Ruth Haines
If you're travelling to Venice, Italy, it's a good idea to have some euros on hand when you arrive. While some sources suggest exchanging your money at your local bank before you leave, others recommend using an ATM at the airport in Venice. Airport currency exchange booths often have poor exchange rates and high fees, so it's best to avoid them. ATMs in Italy are said to offer better exchange rates, and some banks do not charge a fee for their use. However, it's important to check with your bank about any potential fees they may charge for foreign transactions. It's also a good idea to bring more than one debit or credit card, just in case.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Getting Euros at the airport in Venice | Possible through ATMs or currency exchange booths |
| ATM fees at the airport in Venice | No fees charged by the ATM, but your bank may charge a fee for using an ATM outside of your bank's network |
| Currency exchange booth fees at the airport in Venice | Typically higher than bank exchange rates, with a potential fee or biased exchange rate |
| Recommended amount of Euros to withdraw at the airport | €100-200, in smaller denominations for easier spending |
| Other options for getting Euros | Using a debit or credit card, exchanging cash at a bank in Venice, or withdrawing from ATMs in Venice outside of the airport |
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What You'll Learn
It's best to get euros from an ATM at the airport
ATMs are readily available at the airport in Venice, and you can use your debit card to withdraw cash. It's a good idea to notify your bank and credit card company that you'll be travelling to Italy and using your cards there. You should also check what fees your bank might charge for ATM withdrawals abroad. While Italian banks don't charge for the use of their ATMs, your home bank likely will. Typically, this is around a 1% transaction fee, but it's best to check.
ATMs in Italy work the same way as in the US, and you can use your regular ATM card. It's worth noting that European ATMs don't have letters on the keypad, so it's best to memorise your PIN as a series of numbers. Additionally, if you have a six-digit PIN, you may need to change it to a four-digit PIN before you travel.
Using an ATM at the airport in Venice is a convenient way to get euros when you arrive. You can withdraw a modest amount of cash to cover initial expenses, such as transportation or small purchases, and then use your credit card for larger expenses, such as hotels or restaurants. This way, you benefit from the better exchange rate at ATMs and the convenience of using your card for bigger purchases.
It's also worth mentioning that currency exchange booths at the airport tend to offer less favourable exchange rates and may charge high fees. Therefore, using an ATM at the airport is a better option for getting euros when you arrive in Venice.
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Avoid currency exchange booths at the airport
When it comes to exchanging currency, it is always best to avoid the currency exchange booths at the airport. While they may seem convenient, they rarely offer a good deal. Currency exchangers at the airport take advantage of the fact that travellers are often in a rush and do not have many other options, so they can get away with charging inferior rates.
Airport exchange services primarily make their money by offering poor exchange rates. They may advertise "0% commission", but this does not mean they are not making a profit from the transaction. They will have marked up the exchange rate, and the difference goes straight into their pockets. These marked-up exchange rates are simply a different type of fee. It is not uncommon for airport exchanges to charge up to 17% more than the current International Monetary Fund (IMF) exchange rate, plus additional fees on top.
Instead, it is recommended to order your foreign currency from your bank before you travel. Most banks allow you to order foreign currencies, which you can typically pick up at a local branch before your trip. Some banks may even ship the currencies to you, sometimes for free. The exchange rates offered by banks are usually much better than those at airport currency exchanges. For example, in January 2024, Bank of America's exchange rates averaged roughly 6% more than the IMF rates, which is less than half of what airport currency exchanges charge.
If it is too late to order foreign currency from your bank, you can also withdraw money from ATMs once you arrive at your destination. ATMs offer decent exchange rates and can be found at airports, train stations, and in city centres. However, it is important to check with your bank about any ATM fees, as these can add up. It is also a good idea to carry a small amount of euros with you when you arrive, just in case you are unable to locate an ATM or if there are any issues with your card.
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Get a small amount of euros before you leave
It is recommended that you get a small amount of euros before you leave for your trip to Venice. This will ensure that you have some local currency in your wallet before you arrive.
You can get euros from your bank, which is usually a major branch that either has some on hand or can easily obtain them. Try to get bills of a modest size, such as €10, €20, or €50, as these are easier to spend. You can also get euros from your bank's ATM, which will typically offer a better exchange rate than exchanging cash. However, be sure to check with your bank about any transaction fees they may charge for using ATMs overseas.
If you prefer to have a larger amount of cash on hand before your trip, you can also get euros from a currency exchange office or bureau. However, keep in mind that these offices often charge higher fees and may not offer the best exchange rates.
Having a small amount of euros before you leave for Venice will give you peace of mind and ensure that you can cover initial expenses such as transportation or small purchases until you have access to more funds through ATMs or banks in Venice.
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Use a credit card for bigger purchases
While in Venice, it is recommended to use a credit card for bigger purchases such as hotels, shopping, and restaurants. Many large stores, supermarkets, and the railway station ticket office/machines accept credit cards. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in Italy, and it is rare to find a place that accepts credit cards that does not take Visa. American Express, on the other hand, is not widely accepted, as they tend to charge the shop owner more than other cards.
It is important to note that some small restaurants, cafes, local eateries, taxis, buses, and other small businesses may not accept credit cards, so it is advisable to have some cash on hand for such purchases. Additionally, be aware that changing large bills can be difficult, so it is recommended to have smaller denominations of euros for these smaller purchases.
Before travelling, it is essential to notify your bank and credit card company that you will be using your cards in Italy. Some banks may charge fees for using your credit card internationally, so it is a good idea to check with your bank about any potential charges or withdrawal limits.
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Take two different debit cards
It is recommended to take two different debit cards when travelling to Italy. This is in case there is an issue with one of the cards, such as it being blocked by the bank. It is also a good idea to call your bank before you go to let them know that you will be using your card in Italy.
ATMs are readily available at the airport in Venice, as well as in the city centre. It is best to use a bank-affiliated ATM, as they offer the best exchange rates and lower fees. However, it is important to note that some banks charge a fee for using ATMs outside of their network, so it is worth checking with your bank before travelling.
If you would prefer to have some euros before you arrive in Italy, you can exchange money at your bank or credit union before you leave. However, be aware that the exchange rate may not be as favourable as using an ATM in Italy, and your bank may charge a fee for the transaction.
Some travellers prefer to have a small amount of euros as a backup, in case they are unable to locate an ATM or have issues with their cards. This can be useful for initial expenses such as taxi fares or small purchases. However, it is generally recommended to use your debit card for most transactions and withdraw cash from ATMs as needed.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can get euros at the airport in Venice. However, it is recommended that you get euros from an ATM, as currency exchange booths at the airport may charge higher fees.
You can find ATMs in the baggage hall of the Venice airport.
Yes, you may also be able to exchange currency at a bank in the airport. However, it is still recommended to use an ATM, as banks may also charge higher fees.
Some travellers prefer to have some euros before arriving in Italy for peace of mind. However, the exchange rate may be less favourable, and you may incur additional fees.
Yes, you can also use your credit or debit card for purchases in Italy, such as in stores and restaurants. You can also withdraw cash from ATMs located throughout Venice and other Italian cities.
