Europe currency guide: Understanding the euro (EUR)

Planning a trip to Europe? Whether you are heading to Paris, Rome, or visiting family and friends, you will likely need to use the local currency: the euro (EUR).

Understanding how the euro works, where to exchange money, and how to pay while travelling can help you avoid unnecessary fees and get more value from your money.

This guide covers everything you need to know about Europe's currency, including practical exchange tips and how to spend with confidence while you are there.

Need to check the latest USD to EUR rate? Before exchanging money, compare the current exchange rate and see how much your dollars could be worth in euros with Revolut's USD to EUR currency converter.

What currency is used in Europe?

The official currency of the eurozone is the euro (EUR). It is issued and regulated by the European Central Bank, which is based in Frankfurt, Germany.

The euro is represented by the € symbol, which is placed before or after the amount depending on the country you are in. You will often see the currency code EUR used when exchanging money or making international payments.

One euro is divided into 100 cents.

Common denominations include:

5 tips for exchanging US dollars to euros

Here are five practical tips before converting USD to EUR.

1. Check the exchange rate before you travel

Exchange rates move constantly, so check the current USD to EUR rate before exchanging money. Compare rates from banks, exchange providers, and digital financial services. Look beyond the headline rate and check for hidden markups or service fees.

2. Avoid exchanging money at airports

Airport exchange counters are convenient, but they are often among the most expensive options. Find better rates through local banks, ATMs, or digital banking solutions once you arrive in Europe.

3. Pay in euros whenever possible

When paying by card or withdrawing cash, you may be asked whether you would like to pay in US dollars or euros. Always choose euros — doing so helps you avoid the unfavorable conversion rates applied by merchants or ATM operators.

4. Watch out for extra fees

The exchange rate is only part of the cost. Before exchanging money or using your card abroad, check for:

• Foreign transaction fees
• ATM withdrawal fees
• Currency conversion markups
• Service or commission charges

Understanding the full cost means no surprises.

5. Use trusted providers for currency exchange

Whether you are exchanging cash, transferring money internationally, or spending abroad, use reputable financial providers. Look for transparent pricing, secure transactions, and clear exchange rate information so you know exactly what you are paying.

Sending money to family or friends in Europe? Instead of carrying large amounts of cash, explore ways to send money to Europe securely, and track your transfers directly from the Revolut app.

Using money in Europe

Europe is highly card-friendly, especially in major cities, supermarkets, hotels, and tourist attractions. Tapping debit cards, credit cards, or smartphones is the standard payment method across most of the continent. However, keeping some cash is still recommended for smaller independent businesses, local markets, public transport, and tipping in certain regions.

While card usage is almost universal in some countries, keeping a steady cash reserve in euros remains the most straightforward and practical option for minor transactions.

Can you use US dollars in Europe?

No, US dollars are not accepted for everyday transactions in Europe. Local merchants, restaurants, public transport, and sightseeing spots will strictly only accept euros (EUR) or the respective national currency of non-eurozone countries.

For everyday purchases, paying in the local currency is the only way to transact and will save you money on merchant conversion fees.

Can you use a Revolut card in Europe?

Rather than carrying large amounts of cash or relying on merchant exchange rates, use a Revolut prepaid travel card to manage your spending throughout your trip.

With a physical or virtual card on your phone, you can convert your funds into euros (EUR) before you travel and pay by card wherever it is accepted. You can also track your spending in real-time through the app, helping you stay on top of your travel budget.

And when you need cash, withdraw euros from ATMs across Europe — giving you the flexibility to pay the way you want throughout your trip.

Where can I get euros?

You can obtain euros through:

• Local banks
• Currency exchange offices
• ATMs in Europe
• International money services
• Digital banking apps with foreign exchange features

Before travelling, compare rates and fees to find the most cost-effective option for your needs.

Manage your money in Europe with Revolut

Whether you are travelling, sending money abroad, or managing multiple currencies, Revolut helps you spend internationally with greater transparency. With the Revolut app, you can:

• Exchange currencies: convert your money into euros (EUR) in seconds.¹
• Track live market rates: monitor real-time exchange rates directly in the app
• Spend like a local: spend abroad with your Revolut card
• Withdraw cash: get no Revolut fee ATM withdrawals, up to $1,200 per month, for paid plans (Metal, Premium)²

• Send money globally: transfer funds internationally with clear, upfront fees.¹
• Budget on the go: track your spending in real-time and stay on top of every transaction.

Make your money more secure and spend with total confidence on your next trip to Europe.

¹Exchange and global transfer fees, fair usage limits, and Terms and Conditions apply.

²No ATM withdrawal fees within plan limits on a monthly basis. Out-of-network ATM withdrawals are subject to a 2% fee for Standard customers, and a 2% fee for Premium and Metal customers once their plan limits are exceeded. Third-party providers may charge a withdrawal fee. Currency and ATM fair-usage fees apply. Weekend markups on currency exchange will apply.