Getting Euros at Atlanta Airport: What Travelers Need to Know
If you’re flying out of Atlanta, Georgia and headed to Europe, it’s natural to wonder: Can you get euros at the Atlanta airport? The short answer is yes, you usually can—but there are a few important details that can save you money and stress.
This guide focuses on Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) and the best ways for Atlanta-area travelers and visitors to handle euro currency before they fly.
Can You Get Euros at the Atlanta Airport?
Yes. Euro currency is typically available at ATL, but:
- It’s usually offered through airport currency exchange counters or kiosks, not general airport shops.
- Availability can vary by day and by location within the airport.
- Exchange rates and fees at the airport are often less favorable than what you might get from a bank or ATM.
If you’re flying through Atlanta Hartsfield–Jackson, you can generally:
- Buy euros with U.S. dollars
- Sell leftover euros when you return (depending on the service and denominations)
Because services may change, it’s wise to confirm hours and locations in advance through the airport’s official information line:
Where to Find Currency Exchange at ATL
Currency exchange services at ATL have historically been located in or near:
- International Terminal (Concourse F / Maynard H. Jackson Jr. International Terminal)
- Concourse E (another international concourse)
- Sometimes pre-security in the international terminal area
Because specific providers and desk locations can change over time, here’s how to locate them when you’re at the airport:
1. Use Airport Information Desks
Look for Airport Information Desks or “Information” booths in:
- Domestic Terminal North and South
- International Terminal (F)
Ask staff for the nearest currency exchange counter offering euros.
2. Follow Airport Signage
Inside the airport, follow signs for:
- “Currency Exchange”
- “Foreign Exchange”
- Sometimes these are near banking services or ATMs in international areas.
3. Ask at Your Departure Gate Area
If you’re boarding an international flight to Europe, gate agents or nearby staff can often point you to the closest place to get euros in your concourse.
Airport Currency Exchange vs. Other Options in Atlanta
You can get euros at the airport, but it isn’t your only choice. For many Atlantans, it’s worth comparing options.
Quick Comparison for Atlanta Travelers
| Option | Where (Atlanta) | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airport currency exchange | ATL (International Terminal, some concourses) | Very convenient, last-minute access | Higher fees, weaker rates |
| Bank or credit union (order euros) | Branches around metro Atlanta | Better rates, lower fees | Must plan ahead; takes days to process |
| ATM in Europe (using U.S. debit card) | At your destination overseas | Often good rates, easy access | Foreign ATM + bank fees; need ATM-compatible card |
| Local currency exchange in Atlanta | Select financial services/business centers | Can compare rates and plan ahead | Still may not beat your own bank or ATM |
How Much Cash Do You Really Need in Euros?
For most Atlanta travelers going to Europe, it’s common to:
- Carry a small amount of euros in cash (for taxis, tips, snacks, or places that don’t take cards)
- Use credit or debit cards for hotels, restaurants, and larger purchases
Many visitors aim to get enough euros for:
- Transportation from the airport in Europe
- A meal or two
- Incidental expenses (restrooms, small shops, tips)
A typical range might be €50–€200, depending on your plans and comfort level. You can always get more cash from an ATM once you arrive.
Is It Better to Get Euros in Atlanta or in Europe?
From an Atlanta perspective, the best option depends on your priorities: convenience vs. cost.
Getting Euros at ATL
Best for:
- People who prefer to have euros in hand before landing
- Those who don’t want to deal with foreign ATMs
- Last-minute planners who didn’t order currency in advance
Things to watch for:
- Exchange rate markups
- Service fees or commissions
- Minimum or maximum amounts
Getting Euros in Atlanta Before You Go (Bank or Credit Union)
Many banks and credit unions in metro Atlanta let you:
- Order euros ahead of time (often 1–7 business days)
- Pick up at a local branch
This can be a good option if:
- You live in or near Atlanta and have time to plan
- You want to avoid airport exchange rates
- You’re more comfortable dealing with your own bank
Call your bank’s Atlanta-area branch or check their main customer service number to ask:
- Do they sell euros?
- What are the fees and rates?
- How long does it take to order and receive?
Using ATMs in Europe
From Atlanta, many travelers choose to:
- Take no euros or only a small amount from home
- Use ATMs at the European airport or city they’re visiting
This often gives a more competitive exchange rate, but:
- Your home bank may charge foreign transaction or ATM fees
- Your card must be activated for international use
Before leaving Atlanta, it’s smart to:
- Call your bank or visit an Atlanta branch to:
- Confirm your daily withdrawal limit
- Ask about international ATM fees
- Make sure your card is unlocked for foreign transactions
Tips for Getting Euros at Atlanta Airport (ATL)
If you decide to get euros at ATL, a few simple steps can make the process smoother and cheaper.
1. Check Availability and Hours in Advance
Because services can change, consider:
- Calling the airport information line a few days before your trip
- Asking your airline if they know the current exchange service setup in your departure concourse
2. Avoid Exchanging Large Amounts at the Airport
To limit the impact of higher airport rates:
- Exchange only what you need for the first day or two
- Plan to withdraw more from ATMs or use your card once you’re in Europe
3. Bring Multiple Payment Methods
To avoid getting stuck with no access to funds:
- Carry at least:
- One debit card
- One or two credit cards (from different issuers if possible)
- A small amount of USD as backup
4. Be Mindful of Small Bills and Coins
When you get euros at ATL, ask for a mix of denominations, such as:
- €5, €10, €20 notes
- Fewer or no large notes (like €100), which are sometimes harder to use for small purchases
What If You’re Landing in Atlanta With Euros?
If you’re arriving in Atlanta from Europe and have leftover euros:
- Some currency exchange counters at ATL may buy back euros and convert them to USD, subject to:
- Buy-back rates
- Fees or commissions
- Minimum/maximums
Other options once you’re back in metro Atlanta:
- Ask your bank if they accept foreign currency deposits or exchanges
- Keep a small amount of euros for your next trip, especially if you travel to Europe frequently from Atlanta
Getting to the International Terminal for Currency Exchange
If you’re in Atlanta and plan to get euros at the airport before a later trip, you may want to visit the International Terminal (Concourse F), where currency exchange is more likely to be found.
International Terminal Address:
Ways to access it:
- By car: Follow signs from I-75 to the International Terminal; parking is available in the international parking decks.
- By airport shuttle: If you’re already at the Domestic Terminal, use the free airport shuttle that connects to the International Terminal.
Check in advance that the currency exchange there is open before making a special trip.
Practical Recommendations for Atlanta Travelers
For someone in or flying through Atlanta:
- ✅ Yes, you can usually get euros at Atlanta’s airport, especially in the International Terminal (F) and international concourses.
- 💵 Expect higher fees and weaker exchange rates at airport counters compared with your bank or foreign ATMs.
- 📆 If you live in metro Atlanta, consider ordering euros from your bank or credit union in advance for better value.
- 🌍 Many travelers from Atlanta combine a small amount of euros from home with ATM withdrawals in Europe for the best balance of convenience and cost.
With a bit of planning in Atlanta—whether at your bank or at Hartsfield–Jackson—you can start your European trip with the euros you need and fewer surprises.