Should I take cash to Spain or pay by card?

In Spain you can pay in cash in almost all cases, and usually only Euros are accepted. In some cases, if the payment is made through a machine, it may be necessary to pay by card.



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In Spain you can pay in cash in almost all cases, and usually only Euros are accepted. In some cases, if the payment is made through a machine, it may be necessary to pay by card. The option to pay with credit and debit cards, mainly Visa and Mastercard, is very widespread.

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Cash is the best — and sometimes only — way to pay for bus fare, taxis, and local guides. If you'll be shopping a lot or settling bills at pricey business-class hotels, you might use your credit card more than I do — but you'll still be better off using cash for smaller purchases.

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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.

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While credit cards are accepted in most situations, currency can be more convenient for public transportation and small vendors. It's also wise to carry an emergency fund with enough cash for a few days, just in case your card gets lost or stolen.

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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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Exchanging currency in cash is very costly If you're just taking a simple trip abroad, you can avoid unnecessary stress if you use ATMs to withdraw money when you need it in Spain. If you're carrying a lot of cash, security can also be an issue as you could make yourself a target for thieves.

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Tipping in Spain works differently: The customer actually has the option to not leave any tip at all. However, restaurants expect a 10% tip on each bill—although it's not a formal rule, and that percentage is much lower than tipping practices in other countries.

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Currency: Can I pay in U.S. dollars, or should I use Euros? The currency of Spain is the Euro (€). U.S. dollars are not accepted. Please be sure to have the correct currency on hand or be prepared to exchange your dollars for Euros upon arrival.

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You may want to investigate banks that do not charge ATM fees and/or banks that are found throughout Europe. The cheapest and easiest way-and the best exchange rates-to get your hands on some euros is to simply use your US based bank's ATM/debit card at the many ATMs located throughout Madrid.

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You should plan to spend around €150 ($161) per day on your vacation in Spain, which is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors. Past travelers have spent, on average, €40 ($42) on meals for one day and €27 ($29) on local transportation.

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Once you've reached your destination, avoid airport kiosks or other exchange houses. Your bank's ATM network is likely the best option. You may be able to withdraw cash in the local currency with competitive exchange rates and low fees (1% to 3%). Use your institution's app to find an ATM near you.

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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.

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Buy currency before you travel.
Doing so gives you time to shop around for the best rate. Plus, when you arrive, you won't have to immediately find a bank or currency exchange. Do some research ahead of time to see if US dollars are widely accepted at places you plan to go to.

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UP to 10,000 euros without declaring. Whether you are travelling with euros or with the currency of another country, the limit is 10,000 euros or equivalent. Above this amount, you will have to submit a declaration to the customs services. Spain also sets a limit for the entry of undeclared capital.

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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. You'll just need to check your card provider's fees for spending abroad.

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It can be done, but you'd have to budget money carefully and watch how much you spend on food, sights, etc (and that takes away some fun & spontaneity. I prefer to go the 3 star route and free up extra spending money (I'd still avoid fancy dinners every night).

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