When planning a trip, I always like to get the basics right first. One of the most important details that travelers sometimes overlook is the currency. It may sound obvious, but you’ll be surprised how many people land in a new country without knowing what money they will actually be using. I have seen it happen, a traveler arriving with the wrong cash, or even assuming their home currency will be accepted.

If you are heading to Spain, this is one of the first questions that probably crossed your mind: what currency does Spain use? I have been in situations myself where not having the right money caused little inconveniences, like trying to buy a snack at a small shop or pay for a quick taxi ride. Big cities like Madrid or Barcelona are very card-friendly, but it is always good to know what is in your pocket.

In this guide, I will walk you through everything you need to know about Spain’s currency, from what they use to how you can pay for things smoothly while you are there. That way, you can spend less time worrying about money and more time enjoying tapas, flamenco, and those famous Spanish sunsets.

The Currency of Spain

Spain uses the Euro (€) as its official currency. The Euro is the common currency of most European Union countries and is one of the most widely used currencies in the world.

The Euro is available in both coins and banknotes:

  • Coins: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 cents, plus €1 and €2.
  • Banknotes: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, and €500 (though the larger notes are less commonly used in everyday transactions).

Can I Use Other Currencies in Spain?

The short answer is no. Businesses in Spain expect payment in Euros only. U.S. dollars, British pounds, and other currencies are not accepted in shops or restaurants.

If you arrive in Spain without Euros, you can exchange money at airports, banks, and currency exchange offices. However, you should take note of the fact that rates at airports and hotels may be less favorable compared to banks or ATMs.

Using Cards in Spain

One of the great things about traveling in Spain is how card-friendly the country is. Credit and debit cards (Visa and Mastercard especially) are widely accepted in shops, hotels and restaurants. Even public transport systems in many cities accept these cards.

I’ve personally used my card for almost everything in Spain, from tapas in Madrid to metro rides in Barcelona. Just make sure your card supports international payments, and let your bank know you’re traveling to avoid any blocks on your account.

Tips for Travelers

Here are some handy tips for managing money in Spain:

  • Carry small amounts of cash: While cards are accepted almost everywhere, some smaller cafés, rural towns, or markets may prefer cash.

  • Use ATMs (Cajeros Automáticos): Withdrawing directly from an ATM often gives you a better exchange rate compared to currency exchange kiosks.

  • Watch out for dynamic currency conversion: Sometimes card machines will ask if you want to be charged in your home currency. Always choose to pay in Euros for the better rate.

  • Tipping: Tipping is not as big in Spain as in some other countries. Rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated but not mandatory.