My question concerns the need for cash in today’s travel world.
I will be going to Christmas Markets in Germany, France and Switzerland next year.
In years past, I took several hundred dollars in cash and used a credit card for the larger purchases.
I am wondering if the Christmas Markets prefer cash or cards these days, for smaller purchases?
Anyone have insight from markets you may have visited this season, 2024?
Posted by
Bend, Oregon
2571 posts
No need to “bring” large amounts of cash. Bank-owned ATMs are readily available in every airport. Avoid the random machines that have giant “ATM” signs, and avoid EuroNet machines. These charge high fees.
I don’t like to carry any more than I can afford to lose. I prefer to stop at an ATM/Geldautomat as my cash dwindles. People talk about all the fees, but I believe that is hype. I jumped through a lot of hoops to set up a Charles Schwab account that refunds atm fees. On a 3 week trip that included multiple withdrawals, the total fees were about $10.
Posted by
NorthCarolina
1077 posts
We go over to the Xmas Markets every other year - they def want cash - esp in Germany. We take out cash at ATMs for best rate - this is even discussed under TRAVEL TIPS here on the RS website under MONEY.
Posted by
Ontario, Canada
5492 posts
In years past, I took several hundred dollars in cash
US$ will do you no good in Europe. You will need Euros or Swiss francs. Get that with your bank card at bank owned ATMs wherever you are going to be. If you are super cautious, get a starter €50-100 before leaving home.