Where to get Euros for day trip to France?

Question

I'm going on a day trip to France next month and haven't got a clue how to change sterling for Euros. (Yeah, sad, I know!)
i obviously won't need that much money, just enough for some shopping, lunch, that type of thing.
As I haven't been outside the Uk before I would appreciate any advice. Thanks

Answer 1

At the post office, they have a free service. Banks also have them.

Answer 2

Walk into the local bureaux de change of your nearest travel agent (going places, thomas cook) is probably easiest. Banks and Post Offices do it too. You usually have to pay commission (£3ish, though this is sometimes waived for large amounts over £100 - look for 'commision free' offers). They usually ask for your name and address but don't normally ask for any proper proof of ID unless you pay with a debit card.



You just hand over your cash (they don't usually take credit cards) and ask for "£20 worth of Euros" (or whatever). You'll only usually get notes to the nearest 5 euro, so it will either be over or under that £20 - that's up to you. It won't be exact.



Alternatively, just wait till you get to France and use your cashcard at the first ATM machine you see. It'll find its way back to your UK bank account in a day or two less the banks overseas commission charge (a couple of pounds usually) so you aren't any better or worse off than using an exchange bureaux in the UK. Do it before you get to Dover or the Eurotunnel though as the exchange rates there aren't as good as they would be elsewhere. You're a captive audience at the terminal and the exchange rate on offer reflects that.

Answer 3

Thomas Cook claim to offer the best rate, and also Euro cash cards.



Post Office and banks can provide Euros, but if you have card for ATM that will work in France and give you Euros as well.

Answer 4

I get my Pounds changed into Euro's at my local Marks & Spencers. I read in the papers the other day M&S PLC gives the best exchange rates for Euro's and they are very trustworthy so I would recommend you to go for M&S. A friend of mine got it changed elsewhere, and he was ripped off with fake Euros! Dont take the risk! Enjoy your trip!

Answer 5

If you are going by ferry they should have an currency exchange in the port or on the ferry.



Failing that, you can go to any Bank Machine in France and use your UK bank card to withdraw cash in Euros. There are Bank Machines everywhere.



Or, just got to your local bank in the UK and order Euros.

Answer 6

Your local Post Office is the most convenient and they offer good exchange rates too. You'll probably get it all in 20 Euro notes. Have a great day out.

Answer 7

Post office before you go, you will also find Bureau De Change ( more expensive) at many rail. ferry terminals. If you carry credit/ debit card you will also find cash machines abroad, works on same pin and account, but be careful how you use your card for purchases, it is not unknown for people to be ripped off. Also, as this is your first visit abroad, do you have a passport? check with your travel arranger to see if you need one.

Answer 8

For "pocket money"? a minimum of 50 euros i might say. issues are extremely high priced (and a individual even will pay to pass to the bathing room in maximum public places and eating places - something like 25 to 50 cents, yet nonetheless....)

Answer 9

You might be better to check with your credit card companies. If I use my Visa card, I'm charged for every transaction (ie cash withdrawal and when buying goods/meals etc) on the card. Mastercard charge you 3.75 for a cash withdrawal but nothing if you use your card in shops/restaurants. If you use a Visa while shopping, it can really add up.



LindaG

Answer 10

Banks, Post Offices, Thomas Cook. Personally I always use my debit card in ATM's when I'm there. It only costs about £1.50 and you get a better rate.

Answer 11

Local Post Office.

Thomas Cooks......Enjoy your day. I love France.

Answer 12

Either Thomas Cook, or, ATM in France.

Answer 13

You'll probably get the best exchange rate if you just use an ATM machine when you get to France.

Answer 14

Post office is the easiest