How Much Spending Money For Europe?

Plan your Europe travel budget and get the right mix of euro currency before you go.

Your guide to European money and travel costs

Planning a European holiday? Whether you're heading to Paris, Prague or Portugal, it helps to understand how money works across Europe.

While the euro is the most common currency, not every country uses it—and costs can vary widely between destinations.

In this Europe travel guide, you'll discover how euro currency works, common European travel costs, and the best ways to access and manage your spending money while you're abroad.


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  • Currency: euro
  • Currency code: EUR
  • Central Bank: European Central Bank
  • Currency symbol: € (euro)
  • Currency sub unit: c (cent)
  • Bank notes: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, €500
  • Coins: 1c, 2c, 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, €1, €2

If you're travelling to Europe, chances are you'll be using the euro (€).

Known by its currency code EUR, the euro is the official currency of most countries in the European union and the second most traded currency in the world—just behind the US dollar.

The euro was designed to simplify cross-border travel and trade, making it easier to budget, exchange and carry money while moving between countries.

It was introduced in 1999 and rolled out in physical form in 2002, replacing several countries’ own currencies — including the French franc, Italian lira and German mark.

Today, the euro is managed by the European Central Bank. You’ll find eight euro coins (from 1 cent to €2) and seven euro banknotes (from €5 to €500) in circulation throughout the eurozone.




Where are euros used in Europe?


EU members that use the euro:
Austria Greece Netherlands
Belgium Ireland Portugal
Croatia Cyprus Italy
Estonia Latvia Slovenia
Finland Lithuania Spain
France Luxembourg Slovakia
Germany Malta

Non-EU members that use the euro:
Andorra Monaco San Marino
Kosovo Montenegro Vatican City

EU members that do not use the euro:
Bulgaria Denmark Sweden
Hungary Czech Republic Poland

Euro denominations


Euro currency includes eight coins and seven banknotes, with standardised denominations used across all eurozone countries. Understanding these will help you avoid confusion at the checkout—and make sure you’re carrying the right mix of euro cash.



euro bank notes

Euro banknotes


European banknotes are used for everyday purchases and larger payments alike — from groceries and museum tickets to high-end restaurant meals.

The most commonly used euro banknotes are €5, €10, €20, €50 and €100.

While €200 and €500 notes also exist, they’re less frequently used due to their high value.



Euro coins


Euro coins come in eight denominations: 1c, 2c, 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, €1 and €2. Each coin has a common side (representing the EU) and a national side that varies by country.

Coin sizes increase with their value, making them easy to tell apart.

They’re often used for smaller purchases, transport tickets, or kept on hand as everyday loose change.

euro coins

How much you’ll need for Europe depends on a few things—how long you're going, which countries you're visiting, and your travel style.

However, most Aussies spend anywhere from $6,000 to $15,000+ on a Europe trip.

Flights from Australia typically cost between $1,200 and $2,000 return. Once you’re there, spending money in Europe usually ranges from $100 to $200 per day, covering food, transport, activities, and extras.

To help you budget smarter, below is a breakdown of average travel prices across Europe.

European flag




selection of italian dishes

Food & dining costs in Europe


Food in Europe ranges from ultra-affordable to fine-dining pricey.

Southern and Eastern Europe (think Portugal, Croatia, Italy) are generally cheaper, while Western and Nordic countries (like Switzerland and France) tend to cost more.

Tip: Local cafés, markets and street food can help keep your food budget in check—especially in bigger capital cities like Rome or Barcelona.

Foods in Europe Average Cost in EUR
Standard meal € 9.00 - 18.00
2-person three course meal € 40.00 - 72.20
Coffee< € 1.45 - 3.55
Beer € 2.00 - 5.00


Transport costs in Europe


Transport is where Europe shines: it's well-connected, efficient, and often budget-friendly. Whether you're hopping on public transport or hiring a car, here’s what you might pay.

Tip: Rail passes like the Eurail Pass can save your spending money if you’re planning multiple train trips across the continent.

Transport in Europe Average Cost in EUR
One-way public transport ticket € 1.70 - 3.00
Monthly public transport pass € 40.00 - 75.00
Taxi (per 1km) € 0.80 - 2.90
Car hire (per day) € 7.00 - 40.00
passengers boarding a European train


One of the many cathedrals in Europe

Europe attractions & activity prices


Europe is packed with cultural, historic, and bucket-list experiences. Whether you're visiting famous museums or sailing on a Venetian gondola, costs can add up.

