leave 5 - 10%. If you really enjoyed the meal, or plan on returning to the restaurant and want the wait staff to like you, 15% is a generous tip.

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