Is there anything different about an ATM in Europe?

Question

I'm going to Europe and I was wondering if I have to do anything special to use ATMs there, or can I just bring my card and go?

Answer 1

They work the same.

Notify your bank that you plan to use your card in Europe and find out if your bank charges an extra fee for using the card abroad.  Also ask them if they have relationships with banks in Europe that will allow you to use their partner ATMs for a reduced service fee.

Try to only use ATMs that belong to a real bank.  The kind in hotel lobbies and restaurants (even some on street corners) can charge very high fees

Answer 2

You can (and should) get information on what your ATM card charges for foreign monetary transactions from your bank right before you go.

Charges to look for: foreign exchange fee (usually expressed in %) and charges for "foreign" ATM use (a per transaction charge for using an ATM not associated with the bank).

You should also find out and write down phone numbers for contacting your bank from outside the US.

Banks change these charges frequently, so double check with the bank before applying for any of the cards we might recommend.

ATM cards and Credit cards extends  in Europe as well thanks to a few global cash networks. These networks allow cards to be used in different countries just as you would used them at home in the US.

You should have no problems using your American cards anywhere in Europe provided you check a few things before you leave.

Answer 3

Just to add to the sage advice above.... not all ATMs have an English language option so you might need a dictionary on hand or a native speaker.

Answer 4

I just went to Spain and Portugal.  I live in the U.S.

-Before you go, call your bank and tell the the dates you'll be gone and countries you will be in

-All of the ATMs I used had an English choice, but I know quite a bit of Spanish so it wouldn't have been a big deal if they didn't.

-Sometimes the credit union cards have problems and only work in certain ATMs.

-You get charged a lot to take out money, so take it out in larger amounts.