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Spain Spain Currency Guide

The currency of Spain and how to prepare for payments — all on one page.

Currency

Euro

EUR · €

Checking rates

Check with your bank app or card issuer before you go

The rate and fees you actually pay differ by bank and card issuer.

Payment Tips to Remember

Always pay in the local currency

If a terminal asks whether to charge in your home currency, always choose the local currency. Choosing your home currency triggers DCC (dynamic currency conversion), which adds a hidden markup.

Set up a travel card before you fly

Prepaid multi-currency travel cards let you convert money in the app beforehand and pay like a debit card locally. Fees are usually lower than cash exchange counters, and you can freeze the card instantly from the app if lost.

Airport exchange counters: last resort

Airport counters are convenient but tend to offer some of the worst rates. If you need cash, exchange via your bank's app before departure or consider withdrawing from a local ATM.

Check ATM fees on screen

Local ATMs may add their own operator fee. Check the fee shown on the confirmation screen before proceeding. If the ATM offers conversion to your home currency (DCC), choosing the local currency is usually better.

Keep some small cash

Every country has places that don't take cards — markets, tips, small transport. Carrying a small amount of cash in separate places keeps you covered.

Cards for Abroad

Explore the Wise multi-currency card

One account holding 40+ currencies, converting and paying at mid-market based rates. Handy for multi-country trips — no need to exchange for each currency separately.

Learn more

Local data

Get an eSIM for Spain before you go

Activate mobile data with a QR code instead of swapping SIM cards. Buy it before departure and switch it on the moment you land.

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Check prices and availability on the booking sites.

City Guides in Spain

Madrid

Madrid, Spain's capital, sits at the heart of the country and leads the Iberian Peninsula's economy and politics. With attractions like the Royal Palace clustered downtown, it's a great city to explore on foot.

Barcelona

Barcelona is the central city of Catalonia, on Spain's eastern Mediterranean coast. It bears the mark of masters like Gaudí, Picasso, and Miró, making it a wonderful place to admire original architecture and art.

Málaga

Málaga is a port city in southern Spain facing the Mediterranean, set along the Guadalmedina River and surrounded by mountains. As one of Spain's major cities, it's a fine place to enjoy scenery where river and sea meet.

Palma

Palma de Mallorca is a port city on the island of Mallorca, serving as the hub of the Balearic Islands. It's an ideal spot for a relaxed island getaway steeped in Mediterranean charm.

Alicante

Alicante is the capital of Alicante province in Spain's Valencia region, home to more than 330,000 people. It's a pleasant place for a leisurely stroll through its cozy streets.