Tip: Many cities offer tourist passes (like the Paris Museum Pass or Roma Pass) that bundle major attractions and offer big savings.

Entertainment Activities in Europe Average Cost in euro
Museum admission € 25.00 – 50.00
Hot air balloon ride € 171.00 - 250.00
Water taxi € 100.00+


Wi-Fi & sim card costs


Free Wi-Fi is common in hotels, restaurants, and transport hubs—but for reliable access across borders, a prepaid international SIM is the way to go. Explore Europe eSIMs.

Travelex partners with Simify to offer affordable eSIMs for European travel.

Tip: eSIMs are hassle-free—no swapping cards, just scan and go. Perfect if you're hopping between countries.

Plan Duration Countries Price (AUD)
Unlimited Europe and & UK eSIM Up to 90 days 43 From $44
Europe and & UK eSIM (up to 100GB) Up to 90 days 43 From $25


Europe visa costs (Schengen visa)


If you’re travelling to Europe for less than 90 days within any 180-day period, you generally won’t need a visa (Australians included).

But if you’re staying longer or planning work/study, you’ll need a Schengen visa.

Note: Visa requirements can vary depending on your itinerary and travel history—always check with the embassy of your destination before booking.

Applicant Cost (EUR)
Adults € 80
Children (6-12 years) € 40
Children (under 6) Free


Cash vs Card: How to pay in Europe

Not sure whether to take cash or card to Europe? The truth is, you’ll probably need both.

While debit, credit and prepaid travel cards are widely accepted in most European cities, it’s still smart to carry some euro banknotes and coins—especially for tips, transport, markets and rural areas where card payments aren’t always an option.

European money payment options

Below, we break down the pros and cons of each payment method in Europe, so you can spend smarter and skip the dreaded “cash only” surprises.

EUR Cash EUR Prepaid Travel Card EUR Debit or Credit Card
  • Perfect for: Tipping, taxis, small shops & local markets.
  • Pros: Universally accepted, handy in rural areas.
  • Cons: Harder to track spending, not as secure.

Why use foreign cash?

  • Cash (both euro and otherwise) is flexible and is accepted in every country in Europe.
  • Cash is more commonly used in rural areas and small shops. Carry some local currency so you don’t miss out on cash-only experiences like taxis or local tours.
  • Tipping is common in Europe, and is not often included as part of the bill.

 

Things to consider:

  • Carrying large amounts of cash may be unsafe in Europe, especially in touristy areas where there is a higher crime rate.
  • It may be harder to keep track of your spending with cash, making budgeting difficult.
  • Perfect for: Safer travel with locked-in exchange rates.
  • Pros: Reloadable, holds multiple currencies, fast replacements if lost.
  • Cons: Top-ups may take a few days, some ATM fees may apply.

Why use a prepaid travel card?

  • Travel money cards allow you to load multiple currencies. This may be convenient when travelling Europe, as not every country uses the euro.
  • Prepaid travel cards provide you with some security when travelling, as they are easy to replace if lost or stolen. You can also order two when purchasing, so you have a backup card with you.
  • Lock in your exchange rate at your time of purchase to avoid any hidden costs.*

 

Things to consider:

  • There may be local ATM fees when taking cash out of your travel money card.
  • If you run out of cash on your card, it may take a few days for any additional money you top up with to appear on your card.

Discover how you can explore Europe with ease with our 5* award-winning Travelex Money Card!

  • Perfect for: Hotel deposits, emergency back-up.
  • Pros: Convenient, widely accepted.
  • Cons: Foreign transaction fees, less accepted in small venues.

Why use a debit or credit card?

  • Credit and debit cards are generally widely accepted in Europe, with Visa and Mastercard being the most popular.
  • You can use for hotel and other deposits without affecting your holiday spending allocation.

 

Things to consider:

  • Higher commissions paid by merchants to credit card companies mean that smaller businesses prefer cash payments.
  • There may be minimum amounts required to spend on cards in stores.
  • Transaction fees for paying with bank cards can be high in Europe. These can be anywhere from 2-5% of your purchase.
ATMs in Europe Foreign Currency ATMs in Australia

ATMs are readily found in most countries in Europe. They provide a convenient way of withdrawing local currency as you need it. Foreign card withdrawal fees can be quite high in Europe. Additionally, if you plan on going off-the-beaten-path ATMs may become less common, so taking some cash is essential.

