We will be renting an apartment in Paris, and the owner has requested a week’s rental in Euros cash when we arrive. Any thoughts on the safest and easiest way to obtain over 1000 Euros without purchasing them here in the States? We have concerns that we may not be able to get that many Euros at ATMs at the airport and about carrying around that much cash en route to the apartment. We will stay in the 5th district.
Posted by
Martinez, CA, USA
1548 posts
We just returned from Paris and rented an apartment for about the same cost. We decided to take the funds in two ATM withdrawals of 500 euros each time and had no problem. We used a BNP Paribas machine as that was the nearest to our apartment so not sure if all banks would allow such withdrawals. Also didn't try to take more so not sure if there's a limit. Just be sure to notify your bank here before you leave that you will be using your ATM card and you might ask if they have a limit. We didn't ask our bank and feel lucky it worked out for us. Also, you might ask the owner the location of the nearest ATM so you won't have to worry about carrying the money from the airport to the apartment. We noticed that in our neighborhood there seemed to be ATMs on almost every block.
Posted by
Rick Steves' Europe
388 posts
I agree with Carol. You can wait until you get there to get cash. Make sure you have your bank increase your withdrawal limit per day. Most banks may cap that limit at perhaps $500 per day but you could have them increase it to $1000 or more as needed. As for ATMS they are about as plentiful there as they are in the US. You should be fine to find a machine.
Posted by
Eugene, Oregon...Formerly Ventura, CA
2262 posts
sbj-we took debit cards for more than one account, one from our credit union and one from another bank. If you have a problem with one it's good to have a fallback. Shouldn't be an issue though.
Posted by
lexington, il
4105 posts
Several ATM's located outside arrivals area @ CDG. My daughter and I had no problem withdrawing 600 euros each last sept.
Posted by
roswell, ga, usa
1501 posts
Make sure your banks know at least 2 weeks in advance that you're going to be using your debit card in France! Also your credit card companies! Wen I rent apartments, I like arriving with that money ON me. I just don't like surprises. I usually get a good rate either at the Credit Union or even AMex if you're a card holder. After that, I use the debit card. I'm sure I pay a few extra bucks, but I want my apartment $$ available on arrival.
I use a neck pouch when I'm in Europe and wear it under my blouse. I put all the credit cards and large cash in it. If you feel better, you and your travel companion can split the money between you. The time I indulge in a taxi is on arrival and on departure, and you won't be robbed on that trip as opposed to the bus/metro, etc.