Is it better to exchange money before we leave or wait until we get to our destination, Madrid?
Lois
See here.
The cheapest and most convenient way to obtain local currencies is a debit card at a local bank ATM - ALWAYS. ATMs are everywhere just like in the US. However, I am part of the crowd who likes to have a few Euro in my pocket when I land just so I don't have to go looking for the first ATM. If I didn't have left over Euro from the last trip, I will pay the fee and get a hundred from my local bank before I go.
great info for my upcoming trip. love all the photos of the money
As Frank said, the cheapest, easiest way to get euros is from an ATM once you get there. I just went through Madrid airport a week ago, and there are bank-associated (not Travelex) ATMs all over the airport. No need to get any ahead of time.