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Germany Travel Tips

Money & ATMs

Germany is in the midst of a shift towards a more digital payment system, but cash remains widely accepted throughout the country. Euros (โ‚ฌ) are the official currency, and you'll find a dense network of over 95,000 ATMs (Geldautomat in German) across Germany, present in major cities, tourist hotspots, and even transportation hubs like airports. These ATMs typically accept major international networks like Visa, Mastercard, Cirrus, Plus, and Maestro. However, it's always a good idea to confirm network compatibility and potential fees with your bank before your trip, as there are generally no fee-free ATMs in Germany. Expect to pay withdrawal fees ranging from โ‚ฌ1.5 to โ‚ฌ2 per transaction, with โ‚ฌ1.8 being common, and some banks may tack on additional charges.


Carrying a credit or debit card is a good strategy, especially in urban areas and tourist destinations where they are widely accepted. However, don't underestimate the prevalence of cash in smaller towns and villages. Having some Euros on hand will ensure you're prepared for any situation. Travel cards pre-loaded with Euros, like Revolut or Wise, can be a good alternative, often offering competitive exchange rates and lower withdrawal fees compared to using your regular debit card directly at ATMs.


Before you leave for Germany, let your bank know you'll be traveling internationally to avoid any issues with using your card abroad. It's also wise to carry a small amount of Euros in cash for emergencies or situations where cards aren't accepted. Finally, be mindful of conversion rates when using ATMs. Choose the option to see the conversion rate in Euros before finalizing the transaction to avoid any hidden fees from dynamic currency conversion. ATM withdrawal limits typically range from โ‚ฌ600 to โ‚ฌ840 per transaction, though the exact limit depends on the specific ATM and your bank's daily withdrawal limit.

Credit card

A card is the most convenient form of payment and currency exchange