Can I Pay in Euros in Copenhagen?
Denmark chose not to adopt the euro despite being in the EU. The krone is pegged to the euro for currency stability, but physical euros are not accepted in shops, restaurants, or transport systems.
Money essentials
Usually included
- Currency: Danish krone (DKK), abbreviated kr. or DKK.
- Exchange rate (as of 2026): ~7.45 DKK per 1 EUR (fixed-rate peg).
- Notes: DKK 50, 100, 200, 500, 1000.
- Coins: DKK 1, 5, 10, 25, 50. (DKK 0.50 phased out.)
Payment methods (in order of preference)
1. Card (Visa, Mastercard) — Universal. Use everywhere (metro, restaurants, shops, taxis). No fees; chip/PIN standard. Most secure, most convenient. Preferred method in Denmark.
2. Mobile payment (Danish app) — Requires Danish bank account (tourists can’t access). Locals use MobilePay, but you don’t need it.
3. Cash (DKK only) — Rarely needed. Most shops accept cards; some have "card only" policies (legally allowed). ATMs available; use at your bank to avoid foreign fees.
Practical tips
Usually included
- Bring a major credit card (Visa or Mastercard). It’s safer and more useful than cash.
- Notify your bank you’re travelling. Some banks flag international transactions; a heads-up avoids your card being blocked.
- ATM fees vary. Use your home bank’s partner ATMs if available (check before travelling). Foreign ATM fees can be DKK 50–100 (~€7–13).
- Avoid currency exchange kiosks. Bad rates, high fees. Use ATMs or pay by card instead.
- No tipping expected. Service charge is included in the bill. Rounding up is fine; tipping is not customary.
- Card surcharge possible but rare. Tiny shops may add 2–3% for cards under DKK 100. Not common.
Bringing cash vs relying on cards
For most tourists: Card only. Card is accepted 98% of the time. Cafés, shops, metro, taxis, restaurants — all take card. Safer than carrying cash.
If you prefer cash: Draw DKK 500–1000 (~€67–134) from an ATM on arrival. Use it over the course of your stay for small purchases, street food, markets. Keep a card as backup.
Budget: Realistically, you’ll spend DKK 500–1000 (~€67–134) per day on food + transport + attractions if mid-range. Bring a card with sufficient credit and a backup card.
Card is king in Copenhagen. Bring Visa or Mastercard, notify your bank you’re travelling, and use ATMs sparingly. Euros are not accepted; DKK is the only option. You will not need cash; the city is nearly cashless.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use euros in Copenhagen?
No. Denmark uses Danish krone (DKK), not euros. Rate: ~7.45 DKK = 1 EUR. Bring a Visa/Mastercard instead; card is king in Copenhagen.
What currency do I need?
Danish krone (DKK). Notes: 50, 100, 200, 500, 1000. Coins: 1, 5, 10, 25, 50. Or just use a card (better than cash).
Is cash or card better?
Card (Visa, Mastercard). Accepted 98% of the time, safer than carrying cash. Draw some DKK from an ATM if you prefer cash for small purchases, but card is standard.
Do I need to tip in Copenhagen?
No. Service charge is included in the bill. Tipping is not customary or expected. Rounding up is fine but not required.
Are there card surcharges?
Rare. Most places have no surcharge. Tiny shops may add 2–3% for cards under DKK 100, but this is uncommon.