MONEY, EXCHANGE & CURRENCY IN BERLIN

When traveling to Berlin, it’s essential to understand the currency, banking, and exchange options available. This chapter provides insights into handling money, finding ATMs, and exchanging currency during your visit to Berlin.

Currency in Berlin:

  • Euro (EUR): Germany uses the euro as its official currency. It is abbreviated as EUR and denoted by the symbol €.

Currency Exchange:

  • Banks: You can exchange currency at banks, but they may charge fees and offer less favorable exchange rates.
  • Currency Exchange Offices: Look for dedicated currency exchange offices in tourist areas. Compare rates before exchanging money.
  • ATMs: Using ATMs (Geldautomaten) is a convenient way to obtain euros. They are widely available throughout the city. Check with your bank regarding international ATM fees.

Credit Cards:

  • Acceptance: Credit and debit cards, such as Visa and MasterCard, are widely accepted in Berlin. American Express and Diners Club cards are less commonly used.
  • Contactless Payment: Many establishments offer contactless payment options for convenience.

ATMs in Berlin:

  • Availability: ATMs are readily available and can be found at banks, shopping areas, airports, and train stations.
  • Fees: Be aware of potential ATM fees. Your home bank and the local bank may charge fees for international ATM transactions.

Banking Hours:

  • Bank Opening Hours: Banks in Berlin typically open from Monday to Friday, from around 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Some banks may have extended hours on Thursdays.
  • Weekend Services: Few banks may open on Saturdays, but this is less common.

Traveler’s Checks:

  • Usage: Traveler’s checks have become less common in Berlin. It’s advisable to carry euros or use cards for transactions.

Tipping:

  • Customary Tipping: Tipping is common in Berlin. In restaurants, it is customary to leave a tip of around 5-10% of the bill.
  • Service Charges: Check if the bill includes a service charge. If not, you can leave a cash tip on the table.

Taxes and Refunds:

  • Value Added Tax (VAT): Most prices in Berlin include VAT. Non-EU residents may be eligible for a VAT refund on certain purchases.
  • Tax-Free Shopping: Look for shops displaying the “Tax-Free Shopping” logo to inquire about tax refunds.

Currency Conversion Apps:

  • Currency Apps: Consider using currency conversion apps to check exchange rates and convert prices to your home currency.

Check out main exchange companies in the city:

  1. Travelex:
    • Overview: Travelex is a global currency exchange company with multiple branches in Berlin. They offer a range of foreign exchange services, including currency conversion and prepaid travel cards.
    • Website: Travelex
  2. Currency Exchange Berlin:
    • Overview: Currency Exchange Berlin is a currency exchange service with multiple locations throughout the city, offering competitive rates for currency conversion.
    • Website: N/A
  3. ReiseBank:
    • Overview: ReiseBank is a prominent financial institution in Germany, offering foreign exchange services at various branches, including those in Berlin. They provide currency exchange and travel financial services.
    • Website: ReiseBank
  4. ChangeGroup:
    • Overview: ChangeGroup is an international exchange service with locations in several countries, including Berlin. They offer foreign currency exchange and travel money services.
    • Website: ChangeGroup
  5. EuroChange:
    • Overview: EuroChange is a currency exchange service with several branches in Berlin. They provide competitive rates for currency conversion and also offer a Click & Collect service for ordering currency online.
    • Website: EuroChange