CIRRUS or VISA PLUS

Karin,
You may or may not be aware, but if you'd like to check availability of ATM machines that participate in the two different networks, both have on-line directories that may be searched by location. So, if you will be visiting, for example, 7-8 different cities, you can see how many ATMs accept either card in each city, and you can even drill down further to see which offer ATMs most convenient to your hotel, attraction, etc. But since you asked about being RELIABLE, you may mean functionally reliable vs. location-wise. If functionally, that depends greatly on which local bank participates in the network (whether or not they load cash/service the machine frequently enough) and how that ultimately interfaces with your local bank (think electronic hoops, LOL) ...........and it would be my guess that both networks would have similar processes and functionality. I generally prefer to use ATMs only at bank locations and preferably during banking hours, and a ATM located within the lobby of a bank is best for safety reasons (less likely to have skimmers on them and easier to get help if there is a problem with a withdrawal, card eaten, etc.).

I have never seen an ATM that did not have both logos. So the short answer is neither. In general I see more signs for VISA than Mastercard but those are the main cards accepted every where.

It's not a question of machine reliability vs networks. Cirrus or Plus on the machine just means that the owner of the ATM has an agreement with the Cirrus network or the Plus network to accept that network's card' and that network reimburses them for your withdrawal. I have one card that is Cirrus and one that is Plus, and I have never had trouble using any ATM in western Europe with either card. I think most ATMs in western Europe accept both.

Like Frank and Lee, I have never had a problem - and I don't think I've ever seen a machine with only one of them listed, anyway. It's always both.

Thanks everyone for the replies. My query is on behalf of my son who will be traveling in Europe for the next 6-8 months. I noted Margaret's comment about using ATMs in banks.

I assume your son is aware of the Schengen visa limitations and has taken these limitations into consideration during his travel plans.

Karin , my TD and my Royal Bank cards worked equally well for me in europe , at least where i have been.
Do not Franks post, son needs to obtain visa to stay longer then 3 months, or have a Eu passport