Cash Machine Exchange Rate

Anyone know what the current exchange rate is in the hole in the walls of france?
I seem to recall it was a bit better than at home rates last year, but if anyone's got the current rate that would be useful...

I don't think it's the french cash machines that set the rate, it'll be your bank / card provider that decides what to charge you for foreign currency.

Exchange rates are normally quite competitive, it's the surcharge for using a foreign machine that puts the price up. Check with your bank and see if they have partners abroad whose machines you can use for free. For example, I'm with Barclays, and can use BNP Paribas machines for free in France.

Doesn't it depend on your provider? I'm pretty sure I heard they were doing away with exchange charges when you use your card abroad, but won't come in for another year or so.

Nationwide usually have a good deal on withdrawing money abroad.

It depends on the rate at the time you withdraw the cash that can change in the next 24hrs
I have bought today at 1.1838 no exchange fees thats what I will get when I make withdrawal It has been mentioned a number of times before get a prepaid euro card they are free better exchange rate and the first day if you are a group of four all club together buy lift passes with one card saving will equate to some beers

Well, looking at that rate, theres not a lot in it. Slightly better at the cashpoint, but only worth it if you take out a decent lump to offset the "overseas transaction charge" . Banks eh?

After reading this thread I called my bank - first direct

On yesterday's rate of 1.18 the machines were paying out at 1.13 plus a 2% commission plus 2.75% forex charge!!

Proves expensive stuff. While buying euro over the counter may be commission free their rate will be lower. As previous posts have said if you are withdrawing decent amounts the cash machine us the best bet. Also most convenient

Personal choice, I will be opting for the machine route

Natwest are normally good when i go to Austria and normally only charge me the conversion rate for the Euros I take out, sometimes it is easier to take some money with you in cash and then have the card for meals etc - you could always try to be like an MP and claim it back on expenses when you return :P

Have you thought about a Euro currency card? I've got one from CaxtonFx, http://www.caxtonfxcard.com/ It's like having a Euro bank account without cheques and direct debits. I've had one for 2 years and used it in hotels, restaurants, supermarkets, petrol stations, lift pass kiosks and ATM's without ever being charged. You top it up on-line (or via mobile phone). Today's rate is €1.18 to £1 and if I transfered funds today that's what I'd get, no hidden charges. It's free to obtain one other than putting an initial amount on the card. I tend to add to it every month which is a good way to save spends for hols.