Can You Use US Dollars in Madrid?

By Robert Palmer

If you’re planning a trip to Madrid, one of the first things you might be wondering is whether or not you can use US dollars there. The short answer is no, you cannot use US dollars in Madrid. However, there are some nuances to this answer that are worth exploring.

What currency is used in Madrid?

The currency used in Madrid (and the rest of Spain) is the Euro (€). This means that if you want to pay for anything while in Madrid, you’ll need to have Euros on hand. While some larger businesses may accept other currencies (such as US dollars or British pounds), this is not common and it’s not something that should be relied upon.

Where can you get Euros?

There are a few different ways to get Euros before your trip to Madrid:

  • Exchange currency at your local bank or credit union
  • Exchange currency at a currency exchange kiosk at the airport
  • Withdraw Euros from an ATM once you arrive in Madrid

It’s important to note that exchanging currency at an airport kiosk or withdrawing money from an ATM can come with fees and/or poor exchange rates. It’s often best to plan ahead and exchange currency before your trip if possible.

Is it worth exchanging currency before your trip?

This depends on a few factors, such as how long you’ll be in Madrid, how much money you expect to spend, and what kind of exchange rates and fees you can get from your bank or credit union. In general, it’s usually a good idea to have some Euros on hand before your trip so that you don’t have to worry about finding an ATM right away or paying high exchange rates at an airport kiosk.

What should you do with leftover Euros?

If you end up with leftover Euros at the end of your trip to Madrid, you have a few options:

  • Exchange them back into your home currency at a bank or currency exchange kiosk
  • Keep them for your next trip to Europe
  • Donate them to a charity or give them as a gift

It’s worth noting that exchanging currency back into your home currency can come with fees and poor exchange rates, so it’s often better to hold onto any leftover Euros for your next trip rather than exchanging them back.

Conclusion

While you cannot use US dollars in Madrid, there are plenty of ways to get Euros before your trip and use them while you’re there. By planning ahead and being aware of the currency situation in Madrid, you can ensure that your trip goes smoothly and that you’re able to pay for everything you need without any issues.