Owais Crawford
If you're travelling to Rome, you may be wondering whether to exchange your dollars for euros at the airport. While it is possible to do so, with exchange booths and ATMs available at Rome's airports, you may want to consider the additional fees and poor exchange rates that are often associated with airport currency exchange. It is recommended to use your debit or credit card for purchases and withdraw cash from ATMs when required, as needed.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Exchanging currency at Rome airport | Not recommended due to poor exchange rates and high fees |
| Recommended options | 1. Using an ATM at the airport or in Rome 2. Getting currency from your bank before leaving 3. Using a credit/debit card |
| Safety concerns | Airports are the most heavily policed and military-controlled structures in Italy |
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What You'll Learn
Using an ATM at Rome airport
When travelling, it is always a good idea to have some local currency in your pocket. However, exchanging money at the airport can be expensive, with unfavourable conversion rates and high fees.
If you are travelling to Rome, you may want to consider using an ATM at Rome airport to get Euros. There are various Unicredit and Postamat ATMs at the airport. However, it is important to note that ATMs at airports tend to be very expensive, charging high fees for withdrawing money or converting currency.
- Be sure to notify your bank that you are travelling so they don't put a security block on your card.
- You might also want to ask them to raise your daily limit for withdrawals so you don't have to stop as often.
- If you are given the option to use the bank's conversion rate, decline it. It is better to let your bank handle the conversion, which will usually be more favourable for you.
- Avoid making ATM withdrawals with a credit card, as it is usually more expensive than using a debit card. Interest will likely start accruing right away, and you will not benefit from your interest-free period.
- Only use a Bancomat (an ATM physically connected to a bank) to avoid additional fees.
- If you are given the option to view the transaction in your home currency, decline it. This gives the ATM permission to give you an unfavourable exchange rate.
- If you travel regularly, consider getting a travel card like the Wise card, which lets you withdraw a limited amount of cash from overseas ATMs without any fees.
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Currency exchange booths at the airport
If you're travelling to Rome, you may arrive at Fiumicino Airport (FCO), which has several ATMs in the baggage hall that offer "honest" exchange rates and don't charge fees for withdrawing euros. It's recommended to use an ATM attached to a bank or post office, as these typically offer better exchange rates and lower fees than independent ATMs. Specifically, at FCO, there is a UniCredit bank in Terminal 1 and BNP Paribas outside of Termini, but it has recently started imposing high charges for foreign accounts. There are also currency exchanges in Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 at FCO, as well as in the train station near the airport.
When using an ATM at the airport, it's generally advisable to decline the ATM-based conversion and let your bank handle the conversion, as this will usually result in a better exchange rate. Additionally, if the ATM asks whether you want to be charged in your home currency or euros, choose euros to get your bank's exchange rate rather than the ATM's rate, which may be less favourable.
To avoid long lines at airport ATMs, some travellers suggest bringing a small amount of local currency (around €100-200) purchased from your home bank or a local exchange bureau before your trip. This can be useful for immediate expenses like taxi fares or accommodation. However, it's worth noting that exchanging money at your home bank may also come with unfavourable rates and fees, so it's essential to compare rates and make an informed decision.
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Exchanging money before arriving at the airport
Currency Exchange Booths
Currency exchange booths at departure airports can be a quick option to obtain foreign currency before your flight. However, it's important to note that the fees at these booths can be high, and you may end up with a less favourable exchange rate. If you decide to use a currency exchange booth, it is recommended to exchange a small amount, such as $100, to cover immediate expenses upon arrival.
Your Home Bank or Exchange Bureau
If you prefer to carry some euros before landing in Rome, you can order around €100-200 from your home bank or a local exchange bureau. This option ensures you have local currency readily available, which can be useful for emergencies, such as paying for a cab or accommodation. However, be mindful of the exchange rates and fees associated with this option.
Credit Cards
Using your credit card for purchases and ATM withdrawals in Rome is generally a more convenient and cost-effective approach. Credit cards often offer competitive exchange rates, and you can avoid the hassle of carrying large amounts of cash. Additionally, credit cards provide protection against theft or loss, giving you peace of mind during your travels.
