Euro – How to make the most of your spending money in Europe!
24-06-25
Looking forward to jetting away on a trip to Europe soon?
Whether you’re planning a relaxing family holiday on Spain’s Costas, exploring the Balearic and Canary Islands, seeing the sights on a vibrant city break in Barcelona or Rome, or hitting the hotspots on Mediterranean cruise; we’re sure that spending money features near the top of your pre-holiday to-do list!
Here at Hay Travel we’ve put together all our top tips to help you manage your Euros (EUR), give you an idea of what things cost in Europe, iconic sights to visit at no cost to your pocket, and how to get the best foreign exchange deals with ease.
So, What do Things Cost in Europe?
To help you budget for your visit to Europe; here’s a rough idea for of what your daily spend might be food and drink-wise.

Meals: When it comes to dining out – you can go down the casual route with street food from €3 to €7 per item (£2.53 to £5.90), choose a meal at a mid-range restaurant for €15 to €30 (£12.64 to £25.28), or push the boat out on a fine dining meal for €60 to €70 (£50.55 to £58.97).
Drinks: A pint of local draught beer is typically €2 to €8 (£1.68 to £6.74), and a cappuccino might set you back about €1.60 to €5.50 (£1.35 to £4.63).
Just Keep in Mind: that the bigger cities like Barcelona, Rome, and Paris and sea-facing eateries and bars in holiday resorts may cost more than small towns and villages off the beaten track!
European Delights That Won’t Break the Bank
One of the best things about Europe is that many of its iconic sights and attractions are completely free to visit without the need to spend a cent. Here’s a few of our favourites:

Paris’ Notre-Dame Cathedral
Following the devastating fire in 2019; Paris’ Notre-Dame Cathedral on Île de la Cité has recently re-opened and is virtually restored to its former glory. Enter via one of the three arched doorways to admire the Gothic-style rose and stained-glass windows, Les Mays de Notre-Dame paintings, the Grand Organ, and the altar's Virgin Mary and Child. Outside don’t miss the two symmetrical towers, Portal of the Last Judgement, Gallery of Kings, equestrian statue of Charlemagne and his guards, Point Zero Paris, and the rooftop Gargoyles. NB: Pre-reserve a time slot on the website to minimize waiting times.

Rome’s Trevi Fountain
It won’t cost you a Euro to visit Rome’s iconic Trevi Fountain. But, of course, no visit to this famed masterpiece is complete without throwing the obligatory ‘three coins in the fountain’ - the first guarantees a repeat visit to the city; the second means you’ll fall in love with an attractive Italian, and the third leads to marriage to the person that you met in Rome! Considered by many to the world’s most beautiful fountain; it was designed by Nicola Salvia, completed in 1762 by Giuseppe Panini, and earns its name from being at the junction of ‘tre vie’ ie three streets.

Barcelona’s La Rambla
You can explore Barcelona’s La Rambla, the city’s most famous thoroughfare, at no cost to your pocket. This lively, tree-lined 1.2km-long pedestrian avenue stretches from the Mirador de Colum (Christopher Columbus) statue at Port Vell to Plaça de Catalunya. It is undoubtedly the heartbeat of Barcelona both day and night; thanks to its street artists, kiosks, flower stalls, mosaics, restaurants, and terraces. Not forgetting the famous sights to appreciate along the route such as the Gran Teatre del Liceu, Palau de la Virreina, Plaça Reial, and Mercat de la Boqueria.
Be Money Savvy Before you Leave Home!
Here’s how to make your spending money go further with Hays Travel:

Convenience: Pre-ordering your Euros with Hays Travel via Click & Collect or Home Delivery means that, not only will you be able to track and secure the best exchange rates, but you’ll also have cash in your wallet ready to spend when you land in Europe - saving you the need to visit the ATMs or currency exchange kiosks at the airport at home or abroad!
Prefer to pay by Card: If you opt to use your normal bank card in Europe, don’t forget to let your bank know to avoid any issues paying by this method. The Hays Travel Money Card is also a great option to arrange before you leave home; as it has no hidden fees, multiple currency options, and allows you to top it up whenever, wherever using the handy App.
Order your travel money via Click & Collect today to secure a great rate!
Need to purchase your Euros? Hays Travel is offering great rates online and instore right now! With the convenience of Click & Collect or Home Delivery, plus expert advice with dedicated foreign exchange staff in each branch, it's never been easier to buy your travel money.
Order your Euros today!