Can you pay in euros in Norway from France: the essentials you need to know
Wondering if you can pay with euros in Norway? Here’s what you need to know as a French expat — plus some practical tips to avoid unnecessary bank fees.
For more flexibility when traveling, use the Wise card. You’ll enjoy transparent, low fees on all your international payments.
Can you pay with euros in Norway?
The short answer is no — you can’t use euros to pay in Norway. You’ll need to use the local currency, the Norwegian krone (NOK), for purchases and payments.
There are a few exceptions — for instance, in airports or tourist areas, some shops may accept euros. But beware: the exchange rate offered will almost always be poor.
To pay or withdraw cash in Norway, you have two main options:
use your French bank card or exchange euros for kroner at a currency exchange bureau such as Travelex. Each has pros and cons.
Another alternative is to use a multi-currency card from a payment provider that applies the mid-market exchange rate. This helps you avoid the costly markups typically applied by banks.
| 💡 Did you know? The Wise account lets you hold 40+ currencies — including Norwegian kroner. |
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How to pay in Norway: your main options
Using your French bank card for purchases or withdrawals
This is the simplest solution — but not necessarily the cheapest.
Check with your bank to confirm that your card works abroad. You can then withdraw cash or pay in-store as you would in France.
However, be aware that each card payment or withdrawal abroad usually comes with a fee, and banks often apply a marked-up exchange rate. These costs can add up quickly.
Also note that some ATMs may charge additional fees, which are usually displayed before confirming your withdrawal.
Exchanging euros for cash in Norway
If you prefer to use cash, get your Norwegian kroner before your trip. You can order them from your bank or exchange them at a bureau de change.
Ordering from your bank can take 7–10 days, depending on availability.
Currency exchange offices offer immediate service, but their rates are often worse — especially in tourist areas. Look for exchange bureaus away from the city centre for better rates.
Be cautious of offers claiming “no fees” — these fees are simply hidden in the exchange rate itself. The higher the amount exchanged, the more you’ll lose on the rate.
How to save on payments in Norway
Send money to someone in Norway
If you know someone living there, you can send them a bank transfer and ask them to withdraw the cash locally. This can be cheaper than making multiple payments or withdrawals abroad.
Use your card instead of cash
French banks typically charge higher fees for cash withdrawals than for card payments.
Whenever possible, use your card for purchases rather than withdrawing money.
Norway is a highly cashless society — even small shops and cafés accept cards, even in rural areas.
Choose an international banking plan
Some French banks offer international plans to reduce foreign transaction fees. These plans usually come as a paid subscription but can be worthwhile if you travel often.
Get a multi-currency card
Providers like Wise or Revolut offer multi-currency cards that let you hold and convert money at the mid-market rate.
If you already hold Norwegian kroner in your account, payments are free of conversion fees — saving you more compared to using your French card.
Keep in mind that with Revolut’s free plan, access to the interbank (mid-market) rate is limited. With Wise, you get the mid-market rate with no restrictions.
Tip: it’s always smart to carry both a Visa and a Mastercard, as some merchants may only accept one type.
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What NOT to do in Norway: pay in euros using dynamic currency conversion
At some ATMs or payment terminals, you may be offered the option to complete your transaction in euros rather than kroner. This is called dynamic currency conversion.
Our advice: always refuse.
Choose to pay in kroner instead — otherwise, your transaction will be converted at your bank’s exchange rate, which is often much worse.
The only advantage of dynamic conversion is that you immediately see the euro amount, but this small convenience usually comes at a high cost.
Travel to Norway with the Wise international debit card
The Wise card lets you spend and withdraw money in Norway at transparent, competitive rates.
Here are its key benefits:
- Mid-market rate: EUR/NOK conversions use the mid-market exchange rate, saving you money compared to banks that add hidden markups.
- No spending fees: Once you’ve converted euros to kroner, you can spend from your NOK balance without any extra charges.
- 2 free withdrawals per month (up to €200): After this limit, a small fee applies (1.75% + €0.50), still much lower than what most French banks charge.
The Wise card is free (excluding delivery) and has no monthly or annual account fees.
This article is a translation of the original article published in French and was translated within 365 days of publication. While the content has been translated for accessibility, the data and sources referenced have not been updated since the original publication date.
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