Luxembourg’s fairytale castles, financial hub status, and European charm make it a unique destination, where managing money effectively ensures a seamless trip. Whether you’re exploring the old town of Luxembourg City, dining in Michelin-starred restaurants, or shopping in designer boutiques, this guide provides all the details – what currency to bring, the best ways to get money and currency in Luxembourg (Euro (EUR)), cash safety tips, and important dos and don’ts. With these insights, you’ll navigate Luxembourg’s financial landscape effortlessly and avoid unnecessary fees.
How to pay in Luxembourg – cash or card?
In Luxembourg, card payments are the predominant method of transaction, reflecting the country’s advanced financial infrastructure and high banking penetration. Card transactions typically account for more than two-thirds of total payment volumes, underscoring the preference for cashless payments.
You can use cash for:
Public Transportation: While major cities have adopted contactless and card payments, some regional or rural transport services may still accept cash.
Local Markets and Street Vendors: Some traditional markets and street vendors may prefer cash, though card acceptance is increasing.
Small Businesses: A few small or family-run shops and eateries might prefer cash transactions, but this is becoming less common.
Tips and Gratuities: Tipping is not a widespread custom in Luxembourg, but when done, it’s often in cash.
Rural Areas: In less urbanized regions, while electronic payment facilities are generally available, it’s prudent to carry some cash as a backup.
You can use card for:
Hotels: All major hotels, especially in urban and tourist areas, accept credit and debit cards.
Restaurants and Cafés: The majority of dining establishments, particularly in cities, facilitate card payments.
Retail Stores: Shopping malls, branded stores, and supermarkets widely accept cards.
Online Services: E-commerce platforms, online bookings for flights, accommodations, and other services typically require card payments.
Fuel Stations: Most accept cards, but it’s advisable to confirm beforehand, especially in remote areas.
What’s the best currency to take to Luxembourg
Euro (EUR) is typically the best currency to take if you are traveling to Luxembourg. Paying or withdrawing money in the local currency comes with the least amount of fees, sometimes fee-free too.
While credit and debit cards are widely accepted, especially in urban areas, some rural regions and smaller establishments may prefer cash payments. Therefore, it’s advisable to carry some Euros in cash to avoid inconveniences.
Other currencies, such as US Dollars or British Pounds, are not widely accepted here.
Where to get currency in Luxembourg
There are 3 main ways to get cash in Luxembourg. They are:
ATMs, or
Currency exchange, or
Money transfer & local pick-up
Types of cards to swipe in Luxembourg
Establishments with POS machines readily accept Visa and Mastercards for swiping. You might also find some places that accept Amex and other cards, albeit less frequently.
Types of cards at ATMs in Luxembourg
If you’re withdrawing money in Kuwait from an ATM, ATMs commonly accept Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, Plus, Cirrus cards. Others like Amex, JCB, UnionPay, Diners, Discover and Rupay cards are generally not accepted.
Should I exchange currency before travelling to Luxembourg
Bringing a small amount of Euros (EUR) before traveling to Luxembourg can be useful for immediate expenses like taxis, tips, or small purchases. Since Luxembourg uses the Euro (EUR) as its official currency, there is no need to exchange money if you already have Euros.
Withdrawing EUR from ATMs in Luxembourg is easy, as ATMs are widely available in airports, cities, and tourist areas. Most ATMs accept Visa, Mastercard, Cirrus, Plus, and Maestro cards, but check your bank’s international withdrawal fees.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted for most transactions, including small purchases, so carrying a mix of cards and some cash is advisable.
If you need more cash, banks and exchange bureaus in Luxembourg offer fair rates, though airport exchange offices may charge higher fees. Since the Euro is a major global currency, it’s often better to withdraw or exchange money after arrival if needed.
Where to withdraw money in Luxembourg
You can withdraw money in Mozambique at leading bank ATMs in the country. The best ATMs for foreigners to use in Luxembourg are those owned by popular banks such as:
Raiffeisenbank,
BIL,
BNP Paribas,
ING, and
POST bank.
There are other banks with ATMs that also accept international debit and credit cards.
There are no known Global ATM Alliance member banks or All Points network banks in Luxembourg.
Where to exchange currency in Luxembourg
Common places to exchange currency in Luxembourg are licenced exchange bureaus or banks.
Currency Exchange Offices: In Luxembourg, currency exchange offices are commonly referred to as Bureaux de Change. These are widely available in tourist areas, shopping centers, and airports. Notable providers include BT Money Transfers & Exchange, Mercedes Pay SA, Cash Center.
Banks: Major banks such as Banque Internationale à Luxembourg (BIL) offer currency exchange services. BIL has branches throughout the city, providing reliable services. Operating hours are typically from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM on weekdays. Some branches, like the one on Route d’Esch, offer foreign currency exchange services
You can find good currency exchanges using the ATM Fee Saver app – it will guide you to the nearest currency exchange on the map. The app helps you with forex places in 100+ countries, including Luxembourg.
Avoid Airport Exchanges and no-fee exchange offices: Currency exchange services at airports often have less favorable rates and higher fees. It’s generally better to exchange money in the city for better rates and lower charges.
Is carrying cash safe in Luxembourg
Carrying money in Luxembourg is generally safe due to the country’s low crime rate. However, petty crimes like pickpocketing and purse snatching can occur, particularly in crowded areas such as public transportation hubs and tourist spots. It’s advisable to carry only the cash you need for the day and keep your valuables secure.
To keep your cash safe:
Carry only necessary amounts: Withdraw cash as needed to avoid carrying large sums.
Be discreet: Avoid displaying cash in public places.
Stay vigilant: Remain aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
By following these precautions, you can minimize the risk of theft and handle cash safely during your time in Luxembourg.
Is it better to use debit or credit cards or pay by cash in Luxembourg
Use a card if it is fee-free i.e. your bank does not charge any fees to swipe the card, when the merchant / POS also does not impose any extra charge to use a card, you need to use the insurance of the card, don’t want to block cash of large purchases and card’s swipe fees are lower than withdrawal fees.
Pay by cash by withdrawing cash from ATM or exchanging currency where – fees on ATM withdrawals are lesser than fees on swiping cards, you don’t want to leave any digital footprint of your expenses, it is convenient and easier to conduct transactions.
