Currency in Eurozone: EUR Send & Spend FX Guide
Resources for Expats, Travelers, and Entrepreneurs Navigating Life and Trade in the Eurozone with the Euro.
What's in this Eurozone currency guide?
What currency is used in the Eurozone?
The official currency of the Eurozone (country code: EU) is the Euro, with symbol € and currency code EUR.
What is a good Euro exchange rate?
The BestExchangeRates.com currency comparison table below helps you see the total cost of your currency transaction by showing the exchange rates offered by different providers. It also makes it easy to spot potential savings from market-leading FX services compared to bank rates.
To see a full list of rates, enter your transaction type, currencies and amount then click ‘GET RATES’:
Loading rates...
|
|
|
Good things to know about the Euro
As of June 16, 2025, the Euro (EUR) has experienced notable developments affecting travelers, expats, and business owners:
- Interest Rate Adjustments: The European Central Bank (ECB) has reduced its key interest rates multiple times since April 2025, with the deposit rate now at 2%. This easing cycle aims to stimulate economic growth amid global uncertainties. (ft.com)
- Inflation Trends: Eurozone inflation has moderated, with the latest data showing a decrease to 2.4% in November 2024, bringing it closer to the ECB's 2% target. (nbcdfw.com)
- Eurozone Expansion: Bulgaria is on track to adopt the euro on January 1, 2026, following successful convergence assessments. This expansion may influence currency dynamics and economic interactions within the euro area. (en.wikipedia.org)
These developments are crucial for individuals and businesses engaged in international transactions, as they can impact exchange rates, purchasing power, and overall economic conditions.
For more EUR information check out our selection of Euro news and guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What currency should I use in the Eurozone?
The domestic currency in the Eurozone is the Euro.
What is the Euro currency code and symbol?
The three letter currency code for the Euro is EUR — symbol is €.
What does the Euro look like?
Here is an example Euro banknote:
Which countries use the Euro?
It is the domestic currency in Eurozone, Aaland Islands, Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Cyprus, Estonia, Finland, France, French Guinea, French Southern Territories, Germany, Greece, Guadeloupe, Vatican City, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Martinique, Mayotte, Monaco, Montenegro, Netherlands, Portugal, Reunion, Saint Barthelemy, Saint Martin, Saint Pierre and Miquelon, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia and Spain.
Is the Euro a closed currency?
No, the Euro is freely available and convertible. See guide: What is a closed currency?
What are equivalent amounts of GBP and EUR?
Here are some popular conversion amounts for GBP to EUR (British pound to Euro)*.
*Converted at the current GBPEUR interbank exchange rate. Calculate actual payout amounts for Send Money and Travel Money exchange rates.
Travel money for the Eurozone
Using Wise for Euro travel money is a smart choice for savvy travelers. With its competitive exchange rates and low fees, Wise allows you to convert and manage multiple currencies effortlessly.
Be careful when using your own bank's Debit/Credit Card, as your bank may also charge an extra 3% as an “Overseas Transaction Charge” plus “Overseas ATM” fees for withdrawing cash on top of the standard Visa/Mastercard 2.5% from market mid-rate.
For card purchases, if you are offered a choice of currencies always select to Pay in Euro otherwise you will typically get much worst dynamic currency conversion (DCC) exchange rates.
If you really want Euro cash before departure, you can save money by ordering online. You generally get better rates and can pick up the EUR cash locally or even on travel day at the airport.
Eurozone: Travel Guide
Traveling to the Eurozone requires careful financial planning to ensure a smooth and cost-effective experience. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate currency considerations and manage your money effectively during your visit.
No destination holds as much variety and cultural difference as Europe. From the sunny south to the snowy north there is no shortage of places to see here. When arriving at any new destination for first time visitors it cant hurt to stop by the Tourist Point to get any free maps, discounts, and cost free events. Most decent hotels have free WiFi so try using this to avoid any suprise Roaming fees on your phone when you get back home. ATM and credit card use varies greatly between countries so purchasing a Pre-paid Travel Card before leaving for your travels can save time and hassle.
