Using Euros In Stockholm Airport: Is It Possible?

can i use euros in stockholm airport

If you're wondering whether you can use euros at Stockholm Airport, you're not alone. Many travellers have asked the same question. The answer is that while airport shops and restaurants do tend to accept foreign currencies, it's generally advised to avoid using euros in Stockholm. Sweden is not part of the euro area, and the Swedish krona (SEK) is the legally accepted currency. While some tourist-oriented restaurants, museums, and stores may allow payments in euros, you'll typically receive change in kronor, and the exchange rate is often unfavourable. Instead, it's recommended to use a credit or debit card, as cards are widely accepted in Stockholm, and ATMs are readily available. So, if you're heading to Stockholm Airport, it's best to rely on your card and local currency rather than euros.

Characteristics Values
Currency used in Stockholm Swedish Krona (SEK)
Currency used in Stockholm Airport shops and restaurants Foreign currencies, Swedish Krona
Exchange offices at Stockholm Airport FOREX counters
Use of Euros in Stockholm Airport shops and restaurants Accepted, but at a poor rate
Use of Euros in Stockholm Generally not accepted, some tourist areas may allow it
Payment methods in Stockholm Card, cash
Cash usage in Stockholm Decreasing

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Stockholm Airport shops and restaurants accept Euros, but at poor rates

If you're wondering whether you can use euros at Stockholm Airport, the answer is yes, but it's not recommended. While airport shops and restaurants do tend to accept foreign currencies, the exchange rates are typically unfavourable, and any change given will be in Swedish kronor.

Sweden is well on its way to becoming a cashless society, with many bars, restaurants, hotels, shops, and museums refusing cash payments altogether. Cards are widely accepted, and it is advised to use a credit or debit card for most purchases. ATMs are readily available and usually offer instructions in English and French. It is also worth noting that taxis accept card payments, and tipping is not expected or customary.

If you need to exchange foreign currency, it is recommended to visit FOREX counters, which can be found at central stations and airports. These offices are typically open at least six days a week, with longer hours at airports and train stations. The foreign exchange commission is a standard SEK 50 per transaction.

While it may be convenient to use euros at Stockholm Airport, you will likely get a poor exchange rate. It is generally recommended to use a card for purchases and only carry some local currency for small, everyday expenses. By following this advice, you can avoid unfavourable exchange rates and make the most of your money during your time in Stockholm.

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Euros are accepted in some tourist areas, but change is given in Kronor

Although Sweden is a member of the European Union, it is not part of the euro area. The legally accepted currency in Sweden is the Swedish krona (SEK). Euros are generally not accepted in Stockholm, except in some tourist areas, such as museums and shops in tourist hotspots. However, if you pay in euros, change will usually be given in Swedish kronor.

It is worth noting that Stockholm is largely cashless. Many restaurants, bars, shops, and museums only accept card payments and refuse cash. Therefore, it is advisable to have a bank card available when visiting Stockholm. Most establishments accept international credit cards, although card payments may incur additional bank charges and commissions. For small everyday purchases, it is recommended to withdraw cash from an ATM on arrival.

If you need to exchange foreign currencies for Swedish kronor, FOREX counters are available at central stations and airports, including Arlanda and Skavsta. These exchange offices are usually open at least six days a week, from 10 am to 6 pm (2 pm on Saturdays). However, using euros in Stockholm will often result in unfavourable exchange rates, so it is generally recommended to use kronor or a debit/credit card instead.

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Stockholm is largely cashless, with many places only accepting card payments

While Euros may be accepted at Stockholm Airport, it is not recommended to rely on them during your stay in Stockholm. Sweden is largely a cashless society, with many businesses and services only accepting card or digital payments.

In Stockholm, most restaurants, cafes, and bars do not accept cash, and it is advised to check in advance if a place takes cash payments. Cards are widely accepted, and it is best to use a debit or credit card for most purchases. Even taxis usually accept card payments, although it is recommended to ask in advance.

Sweden's transition to a cashless society has been swift, with the amount of cash in circulation in the country halving since 2007. This move towards cashlessness is partly due to a unique Swedish law that prioritizes "freedom of contract," allowing businesses to choose their preferred payment methods. While this shift has been convenient for most Swedes, it has also raised concerns about financial inclusion, particularly for those who are unbanked, lack credit, or cannot afford digital technology.

Digital wallets and BNPL (buy now, pay later) apps have also gained popularity in Sweden, with options like Klarna, Walley, Qliro, and Zaver being commonly used. However, it is always a good idea to have some physical currency, such as Swedish kronor, for small purchases or tipping.

Therefore, when visiting Stockholm, it is advisable to rely primarily on card and digital payments, but also to carry some cash as a backup.

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Euros can be exchanged for Kronor at FOREX counters in the airport

Euros are not the legal tender in Sweden, and the country is not part of the euro area. The Swedish Krona (SEK) is the official currency in Sweden. Euros may be accepted in some shops, restaurants, and museums in tourist areas, but the exchange rate is often unfavourable to the buyer. Change will also usually be given in Swedish Kronor.

If you are looking to exchange Euros for Swedish Kronor, you can do so at FOREX counters at Arlanda and Skavsta airports. FOREX offices are usually open every day and have longer hours than those located in the city. The foreign exchange commission is a flat rate of SEK 50 per transaction.

It is recommended to use a debit or credit card for purchases in Stockholm, as card payments are widely accepted. ATMs (known as Bankomats) are also readily available near major Swedish banks, and most provide instructions in English and French.

If you intend to use cash, it is best to have some Swedish Kronor with you, as many bars and restaurants in Stockholm do not accept cash payments, and those that do may not take foreign currency.

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Taxis in Stockholm accept card payments, so cash is unnecessary

While Euros may be accepted at Stockholm Airport, it is not recommended to use them as you will get a poor exchange rate. It is better to use a card instead. Taxis in Stockholm, including those from the airport, accept card payments, so carrying cash is unnecessary. Major taxi companies like Taxi Stockholm, Taxi 020, and Taxi Kurir accept VISA, MasterCard, or cash in Swedish Krona (SEK). While Taxi Stockholm also accepts Euros, American Dollars, and British Pounds, it is not common for taxis in Stockholm to accept foreign currency.

It is worth noting that Stockholm is largely a cash-free city, with many bars and restaurants not accepting cash at all. Cards are widely accepted, and it is recommended to carry a card and Swedish Krona if needed. If you prefer to use cash, it is advisable to check with the merchant beforehand to ensure they accept cash payments.

Additionally, it is important to be aware of potential taxi scams in Stockholm. Some minor taxi companies are known for charging high fares, so it is recommended to look at the yellow price tag in the window before hiring a cab from an unknown company. If you are travelling from the airport, it is also good to know that some terminals may charge an extra fee, which will be included on your receipt.

In summary, when travelling to Stockholm, it is best to rely on card payments, including for taxis, and to carry some Swedish Krona for the rare instances where cash may be required. Euros are not widely accepted, and using them may result in unfavourable exchange rates.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, airport shops and restaurants tend to accept foreign currencies, but you will get a poor exchange rate and any change will be given in Swedish Kronor. It is recommended to use a debit or credit card instead.

FOREX counters are available at the Arlanda and Skavsta airports. These are open seven days a week and have longer hours than those in the city.

Euros are generally not accepted in Stockholm, but some tourist-focused restaurants, museums, and stores may allow payments in Euros. However, the exchange rate is often unfavourable, and change will be given in Swedish Kronor. It is recommended to use a card or Swedish Kronor for purchases.

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