Jazmin Li
Amsterdam Airport Schiphol is equipped with ATMs, currency exchange stores, and bureau de change desks, all of which can be used to obtain euros, the local currency. However, exchanging currency at the airport is generally not recommended due to unfavourable rates and hidden fees. Instead, it is advisable to withdraw euros directly from an ATM, ensuring that the transaction is charged in the local currency to avoid unfavourable exchange rates. Additionally, it is worth considering alternative options such as ordering a travel money card or exchanging currency online before arriving in Amsterdam.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Currency | Euro |
| Currency exchange services at the airport | GWK Travelex stores, bureau de change desks, and ATMs |
| Currency exchange services in the city | Pott Change, ABN AMRO, Travelex |
| Best exchange rates | ATM withdrawals, Wise Borderless Debit card |
| Tips | Avoid exchanging currency at the airport, use a money belt or bra pocket to carry cash and passport |
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What You'll Learn
GWK Travelex
In addition to currency exchange, GWK Travelex offers several other services, including buying or selling foreign currency, cashing traveller's cheques, withdrawing money from credit or bank cards, and sending and receiving money through Western Union. They also provide international calling cards, credit for mobile phones, and travel insurance.
While GWK Travelex may be a convenient option for exchanging money, particularly if you are heading to the train station, it is recommended to compare their rates with other providers and consider withdrawing money directly from an ATM, which typically offers more favourable rates.
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Pott Change
You can reserve and purchase currency in advance, and pick it up once it's available at their office. They accept payment via bank transfer, cash, or card upon pickup. Credit card payments incur an additional 3% charge.
Compared to other exchange services, Pott Change offers more favourable rates. Their central location makes it a convenient option for tourists looking to exchange money in Amsterdam.
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ATMs
Amsterdam Airport Schiphol has ATMs in all three terminals, which are located in one passenger terminal building. You can find them in Arrivals, Baggage Reclaim, all lounges, and the main Plaza. The airport has a map you can use to locate your nearest one. ATMs are provided by GWK Travelex, a currency exchange service.
It is important to note that GWK Travelex has a reputation for unfavourable rates, particularly at Schiphol Airport. Therefore, it is recommended to check the fees before using these ATMs. Some ATMs may charge a 'hidden' fee by offering to charge you in your local currency instead of euros. This is because they can set their own exchange rate, which is usually lower, and they may also charge an additional fee for the service. Thus, it is always best to decline this option and choose to be charged in the local currency to get a fairer rate.
Additionally, there are some independent ATMs in tourist locations, pubs, and nightclubs that charge extra fees. These ATMs should declare their fees before you process the transaction, so you can avoid them.
Finally, it is important to check the fees levied by your bank for overseas ATM withdrawals before your trip. Some banks do not charge conversion fees for international withdrawals, while others may charge a percentage. You should also notify your bank if you plan to use your card overseas to avoid your card being blocked due to suspicious activity.
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Credit cards
Amsterdam uses the Euro as its currency. While it may be tempting to exchange your cash at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, you will get a better rate in the city. Currency exchange services are widely available at the airport, but their rates are usually less favourable than ATMs.
ATMs, or 'geldautomaten' in Dutch, are widely available across the Netherlands, including at Schiphol Airport. However, not every ATM accepts international cards, so it is a good idea to have a backup plan.
If you are using a credit card to withdraw cash, be aware that cash advance fees usually apply. It is also important to choose to be charged in the local currency, EUR, and avoid having the ATM decide the exchange rate for you. This is known as Dynamic Currency Conversion and will usually result in an unfavourable rate.
Major credit cards such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are widely accepted in the Netherlands at restaurants, hotels, and tourist destinations. However, some small shops may charge a fee of 2-6% for card use. Dutch supermarkets do not accept credit cards at all, so you will need to carry some cash.
It is also a good idea to notify your bank if you plan to use your card overseas, to avoid your card being blocked due to suspicious activity.
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Online options
There are several online options for exchanging money before your trip to Amsterdam.
Firstly, you can use an online currency exchange platform. These platforms allow you to order your desired currency online and have it delivered to your home or a designated branch, including at the airport. You can also choose to collect it at a later date. However, remember to carry your ID document when collecting your order.
Another option is to use a travel money card. You can order this card online or through an app, top it up, and then use it for spending and withdrawals during your trip. This option is secure and often offers better exchange rates and lower overall costs compared to switching currency at the airport or a physical location.
If you plan to use your debit card at ATMs in Amsterdam, it is advisable to notify your bank beforehand to avoid your card being blocked due to suspicious activity. Additionally, withdrawing cash in the local currency (EUR) from an ATM will provide a more favourable exchange rate than letting the ATM decide the conversion rate.
Lastly, if you have access to a EUR bank account in Amsterdam, you can use a service like Wise to transfer money ahead of time and take advantage of the mid-market exchange rate, avoiding international bank fees.
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Frequently asked questions
You can exchange money at GWK Travelex stores, bureau de change desks, and ATMs at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport. However, it is recommended that you avoid exchanging currency at the airport as the rates are often unfavourable.
You can use a debit card or credit card at the airport and in the city, or withdraw cash from an ATM. You can also exchange currency at a bank or currency exchange service in the city, or online before you arrive.
It is recommended that you use a debit card with low ATM fees and reasonable exchange rates. You can also use a travel money card, such as the Wise Multi-Currency Debit Card, which allows you to order a card online or in an app, top up remotely, and spend or make withdrawals overseas easily.
Familiarize yourself with the mid-market exchange rate, which is the real currency value. Compare this with the rates offered by ATMs and currency exchange services to determine the fairest deal.
