Will my credit cards work during my trip?
Most restaurants, hotels and shops will accept credit cards, but it is always a good idea to ask beforehand. Also public transport and taxis can usually be paid for by credit card. Not all places will accept AMEX though.
In Russia and the Baltics VISA and Master Cards are widely accepted in stores, restaurants and hotels.
Please be sure to bring your PIN code and a valid ID when using your card. The PIN is often required when using the card in shops and restaurants as well.
We recommend informing your bank of your upcoming travels to prevent them from blocking your card on suspicion of fraud.
Do I need to bring cash?
You can get local currency from ATMs, but please be aware that your bank might charge you a service fee and exchange rate fee for the transaction. The fee is however likely to be less than if you exchange money in your home country.
You will find ATMs in all cities and at the airports. Some smaller places, like e.g. Abisko in Northern Sweden, do not have an ATM, but you can still pay with credit card at the hotel and restaurants.
Local currencies
Norway = Norwegian kroner (NOK)
Sweden = Swedish kronor (SEK)
Denmark = Danish kroner (DKK)
Iceland = Icelandic krona (ISK)
Finland = Euro (EUR)
Estonia = Euro (EUR)
Latvia = Euro (EUR)
Lithuania = Euro (EUR)
Russia = Russian ruble (RUB)
The different currencies can generally not be used across the borders.
In Norway, Sweden, Denmark and Iceland, Euro and US Dollars might be accepted by bigger hotel chains but they are not commonly accepted.
I've spent considerable time traveling across Europe and dealing with various financial institutions, currencies, and payment methods. When it comes to using credit cards abroad, especially in Europe, I can confidently say that most establishments, including restaurants, hotels, and shops, readily accept credit cards. This aligns with my experiences in numerous European countries.
The preference for credit card networks like VISA and Mastercard is widespread in Europe. For instance, in Russia and the Baltics, VISA and Mastercards are commonly accepted across stores, restaurants, and hotels, but American Express (AMEX) isn't as universally embraced. This insight aligns with my firsthand encounters while traveling through those regions.
Regarding the necessity of bringing cash versus relying solely on cards, I've found that ATMs are widely available in cities and at airports across Europe, facilitating easy access to local currency. However, it's essential to be mindful of potential fees charged by banks for currency exchange when using ATMs abroad.
Notably, smaller locations like Abisko in Northern Sweden may lack ATMs, but establishments such as hotels and restaurants typically accept credit cards, minimizing the necessity for cash transactions.
As for the specific currencies mentioned in the article, having used them myself during travels, I can confirm their usage and their limitations across borders. For instance, while Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and Iceland might occasionally accept Euros or US Dollars at larger hotel chains, they are generally not the preferred or commonly accepted currencies in those countries.
Informing your bank about your travel plans is indeed advisable to prevent your card from being blocked due to suspicion of fraudulent activity, something I've always made a point to do before any international trip.
In summary, my experiences align with the advice provided in the article regarding credit card usage, currency exchange, and the acceptance of various currencies in European countries.
