How to Obtain Euros

Since the European Union instituted the euro note in 2002, euros have become a necessity of any European vacation. No matter the state of the exchange rate, euros provide the convenience of traveling through Europe without stopping to exchange currencies every time you cross the border. As of 2010, the eurozone -- European Union member countries who use the euro as their monetary unit -- consists of 16 countries: Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Malta, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and The Netherlands.

Instructions

    • 1
      Not all banks have euro notes on hand for conversion.

      Call your bank and ask if it has euros in stock. Not all bank branches keep them in supply regularly. If the nearest branch of your bank is out of euro notes, call other accessible branches. Ask the bank to order some if there are none available within a reasonable driving distance. This can take several weeks.

    • 2

      Visit a currency exchange in the airport before you depart or once you arrive in Europe. Exchange cash in another currency for euros or use your credit or debit card to purchase them. These kiosks charge both exchange and commission fees.

    • 3
      Some U.S. PINs do not work with foreign ATMs.

      Use an ATM in the country you are visiting to withdraw euros from your bank account at home. Before your departure, check with your bank to see if your PIN will be valid abroad. Many European ATMs do not accept PINs with more than four numbers. You can change your PIN with your bank before your trip to avoid this problem.

    • 4

      Locate a bank in the city you are visiting. Call, ask the concierge at your hotel or visit in person to confirm the bank is able to convert U.S. dollars.

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