Is cash still widely used?
Yes, alongside cards. Spain has solid card acceptance in cities, but cash is commonly used at local bars, markets, smaller restaurants, and for tips. Rural areas and village businesses lean more heavily on cash.
ATMs and withdrawing cash
ATMs (cajeros) are widely available. CaixaBank, Santander, and BBVA machines are the most common.
- Fees for foreign non-EU cards are typically around 3 EUR per withdrawal
- Many ATMs offer dynamic currency conversion — always choose euros
- Good availability even in smaller towns
Card acceptance
Good in cities and tourist areas. Visa and Mastercard are broadly accepted. Contactless is very widely used — Spain has one of Europe’s highest contactless adoption rates.
Tips for travelers
- Carry cash for smaller bars and restaurants, especially outside cities
- Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory — rounding up or leaving €1-2 is common
- Sunday markets and flea markets are cash-only
- Some toll roads require cash payment