Slovakia (SK)

Slovakia is increasingly cashless in cities, though cash remains important in rural areas and smaller establishments. Contactless card payment (Visa, Mastercard) is widely accepted in Bratislava and larger cities. Slovak banks issue standard Mastercard/Visa debit cards. Google Pay and Apple Pay are supported by major banks. Some markets, smaller restaurants, and village shops remain cash-only. Slovakia joined the Eurozone in 2009 — the euro is the only currency. Slovak koruna (SKK) is long gone.

ATMs (bankomat) are widely available in cities, shopping centres, and petrol stations. Slovenská sporiteľňa and VÚB have the largest ATM networks. Using ATMs of your own bank avoids fees. Foreign cards work well but may incur a €2–4 fee per withdrawal. Bratislava Old Town has many ATMs near tourist areas — use bank ATMs rather than standalone machines that may charge higher fees.

Slovakia uses the euro — no currency exchange needed from other Eurozone countries. For non-euro currencies, use Wise or Revolut for transfers. Currency exchange bureaux (zmenáreň) in Bratislava offer decent rates but vary widely — compare before exchanging. Avoid exchange offices at Bratislava Main Station and the airport which typically offer poor rates.