If you would like to travel by train and can book a fare way in advance you can save money by getting a pass for Europe's extensive train system that goes pretty much everywhere. You can check prices at sites like RailEurope. To save a lot of travel time and money you can book a sleeper cabin on an overnight train. While travelling across Europe by bus used to be uncomfortable there are now low cost luxury buses available. And now to save even more time at your locations instead of travelling to them, costs for flights have greatly reduced in recent years making it a very affordable and very fast way to get around. Depends on your preference.
The Euro currency is widely used across most of Europe which makes it very convenient, so if you plan to spend most your travel time in Europe try to convert a chunk of currency before you go to get the best rates. It’s a little known fact that the closer you get to the departure gates in any country the worst the currency exchange rates get! In fact travellers can end up paying more than 10% extra if you load up on your overseas currency at airport bureau de change outlets.
If you end up buying your travel money on depature day without pre-ordering online you are most likely wasting some of your money.
How is the Eurozone different to the European Union?
The Eurozone is a monetary union of 19 European Union (EU) member states that have adopted the Euro as their official currency. These countries have agreed to use the Euro as their sole legal tender, and their monetary policies are coordinated by the European Central Bank (ECB).
The Eurozone was established in 1999 with the goal of promoting economic stability and growth, and to facilitate trade and investment between member states. The Eurozone countries are Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia and Spain.
The Eurozone countries maintain a high level of economic integration and share a single market, which allows for the free movement of goods, services, and people among member states. This makes it easier for businesses to operate and for people to live and work across different countries.
It's worth noting that not all European Union (EU) member states are part of the Eurozone, for example, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Hungary, Poland, Romania, Sweden and United Kingdom are not a part of it.
Everyday Costs in in Eurozone
How much does it really cost to live, work, or travel in Eurozone? Here's what to expect for daily expenses and expat living.
Travel Guide to the European Union (ISO Code: EU)
For travelers planning a one-week mid-range stay in the European Union, it's advisable to budget around €900 to €1,200, which provides a comfortable range for exploring culture, dining, and accommodation. While expenses can vary widely depending on the specific country within the EU, you can expect typical daily expenses to be around:
- 🍽️ Meal at a local restaurant: €15-€25
- ☕ Coffee: €2-€4
- 🚍 Public transport fare: €1.50-€3
- 📱 Prepaid SIM card: €15-€30
- 🏨 Budget hotel or Airbnb: €60-€120 per night
In general, the EU can be considered an average to slightly expensive destination for visitors. Compared to the United States, travelers might find prices for dining and transportation in major cities like Paris or Berlin to be similar, although entertainment and attractions can be pricier. When stacked against the UK, one might notice that costs in London tend to be higher, particularly in accommodation and dining, whereas some Eastern European countries could offer better value for money.
Expat Guide to Living in the European Union
For expats moving to the EU, the typical monthly living costs can vary significantly based on location but generally range from €1,500 to €2,500. Major cities like Berlin or Barcelona might push the higher end of this range, while smaller towns can be more budget-friendly. Essential costs include rent, utilities, groceries, and transportation, all of which should be considered when planning a financial budget.
When it comes to banking and managing money, cashless transactions are widely accepted, and it's advisable to use a credit or debit card with no foreign transaction fees for convenience. While local exchanges are viable, opting for online transfer services like Wise or OFX can offer better rates and lower fees for sending/receiving money internationally, ensuring you retain more value from your funds. Always keep an eye on conversions to euro (EUR), as using the local currency often yields the best rates when settling bills.
USD/EUR Market Data
The below interactive chart displays the USD/EUR change and UP📈 DOWN📉 trends over the past 1 Year.
Recent Euro Market News
Recent Developments Affecting the EUR Price
1. Eurozone Inflation Rates: Recent data shows inflation in the Eurozone remains elevated, affecting ECB monetary policy decisions. (Source: Reuters, ECB)
2. ECB Interest Rate Outlook: Comments from ECB officials indicate a potential pause in interest rate hikes, causing speculation about the EUR's stability.
3. Economic Growth Concerns: GDP growth figures for the Eurozone show signs of slowing, impacting confidence in the Euro.
4. Geopolitical Tensions: Ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly regarding trade relations with the US and UK, influencing market sentiment around the Euro.
5. Energy Prices: Fluctuations in energy prices due to global supply concerns are affecting Eurozone economies and, consequently, the EUR. (Source:
6.Eurozone Expansion: As of June 2025, Bulgaria is set to become the 21st member state of the eurozone, with the euro adoption scheduled for January 1, 2026.