Why withdraw cash in Europe?

  • In most countries in Europe ATMS are easily found, especially in the bigger cities but also in smaller towns.
  • Withdrawing cash as you need it means you may not have to carry large amounts of foreign cash with you.

Things to consider:

  • There may be ATM conversion fees associated with withdrawing cash from a foreign card.
  • Taking out smaller amounts will inflate the cost of fees. So at times, you may be forced to take out a larger amount than planned.

FX ATMs provide an easy-to-use, hassle-free way of exchanging money at Australian airports before you fly. They operate 24 hours a day on a self-serve basis. Keep in mind that not all FX ATMs will offer every currency available.

Why use Travelex ATMs in Australia?

  • FX ATMs are a convenient way to exchange cash at an airport before leaving. There are no forms to fill in, and it’s self-serve. Visit our foreign currency ATM page to find a Travelex FX ATM that dispenses euro.
  • FX ATMs are 24 hours, meaning you have the flexibility to buy euros no matter what time of the day you fly.
  • Foreign currency ATMs are fast and efficient, giving you your foreign currency within a few minutes.

 

Things to consider:

  • Not all FX ATMs will dispense the currency you need.
  • It is not recommended to carry a large amount of cash on you throughout Europe.

How much cash should you take to Europe?

the walls of Monteriggioni

While card payments are widely accepted in most European cities, it’s still smart to carry some euros—especially for transport, tips, small purchases and rural areas where cash is king.

As a general guide, we recommend starting your trip with €2,000 in cash. You can easily buy euros online and pick up in-store with Travelex before you fly.

Need more cash once you’re there? Just use your Travelex Money Card to withdraw euros from ATMs across Europe—without the surprise foreign transaction fees.

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Travel smarter with Travelex's award-winning Europe travel money card and enjoy the freedom to spend anywhere, any time.

  • Get even better exchange rates when exchanging $2,000 and over.
  • Withdraw foreign cash with no international ATM fees¹.
  • Load, tap, and go wherever Mastercard is accepted worldwide.
  • Top up easily on the go via the Travelex app or online.
  • Save with no foreign exchange fees & real-time exchange rates.
  • Free delivery to your home
  • A multi-award winning travel card | 5☆ Canstar rating for Best Value 2016 - 2020
    and Mozo Best Prepaid Travel Card 2022, 2023 & 2024
¹ Please be advised that although Travelex do not charge ATM fees, some operators may charge their own fee or set their own limits. Please check with the ATM before using

Europe can be as affordable or pricey as you make it. On average, budget travellers might spend around AUD 100 per day, while mid-range trips often cost AUD 150–250 daily. Using euro cash wisely and choosing the right currency exchange options, like Travelex, can help you manage your Europe spending money effectively and avoid high fees.

A mix of euro cash, prepaid travel cards, and credit/debit cards works best. Use euro cash for small purchases, tips, and rural areas. Travelex Travel Money Cards lock in exchange rates and offer security. Credit cards cover hotels and bigger expenses but watch for foreign transaction fees.

Explore Travelex’s EUR Cash & Travel Card Bundle.

Eastern European countries like Poland, Hungary, Slovenia, and the Czech Republic offer great value for Australian travellers. Your spending money goes further on food, transport, and accommodation compared to pricier destinations like Italy, Germany, or the Netherlands.

If you’re planning to visit countries that don’t use the euro—like Hungary or Poland, it’s worth budgeting for local European currency in addition to euro banknotes for stops in places like Spain, Greece, or Belgium.

Twenty European Union countries use the euro as their official currency. Remember, euro currency is generally not accepted outside these countries. If you travel between euro and non-euro nations, you’ll need to exchange cash accordingly—Travelex offers easy currency exchange solutions for your Europe travel needs.

Buying euros before you fly, especially with Travelex, can help you lock in a great euro exchange rate, avoid airport markups, and have euro currency in hand for immediate expenses like taxis and tips.

For more info, check out our Buying Tips.

France uses the euro (€) as its official currency. Travelling in France means you'll need euro banknotes and coins for purchases, small vendors, and tipping.

Learn more about Buying Euros For France.

Yes, Spain uses the euro as its official currency. If you’re visiting Spain, make sure you carry some euro cash for markets, local transport, and tipping, alongside your cards. Travelex makes buying euros easy, whether in Australia or at European locations.

