Cologne, Germany: What Currency Is Used Here?

Germany's currency is the Euro, and this has been the case since 2002. If you're planning a trip to Cologne, it's a good idea to exchange some cash in advance. There are several money exchange services available at Cologne Bonn Airport, as well as throughout the city. ATMs are also accessible in many areas of Cologne, but be sure to notify your bank before travelling abroad, and remember that you may be charged for cash withdrawals.

Exchanging currency in Cologne

The currency used in Cologne, Germany, is the Euro. There are several options for exchanging currency in the city.

Currency Exchange Stores

One option is to visit a physical currency exchange store in Cologne. Some of the top-rated exchange services in the city include:

• Ria Money Transfer & Currency Exchange, Hohe Str. 142, Innenstadt
• Western Union, Geldwechsel, Goldankauf, Goldverkauf, Ucambio Exchange & Money Transfer GmbH, Venloer Str. 298, Ehrenfeld
• Ucambio Exchange & Money Transfer GmbH, Mailander Passage 1, Chorweiler

Banks

You can also exchange currency at a bank in Cologne. Keep in mind that many banks only offer exchange services to customers who already have an account with them. If you don't have an account with the bank, you may need to bring an ID document when you go to collect your cash. It's also a good idea to check if the bank has the currency you need available and whether you need to order it in advance.

Online Options

Another option is to order your travel money online. Some providers will deliver your money to your home or a branch, or you can collect it at the airport. You can also get a travel money card, which you can order and top up online. This option often offers better exchange rates and lower fees compared to physical currency exchange stores. Wise is one provider that offers a travel money card with competitive exchange rates and low fees.

ATMs

Using an ATM to withdraw money in Cologne is another possibility, although you may be charged for cash withdrawals. It's a good idea to inform your bank before travelling abroad and check if there are any associated fees.

Tips for Exchanging Currency

• Avoid airport currency exchanges, as they often have unfavourable exchange rates and hidden charges.
• If given the option, avoid choosing to pay in your home currency at an ATM or merchant in Cologne, as you will likely get a better exchange rate by paying in the local currency.
• Compare exchange rates and fees across different providers to ensure you're getting a good deal.
• Check online reviews and ask for recommendations from locals or people you know who have experience exchanging currency in Cologne.

Currency exchange services at Cologne airport

The official currency used in Cologne, Germany, is the European Euro (EUR €).

If you're looking to exchange currency at Cologne airport, there are a few options available to you. Firstly, it's worth noting that currency exchange services at airports are not usually good value. You may find that you get a better exchange rate if you exchange currency before arriving at the airport.

However, if you do need to exchange currency at the airport, Cologne/Bonn Airport (CGN) has a Travelex branch in Terminal 1, Departure C, Public Area. You can contact them on +49 171 7384618 or via email at kundenservice-DIESEN TEXT ENTFERNEN-@travelex.com.

There are also several ATMs available at the airport, including Sparkasse Köln Bonn and ReiseBank. These ATMs can be found in the following locations:

• Sparkasse Köln Bonn: T1 / C Departures, Public Area; T2 / D Departures, Public Area; T2 / D Arrivals, Public Area
• ReiseBank: T1 / B Departures, Public Area

Using ATMs in Cologne

Germany's official currency is the Euro, which is the only locally accepted currency. You will not be able to use other currencies like US dollars or pounds. However, in some places near the Swiss border, Swiss Francs are accepted by local shops, but you will still receive your change in Euros.

ATMs are available in many parts of Cologne, but it is advisable to exchange some cash before arriving. Ensure you inform your bank before travelling abroad, and be aware that you may be charged for cash withdrawals.

