How to Find the Best Currency Exchange Office in Paris

Planning a trip abroad and need to exchange currency in Paris? Finding the best currency exchange office can be quite a challenge, with so many options available and exchange rates varying significantly from one provider to another. To identify the most advantageous offer, it’s essential to understand what factors influence the final amount you’ll receive.

Below you’ll find all our tips to help you choose the best bureau de change in Paris.

Key Takeaways:

• Comparing exchange rates is key, as bureaux often apply varying margins of up to 20% above the Forex market rate.

• Online currency exchange services are often more competitive due to lower overheads and no fixed premises costs.

• Watch out for commissions, which can be fixed or percentage-based and significantly reduce the amount you receive.

• Additional fees may apply, particularly with banks or when using a bank card abroad.

• For the best rates, we recommend reserving your currency online to benefit from preferential exchange rates and 0% commission.

Which Factors Should You Consider?

It’s crucial to understand what impacts the cost of exchanging your euros and the criteria you should use when choosing a bureau de change that best meets your needs.

Exchange Rates

The exchange rate is usually the primary factor that affects the budget required to obtain foreign currency.

There are two types of exchange rates: the Forex market rate and the rate applied by currency exchange providers.

The Forex market is where currency trading takes place – the largest financial market in the world, with approximately $6 trillion traded daily by banks, financial institutions, companies, and traders.

However, to obtain foreign currency for your trip, you’ll need to use a currency exchange provider, such as a bank or exchange office. These providers typically apply a higher exchange rate than the Forex market due to their profit margin, which can range from 3% to 20%.

Exchange rates fluctuate daily, so identifying the most favourable time to exchange currency is key to maximising value.

Online exchange platforms usually offer the lowest margins on exchange rates, thanks to reduced operational costs (e.g., no rent for physical locations). This makes them one of the most cost-effective ways to obtain foreign currency at better rates.

Commission

It’s also important to account for any commissions that may be charged by financial institutions, as these will reduce the final amount of foreign currency received.

Two types of commission may apply:

• Fixed commission: This remains the same regardless of the amount exchanged (e.g., €5 whether you exchange €100 or €10,000).

• Percentage-based commission: This is proportional to the amount exchanged, typically between 1% and 3%. For example, a 1% commission on €100 equals €1.

Good to know: If you reserve your currency through our website, we waive the commission normally applied in our physical branches. To benefit from 0% commission, reserve your travel money online now.

Additional Fees

Extra charges may apply, particularly if using a bank for your currency exchange. These may include international transaction processing fees. Likewise, using your bank card abroad often incurs fixed or variable fees.

Understanding these potential additional costs will help you stay in control of your expenses and better manage your travel budget.

Additional Services

Beyond the cost of exchanging currency, consider any extra services that might be offered by the provider.

For example, home delivery can offer added convenience when planning your trip. A buy-back guarantee allows you to return any leftover currency after your trip at the same exchange rate.

Taking time to explore these additional services is a smart way to ensure the offer matches your needs.

The Best Currency Exchange Offices in Paris

There are numerous bureaux de change in Paris, with offerings that vary widely. We have 14 branches located across key districts of the city. To get the best rates, simply reserve your currency online and select the branch where you wish to collect your order. This is the most cost-effective way to obtain currency in Paris.

Below is a table listing the best bureaux de change in Paris:

How to Get the Best Exchange Rate

To enjoy the most favourable rates, we strongly recommend reserving your currency online. You’ll benefit from better exchange rates than those available in physical bureaux or banks, and enjoy 0% commission. This significantly reduces your overall costs and gives you more foreign currency in return.

When placing your order, you’ll be asked how you’d like to collect it. You can either choose a Parisian exchange office to collect your currency for free, or opt for home delivery and receive it directly at your doorstep.