Currency & Exchange Rates - Germany
The currency of Germany is the Euro(€)
The Euro (€) is made up of 100 cents. Bank notes are in denominations of €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200 and €500. Please check HERE for current rates of exchange. Euros can be purchased at foreign exchange departments at your local bank or at any bank in Germany (including those located at airports which are open for all flight arrivals).
Credit Cards & ATMs (Automated Teller Machines)
Credit & ATM/Debit cards bearing any of the logos below can be used to obtain cash from ATMs in Germany:
- Cirrus
- EuroCard
- Plus
- Visa
- MasterCard
- American Express
Most towns and larger villages have at least one ATM and many can be found in cities. The exchange rate applied to credit card transactions is usually more favourable than changing banknotes. Some Germam ATMs also supply other currencies (eg Dollars, Pounds Sterling). It is not advisable to rely solely on credit cards when travelling in case they get lost or the magnetic stripes becomes defective. The transaction charge for currency exchange is usually outlined in the cardholder agreement imposed on the cardholder by the issuer of the card.
Sales Tax Refunds
Non-European Union residents are entitled to a refund of Value Added Tax (VAT) on any purchases they bring back home with them. The store where the item is purchased can usually provide a claim form and a tax refund can normally be obtained at the airport of departure in the currency of your choice or by credit to your credit or charge card account. Refunds for larger purchases have to be certified by a customs agent before being issued.
