Beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, historical attractions – Barcelona has it all. It's a dream destination for people worldwide. To make your stay enjoyable and worry-free, planning your budget and understanding how money works in Barcelona is a good start.
What’s the Currency in Barcelona?
The official currency in Barcelona is the Euro (€), the same as in the rest of Spain and 19 of 27 countries in the EU. Each Euro is divided into 100 cents, and you’ll find a variety of notes and coins in circulation.
Euro notes come in different denominations, including €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, and €500. Each note is a different size and color, which makes them easy to distinguish.
Coins are also used frequently and come in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 cents, as well as €1 and €2. The smaller denominations are especially useful for everyday transactions like buying coffee or using public transportation.
Exchange Rates in Barcelona
To find the current exchange rate, you can use online resources such as xe.com or the currency converter on Google. These platforms provide real-time updates on exchange rates and are handy tools for travelers.
Note: It's important to use the mid-market rate as a benchmark when comparing exchange rates. The mid-market rate is the midpoint between the buy and sell prices of two currencies and is considered the most fair and accurate rate. Banks and currency exchange services often add a margin to this rate to cover their fees, so being aware of the mid-market rate helps you spot fair deals and avoid being overcharged.
Exchanging Money in Barcelona
You can exchange money in Barcelona through ATMs, banks, and currency exchange bureaus.
ATMs and Banks
ATMs are widely available throughout Barcelona, including at major banks, shopping centers, and popular tourist areas. When using ATMs, you will often get a better exchange rate compared to currency exchange bureaus. Some major banks in Spain include CaixaBank, BBVA and Banco Santander.
Note: Before using an ATM, check with your home bank regarding international withdrawal fees to avoid any unexpected charges. Additionally, notify your bank of your travel plans to prevent your card from being blocked for suspicious activity.
Currency Exchange Bureaus
If you prefer to exchange cash rather than use ATMs, several reliable currency exchange bureaus in Barcelona have competitive rates. Here are some of the Bureaus:
Ria Currency Exchange - La Rambla, 56, 08002 Barcelona, +34 933 01 77 28
Exact Change - Av. de la Catedral, 1, 08002 Barcelona, +34 933 01 77 28
Money Exchange - Carrer de Mata, 1, 08004 Barcelona, +34 934 43 38 03
Note: Try not to exchange money at an airport or a hotel. While it might be tempting for convenience, these locations often offer poor exchange rates and higher fees. It's best to exchange only a small amount if necessary.
Payment Methods in Barcelona
1. Credit and Debit Cards
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted throughout Barcelona. Major cards such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express (AMEX) are commonly used in hotels, restaurants, shops, and tourist attractions.
Note: Some smaller businesses may require a minimum purchase amount, typically around €10, for card transactions. Be aware of potential foreign transaction fees charged by your card issuer. These fees can add up, so it's wise to check with your bank before traveling.
2. Prepaid Cards and Digital Wallets
Using prepaid cards and digital wallets can be an easy and safe way to carry your money in Barcelona.
Prepaid cards help you manage your budget since you load a specific amount of money onto the card.
They often have the real exchange rate without additional fees.
Prepaid cards can be replaced if lost or stolen.
Note: Apple Pay and Google Pay are widely accepted in Barcelona.
Sending and Receiving Money in Barcelona
When you need to send or receive money internationally while in Barcelona, there are several reliable methods like Wise, Fin.do, Bizum, Western Union and MoneyGram.
Wise is the most popular choice - competitive rates, quick transfers and sometimes lower costs than traditional banks. Wise uses the mid-market exchange rate and has transparent fees.
An alternative to Wise, is Fin.do. It allows you to send money from and to any card across 150+ countries. It supports multiple currencies and provides instant transfers, though it is less widely known.
Bizum is primarily used for transfers between individuals with Spanish bank accounts linked to Bizum. It’s an excellent option for locals but might not be suitable for travelers without a Spanish bank account.
You can also use services like Western Union and MoneyGram to receive money at various pickup locations around the city. They have multiple branches in Barcelona but may charge higher fees compared to online services like Wise.
Tipping Culture in Barcelona
Tipping in Barcelona is not obligatory but is appreciated for good service. Generally, tipping is common in restaurants, bars, hotels, and taxis. The typical amount is around 5% to 10% or just rounding up the check.
Conclusion
Use Euros for transactions, rely on ATMs for cash, and be aware of exchange rates. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory, with 5% to 10% being typical.
For more tips on enjoying your stay in Barcelona, visit BarcaTrips.
FAQs
How much cash do I need for a week in Barcelona?
It's advisable to carry around €200-€300 for a week in Barcelona to cover small expenses like transportation, snacks, and tips. Most larger expenses can be paid with a card. The amount of cash you'll need depends on your spending habits.
Is it better to use cash or card in Spain?
You don't necessarily need to carry cash, but it can come in handy. Cards are convenient for larger transactions and have better exchange rates. However, cash is useful for small purchases and places that don't accept cards. Don't carry too much cash for safety reasons.
Should I get Euros before going to Barcelona?
It's a good idea to get some euros before arriving in Barcelona to cover immediate expenses like transportation from the airport. However, you can also withdraw cash from ATMs in the city, often at better exchange rates.
Can I use my US credit card in Barcelona?
Yes, US credit cards are widely accepted in Barcelona, especially Visa and Mastercard.
What is the best way to carry money in Spain?
The best way to carry money in Spain is to use a combination of payment methods. Carry some cash for small expenses and emergencies, and use credit or debit cards for larger purchases. Consider using a money belt or a secure bag to keep your money safe from theft.