Germany Currency Guide for Indian Travelers
Germany is famous for its history, scenic beauty and vibrant locations. Germany has issued over 1.29 million visas in 2024 and millions of Students and tourists visit this country every year. It’s easy enough to plan a trip to Germany but there are several things you should keep in mind such as how to get there, where to stay, what to see and where to go. An important thing that you should never neglect is managing your money, specifically how to deal with currency. Germany along with 19 European nations uses the Euro (€ / EUR) as its national currency. Euro is managed by the European Central Bank. 1 Euro is made up of 100 cents.
Why the Euro Matters for Indian Students and Travelers
Indian students and travelers dreaming of Studying and travelling to Germany or Eurozone should know some basic of Euro currency. Since Germany is in Eurozone that means prices, banking, ATM fees and travel cards are all in euros. Indian Rupees (INR) are not accepted and conversion is mandatory from INR to EUR.
Euro Denominations
Coins
Coins are minted in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents, and 1 and 2 euros
- 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents
- €1 and €2 coins for everyday use
Learn more about types of euro coins: https://economy-finance.ec.europa.eu/euro/euro-coins-and-notes/euro-coins/types-euro-coins_en
Euro Notes
The designs for the Euro banknotes 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 were inspired by the theme ‘the ages and styles of Europe’ and depict the architectural styles from seven periods of Europe’s cultural history: Classical, Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque and Rococo, the Age of Iron and Glass, and modern 20th century architecture.
- Common Currency Notes: €5, €10, €20, €50
- Rare Currency Notes: €100, €200, €500
Learn more about Currency Notes in circulation: https://economy-finance.ec.europa.eu/euro/euro-coins-and-notes/euro-banknotes_en
Currency Exchange: Where to Get Euros
Where to Exchange?
1. Airports:
Some of the exchanges are located at airports. Many major airports offer currency exchange services including Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport, Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport and Ahmedabad's Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. These services are typically available at both arrival and departure areas.
2. Banks:
Many banks in India offers currency exchange services including banks like ICICI Bank, Axis Bank, HDFC Bank, State Bank of India and Kotak Mahindra Bank. These banks typically provide a range of major and popular currencies for exchange such as US Dollars (USD), Euros (EUR), British Pounds (GBP) and Japanese Yen (JPY).
3. Some top Hotels:
Several hotels in India offer currency exchange facilities including Taj Palace, New Delhi, Novotel New Delhi Aerocity, Citrus Hotels India
4. Authorized currency exchanges in tourist areas:
Authorized currency exchange centers in India can be found at major banks like State Bank of India (SBI), HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank as well as private agencies like Thomas Cook, Cox & Kings and Western Union. Many of these are located in or near tourist areas for convenience and you can check online.
Before Departure in India
- RBI-authorized exchanges that offer competitive rates
- Banks may charge more for currency exchange
- Some of the Online forex may offer home delivery in India
After Arrival in Germany
- ATMs (bank machines) give reliable rates in Germany
- Exchange offices at airports/stations are convenient but more expensive
- Using ATMs is one of the most convenient ways to get Euros. ATMs are widely available across Germany and most accept international cards.
Cards vs Cash
- Cash is still widely used in smaller shops and for tipping in Germany
- Contactless/debit cards are common in cities; most transactions use cards
Currency Conversion Basics
- Currently its 1 EUR = ₹100 INR
- Rates fluctuate every day and you need to check online platforms like Currency Converter for Live Exchange Rates before exchanging
Money-Saving Tips
- Use Forex travel cards
- Lock in mid‑market exchange rates.
- Avoid airport exchanges
- They add service fees and exchange rates are higher
- Withdraw cash in Euros after arrival
- Use ATMs with low fees to get Cash in Germany
- Pay in local currency (Euros)
- Using debit card from India in Germany will be costly, use cash to avoid hidden charges of currency exchanges.