ATM Withdrawals
Withdrawing money from ATMs in Rome is a widely recommended option. Airport ATMs are readily available and provide a more favourable exchange rate than currency exchange booths. When using an ATM, it is important to decline dynamic currency conversion (DCC) to avoid unnecessary fees. Instead, choose to be charged in euros to obtain your bank's exchange rate. It is also suggested to use ATMs attached to banks or post offices, as these typically have lower transaction fees.
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Using a credit/debit card in Rome
When travelling to Rome, it is advisable to have some local currency in your pocket before heading out from the airport. However, you should avoid exchanging money at the airport as the conversion rates are often poor. Instead, it is recommended to use an ATM to withdraw euros. There are ATMs available at Rome airport, and they are open 24/7. You can also use your credit/debit card at ATMs belonging to banks once you are in the city.
It is important to note that foreign transaction fees can add up when using your credit/debit card in a foreign country. These fees, typically around 3%, can be avoided by using a card that doesn't charge them, such as certain cards offered by Capital One, Chase, American Express, Citi, and Discover. Additionally, if your bank is a member of the Global ATM Alliance, you can avoid ATM fees by using another member bank's ATM in Italy, such as Bnl Banca Nazionale del Lavoro.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Rome, and you can use them for most purchases, including meals, taxis, and museums. Visa and Mastercard are the most commonly accepted card networks, while American Express may not be accepted everywhere. It is always a good idea to carry some cash, especially for smaller shops, restaurants, and room rentals that may not accept cards. Additionally, you will need coins to use public bathrooms, which typically cost around €4-6 per person.
To ensure a smooth experience, inform your bank about your travel plans before you leave and consider bringing at least one backup credit or debit card, stored separately from your primary card. By following these tips, you can effectively use your credit/debit card in Rome and avoid unnecessary fees.
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Using cash in Rome
If you're travelling to Rome, it's a good idea to have some euros in your pocket when you arrive at the airport. However, it's not recommended to bring a lot of cash with you, as you may become a target for thieves. Instead, you can use your debit or credit card at most ATMs in Rome to withdraw cash as needed.
ATMs are available at both Rome airports, but they are not bank ATMs and may charge hefty surcharges. If you use the airport ATMs, it's best to only withdraw a small amount of cash (around €100-200) to cover any immediate expenses, such as transportation or a meal. You can then withdraw more cash from ATMs in the city as needed. It's a good idea to alert your bank and credit card companies before you leave for your trip to avoid any issues with foreign transactions.
When withdrawing cash from ATMs in Rome, look for those attached to banks, as these may offer better exchange rates and more privacy. Be cautious of ATMs that display a "fee notice", as you may be charged additional fees for using them. It's also important to note that some ATMs have daily withdrawal limits, so check with your bank to understand any restrictions.
While credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Rome, there may be instances where you need cash. For example, tipping is typically done in cash, and some smaller businesses, restaurants, and taxis may prefer cash payments or offer discounts for cash transactions. It's a good idea to have around €50-60 in spending money with you when exploring the city. Additionally, keep in mind that you'll need coins for public bathrooms and small purchases, such as coffee or snacks.
If you need to exchange currency, avoid the exchange booths at the airport, as they often have higher fees and less favourable exchange rates. Instead, look for currency exchange offices in the city, particularly near Termini Train Station and other major tourist sites. However, using your ATM card to withdraw cash directly is generally the most convenient and cost-effective option.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can exchange dollars for euros at Rome airport. There are currency exchange booths and ATMs in the airport. However, some travellers warn against exchanging currency at the airport due to unfavourable exchange rates and high fees.
Exchanging currency at the airport is convenient, especially if you need euros as soon as you land. Rome airport is also one of the safest places to exchange money, as it is heavily policed and military-controlled.
Exchanging currency at the airport usually means you'll get a poor exchange rate, and you'll likely have to pay high fees. You may also encounter long lines at currency exchange booths and ATMs.
You could order euros from your home bank before you leave and bring the local currency with you. You could also use an ATM in Rome, which will likely give you a better exchange rate than the airport. Alternatively, you could open a no-fee travel account and use that to withdraw cash from ATMs in Rome.
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