Paying in Europe is easy once you know a few local habits. Germany in particular still loves cash, while the Nordic countries are almost cashless. Here is a short guide for the countries on our tours.
Which currency where
- Euro: Germany, Austria, France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Greece, the Netherlands, Belgium
- Swiss franc: Switzerland and Liechtenstein
- Pound sterling: United Kingdom
- Forint, złoty and koruna: Hungary, Poland and the Czech Republic
- Krone: Denmark, Norway and Sweden (which barely use cash)
Cash or card?
Visa and Mastercard are accepted in hotels, restaurants and shops almost everywhere. In Germany and Austria, small cafés, bakeries, market stalls and some beer gardens still prefer cash, so carry 50 to 100 euros. American Express is accepted less often.
Avoid extra fees
When a card terminal or ATM asks whether to pay in your home currency or in euros, always choose the local currency; the conversion offered on the spot is usually expensive. Use ATMs of real banks rather than independent machines in tourist areas.
How much to tip
Tipping is appreciated but not a fixed percentage. In restaurants in Germany and Austria, round up or add 5 to 10 percent and tell the waiter the total when you pay, rather than leaving coins on the table. Taxi drivers: round up. Tour guides and drivers on a full-day tour: about 5 to 10 euros per person per day is customary.
Prices to expect
In a German city, a coffee costs about 3 to 4 euros, a beer in a beer garden 5 to 6 euros and a main course in a traditional restaurant 15 to 25 euros. Switzerland and Scandinavia are noticeably more expensive.
On our tours, breakfast and many entrance fees are included, so your daily spending stays predictable.
