Curaçao’s colorful Dutch-Caribbean charm, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life make it a dream island getaway – but understanding how to handle money ensures a stress-free experience. Whether you’re wandering through Willemstad’s UNESCO-listed streets, diving into the island’s famous blue waters, or relaxing on a secluded beach, this guide covers everything you need to know – what currency to bring, the best ways to get money and currency in Curaçao (Netherlands Antillean Guilder (ANG) and US Dollar (USD)), cash safety tips, and essential dos and don’ts. With these insights, you’ll avoid hidden fees and fully enjoy Curaçao’s laid-back yet lively atmosphere.
How to pay in Curaçao – cash or card?
In Curaçao, both cash and card payments are widely accepted, with a strong emphasis on accommodating tourists. Most businesses, especially those in the tourism sector, accept major credit cards such as Visa and MasterCard. However, it’s advisable to carry some cash, particularly in smaller denominations, for certain transactions.
You can use cash for:
Public Transportation: Buses and local taxis primarily operate on cash payments.
Local Markets and Street Vendors: Purchases at traditional markets and street stalls are predominantly cash-based.
Small Businesses: Many small or family-run shops and eateries prefer cash transactions.
Tips and Gratuities: While service charges are often included in bills, leaving additional tips in cash is customary for exceptional service.
Gas Stations: Some gas stations may prefer cash payments, so it’s advisable to confirm beforehand.
You can use card for:
Hotels and Resorts: Major hotels and resorts widely accept credit cards for bookings and incidental expenses.
Restaurants and Cafés: Most dining establishments, especially in tourist areas, facilitate card payments.
Retail Stores: Shopping centers, boutiques, and supermarkets commonly accept credit and debit cards.
Car Rentals and Excursions: Established agencies typically offer card payment options.
What’s the best currency to take to Curaçao
Netherlands Antillean Guilder (ANG), also known as the Florin, is typically the best currency to take if you are traveling to Curaçao. Paying or withdrawing cash in the local currency comes with the least amount of fees, sometimes fee-free too.
US Dollars are widely accepted throughout the island, and many businesses use a fixed exchange rate of 1 USD = 1.75 ANG for ease of calculation. However, if you pay in US Dollars instead of ANG, the exchange rates in these transactions can be slightly less favorable. Therefore, it’s advisable to pay in ANG to avoid losing money.
Euros or British Pounds are not widely accepted here.
Where to get currency in Curaçao
There are 3 main ways to get cash in Curaçao. They are:
ATMs, or
Currency exchange, or
Money transfer & local pick-up
Types of cards to swipe in Curaçao
Visa and Mastercard transactions are commonly accepted for swiping. You might also find some places that accept Amex and other cards, albeit less frequently.
Types of cards at ATMs in Curaçao
If you’re withdrawing money in Curaçao from an ATM, ATMs commonly accept Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, Plus, Cirrus cards. Some of them accept American Express cards. Others like JCB, UnionPay, Diners, Discover and Rupay cards are generally not accepted.
Should I exchange currency before travelling to Curaçao
Bringing a small amount of Netherlands Antillean Guilders (ANG) or U.S. Dollars (USD) before traveling can be useful for immediate expenses like taxis, tips, and small purchases. U.S. Dollars are widely accepted in Curaçao, so exchanging money in advance may not be necessary if you already have USD.
Withdrawing ANG or USD from ATMs in Curaçao is a convenient option, as ATMs are widely available in airports, cities, and tourist areas. Most ATMs accept Visa, Mastercard, Cirrus, Plus, and Maestro cards, but check with your bank for international withdrawal fees.
It’s best to exchange money in Curaçao at banks or authorized exchange bureaus, which offer better rates than airports or hotels. However, since USD is widely accepted, exchanging money is often unnecessary.
Carrying a mix of cash and cards is recommended. While many businesses accept credit and debit cards, some smaller vendors prefer cash. If bringing USD, note that larger bills ($50 or $100) may not always be accepted due to counterfeiting concerns. Paying in USD or ANG ensures the best value, as foreign currencies like EUR are not widely accepted.
Where to withdraw money in Curaçao
You can withdraw money in Curaçao at leading bank ATMs in the country. There are not a lot of choices of ATMs in Curacao. The best ATMs for foreigners to use in Curaçao are those owned by popular banks such as:
MCB Bank, and
Banco Di Caribe.
There are no known Global ATM Alliance member banks or All Points network banks in Curaçao.
Where to exchange currency in Curaçao
You can exchange currency in Curaçao at licensed exchange bureaus or banks.
Currency Exchange Offices: In Curaçao, currency exchange offices are commonly referred to as Cambio. These are available in tourist areas, shopping centers, and airports. But there are not a lot of choices given how small this nation is.
Banks: Major banks such as Maduro & Curiel’s Bank (MCB), Orco Bank, and Banco di Caribe offer currency exchange services. These banks have branches throughout the island, providing reliable services. Operating hours are typically from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM on weekdays.
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 Curaçao.
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 in Curaçao safe?
Carrying cash in Curaçao is generally safe, but standard precautions are advisable. Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, can occur, particularly in crowded areas and tourist spots. It’s recommended to carry only the cash you need for daily expenses and keep your valuables secure. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, having some cash on hand is useful for small vendors, local markets, or establishments that may not accept cards. Both U.S. dollars (USD) and Netherlands Antillean Guilders (ANG) are accepted, but be aware that change might be given in ANG when paying with USD. ATMs are available and often dispense both currencies. It’s advisable to use ATMs located in well-lit, secure areas, such as banks or shopping centers.
Is it better to use debit or credit cards or pay by cash in Curaçao
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.
