Quick answer: Plan about $80–150/day depending on the country. Cards (and contactless) are widely accepted across Europe — carry a little cash for small vendors and the cheaper east.
Europe is largely cashless in the west, but daily costs vary hugely by country.
Daily budget
Budget: $80–120/day; mid-range: $180–300/day; luxury: $500+. Eastern and Southern Europe cost far less than Switzerland or the Nordics.
Cash vs card
Contactless cards and phones work almost everywhere in Western and Northern Europe. Carry some cash in the Balkans, rural areas and for markets, tips and small cafés.
How much cash to bring
Little cash is needed in the west; withdraw modest amounts as you go. Always pay in the local currency, not your home currency, at terminals and ATMs.
Tips
Use a low-foreign-fee card, decline ‘dynamic currency conversion’, and see our Europe on a budget guide.
How much money to bring to Europe
Budget varies hugely by country — roughly $100-180/day mid-range in Western Europe, far less in the east (Balkans, Portugal). Cards rule, but carry some cash.
Cash vs card
Contactless cards and phones are accepted almost everywhere in Western Europe — you can travel nearly cashless. Carry a little cash (euro, or local currency outside the Eurozone) for small shops, markets, tips and rural areas, especially in Eastern Europe. Use bank ATMs and decline currency conversion (pay in local currency).
Tipping
Modest — round up or 5-10% where service isn’t included; check the bill for an included service charge.
How Much Money To Bring Europe FAQ
Do I need cash in Europe?
Less than you’d think in the west (cards everywhere); carry some for markets, tips and the east.
Should I pay in local currency or my own?
Always local currency — decline the ATM/card ‘convert for you’ option for better rates.