What is the most accepted card in Europe?

First, make sure any credit card you take to Europe is widely accepted. Visa and Mastercard networks, for example, offer wider acceptance abroad than Discover and American Express. While you can certainly bring your Amex and Discover cards, it's best to pack a backup.

Which card is most accepted in Europe?

Visa® and MasterCard® are accepted most places in Europe. American Express® and Discover® are not commonly accepted. European credit cards all have an added security 'chip'. With this in mind, bring at least one Visa® or MasterCard® that has a chip.

Is Visa or Mastercard better for Europe?

There is no clear winner between Visa and Mastercard when it comes to which one is better in Europe, as both networks are widely accepted. In most European countries, you'll find that merchants and ATMs accept both Visa and Mastercard.

What cards can you use in Europe for free?

TSB, Bank of Scotland, Lloyds and Halifax all offer premium current accounts, which are fee-free to spend and withdraw from abroad but which charge a flat monthly fee instead. (1) Except on payments in euros within the European Economic Area (EEA).

Is Monzo or Revolut better abroad?

Choosing between a Revolut and Monzo account comes down to the features you want to better manage your money. Both are expanding their offerings for 2025, but if you want an account with international payment features and investment and savings options, then explore Revolut's plans.

Tips for Paying with Credit Cards in Europe | France, Italy, Greece, Ireland, Spain, England

Which UK cards are free to use abroad?

Many digital-only providers, such as Starling and Revolut, offer bank accounts with debit cards that are free to use overseas, and you'll benefit from the Visa or Mastercard exchange rates while spending.

What is the best way to pay in Europe?

American credit cards work throughout Europe (at hotels, larger shops and restaurants, travel agencies, car-rental agencies, and so on); Visa and MasterCard are the most widely accepted. American Express is less common, and the Discover card is unknown in Europe.

Should I choose Mastercard or Visa?

In the debate of Visa card vs Mastercard, there is no definitive winner. Both offer extensive benefits, robust security, and widespread acceptance. The best choice depends on your individual needs and the specific perks offered by the card issuer.

Will a Visa debit card work in Europe?

Debit card: US debit cards with a Visa or MasterCard logo will work in any European ATM. Use this at ATMs to withdraw a small amount of local cash. Wait until you arrive to get local currency (European airports have plenty of ATMs); if you buy local currency before your trip, you'll pay bad stateside exchange rates.

Is it better to get euros or use a debit card?

Use euros or a debit card? If you take your bank or credit card with you to anywhere in Europe your bank will typically charge you between 2% and 5% on each transaction. However changing money before you go will likely mean you will get a bad exchange rate.

Is Monzo free to use abroad?

Are there any fees associated with using Monzo abroad? You can pay anywhere in any currency using your Monzo card, fee-free. We pass Mastercard's exchange rate directly onto you, without sneaky fees or extra charges.

How to pay abroad without fees?

Spending abroad using your debit card linked to a Travel account or a packaged bank account could be a good option. We can also get you some travel money before you go for your trip. If you are looking to spend fee-free* on purchases anywhere in the world - a packaged account might suit you.

How much cash should I bring to Europe for 2 weeks?

A good rule of thumb is to carry $50-$100 a day in the local currency while travelling. Remember, though, that cash may not be the best option to pay for travel expenses. Credit cards offer great rewards, lower transaction fees, and can help you get a better exchange rate.

What credit card has no foreign transaction fee?

Best Credit Cards With No Foreign Transaction Fee of August 2025. Discover it® Cash Back: Best feature: Cash back on everyday purchases. Hilton Honors American Express Card: Best feature: Hilton hotel rewards. The New United Gateway℠ Card: Best feature: United Airlines rewards.

Is it better to use cash or credit card in Europe?

Advantages of using cash

No foreign transaction fees: Many credit cards charge an extra fee of up to 3% on purchases made outside the country, although you can find cards that don't. No extra fees: Businesses pay interchange fees to banks for processing credit card payments, which eats into their profits.

Where is Mastercard not accepted?

Mastercard is not accepted at certain stores and merchants that only take cash, such as vendors at a local fair. Mastercard is also not accepted at retail chains that have an exclusive agreement with another card network. For example, Costco accepts Mastercard only for online purchases.

Does it matter if my card is Visa or Mastercard?

As a consumer, whether you have a Visa card or a Mastercard card really won't affect you all that much. That's because the card issuer, rather than the network, primarily dictates the card rates, features, and benefits.

What cards are not accepted in Europe?

First, make sure any credit card you take to Europe is widely accepted. Visa and Mastercard networks, for example, offer wider acceptance abroad than Discover and American Express. While you can certainly bring your Amex and Discover cards, it's best to pack a backup.

How do I avoid foreign transaction fees in Europe?

Which European countries prefer cash?

Germany and Austria stand out as frontrunners in cash usage, with staggering statistics reflecting their reliance on tangible currency. Cash accounts for approximately 71% of transactions in Germany and 79% in Austria. Cultural factors deeply embedded in both societies contribute to this preference for cash.

Is Monzo the best card to use abroad?

Monzo works on Mastercard exchange rates, and Revolut works on Interbank exchange rates. Both banks offer similar limits and fees, but Monzo's fee-free overseas spending may appeal more to travellers.

Is Tesco credit card free abroad?

Making purchases: We'll charge you an additional 2.75% of the cost of your purchase on each transaction in a foreign currency. Clubcard Plus Credit Card holders will not be charged the additional 2.75% Foreign Exchange fee on any transactions.

What credit card is best for travel?