You will get your best exchange rate by using your credit card in restaurants and shops, and by using your ATM card in the cash machines in Paris (be sure your card has the “Cirrus” or “Plus” symbol on the back). There are countless cash machines, and most businesses take Visa and Master Card. Fewer take American Express, although it is taken, and even fewer take Diner’s Club, although it too is taken. A few traveler’s checks are not a bad idea, though, in case your credit card should get lost or stolen.
Be sure to inform your bank or credit card company that you will be using the card in Paris, and be sure to write your card number and the customer service phone number on a separate sheet of paper, just to be careful.
