Currency in Austria: EUR Send & Spend FX Guide
Resources for Expats, Travelers, and Entrepreneurs Navigating Life and Trade in Austria with the Euro.
What's in this Austria currency guide?
What currency is used in Austria?
The official currency of Austria (country code: AT) is the Euro, with symbol € and currency code EUR.
What is a good Euro exchange rate?
The BestExchangeRates.com currency comparison table below helps you see the total cost of your currency transaction by showing the exchange rates offered by different providers. It also makes it easy to spot potential savings from market-leading FX services compared to bank rates.
To see a full list of rates, enter your transaction type, currencies and amount then click ‘GET RATES’:
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Good things to know about the Euro
As of June 16, 2025, the Euro (EUR) has experienced notable developments affecting travelers, expats, and business owners:
- Interest Rate Adjustments: The European Central Bank (ECB) has reduced its key interest rates multiple times since April 2025, with the deposit rate now at 2%. This easing cycle aims to stimulate economic growth amid global uncertainties. (ft.com)
- Inflation Trends: Eurozone inflation has moderated, with the latest data showing a decrease to 2.4% in November 2024, bringing it closer to the ECB's 2% target. (nbcdfw.com)
- Eurozone Expansion: Bulgaria is on track to adopt the euro on January 1, 2026, following successful convergence assessments. This expansion may influence currency dynamics and economic interactions within the euro area. (en.wikipedia.org)
These developments are crucial for individuals and businesses engaged in international transactions, as they can impact exchange rates, purchasing power, and overall economic conditions.
For more EUR information check out our selection of Euro news and guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What currency should I use in Austria?
The domestic currency in Austria is the Euro.
What is the Euro currency code and symbol?
The three letter currency code for the Euro is EUR — symbol is €.
What does the Euro look like?
Here is an example Euro banknote:
Which countries use the Euro?
It is the domestic currency in Eurozone, Aaland Islands, Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Cyprus, Estonia, Finland, France, French Guinea, French Southern Territories, Germany, Greece, Guadeloupe, Vatican City, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Martinique, Mayotte, Monaco, Montenegro, Netherlands, Portugal, Reunion, Saint Barthelemy, Saint Martin, Saint Pierre and Miquelon, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia and Spain.
Is the Euro a closed currency?
No, the Euro is freely available and convertible. See guide: What is a closed currency?
What are equivalent amounts of GBP and EUR?
Here are some popular conversion amounts for GBP to EUR (British pound to Euro)*.
*Converted at the current GBPEUR interbank exchange rate. Calculate actual payout amounts for Send Money and Travel Money exchange rates.
Travel money for Austria
Using Wise for Euro travel money is a smart choice for savvy travelers. With its competitive exchange rates and low fees, Wise allows you to convert and manage multiple currencies effortlessly.
Be careful when using your own bank's Debit/Credit Card, as your bank may also charge an extra 3% as an “Overseas Transaction Charge” plus “Overseas ATM” fees for withdrawing cash on top of the standard Visa/Mastercard 2.5% from market mid-rate.
For card purchases, if you are offered a choice of currencies always select to Pay in Euro otherwise you will typically get much worst dynamic currency conversion (DCC) exchange rates.
If you really want Euro cash before departure, you can save money by ordering online. You generally get better rates and can pick up the EUR cash locally or even on travel day at the airport.
Austria: Travel Guide
Traveling to Austria requires careful financial planning to ensure a smooth and cost-effective experience. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate currency considerations and manage your money effectively during your visit.
Austria, located in central Europe, is a landlocked country bordered by Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Slovenia, Italy, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein. Its capital city, Vienna, is renowned for its rich history and cultural significance. Austria is part of the European Union (EU) and the Schengen Zone, with German as its official language.
Currency in Austria
Austria uses the euro (€) as its official currency, like many of its neighboring EU countries. Euros are available in banknotes and coins, with denominations ranging from 5 to 500 euros for notes, and 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 cents as well as €1 and €2 coins.
While most places in Austria accept credit and debit cards, especially in cities and tourist areas, it's wise to carry some cash, particularly in rural areas or smaller establishments, where card acceptance may be limited. ATMs, locally known as "Bankomats," are widely available throughout Austria for cash withdrawals in euros. Be mindful of potential international transaction fees if you're using a card from outside the eurozone.
Travel Tips for Austria
When visiting Austria, here are a few currency-related travel tips:
- Currency exchange: If you're bringing non-euro currency, it's best to exchange it at official currency exchange offices or banks rather than at airports or tourist centers, where rates might not be as favorable.
