Best Credit Cards to Travel Europe (2024)

Picture yourself strolling through cobblestone streets in Paris, sipping espresso beneath the Roman Colosseum, or marveling at the vibrant hues of Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia. A European adventure offers endless possibilities, but it’s wise to plan ahead for a seamless and financially savvy experience. One crucial element is choosing the right credit card.

While a credit card might seem like a small detail, it significantly impacts your travel budget and overall experience. The right card can save you hundreds of dollars on foreign transaction fees, unlock premium perks like airport lounge access, and even earn you valuable rewards to offset future adventures. This article will guide you through finding the best credit card for your upcoming European escapade.

Considerations for European Travel Credit Cards

A. No Foreign Transaction Fees: The Hidden Cost

When you swipe your credit card in a charming patisserie in France or a bustling market in Spain, your card issuer likely charges a foreign transaction fee. These fees typically range from 2-3% of every purchase, quickly eroding your travel budget. A $100 souvenir? That’ll be an extra $3 hidden in fees. The solution? Seek out credit cards designed for international travel that explicitly waive foreign transaction fees.

B. Reward Maximization: Turn Spending into Future Adventures

Your European journey is an investment, so shouldn’t your spending work for you? Many credit cards offer generous rewards tailored to travel:

• Flights, Hotels, and Beyond: Look for cards that grant bonus points or miles when you book flights, hotels, train tickets, or even rental cars directly through the card’s travel portal.
• Dining Delights and Entertainment Extras: Food and culture are central to the European experience. Select a card that rewards you for enjoying local cuisine, museum tickets, or a memorable night at the theater.

C. Perks for the Savvy Traveler

A well-chosen credit card can elevate your travel experience beyond mere spending.

• Airport Lounge Access: Transform layovers into luxurious retreats with cards offering Priority Pass or similar lounge memberships. Enjoy complimentary snacks, Wi-Fi, and a comfortable space away from the crowds.
• Travel Protection: Life can be unpredictable. Travel insurance bundled with certain credit cards can cover trip delays, lost luggage, or even medical emergencies, providing invaluable peace of mind.

Top 6 Best Credit Card Picks for European Travel

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

A favorite among seasoned travelers, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® offers a compelling mix of rewards and perks. While its annual fee is substantial ($550), it boasts benefits like generous point bonuses on travel and dining, a $300 annual travel credit, valuable travel insurance, and Priority Pass Select lounge membership.

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

This well-rounded card is the Sapphire Reserve’s more accessible sibling, featuring a lower annual fee ($95). It excels in points for everyday spending, offers travel protections, and also waives those pesky foreign transaction fees.

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

Another rewards powerhouse, the Venture X keeps things simple with a flat earning rate on most purchases. It shines with a $300 annual travel credit (booked through Capital One Travel), lounge access, and a Global Entry/TSA PreCheck fee credit.

Platinum Card® from American Express

Geared towards luxury travelers, this premium card carries a hefty annual fee but compensates with exclusive benefits. Enjoy access to the renowned Centurion Lounges, statement credits for airline fees and hotels, and comprehensive travel insurance.

Citi Premier® Card

A solid choice for those who prioritize flexible point redemptions, the Citi Premier® Card offers points that transfer to various airline loyalty programs. Plus, with an annual hotel savings benefit, it can be valuable for European stays.

Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card

If you’re loyal to the Marriott hotel brand, the Bonvoy Boundless® can be a great fit. Its rewards and perks are geared toward Marriott stays, and it offers automatic Silver Elite status for added benefits.

Note: American Express acceptance can be more limited in certain parts of Europe compared to Visa and Mastercard.

The above cards are popular picks, but it pays to explore options based on your individual needs. If you’re a foodie, cards with elevated dining rewards might be your top choice. If your travel style leans toward budget-friendly adventures, consider cards with no annual fee while still offering travel-related perks.

