Everything you need to know
France Currency
Travelling to or living in France? Managing your money shouldn’t be stressful. With TransferGo, you can send, spend, and exchange money affordably — so more of your money goes where it matters.
Use the GoCard in France
Open a UK bank account with us and get a GoCard for smarter spending in France. Pay in local shops, use ATMs globally, and enjoy contactless payments—all with zero hidden fees. Everything is managed from the app. Available only to UK and EU residents.
What is the currency in France?
The official currency of France is the euro
Before the euro, France used the French franc (FRF).
EUR, €
Banknotes
€5
€10
€20
€50
€100
€200
€500
Coins
1
2
5
10
20
50 cents
€1
€2
Popular Euro pairings
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Z
How to spend money in France
France is very card-friendly. Credit and debit cards are accepted nearly everywhere, especially in cities. Contactless payments are standard, and mobile wallets are popular. That said, cash is still handy for bakeries, cafés, or small town markets. Cheques are still used domestically but not by tourists. Tip: Always choose to pay in local currency (EUR) to avoid extra conversion charges. With TransferGo, you can spend confidently and save on hidden bank fees.
Tips for exchanging money in France
ATMs are the best bet: they offer fairer rates than exchange offices.
Airport and hotel desks: avoid them due to poor rates and high commissions.
Carry small notes: some small shops won’t break large bills.
Cash is handy: particularly for tipping or rural purchases.
With TransferGo, you can send euros directly to French bank accounts or spend confidently with your GoCard.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the official currency used in France?
The euro (EUR, €).
What is the official currency used in France?
Symbol: € | Code: EUR
Can I use my home currency in France?
No, you’ll need euros.
How can I use my GoCard in France?
Just activate it in the app and start spending—online or in stores.
Is it better to use cash or card when spending in France?
Card for most things, but keep cash for tips or small shops.
Are credit or debit cards widely accepted in France?
Yes—Visa and Mastercard are almost universal.
Are there ATMs available in France, and are there withdrawal limits?
Yes, in every city and town.
Can I use a GoCard in France?
Yes! You can use your GoCard for spending, withdrawing, or managing your money—with fair rates and no hidden fees.