- Tipping culture: In Austria, tipping is customary but not mandatory. When dining out, it is common to round up the bill or leave a tip of 5-10%, usually given directly to the server.
- Card payments: While major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted in cities, some smaller businesses, particularly in rural areas, may only accept cash. It’s a good idea to always have some euros on hand.
- Tax-free shopping: For non-EU residents, Austria offers tax-free shopping. If you're making large purchases, you can request a tax refund at participating stores. Make sure to get a VAT refund form and present it at customs when leaving the EU.
Things to Do in Austria
Austria offers a wide range of activities for travelers, from exploring its cities to adventuring through the Alps:
- Visit Vienna: Austria's capital is a cultural gem, home to world-class museums, historic landmarks like Schönbrunn Palace, and famous opera houses. You can use euros throughout the city, and major attractions typically accept cards.
- Explore the Austrian Alps: Known for their breathtaking beauty, the Austrian Alps are ideal for skiing, hiking, and other outdoor activities. When visiting ski resorts or mountain villages, having some cash on hand is useful, as smaller vendors might not accept cards.
- Tour the Wachau Valley: Famous for its vineyards and historical sites, the Wachau Valley offers scenic landscapes and opportunities for wine tasting. You’ll find plenty of ATMs in the towns, but smaller wine producers may prefer cash payments.
- Discover Graz and Linz: These cities offer a mix of cultural attractions, including architectural wonders, art galleries, and museums. Euros are accepted everywhere, and card usage is widespread.
Skiing in Austria: Costs and Currency Tips
Skiing in Austria is a popular activity, but costs can add up quickly. Here's how to make your ski trip more affordable:
- Look for ski pass deals: Many resorts offer discounts on lift tickets if purchased online or in advance. Some areas also offer multi-resort passes for added savings.
- Rent equipment: Renting ski gear is often more cost-effective than purchasing, especially for short stays.
- Plan for expenses in euros: While most ski resorts accept cards, local ski huts, and small businesses might prefer cash, especially in remote areas. Make sure to have some euros ready for food, drinks, and smaller purchases while skiing.
- Read our guide to Exchange Rates and Ski Holidays
With proper planning and awareness of Austria’s currency practices, you can make the most of your visit, whether you’re exploring cultural landmarks or hitting the slopes.
Everyday Costs in in Austria
How much does it really cost to live, work, or travel in Austria? Here's what to expect for daily expenses and expat living.
Currency Guide: Austria (ISO Code: AT)
For a week-long mid-range stay in Austria, travelers should budget around €700 to €1,200, ensuring a comfortable experience while exploring this beautiful country. Typical daily expenses in Austria might include a meal at a local restaurant (€15-€25) 🍽️, a cup of coffee (€3-€4) ☕, public transport fare (€2-€3) 🚍, a prepaid SIM card (€15-€30) 📱, and accommodations in a budget hotel or Airbnb (€70-€120 per night) 🏨. Overall, Austria can be considered a mid-range destination; while it's more affordable than some Western European counterparts, it can still be pricier than countries like the United States or Canada for similar experiences.
In comparison, daily costs in the United States, particularly in cities like New York or San Francisco, can average higher due to expensive dining and accommodations. Meanwhile, experiencing the UK, especially in London, reveals a more comparable price range but typically skewed slightly higher than Austria in terms of accommodation and dining expenses.
Living in Austria as an Expat
For expats living in Austria, typical monthly living costs can range from €1,500 to €2,500, depending on lifestyle and location. Expenses for rent can be significant, especially in cities like Vienna, where a one-bedroom apartment might cost around €800-€1,200. In terms of banking, Austria has a well-established network of ATMs and uses the Euro (€) for transactions. It’s advisable to maintain a local bank account that allows for easy access to funds, but keep in mind that most establishments accept credit and debit cards, especially Visa and Mastercard.
When it comes to sending or receiving money, online transfer services like Wise or OFX often offer better exchange rates and lower fees than traditional banks or local currency exchanges. This can be a more cost-effective choice for expats needing to conduct international transactions. Ultimately, whether to exchange currency locally or use these online services can depend on immediate needs, but leveraging digital tools can often lead to more favorable financial outcomes.
USD/EUR Market Data
The below interactive chart displays the USD/EUR change and UP📈 DOWN📉 trends over the past 1 Year.
Recent Euro Market News
Recent Developments Affecting the EUR Price
1. Eurozone Inflation Rates: Recent data shows inflation in the Eurozone remains elevated, affecting ECB monetary policy decisions. (Source: Reuters, ECB)
2. ECB Interest Rate Outlook: Comments from ECB officials indicate a potential pause in interest rate hikes, causing speculation about the EUR's stability.
