ATMS in Europe

Here is some information about ATMs in Europe you should know before you leave:

ATM Card

An ATM Card is issued by your bank and when you use it the money is taken directly from your checking or savings account. The card is not affiliated with Mastercard or VISA so is not as widely accepted. Be sure to check the network symbols (Plus and/or Cirrus) on the back of your card and look for a matching symbol on the ATM.

Unlike Debit cards, these cards cannot be used to make purchases at a retailer. They can only be used at an ATM. If you carry one of these, you will still need to carry a debit or credit card for your purchases.

1. They're not called ATMs in Europe. Ask for a distributeur automatique in France, a cashpoint in the United Kingdom, and a Bankomat in the rest of Europe.
2. You will need to have a 4 digit numeric code in order to use the card. If you don't already have one ask your bank for one.
3. Check with your bank before you go to find out what fees they charge and how much cash you can withdraw within a 24 hour period. The foreign cash machine won't necessarily let you withdraw the same maximum amount.
4. Test your card before you leave home to make sure it works.
5. With rare exceptions, ATMs dispense money only in the currency of the country you are in. So if you are visiting several countries with different currencies don't withdraw a lot money if you are about ready to leave a country. Exchanging currency can get very expensive.
6. Withdraw a large amount of money at a time rather than several small withdrawals. This will save money on transaction fees.
7. Remember not only will your bank charge you a fee, but the European bank will also charge a fee.
8. Take two cards from two different banks with you. If one doesn't work the other one probably will.
9. Don't wait until you are almost out of money to get more. ATMs in Europe can run out of money especially on weekends.


10. At many European banks the cash machines are in a small lobby outside the bank. This is locked when the bank is not open. To access the ATM, look for a card swipe slot near the door. You can use your ATM/Debit/Credit card to access the lobby.