Spain (ES)
Spain is a parliamentary constitutional monarchy of 17 autonomous communities stretching from the sun-scorched Andalusian coast to the Pyrenean peaks, renowned for its passionate flamenco and football culture, world-famous gastronomy from tapas to Michelin-starred restaurants, 300+ days of sunshine on the Costa del Sol and the Balearic Islands, and a relaxed Mediterranean pace of life that consistently ranks it among Europe's most desirable destinations for expats.
Currency & Money
Practical money tips for living in Spain.
Denominations
Coins: 1c, 2c, 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, €1, €2. Notes: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, €500.
Payment Culture
Spain has moved strongly towards card and contactless payments since the pandemic. Bizum (instant bank-to-bank mobile transfer between Spanish IBANs) is universal for splitting bills, paying freelancers and informal sales. Small bars, markets and rural businesses may still be cash-only — carry €20–40 as a backup. Many shops have a €5 card minimum.
ATM Tips
Use your own bank's ATMs (CaixaBank, Santander, BBVA, Sabadell, ING) to avoid fees. Non-customer withdrawals from Spanish bank ATMs can cost €1.50–5. Euronet standalone ATMs at tourist areas charge up to €6 — avoid. Always choose to be charged in EUR, not your home currency (DCC scam).
Exchange Tips
Avoid airport and tourist-zone exchange bureaus. Wise, Revolut, N26 or CaixaBank imaginBank offer much better rates. For large transfers, use Wise or CurrencyFair rather than your bank.
Pro tip: Best apps for expats
- • Wise — Send money internationally at near-interbank rates
- • Revolut — Multi-currency account, free ATM withdrawals (limits apply)
- • N26 — German IBAN, free account, good for EU residents