Amsterdam Airport Currency: What Money Should I Bring?

Amsterdam Airport, also known as Schiphol Airport, is the main international airport serving Amsterdam in the Netherlands. As the Netherlands uses the Euro as its currency, this is the currency used at Amsterdam Airport. However, there are currency exchange services available at the airport for those who need to exchange their money.

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol uses the Euro

If you are travelling to Amsterdam, it is a good idea to have some local currency on you. While credit cards are widely accepted, many businesses in Amsterdam do not accept them, and some even refuse debit cards, insisting on 'PIN only'. In addition, credit card issuers often charge a fee for international transactions, and there is always the risk of your card being swiped extra times without your knowledge.

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol has several currency exchange desks where you can exchange your euros for foreign currency and vice versa. GWK Travelex and Abn Amro are two popular options, with branches located both before and after customs, as well as in Arrivals. However, keep in mind that airport exchange kiosks are known to offer poor rates, and you may be better off exchanging your money at ATMs in the city. Potts, a five-minute walk from Central Station, is reported to offer good rates.

If you are unsure about how much foreign currency you will get for your euros, you can use the GWK Travelex currency converter tool to get an estimate. This will help you decide whether or not it is a good time to exchange your money.

GWK Travelex currency exchange desks are available

Amsterdam, the capital city of the Netherlands, uses the Euro as its currency. Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam has several GWK Travelex currency exchange desks where you can exchange your euros for foreign currency. These desks are located in front of and behind customs, making it convenient for travellers to exchange money before or after their holiday.

It is recommended to use the GWK Travelex currency converter tool to get an idea of how much foreign currency you will receive for your euros. This tool provides the latest exchange rates and historical price charts to help you make an informed decision about when to exchange your money.

While GWK Travelex offers currency exchange services at the airport, some travellers suggest that exchanging money at airports may not provide the best rates. Alternatives suggested include using ATMs, particularly those in the same network as your card to avoid extra fees, and using a bank account with favourable exchange rates for international transactions. Additionally, some travellers recommend exchanging money at specific locations in the city, such as Potts, which is known for offering better rates than airport exchanges.

It is important to be cautious of potential scams and pickpocketing when exchanging money at the airport or in the city. Always be aware of your surroundings and consider using a money belt or a secure pocket to carry your cash and passport.

ABN Amro branches are also available airside

Amsterdam Airport, also known as Schiphol Airport, uses the Euro as its currency. The airport has several GWK Travelex currency exchange desks where you can exchange your Euros for foreign currency or vice versa. These desks are located in front of and behind customs, making it convenient for travellers to access.

In addition to GWK Travelex, ABN Amro branches are also available airside at Schiphol Airport. These branches are located in Arrivals 1, 2, and 3. To access these branches, you may need to present your boarding pass. ABN Amro offers currency exchange services, allowing you to exchange your money before departing or upon arrival.

It is worth noting that some travellers suggest that the exchange rates at airport exchange booths may not be as favourable as those offered by other providers. However, the convenience of exchanging currency at the airport may outweigh the slight difference in rates.

When exchanging currency at Schiphol Airport, it is recommended to compare the rates offered by different providers, such as GWK Travelex and ABN Amro, to ensure you are getting a reasonable deal. Additionally, using ATMs at the airport or in the city can be a convenient and cost-effective alternative to exchanging currency at kiosks.

Avoid using credit cards due to surcharges and safety concerns

The currency used in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, is the Euro. At Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, you can exchange your currency at several GWK Travelex currency exchange desks, which are located in front of and behind customs.

While credit cards are widely accepted in Amsterdam, it is advisable to avoid using them due to potential surcharges and safety concerns. Many stores and businesses in Amsterdam add a surcharge for credit card payments since the card issuers charge them fees. Most credit cards also charge an additional fee for international transactions. It is important to review the terms and conditions of your credit card to understand any potential surcharges.

Furthermore, there are safety concerns to consider when using credit cards in Amsterdam. Tourists are often targeted by unscrupulous workers who may swipe your card multiple times without your knowledge, resulting in unauthorized charges. To avoid this, it is recommended to use cash or a debit card for purchases. Always be cautious and aware of your surroundings when making transactions, and consider using a money belt or a secure pocket to carry your cash and cards.

Additionally, some businesses in Amsterdam do not accept credit cards at all, and you may encounter issues when trying to make purchases. It is always a good idea to carry some Euro cash with you, especially for smaller establishments and traditional markets, where cash is typically preferred.

Lastly, be vigilant about pickpockets and thieves, as they often target tourists in Amsterdam. Keep your belongings secure and never leave them unattended. By following these precautions, you can minimize the risks associated with surcharges and safety when using credit cards in Amsterdam.

Use ATMs to withdraw cash instead

Amsterdam, the capital city of the Netherlands, uses the Euro as its currency. If you're travelling to Amsterdam and need to exchange your money, it's a good idea to consider using ATMs to withdraw cash instead of relying solely on currency exchange booths. Here's why:

Convenience and Accessibility

Withdrawing cash from ATMs is a convenient and easily accessible option when you arrive at Amsterdam Airport. ATMs are typically located throughout the airport and the city, making it convenient to withdraw cash as needed. You won't have to worry about finding specific currency exchange booths or dealing with limited operating hours.

Competitive Exchange Rates

ATMs often provide competitive exchange rates compared to currency exchange booths, especially those located in airports and tourist areas. By using your debit card at an ATM, you can avoid the potentially unfavourable exchange rates offered by some exchange booths. Additionally, you can use online tools to compare exchange rates and make informed decisions.

Safety and Security

Carrying large amounts of cash can be risky, but with ATMs, you can withdraw smaller amounts as needed, reducing the potential loss in case of theft or misplacement. Additionally, using ATMs minimizes the need to carry large amounts of cash or valuable items like passports when exploring Amsterdam, as you can withdraw cash as you go. This helps reduce the risk of losing money or becoming a target for pickpockets, a common concern in tourist areas.

Flexibility and Cost Savings

ATMs offer flexibility by allowing you to withdraw cash in the local currency directly from your bank account. This eliminates the need to carry and exchange large amounts of foreign currency, which can incur additional fees and charges. Additionally, using your debit card at ATMs can help you avoid the surcharge that many stores and businesses in Amsterdam add for credit card transactions.

Peace of Mind

Using ATMs in Amsterdam can provide peace of mind by reducing the chances of falling victim to scams or unscrupulous practices sometimes associated with currency exchange booths. Always be cautious and aware of your surroundings, and remember to use only those ATMs that are attached to a bank and in secure locations.

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