3. Economic Growth Concerns: GDP growth figures for the Eurozone show signs of slowing, impacting confidence in the Euro.
4. Geopolitical Tensions: Ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly regarding trade relations with the US and UK, influencing market sentiment around the Euro.
5. Energy Prices: Fluctuations in energy prices due to global supply concerns are affecting Eurozone economies and, consequently, the EUR. (Source:
6.Eurozone Expansion: As of June 2025, Bulgaria is set to become the 21st member state of the eurozone, with the euro adoption scheduled for January 1, 2026.
For more EUR information read our News and guides to the Euro.
Send Money to Austria - Best Rates
To get a good (and fair) exchange rate when sending money to Austria you need to find and compare exchange rates for International Money Transfers (IMTs).
The available FX rates for sending money abroad can be very different to the mid-market (wholesale) rate which you see reported online and in the News.
You should especially compare your own bank's exchange rates to those available from Money Transfer specialists to see how much you can save - we make that calculation easy in the below table.
Get a better deal for foreign transfers to Austria
When sending money to Austria it’s important to compare your bank’s rates & fees with those we have negotiated with our partner money transfer providers. To get a better deal you should follow these 4 simple steps :
- Open an account with a BER reviewed FX provider (id docs may be required)
- You specify the local or Euro amount you want to transfer
- Make a local currency domestic transfer for the requested amount to the provider's bank account in your country
- Once your funds are received by the provider the converted EUR amount will be transfered to the recipient account you specify in Austria.
Use the above calculator to compare the exchange rates of FX specialist providers rates versus your bank's standard rates you can hopefully save around 5% and maybe more - end result is more Euro deposited into the recipient bank account and less margins and fees kept by the banks!
Managing money while living and working in Austria
Managing your money effectively while living and working abroad can be challenging, but there are several steps you can take to ensure that your finances are in order.
Understand Euro currency exchange rates: Exchange rates can have a big impact on your finances, so it is important to keep an eye on the EUR exchange rate and consider using a money transfer specialist or a credit card that does not charge foreign transaction fees to get the best exchange rate.
Use a local Euro bank account: A local EUR bank account can make it easier for you to manage your finances and pay bills while you are in Austria. It may also be more convenient to use a local EUR bank account to make purchases and withdraw cash.
Research local laws and regulations: It is important to understand the local laws and regulations that apply to financial transactions in Austria. This can help you avoid legal issues and ensure that you are complying with local requirements.
Consider the tax implications: It is important to understand the tax implications of living or doing business in Austria. This can help you plan your finances and ensure that you are paying the correct amount of tax.
Seek financial advice: If you are unsure of how to manage your finances in Austria, it is a good idea to seek the advice of a financial professional who is familiar with the local financial system. This can help you make informed decisions and avoid financial pitfalls.
We have put together some key points to help managing your money effectively, you can reduce financial stress and enjoy your experience living or doing business in Austria.
How is the Austrian economy?
The economy of Austria is highly developed and industrialized, with a strong service sector and a thriving export industry. Austria has a GDP of about $497 billion, making it one of the wealthiest countries in Europe. The country is known for its high standard of living and has a low unemployment rate of about 5.4%.
The service sector is the largest contributor to the economy, accounting for about 75% of GDP. The industrial sector, including manufacturing, construction, and energy, accounts for about 25% of GDP. Austria is a major exporter of machinery, equipment, and other manufactured goods, and it is also a major producer of automobiles, steel, and chemicals.
Agriculture and forestry account for a small share of the economy, but Austria is known for its high-quality agricultural products, including dairy, livestock, and fruit. The country is also a major producer of wood and wood products.
Overall, the economy of Austria is diverse and highly developed, with a strong service sector and a thriving export industry. The country has a high standard of living and is a member of the European Union (EU).
Is it expensive to live in Austria?
Austria is known for its high standard of living, and the cost of living in the country is generally higher compared to other countries in Europe. The cost of living in Austria can vary depending on the region and the city, with prices generally being higher in the major cities, such as Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck.
Housing costs in Austria are generally high, especially in the major cities. Rent prices for apartments can vary widely depending on the location, size, and quality of the property. It is generally more expensive to rent an apartment in the city center compared to the suburbs.
Food and grocery costs in Austria are similar to other countries in Europe. Dining out at restaurants can be expensive, especially in the major cities.
Transportation costs in Austria are generally reasonable, with public transportation being widely available and relatively affordable. Gas prices are similar to other countries in Europe.
Overall, the cost of living in Austria is generally higher compared to other countries in Europe, but it is still possible to find ways to save money and to live comfortably in the country. It is a good idea to do some research and to budget carefully when living in Austria.