Learn more about Buying Euros For Spain.

Travel insurance costs vary but typically range from AUD 100 to AUD 300, depending on coverage and trip length. Travelex partners with Cover-More to offer tailored travel insurance plans with 24/7 emergency support and coverage for financial losses, helping you travel Europe worry-free.

Get a quote

Tipping customs vary, but generally, tipping 5–10% is appreciated in Europe. Cash tips are common, especially for taxis, restaurants, and guides. Note: Scandinavian countries like Sweden and Denmark usually include service charges in bills, so tipping is less common there.

The shoulder seasons—spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October)—are the most affordable times to travel Europe. Flights tend to be cheaper, crowds smaller, and euro currency goes further in off-peak months.

For more advice on travelling to Europe, read our Europe Travel Checklist Guide.

Is Europe expensive for Australians?

Europe can be as affordable or pricey as you make it. On average, budget travellers might spend around AUD 100 per day, while mid-range trips often cost AUD 150–250 daily. Using euro cash wisely and choosing the right currency exchange options, like Travelex, can help you manage your Europe spending money effectively and avoid high fees.

What's the best way to pay for things in Europe?

A mix of euro cash, prepaid travel cards, and credit/debit cards works best. Use euro cash for small purchases, tips, and rural areas. Travelex Travel Money Cards lock in exchange rates and offer security. Credit cards cover hotels and bigger expenses but watch for foreign transaction fees.

Explore Travelex’s EUR Cash & Travel Card Bundle.

What are the most affordable countries in Europe?

Eastern European countries like Poland, Hungary, Slovenia, and the Czech Republic offer great value for Australian travellers. Your spending money goes further on food, transport, and accommodation compared to pricier destinations like Italy, Germany, or the Netherlands.

If you’re planning to visit countries that don’t use the euro—like Hungary or Poland, it’s worth budgeting for local European currency in addition to euro banknotes for stops in places like Spain, Greece, or Belgium.

How many countries use the euro?

Twenty European Union countries use the euro as their official currency. Remember, euro currency is generally not accepted outside these countries. If you travel between euro and non-euro nations, you’ll need to exchange cash accordingly—Travelex offers easy currency exchange solutions for your Europe travel needs.

Is it better to buy euros in Australia or Europe?

Buying euros before you fly, especially with Travelex, can help you lock in a great euro exchange rate, avoid airport markups, and have euro currency in hand for immediate expenses like taxis and tips.

For more info, check out our Buying Tips.

What currency is used in France?

France uses the euro (€) as its official currency. Travelling in France means you'll need euro banknotes and coins for purchases, small vendors, and tipping.

Learn more about Buying Euros For France.

Does Spain use euros?

Yes, Spain uses the euro as its official currency. If you’re visiting Spain, make sure you carry some euro cash for markets, local transport, and tipping, alongside your cards. Travelex makes buying euros easy, whether in Australia or at European locations.

Learn more about Buying Euros For Spain.

How much is travel insurance to Europe?

Travel insurance costs vary but typically range from AUD 100 to AUD 300, depending on coverage and trip length. Travelex partners with Cover-More to offer tailored travel insurance plans with 24/7 emergency support and coverage for financial losses, helping you travel Europe worry-free.

Get a quote

Do you tip in Europe?

Tipping customs vary, but generally, tipping 5–10% is appreciated in Europe. Cash tips are common, especially for taxis, restaurants, and guides. Note: Scandinavian countries like Sweden and Denmark usually include service charges in bills, so tipping is less common there.

What's the cheapest time to travel to Europe from Australia?

The shoulder seasons—spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October)—are the most affordable times to travel Europe. Flights tend to be cheaper, crowds smaller, and euro currency goes further in off-peak months.

For more advice on travelling to Europe, read our Europe Travel Checklist Guide.

Mastercard Prepaid Management Services Australia Pty Ltd (ABN 47 145 452 044, AFSL 386 837) arranges for the issue of the Travelex Money Card in conjunction with the issuer, EML Payment Solutions Limited (‘EML’)(ABN 30 131 436 532, AFSL 404131). You should consider the Product Disclosure Statement for the relevant Travelex Money Card and Target Market Determination available at www.travelex.com.au, before deciding to acquire the product. Any advice does not take into account your personal needs, financial circumstances or objectives and you should consider if it is appropriate for you. Mastercard and the circles design are registered trademarks of Mastercard International Incorporated.

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