Managing Cash Flow
- Keep a mix of coins and small notes (€5–€20) for small purchases
- Carry a bit of cash in public transport and while staying in hostels
- Use cards for higher bill payments
- Use cash in cafes and while having snacks in restaurants
Safety tips while using cash in Germany
- Credit/debit cards offer safety against theft
- Use Credit / Debit cards for Higher payments or Bulk payments
- Carry small cash amounts while travelling
- For quick transactions at small shops use cash
- Consider virtual travel cards for secure contactless payments
Currency Conversion Apps & Tools
While you're traveling and need to keep track of currency conversions. You can use several apps and tools. Below is the list of few of most popular apps:
XE Currency Converter
- Website: https://www.xe.com/app This app is most popular with many travellers. It provides live exchange rates
Oanda Currency Converter
- Website: https://www.oanda.com/currency-converter/en/ This app provides accurate exchange rates
Wise Currency Converter
- Website: https://wise.com/in/currency-converter/ This app Convert 140 currencies at the mid-market exchange rate. Wise is an international account for sending, spending and converting money like a local.
Bringing Money Back to India
- Foreign cash >$5,000 must be declared
- Use travel/forex cards to avoid carrying large cash back to India
- Having multi-currency account helps avoid customs hassles
Scoutabroad can help you with Travel budget planning. Our Top Travel Visa consultants will guide you on travel money, foreign banking setup, currency transfer. For free consultation apply online at app.scoutabroad.com
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Exchanging euros at airport kiosks
- Relying solely on cash while travelling to Europe
- Paying in INR based Debit card in Europe
- Ignoring card fees or hidden markups of currency conversions
Conclusion
Understanding how Euro works ensures smoother travel and stay in Germany. Use smart planning while going to Germany:
- Exchange INR to EUR amid best rates
- Use cards wisely
- Carry small cash while travelling in Germany
- Keep track of current EUR–INR rate
- Open Local bank account if you are staying in Germany for Long time
- Use Forex cards with Zero % or 1% markup fees
- Use Local Travel cards
- Use apps to track exchange rates
Scoutabroad can streamline your travel preparation, financial setup, Document Preparation, Appointment Scheduling, Flight Ticket Reservation. Find complete Visa services which simplify your abroad journey to Germany or Switzerland. Our expert Visa Consultants guide you through every step of your visa application process whether you plan to study in Germany or Switzerland or travel to any destination in Europe.
Your dream of studying in Germany or Switzerland isn’t just possible, it’s also fundable.
Ready to make your study abroad or travel dreams come true? Contact us to book a free consultation with our visa experts and start your European journey today!
Book Now: https://app.scoutabroad.com
Book a free consultation with our Visa experts
Fill out the application on https://app.scoutabroad.com to receive expert advice and guidance in VISA Application Process.
Get in touch for step-by-step assistance and maximize your chances of success.
Our Study Abroad Services
We offer overseas education services to top countries in European mainly Germany and Switzerland. These countries offer the best place for international education.
Are you looking for education services abroad?
Scoutabroad will provide One Stop Solutions for all of your Study Abroad needs from counselling to visa. From selecting universities to applying for courses in university.
We offer services in Education, VISA and Travel.
Located in the heart of Bengaluru, Karnataka our consultancy has been a beacon of hope for countless Students and Professionals seeking to explore new international opportunities in Germany and Switzerland. Our team of Professional Consultants with client-centric approach is dedicated in providing personalized, comprehensive and efficient Visa services that cater to your specific needs while ensuring each client is receiving the highest level of service and support.
With having years of experience and a proven track record of success with clients, we are committed in helping you achieve your dreams of studying abroad or working abroad.
Why Choose Scoutabroad?
Scoutabroad Private Limited is Best Consultancy and Provides Top Student Visa Assistance, Best International Education Consulting Services, Top VISA Consulting and Guidance for Tourist Visa, Visitors Visa, Business Visa, Along with Personalized Services like Applying for Scholarships, Accommodation Support in New Country, Travel plans.
Follow Scoutabroad for more information about Studies, Jobs, Travel and Visa from Germany and Switzerland.
To learn more and for guidance, schedule a consultation; visit Scoutabroad's App Website
Free Consultation:
Book Online for 1-1 Video Meeting: https://app.scoutabroad.com
Contact Details:
Get in Touch: https://scoutabroad.com/contact
Email: support@scoutabroad.com
WhatsApp: +91 8300171444
