Traveling in Europe sometimes makes you believe you can pay in euros everywhere, at any time. However, even within the European Union, some destinations reserve a little surprise for fans of monetary simplicity! Forget the reflex of “all in euros,” because in certain countries, taking out euros at the checkout may cause confusion. Ready to discover where it’s best not to forget your currency converter?
Want to set off on an adventure on the roads of Europe with your trusty euros in your pocket? Be careful! Contrary to what many think, the eurozone does not cover the entire continent. Six countries in the European Union continue to use their own currency, and not minor ones! In this article, discover where you will need to exchange your euros for crowns, forints, or zlotys and why some countries play the card of monetary independence. Here’s the (almost) essential guide to avoid unpleasant surprises at the checkout during your next trip to Europe.
Bulgaria: the last student in the euro class… but not for long
Prepare your levs if you are traveling to Sofia! Although Bulgaria is about to make the leap, this country still proudly displays its national currency. The good news? Starting January 1, 2026, you will finally be able to use your euros without any complex calculations, as it will then become the 21st member of the eurozone. In the meantime, if you want to explore this charming Balkan country, plan for the currency exchange or pull out your bank card.
European neighbors attached to their currency
Bulgaria is soon joining the “euro-addicts” club, but five countries in the Union are still resisting! It is impossible to pay for your purchases in euros in Hungary (where the forint reigns), in Czech Republic with the Czech crown, in Poland that clings to its zloty, in Romania with the leu, or in Sweden where the Swedish crown still dances. Their argument? Not yet ready to take the plunge, each country is waiting to meet the famed “convergence criteria” set by Brussels… and without setting a deadline.
Denmark: the monarchy of the crown
And here’s the most epic case! Denmark simply said “no thank you” to the euro in a referendum in 2000. The result: even within the European Union, the Danish crown prevails. So, with crowns and a smile, you will pay for your smørrebrød (local open-faced sandwich). An original choice, as the country obtained a permanent exemption from the single currency.
Why are these countries resisting the euro?
Changing currency is never trivial. For many countries, keeping their national currency allows them to manage their economy, control their inflation, and preserve a part of their identity. But don’t worry: all these countries are not closing the door on the euro. Some are simply waiting to meet the conditions set by Brussels (public deficit, price stability…). While Croatia took the plunge in 2023, others might soon follow suit. Patience: night mobility like cross-border travel might well shift the dynamics!
Tips and quirky info for savvy travelers
Don’t forget that outside the eurozone, exchanging your bills at a currency exchange office or withdrawing local currency is still easy, especially in large cities. To avoid surprises and enjoy your European getaway smoothly, find out about the revolutionary underwater tunnels connecting some countries in just a few minutes (a crazy example here or another there), or keep an eye on the news regarding new restrictions and administrative advancements (like here). Who knows, your next express trip to Central Asia might seem almost easy regarding currency!
A bit of history about the single currency
To make it short, the euro was born in 1999 but only appeared in wallets in 2002, suddenly replacing the colorful and audible currencies of twelve member countries of the European Union, including France. Twenty years later, the processor is widening, but the path towards a fully unified Europe by the same currency remains strewn with traditions… and a few exotic coins!