For more EUR information read our News and guides to the Euro.
Send Money to the Eurozone - Best Rates
To get a good (and fair) exchange rate when sending money to the Eurozone you need to find and compare exchange rates for International Money Transfers (IMTs).
The available FX rates for sending money abroad can be very different to the mid-market (wholesale) rate which you see reported online and in the News.
You should especially compare your own bank's exchange rates to those available from Money Transfer specialists to see how much you can save - we make that calculation easy in the below table.
Get a better deal for foreign transfers to the Eurozone
When sending money to the Eurozone it’s important to compare your bank’s rates & fees with those we have negotiated with our partner money transfer providers. To get a better deal you should follow these 4 simple steps :
- Open an account with a BER reviewed FX provider (id docs may be required)
- You specify the local or Euro amount you want to transfer
- Make a local currency domestic transfer for the requested amount to the provider's bank account in your country
- Once your funds are received by the provider the converted EUR amount will be transfered to the recipient account you specify in the Eurozone.
Use the above calculator to compare the exchange rates of FX specialist providers rates versus your bank's standard rates you can hopefully save around 5% and maybe more - end result is more Euro deposited into the recipient bank account and less margins and fees kept by the banks!
Managing money while living and working in the Eurozone
Managing your money effectively while living and working abroad can be challenging, but there are several steps you can take to ensure that your finances are in order.
Understand Euro currency exchange rates: Exchange rates can have a big impact on your finances, so it is important to keep an eye on the EUR exchange rate and consider using a money transfer specialist or a credit card that does not charge foreign transaction fees to get the best exchange rate.
Use a local Euro bank account: A local EUR bank account can make it easier for you to manage your finances and pay bills while you are in the Eurozone. It may also be more convenient to use a local EUR bank account to make purchases and withdraw cash.
Research local laws and regulations: It is important to understand the local laws and regulations that apply to financial transactions in the Eurozone. This can help you avoid legal issues and ensure that you are complying with local requirements.
Consider the tax implications: It is important to understand the tax implications of living or doing business in the Eurozone. This can help you plan your finances and ensure that you are paying the correct amount of tax.
Seek financial advice: If you are unsure of how to manage your finances in the Eurozone, it is a good idea to seek the advice of a financial professional who is familiar with the local financial system. This can help you make informed decisions and avoid financial pitfalls.
We have put together some key points to help managing your money effectively, you can reduce financial stress and enjoy your experience living or doing business in the Eurozone.
Which Eurozone country has the cheapest cost of living?
The cost of living varies greatly within the Eurozone, and it depends on various factors such as housing, transportation, healthcare, and taxes. However, some of the countries in the Eurozone with relatively lower cost of living include:
Greece: Greece has a relatively low cost of living compared to other Eurozone countries.
Portugal: Portugal has a lower cost of housing than in other Eurozone countries.
Spain: Spain also has a relatively low cost of living, particularly in the southern regions such as Andalusia and Murcia.
Ireland: Ireland has a relatively low cost of living, particularly in the regions outside the main cities like Dublin.
Cyprus: Cyprus has a relatively low cost of food and transportation.
It's important to note that these are rough estimations, and the cost of living in these countries may be different for various factors such as location, lifestyle, and personal preferences. It's also worth noting that these countries are not part of the Eurozone, but they are in the EU and their currencies are pegged to the Euro.
What is the best country to setup a company in the Eurozone?
There is no definitive answer to what the best country is to set up a company in the Eurozone, as it depends on various factors such as the nature of the business, the target market, and the specific needs and goals of the company. However, some countries in the Eurozone are generally considered to be more favorable for businesses than others.
Some of the countries that are considered to be among the most business-friendly in the Eurozone include:
- Ireland, known for its favorable corporate tax rate of 12.5%.
- Netherlands, known for its business-friendly regulations and strong logistics infrastructure.
- Estonia, known for its e-residency program and digital-friendly government.
- Germany, known for its large market and strong economy.
It is worth noting that each country has its own specific regulations, taxes and legal requirements that might fit some businesses better than others. It is recommended to consult with business experts and legal advisers for a tailored advice for your business.
You can read about the best providers and compare the latest deals for international money transfers to the Eurozone in our Send Money to the Eurozone guide.