Paris Currency Guide 2026
Euro (EUR) · €
€1 = $1.09 (approx.)
Paris Travel Guides
Cash is Useful in Paris
Cards work well but cash is handy for markets and small vendors
Daily Budget Guide
🎒
Budget
€50–80 ($55–87) (hostel, boulangerie meals, metro)
🏨
Mid-Range
€150–250 ($163–272) (hotel, bistro dinners, museums)
✨
Luxury
€400+ ($436+) (palace hotel, Michelin dining, private tours)
ATM Tips for Paris
BNP Paribas, Société Générale, and Crédit Mutuel ATMs are most compatible with international cards
French ATMs sometimes add a ~€3 transaction fee — check the screen carefully before confirming
Always choose EUR (not your home currency) when prompted to avoid dynamic currency conversion
ATMs are plentiful — no need to carry large amounts of cash
Card Payment Tips
Visa and Mastercard accepted almost universally in Paris — even at smaller bistros and markets
Some small patisseries, outdoor markets (Marché d'Aligre), and traditional brasseries prefer cash
Contactless payments standard across Paris — just tap for most transactions under €50
French law requires chip-and-PIN or contactless — magstripe-only cards may not work at some terminals
Currency Exchange Tips
✓ Best method
Withdraw euros from French ATMs (BNP Paribas, Société Générale, Crédit Agricole) using a zero-fee card. Avoid airport and tourist-area exchange offices.
✗ Avoid exchanging at
- ×CDG/Orly airport exchange (10–15% worse than market rate)
- ×Champs-Élysées and Eiffel Tower area exchange shops
- ×Hotel reception exchange
Tipping in Paris
Not obligatory — service charge (15%) is legally included in French restaurant bills. Leaving €1–2 on the table for good service is appreciated but not expected.
Useful Denominations
Frequently Asked Questions
What currency is used in Paris?
The Euro (€). France is part of the Eurozone — the same currency used in 20 EU countries including Germany, Spain, Italy, and the Netherlands.
Do I need cash in Paris?
Less than you might expect — Paris is increasingly cashless. However, some patisseries, smaller bistros, street markets, and outdoor vendors prefer cash. Carrying €30–50 is wise.
Is Paris expensive?
Paris is mid-to-high priced. Budget travellers can manage on €50–80/day using hostels and boulangeries. Mid-range is €150–250/day. The good news: many world-class museums offer free or discounted admission.
Should I get euros before flying to Paris?
No need — ATMs in Paris give excellent exchange rates. Use a zero foreign-transaction-fee card and withdraw from a BNP Paribas or Société Générale ATM on arrival.
Before you go to Paris
Paris Packing List
Everything else you need for your Paris trip