• Planning withdrawals: In big cities like Cologne, ATMs are easy to find, but if you are going to be in more remote areas, you will need to plan your cash withdrawals. In towns, there are a handful of ATMs in the city centre, but in the countryside, you may only find one local ATM, or none at all.
• Where to find ATMs: ATMs can be found at major train stations, on main shopping streets, and in entertainment districts.
• Cash or card: In cities, many local shops and restaurants have minimum spending limits of around €20, so you will need cash for purchases under this amount. In quieter areas, some small businesses and restaurants will not accept cards at all, so it is important to carry cash.
• ATM opening times: In bigger cities, ATMs are generally open 24/7. However, many ATMs are located inside bank foyers, which are typically only open from 6 am to 10 pm due to security concerns.
• Card acceptance: All major bank ATMs in Germany accept foreign debit and credit cards. However, some regional banks may only accept German or European cards. If your card doesn't work at one ATM, try another ATM of the same bank, and if that doesn't work, try a different card or a different bank's ATM. German ATMs usually accept cards with the logos of Visa, Mastercard, Cirrus, and Plus. Some may also accept JCB, UnionPay, Diners, Amex, and Discover, but these are less common.
• Chip-and-pin: German ATMs use chip-and-pin cards, so make sure your bank card has a chip and a 4-digit or 6-digit PIN for a smooth transaction.
• Transaction process: German ATMs function similarly to those in other European countries, the USA, or Australia. They will give you the option to choose the type of account, whether to accept or decline conversion, and then confirm your transaction.
• Card and cash order: Some ATMs will give you your card first and then dispense cash, while others will do it the other way around.
• Finding ATMs: ATMs in Germany may not always be labelled as "ATM". They may be called "Geldautomat" or "Bankautomat", so keep an eye out for these terms. You can also use Google Maps to find ATMs by searching for "Geldautomat" or "Bankautomat".
• Withdrawal limits: ATMs in Germany have varying maximum withdrawal limits, typically ranging from €500 to €2000 per transaction. You can usually choose the denominations in which you receive your money.
• Fees: ATM fees in Germany can range from €0 to €5.99 per transaction. Many bank ATMs do not charge fees for cards from most countries, but this can vary depending on the type of card. It is also important to decline any conversion offered by the ATM to avoid additional charges.
• Safety: It is generally safe to carry cash in Germany, but it is advisable to withdraw cash during daylight hours and be aware of your surroundings. If you need to withdraw a large amount of cash, try to do it closer to the time when you need it and from an ATM that is either fee-free or has low fees.

Exchanging US dollars in Cologne

If you're looking to exchange US dollars in Cologne, Germany, you have a few options.

Currency Exchange Stores

You could visit a physical currency exchange store in Cologne. Some of the top-rated exchange services in Cologne, according to Google, are:

• Ria Money Transfer & Currency Exchange, Hohe Str. 142, Innenstadt
• Western Union, Geldwechsel, Goldankauf, Goldverkauf, Ucambio Exchange & Money Transfer GmbH, Frankfurter Str. 40, Mülheim
• Western Union, Geldwechsel, Gold, Ucambio Exchange & Money Transfer GmbH, Venloer Str. 298, Ehrenfeld
• Ucambio Exchange & Money Transfer GmbH, Mailänder Passage 1, Chorweiler

Travel Money Card

If you want to avoid the hassle of visiting a physical store, you can order a travel money card online. These cards can be topped up remotely and used for spending and withdrawals overseas. One such card is the Wise travel card, which uses the mid-market exchange rate with no markup or margin when converting your money.

Banks

You could also exchange your currency at a bank. However, many banks only offer exchange services to customers who already have an account, and you may need to order the currency in advance. If you're not a customer of the bank, you'll need to bring your ID document when you collect your cash.

ATMs

ATMs are available in many parts of Cologne, but it is advisable to exchange some cash before arriving and to inform your bank before travelling abroad. You may be charged for cash withdrawals.

The best time to exchange currency

The currency used in Cologne, Germany, is the euro.

Firstly, it is generally recommended to avoid exchanging currency at your airport or hotel, as these places tend to have unfavourable exchange rates and high commission fees. Instead, it is better to exchange money before your trip or at a local bank in the country you are visiting. Exchanging money before your trip gives you more time to compare commission fees and exchange rates, and you can even set a rate alert to buy currency at the best time. However, exchange rates may be better in the country you are visiting, so it is worth checking the mid-market rate and keeping an eye on how it changes.

Secondly, using a travel card or credit card can be a convenient and cost-effective alternative to exchanging physical currency. Travel cards, such as the Wise card, often offer low or no fees for foreign ATM withdrawals and use the mid-market exchange rate. Credit cards are widely accepted in most European cities and can be a safer and more convenient option than carrying large amounts of cash. However, be sure to check with your card provider to see if they charge any fees for spending abroad.

Lastly, it is always a good idea to have some local currency on hand when you arrive, especially in countries like Germany, where many businesses only accept cash. Exchanging a small amount of money before your trip can save you the hassle of finding an ATM when you first arrive, and it may be more cost-effective to exchange a larger amount at once rather than making multiple smaller exchanges.

In summary, the best time to exchange currency is when you can get a favourable exchange rate and low commission fees. This may involve comparing rates before your trip and keeping an eye on rate changes, or simply using a travel or credit card that offers low fees and a good exchange rate. Additionally, having some local currency on hand when you arrive can be helpful, especially in countries where cash is commonly used.

Frequently asked questions