Buying euros (EUR)

By ordering foreign cash or buying a prepaid travel money card you’ll have the flexibility to explore the continent’s many treasures. To help you prepare for your European adventure, we’ve compiled a guide on how to buy Euros before you head off.

What currency is used in Europe?

The euro is the most common currency in Europe, but it’s not the only one you might encounter on your journey. However, if you’re planning a trip to one or more of the 20 countries in the ‘eurozone’ – such as France, Germany, Italy, Greece and Spain – purchasing euros is a smart decision. Today, the currency code EUR and the € currency symbol represent the euro.

Where can you buy euros (EUR)?

The euro is the second-most traded currency in the world, so there should be plenty of options when it comes to exchanging your money. With bank branches, foreign exchange businesses and online services dedicated to this need, Australia Post is now one of the go-to options for accessing foreign cash in Australia. Remember, each service has fees and exchange rates that could affect your travel budget.

How to buy euros in Australia

Finding somewhere to buy euros in Australia should be straightforward, with thousands of businesses ready to trade currency. While the process for exchanging money can vary slightly between popular options, these simple steps should help you get the euros you need:

1. Have a valid photo ID, such as a driver’s license or a passport
2. Fund your purchase with cash, a debit card or a credit card
3. Specify the amount you need in euros and review how much it costs in Australian dollars (AUD)
4. Pay for the EUR in Australian dollars and receive your money

How to buy EUR online

Ordering euros online is one of the most convenient ways to secure your currency before your trip. Simply follow these steps to get EUR from Australia Post for your upcoming journey.

1. Review our exchange rates, place your order online and choose a participating Post Office to collect your cash.
2. After you’ve placed an order, make payment via BPAY, Pay ID or credit card within 24 hours.
3. We'll confirm when your cash is ready. You'll have a week to collect it from your chosen Post Office. Remember to bring your receipt and photo ID.

Where can I exchange AUD for EUR?

Exchanging AUD for EUR should prove straightforward as long as you're able to visit a bank branch or foreign exchange provider. Plus, you can always buy travel money online ahead of your adventure. Find your nearest participating Post Office to get euros from 3,200+ destinations around Australia.

Why choose a travel money card instead of cash?

Countless places across Europe accept card payments, but cash is still useful for buying trinkets at markets, enjoying an afternoon drink at a sidewalk cafe and for emergency funds. Yet heading overseas with a prepaid card can provide a few perks worth considering:

Peace of mind: Prepaid travel money cards can increase your financial security when on the move in Europe because they’re not connected to your everyday banking accounts. Some travel money cards also have advantageous security features, such as protection against unauthorised transactions.

Budget supervision: Travelling with a prepaid travel card can help impulsive adventurers stay on top of their budgets. Controlling how much money you load into your account can help you avoid wasting money on unnecessary purchases as you crisscross Europe.

Locked-in exchange rates: Exchange rates change constantly, so getting the best deal isn’t always easy when buying foreign cash. However, a prepaid travel money card locks in the exchange rate when you first transfer. If this rate gets more costly over time, there’s a good chance you’ve saved yourself some money.

Trackable spending: It’s easy to let your spending get a little out of control when you get caught up in the fun of a European adventure. However, you can keep track of your euros with online services and apps connected to your prepaid travel money card. This oversight helps prevent overspending. 

What is the cheapest way to buy euros in Australia?

The cost of exchanging money can fluctuate depending on the exchange rate, the service you use and the attached fees. But with some options cheaper than others, researching the best deal for buying EUR in your area is wise.

As your options depend on your location, you can often find the best exchange rates and the lowest fees online. Check out Australia Post’s convenient currency converter to explore the latest exchange rates and purchase EUR today.

When is the best time to buy EUR in Australian dollars?

Unfortunately, there’s no way of knowing the best time to purchase EUR in Australia. You can check a rate tracker and if you get a little lucky before your departure date, you might find the exchange rate works in favour of the Aussie dollar.

However, as exchange rates and fees vary depending on the service, getting foreign cash can be cheaper from some sources than others.

Meanwhile, a prepaid travel money card makes it possible to lock in exchange rates before your departure.

Money tips for your European adventure

Adventure awaits in Europe, but getting to know some of the best money tips before your trip means avoiding mistakes and expenses. Here’s some helpful advice for your journey:

Travel in shoulder season: If you’re looking to save money, travelling to Europe in shoulder season still offers a wonderful experience. Typically from March to May and September to November, the weather isn’t too extreme, the crowds are smaller and the costs are lower.

Carry a little cash: Having a small amount of cash means you won’t struggle to pay for goods at markets, small corner stores and cosy cafes. While tipping is not expected in most countries, you might leave behind your small change or round up the bill to the nearest euro.

Save on transport costs: Travel blogger Amber from 48 Hours in Europe highlights the benefits of exploring cities on foot as it can save money and offer a more authentic experience. If walking isn’t feasible, public transport is an affordable and efficient way to get around in European cities like Paris, Berlin and Barcelona, where metro systems are well-organised and cost-effective. Not to mention, many of Europe’s most popular cities offer city cards and tourist passes that provide discounted or free access to everything from public transport to bustling museums.

Visit multiple destinations on one trip: Europe’s proximity between countries makes it easy to explore more than one destination during your trip. Amber suggests affordable options like taking the ferry from Helsinki to Tallinn or using trains for routes such as Copenhagen to Malmö. It’s a cost-effective way to see more while avoiding expensive direct flights.

Buy euros at Australia Post for your next adventure

Exchanging AUD for EUR is made easy with Australia Post. Order foreign cash online or in-store at a participating Post Office.