Money isn’t the sexiest aspect of travel, but without it you don’t get very far. Get acquainted with Germany’s notes and coins, plus a few other crucial bits of information, and you’ll minimise the chances of awkwardness, theft or abuse. Here’s what you need to know.
Currency
The Euro is now the official currency of 12 EU member states (including Germany). The first Euro coins and notes were introduced in January 2002; the German Deutschmark was still in circulation until 31 December 2001, but in line with the 'Joint Declaration' the use of Deutschmark notes and coins was permitted until 28 February 2002, when it was completely replaced by the Euro. Euro (ˆ) = 100 cents. Notes are in denominations of ˆ500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10 and 5. Coins are in denominations of ˆ2, 1 and 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 cents.
Note: As from the end of 2001, Eurocheques will cease to be guaranteed and can no longer be accepted for encashments. However, they may still be useable for payments without the guarantee in certain places.
Currency exchange
Foreign currencies and travellers cheques can be exchanged at banks, bureaux de change, post offices, airports, railway stations, ports and major hotels at the official exchange rates.
Credit & debit cards
These are accepted in approximately 60 per cent of all shops, petrol stations, restaurants and hotels. Nationals of other Western European countries, Canada and the USA will find less credit card availability than they are used to in their own countries and it is advisable to carry cash, Eurocheques or a Eurocheque card as well. All major credit cards are accepted. Check with your credit or debit card company for details of merchant acceptability and other services which may be available.
Eurocheques
are accepted up to a value of EUR205. They can be exchanged in building societies, banks and post offices.
Travellers cheques
Generally provide the best rate of exchange. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travellers are advised to take travellers cheques in Euros, Pounds Sterling or US Dollars.
Currency restrictions: There are no restrictions on the import or export of either local or foreign currency.
Banks
Besides of many Bureaux of Changes, which are often located close to railway-stations and airports, banks can be found all over the city. Opening-hours are consumer-friendly, many banks open until the evening on several days.
Outside the opening-hours, many cash machines are ready to serve you.
American Express
Bayreuther Straße 37
10787 Berlin
Phone +49(30)214 762 92
American Express
Friedrichstraße 172
10117 Berlin
Phone +49(30)20 17 400
Reisebank
Bahnhof Zoo
Phone +49(30)881 71 17
Reisebank
Ostbahnhof
Phone +49(30)296 43 93
