Where To Get Euros in Atlanta: A Local Guide for Travelers

If you live in Atlanta or are passing through before a trip to Europe, you have several reliable options to get euros in Atlanta. Your best choice depends on how soon you fly, how much cash you need, and how important exchange rates and fees are to you.

Below is a clear breakdown of where to go, what to expect, and how to avoid common headaches.

Main Places To Get Euros in Atlanta

1. Atlanta Airport (Hartsfield-Jackson) Currency Exchange

If you need euros last minute, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is usually the most convenient option.

What to know:

• Located in international terminals and some main concourses
• Offers foreign currency exchange services, including euros
• Typically open 7 days a week, with extended hours
• Designed for travelers who need cash right before departure

Pros:

• Extremely convenient if you’re already at the airport
• Good for small amounts of euros for arrival (transport, tips, snacks)

Cons:

• Exchange rates are often less favorable than banks
• Service fees or commissions can be higher
• Lines can be long during busy travel periods

💡 Tip: Use the airport exchange mainly to get a starter amount of euros (for taxis or trains when you land) and use ATMs in Europe for larger amounts if that fits your comfort level.

2. Major Banks in Atlanta (Order Euros in Advance)

Many large banks with branches in metro Atlanta can order euros for you even if they don’t keep them on hand.

Common examples of banks that often provide foreign currency services include:

• National or regional banks with multiple branches across Downtown, Midtown, Buckhead, Sandy Springs, and the suburbs
• Some credit unions headquartered in or near Atlanta

How it usually works:

1. Call your local branch to ask if they offer foreign currency exchange.
2. Ask whether you need to be an account holder (some banks require this).
3. Request euros to be ordered to your branch.
4. Pick them up in person with an ID once they arrive.

Typical timing:

• 1–3 business days to arrive at your branch
• Same-day service is less common unless it’s a very central branch that keeps some currency on hand

Pros:

• Often better exchange rates than airport kiosks
• Clear breakdown of fees (sometimes no separate fee, just a spread in the rate)
• Feels more secure and familiar if you already bank there

Cons:

• Requires planning ahead
• Not every branch handles foreign currency
• Smaller neighborhood branches may need extra time to process your request

📞 Tip: When you call, ask:

• “Do you offer euro currency exchange at this branch?”
• “What is your exchange rate and fee today for euros?”
• “How long will it take for euros to be available for pickup?”

3. Currency Exchange Offices and Services in the Metro Area

While Atlanta doesn’t have as many stand-alone currency exchange storefronts as some larger international cities, you may find:

• Currency counters in or near major travel hubs, such as around the airport area
• Financial service businesses that include money changing among their services

These locations typically:

• Post their buy and sell rates for euros
• Charge a fee, either as a flat amount or built into the exchange rate

Pros:

• May be more flexible than banks in terms of who they serve
• Good if you do not have an account with a major bank

Cons:

• Rates and fees can vary widely
• Not every location is easy to reach by public transportation
• Often oriented toward last-minute travelers, so costs can resemble airport pricing

🔍 Tip: Call ahead to confirm:

• They actually have euros in stock
• Their rates and fees compared with your bank
• Their opening hours, especially on weekends and evenings

4. Using ATMs Once You Arrive in Europe

For many Atlanta travelers, one of the most cost-effective options is to withdraw euros from an ATM after landing in Europe, using your:

• Atlanta-based bank debit card
• Credit union card
• Occasionally, a credit card (if allowed, though this can be treated as a cash advance with extra fees)

How this works:

• You use a bank ATM in Europe, and your Atlanta bank converts the amount from euros to dollars.
• Your account is charged in USD with a foreign transaction fee and/or ATM fee, depending on your bank.

Pros:

• Often better overall rate than airport exchange counters
• Convenient once you are on the ground in the destination country

Cons:

• You might face ATM fees, foreign transaction fees, or currency conversion fees
• You need your card to work internationally (some banks block unfamiliar locations unless notified)
• You should still carry some euros in cash when you land in case the first ATM you find is out of service

📌 Atlanta-specific preparation tip:
Before leaving Atlanta, log in to your online banking portal or call your bank to:

• Check international ATM fee policies
• Verify that your card will work in Europe
• Set up any travel notifications if your bank recommends it

Quick Comparison of Euro Options in Atlanta

*“Cost level” is a general comparison of exchange rates plus fees, not an exact figure. It varies by provider, time, and your specific bank.

How Much in Euros Should You Get in Atlanta?

Travelers from Atlanta to Europe often split their approach:

• Get a small amount of euros in Atlanta (for the first day or two):

  • Airport transport
  • A snack or coffee
  • Tips and small purchases

• Plan to use:

  • ATMs in Europe for the bulk of your cash needs
  • Credit or debit cards for larger purchases, where accepted

Common practical ranges (to consider with your own budget and comfort level):

• Around €50–€150 in cash on arrival for everyday basics
• More if you know you’ll be in more cash-heavy areas or staying somewhere that prefers cash

💡 Tip: Atlanta banks may have minimum or maximum order amounts for euros. Ask about this when you call.

What To Ask Before You Get Euros in Atlanta

Wherever you go—airport, bank, or exchange office—asking a few specific questions helps you avoid surprises:

1. What is today’s exchange rate for euros?

   • Compare this to the “mid-market” rate you see on popular currency converters to understand the markup.

2. Are there any additional fees or commissions?

   • Some places say “no fee” but build it into the rate. Others have a flat transaction fee.

3. Do I need to be a customer?

   • Many Atlanta banks only exchange currencies for account holders.

4. How long will it take to get my euros?

   • Especially important if you’re flying soon from Hartsfield-Jackson.

5. Will you buy back unused euros when I return to Atlanta?

   • Some banks and services will buy back leftover euros, potentially at a different rate.

Safety and Practical Tips for Handling Euros

Even if you’re just picking up euros in Atlanta before you go, a few practical habits help:

• Avoid carrying very large amounts of cash if you don’t need to.
• Split your cash between different places (wallet, money belt, hotel safe).
• Keep a note on your phone of:
  • The customer service numbers for your Atlanta bank
  • Your card’s international assistance line
• Take a photo of your receipt when you buy euros in Atlanta, in case you want to compare rates or exchange back later.

When It Makes Sense to Get Euros Before You Leave Atlanta

You may want to get euros in Atlanta before your trip if:

• You’re landing in Europe late at night when fewer services are open.
• You prefer to arrive with cash in hand for peace of mind.
• You’re traveling to areas where ATMs or card terminals may be less available.
• You like having your budget in cash rather than relying on cards.

On the other hand, if you are comfortable with ATMs and your Atlanta bank’s international fees are reasonable, you might:

• Pick up a small amount of euros in Atlanta (from a bank or airport exchange).
• Plan to withdraw more as needed from European ATMs once you arrive.

By combining a bit of planning in Atlanta—using your bank or the airport—with smart use of ATMs abroad, you can get the euros you need for your trip without overpaying or scrambling at the last minute.