Slovakia’s charming towns, majestic castles, and stunning mountain landscapes make it a must-visit European destination, where knowing how to handle money ensures a hassle-free experience. Whether you’re exploring Bratislava’s historic Old Town, hiking in the High Tatras, or enjoying the country’s famous thermal spas, this guide covers everything you need to know – what currency to bring, the best ways to get money and currency in Slovakia (Euro (EUR)), cash safety tips, and essential dos and don’ts. With these insights, you’ll avoid unnecessary fees and make the most of your time in Slovakia’s beautiful and historic landscapes.
How to pay in Slovakia – cash or card?
In Slovakia, both cash and card payments are widely accepted, with a notable shift towards electronic transactions in recent years reflecting a growing preference for card usage.
You can use cash for:
Public Transportation: While major cities offer card payment options for buses and trams, some regional or rural transport services may still require cash.
Local Markets and Street Vendors: Traditional markets and street vendors often prefer cash, though card acceptance is increasing.
Small Businesses: Some small or family-run shops and eateries might favor cash transactions, but this is becoming less common.
Tips and Gratuities: Tipping is customary, and cash is often preferred for this purpose.
Rural Areas: In less urbanized regions, electronic payment facilities may be limited, making cash essential.
You can use card for:
Hotels: Most hotels, especially in urban and tourist areas, accept major credit and debit cards.
Restaurants and Cafés: Many dining establishments, particularly in cities, facilitate card payments.
Retail Stores: Shopping malls, branded stores, and supermarkets widely accept cards.
Car Rentals and Travel Agencies: Established agencies typically offer card payment options.
Online Bookings: Reservations for flights, hotels, and tours can usually be made using cards.
What’s the best currency to take to Slovakia
Euro (EUR) is typically the best currency to take if you are traveling to Slovakia. Paying or withdrawing cash 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 Slovakia
There are 3 main ways to get cash in Slovakia. They are:
ATMs, or
Currency exchange, or
Money transfer & local pick-up
Types of cards to swipe in Slovakia
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 Slovakia
If you’re withdrawing money in Slovakia from an ATM, ATMs commonly accept Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, Plus, Cirrus cards. Some of them accept Diners cards. Others like Amex, JCB, UnionPay, Discover and Rupay cards are generally not accepted.
Should I exchange money before travelling to Slovakia
There is no need to exchange money before traveling to Slovakia, as the official currency is the Euro (EUR). If you already have Euros, you can use them directly for all transactions.
Withdrawing EUR from ATMs in Slovakia 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, especially in larger cities and tourist areas, so carrying a mix of cards and some cash is advisable.
If you need more cash, banks and exchange bureaus in Slovakia offer fair rates, though airport exchange offices may charge higher fees. Since the Euro is a major global currency, withdrawing or exchanging money after arrival is easy if needed.
Where to withdraw money in Slovakia
You can withdraw money in Slovakia at leading bank ATMs in the country. The best ATMs for foreigners to use in Slovakia are those owned by popular banks such as:
UniCredit,
Prima banka, and
365.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 Slovakia.
Where to exchange currency in Slovakia
You can exchange currency in Slovakia at licensed exchange bureaus or banks.
Currency Exchange Offices: In Slovakia, currency exchange offices are commonly referred to as Zmenáreň. These are widely available in tourist areas, shopping centers, and airports. Notable providers include: Cambio Exchange, Exchange Bratislava, VIP Exchange.
Banks: Major banks such as Slovenská Sporiteľňa, Tatra Banka, and VÚB Banka offer currency exchange services. These banks have branches throughout cities, providing reliable services. Operating hours are typically from 9:00 AM to 5:00 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 Slovakia.
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 Slovakia safe?
Carrying cash in Slovakia is generally safe. However, petty crimes like pickpocketing and purse snatching can occur, particularly in crowded tourist areas and on public transportation. Carry only the money you need for the day and keep your valuables secure.
Is it better to use debit or credit cards or pay by cash in Slovakia
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.
