When making a trip to Europe, one of the important topics, besides roaming costs, to consider is the whole subject of currency exchange. When you travel to a foreign country, you must provide payment in their local currencies. Currencies of Europe

A total of 28 currencies are used across 50 European countries who are all members of the United Nations.

The most common currency used in Europe is the euro, and any country entering the European Union is expected to join the Eurozone. Only Denmark is exempted from using the euro while Sweden is yet to adopt the euro because it is yet to meet the Exchange Rate Mechanism II.

The euro is a legal tender in 19 of the 28 countries who are members of the European Union and in five other non-EU members.

Alert #1 –  The blue countries the map above are in the Eurozone and accept the Euro.  The dark gray countries are in the Eurozone but DO NOT accept the Euro.  And the light gray countries are not in the Eurozone and DO NOT accept the Euro.

Alert #2 – Contemplate how long you are likely to be in the various countries.  For example, if you are doing a river cruise on the Rhine or the Danube, you are going to encounter Switzerland, Hungry, and perhaps even the Czech Republic; countries who do not use the Euro.  However, if you’re there for just a short period, then use your credit card to make purchases.  If you find you need cash for some reason, then find a bank ATM and take out some additional cash to cover tips, etc.

Alert #3 – For most of you traveling to Europe, you’re likely going to need some Euros.  Therefore, head to your local bank a few weeks before you leave and grab €200 in small denominations (5s, 10s, and 20s) to keep on hand for small purchases and tips. The smallest paper denomination in Euros is the €5 bill, so if you prefer to give smaller tips than roughly $6, then grab some €2 coins in the airport before you take off. Currencies of Europe

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