Using a debit card in Greece

Rushy_5150

Hi all - when paying for a meal or buying something with a debit card (Nationwide in this case) is it best to convert to local currency or pay in pounds? thanks

bagand96

If you're sat at the restaurant in Greece and they bring you the card machine, you may see two options:

-Pay in EUR: Transaction goes through in Euros.  Your UK bank will convert to GBP and add any charges/fees.  It depends on the conditions of your card what the fees are, some are fee free.

- Pay in GBP:  This means the Greek bank will convert EUR > GBP at their own rate, which will be in their favour so they make a bit of commission on the exchange.

What works best is variable.  It depends very much on what your UK bank charge in fees (known amount) and what the % commission foreign bank would use (known amount).

Best advice is to get a fee free card, and always pay in the local currency.

greyteam1959

Make sure they don't choose the option for you before handing you the machine !!