Getting Euros for Your Trip to Germany

Germany might be Europe's largest economy, but it has a surprisingly strong attachment to cash. Germans have a word for it — "Bargeld" (cash money) — and many prefer it for everyday purchases. This catches many visitors off guard, especially those used to tap-and-go payments.

The good news is that getting Euros for Germany is straightforward and the exchange rate is favourable compared to more exotic currencies. As a Eurozone country, you benefit from high liquidity and competitive rates from UK providers.

Key insight for 2026: While card acceptance has improved since the pandemic, Germany remains significantly more cash-dependent than the UK, France, or the Netherlands. Budget restaurants, bakeries, market stalls, and even some mid-range restaurants are still "Nur Bargeld" (cash only). Always have Euros on hand.

Best Ways to Get Euros for Germany

Here are your options ranked from best to worst value:

1. Multi-currency cards (Wise, Revolut) — Best overall option. Use at German bank ATMs for fee-free withdrawals with excellent exchange rates. Also useful for card payments at larger retailers.
2. Order Euros online before travel — Services like Wise, Revolut, or currency specialists offer rates close to mid-market with home delivery. Good for having cash ready on arrival.
3. German bank ATMs — Sparkasse, Deutsche Bank, Commerzbank, and Volksbank ATMs don't charge fees. Combined with a fee-free card, this is very cost-effective.
4. UK specialist bureaux — High street specialists like Travel FX or currency shops often beat banks. Compare rates and order in advance.
5. German exchange offices (Wechselstuben) — Found in tourist areas. Rates vary significantly — ReiseBank at train stations is usually reasonable.
6. UK high street banks — Convenient but typically 3-5% worse than specialists. Fine for small amounts in a hurry.
7. Airport exchanges — Worst rates. Avoid Travelex and similar at Heathrow or German airports unless absolutely necessary.

Using Cards in Germany

Germany's relationship with card payments is complicated. Here's what to expect:

Where Cards Usually Work

• Supermarkets: REWE, Edeka, Aldi, Lidl all accept cards (though some have minimum spend)
• Hotels: All hotels accept cards for room payment
• Department stores: KaDeWe, Kaufhof, major retailers accept cards
• Chain restaurants: McDonald's, Starbucks, larger chains
• Train tickets: Deutsche Bahn machines and counters accept cards
• Petrol stations: All accept cards at the pump

Where You'll Need Cash

• Traditional restaurants: Many German restaurants, especially outside tourist centres
• Bakeries (Bäckerei): Most are cash-only
• Beer gardens: Many prefer or require cash
• Market stalls: Farmers markets, Christmas markets, flea markets
• Small cafés: Independent coffee shops often cash-only
• Taxis: Some accept cards, but cash is safer
• Public toilets: Usually €0.50-1.00 in coins

EC-Karte vs Kreditkarte: Germans distinguish between debit cards (EC-Karte/Girocard) and credit cards (Kreditkarte). Some places that accept EC-Karte won't accept Visa/Mastercard. If you see "EC" only, ask before assuming your card works.

ATMs in Germany (Geldautomat)

German ATMs are reliable and widely available. Here's what you need to know:

Best ATMs to Use

• Sparkasse: Ubiquitous red ATMs found everywhere. No fees for foreign cards.
• Deutsche Bank: Major bank with many branches. Fee-free withdrawals.
• Commerzbank: Yellow ATMs, widely available. No foreign card fees.
• Volksbank/Raiffeisenbank: Cooperative banks with extensive network.

ATMs to Avoid

• Euronet: Independent ATMs that charge €5+ fees. Found in tourist areas.
• Cardpoint: Another independent network with fees.
• Any ATM not attached to a bank: Street-corner machines often charge fees.

Withdrawal Tips

• Withdraw in Euros — always decline "conversion to your home currency" (DCC scam)
• Maximum withdrawals typically €500-1000 depending on your card
• ATMs give €5, €10, €20, €50 notes — specify smaller notes if needed
• ATMs available 24/7, though some bank lobby ATMs close at night

How Much Cash to Bring

Germany's cash culture means you'll use more physical money than in the UK. Budget accordingly:

• Weekend city break: €150-300 cash should cover restaurants, cafés, and incidentals
• Week-long trip: €300-500 cash, supplemented by ATM withdrawals
• Oktoberfest/Christmas markets: Bring extra — these are heavily cash-based

Daily Spending Guide (Per Person)

• Budget: €50-80/day — hostels, street food, budget restaurants
• Mid-range: €100-180/day — 3-star hotels, nice restaurants, activities
• Comfortable: €200-350/day — 4-star hotels, fine dining, tours

Money Safety in Germany

Germany is very safe for travellers, but standard precautions apply:

• Pickpockets: Active in tourist areas — Berlin Alexanderplatz, Munich Marienplatz, Cologne Cathedral area
• Keep cash distributed: Don't carry all your money in one place
• Use hotel safes: Store excess cash and backup cards securely
• ATM awareness: Use ATMs inside bank lobbies when possible, especially at night
• Receipt culture: Germans expect receipts (Kassenbon) — useful for expense tracking