Strategies Beyond the Card

Your credit card is a powerful tool, but understanding these strategies unlocks even greater financial savvy during your European travels:

1. Currency Exchange: Navigating the Euro (and Beyond)

While the Euro is the dominant currency across much of Europe, countries like the UK, Switzerland, and several Eastern European nations use their own currencies. Here’s how to manage exchange wisely:

• Credit Cards for Best Rates: In general, rely on your no-foreign-transaction-fee credit card whenever possible for the most favorable exchange rates.
• ATMs Wisely: If you need cash, choose established bank ATMs to minimize fees. Larger withdrawals reduce the impact of per-transaction fees. Consider carrying some Euros obtained before your trip for immediate needs upon arrival.
• Exchange Bureaus: These can be a last resort, but their rates and fees are often less favorable than card transactions or bank ATMs.

2. Chip-and-PIN: The European Standard

Most European merchants exclusively utilize chip-and-PIN technology. Ensure your card has an EMV chip and know your PIN. If your card is old, contact your issuer to see if a replacement chip card is available.

3. Alert Your Bank: Proactive Fraud Prevention

A quick call or online travel notification to your bank before departure prevents potential fraud blocks. It’s better to be safe and ensure your card will work hassle-free during your trip.

4. Phone Factor: International Plans or Local SIMs

Before you go, check with your mobile carrier about international roaming plans. Often, purchasing a local SIM card in your destination country offers more data at a lower cost, ensuring you can stay connected without surprise bills.

How to Choose the Best Card for Yourself?

With all these fantastic options, how do you pick the ultimate credit card for your European journey? Consider these key factors:

• Your Travel Style: Are you a luxury seeker who craves airport lounge access and premium hotel perks? Or are you a budget-minded adventurer more focused on maximizing rewards for future trips? Be honest about how you’ll likely spend your time in Europe.
• Rewards That Resonate: Do you envision using points for future flights and hotel stays? Or does cashback fit your goals better? Think about what rewards will motivate you and align with how you want to redeem them.
• Weighing the Annual Fee: Cards with the most enticing perks often carry higher annual fees. Analyze if the card’s benefits will justify the cost based on your spending and travel habits.
• Bonus Time! Many cards offer generous sign-up bonuses when you meet a certain spending threshold within the first few months. Planning your European trip around the timing of a new card application can unlock a trove of points or miles to offset your adventure costs.

There’s no single “best” card for everyone. The right choice empowers you to travel confidently, save money, and enhance your European experience.

Conclusion

A well-chosen credit card can be your most valuable travel companion during your European explorations. By eliminating foreign transaction fees, maximizing rewards, and unlocking travel perks, you transform your spending into future adventures. Think strategically, choose wisely, and prepare to savor every moment of your trip, knowing your finances are just as optimized as your itinerary. Remember to apply for your new credit card well in advance of your departure date. This allows ample time to take advantage of any sign-up bonuses and ensures your card arrives in time for your journey. With the right card in hand, the charming streets of Europe, its rich history, and vibrant culture await!

European Credit Cards – FAQs

Do I even need a special travel credit card?

It depends! Do you already have a card that doesn’t charge fees when you use it in other countries? Do you have a bunch of reward points saved up? If so, maybe stick with what you have. If not, a travel card could save you money and earn cool perks.

Can I get more than one travel credit card?

Yes, but it’s a bit complicated. Some banks have rules about how many cards you can get in a certain timeframe. Also, more cards mean more things to keep track of! But if you’re organized and want to max out those rewards, multiple cards could be your jam.

These fancy cards have fees, are they worth it?

Depends on what you want. Cards with high fees usually have the best perks – think airport lounges and stuff. If you don’t travel much, or like to keep things basic, a fee probably isn’t worth it. But if you’re a frequent flyer aiming for luxury, maybe it is!

I’m leaving for Europe next month! Can I still get a card?

Maybe, but it’ll be tight. Many cards have awesome sign-up bonuses, but you usually gotta spend a bunch of money first to get them. If you have big purchases coming up, maybe it’s possible. If not, focus on a card with no foreign transaction fees.

My parents are worried about my trip getting canceled, what about travel insurance?

Some travel cards include trip insurance for delays, lost luggage, stuff like that. Check if the card you want has these benefits so you don’t have to buy extra insurance.