Before leaving for the United States, it's best to exchange your euros for dollars in Paris: you avoid the markups of airport counters and you arrive with peace of mind, with a little cash in your pocket as soon as you land.
Why exchange your euros before you leave
Exchanging your money once you've arrived is rarely the best option. American airport exchange offices and foreign ATMs often apply high margins and fixed fees per withdrawal. By preparing your currency exchange from Paris, you can compare at your leisure, avoid the stress of departure, and have dollars immediately available on arrival, for example for a taxi, a coffee, or a first tip.
At Paris Change, an exchange office approved by the ACPR (Banque de France), the exchange is carried out commission-free and covers more than 53 currencies, including the US dollar. Before coming in, you can check the euro / dollar rate of the day to estimate the amount you'll receive.
Where to exchange your euros for dollars in Paris
Our shop is located at 4 Boulevard Saint-Michel, 75005 Paris, in the heart of the Latin Quarter. It is directly accessible by metro (Saint-Michel station, line 4) or by RER B and C (Saint-Michel–Notre-Dame). We are open 7 days a week: Monday to Saturday from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm, and Sunday from 10:00 am to 7:30 pm. These hours remain rare for a Parisian exchange office and allow you to get organised even the day before a weekend departure.
To save time, you can reserve your dollars online and then come and collect them in store. This guarantees the availability of the desired amount, especially if you need specific denominations.
How much cash to plan for the United States
In the United States, bank cards are accepted almost everywhere, but cash remains useful in many situations. A reasonable amount of cash saves you from unpleasant surprises, without having to carry large sums. As a guide, many travellers plan to cover:
- tips (restaurants, porters, drivers, hotel staff);
- small shops, food trucks, and markets that sometimes prefer cash;
- occasional transport, taxis, or shuttles;
- a safety reserve in case of a card problem.
Remember to ask for small denominations (1, 5, 10, and 20 dollar bills): they are far more practical than large bills, particularly for tips and certain machines.
Tipping in the United States: an essential custom
The tip is an integral part of American culture and is not considered optional in many contexts. At a restaurant, it is customary to leave a significant portion of the bill for the server, whose pay relies largely on these gratuities. You also tip at the bar, the driver, or hotel staff. Having low-value bills makes these everyday gestures much easier and saves you from having to ask for change.
Card or cash: how to combine the two effectively
The best approach is to combine both means of payment. The card is ideal for the hotel, car rental, large retailers, and major purchases. Cash, on the other hand, covers tips, small purchases, and unexpected expenses. Check with your bank for any fees on payments and withdrawals abroad: they can add up quickly. By exchanging part of your budget into dollars before departure, you limit these fees and stay in control of when you exchange.
Important reminder: our rates are counter rates (buy and sell), indicative and liable to vary each day according to the market. Always check the rate of the day before deciding.
Frequently asked questions
Is it better to exchange your euros in France or in the United States?
In general, it is more advantageous to exchange in France, before departure. Airport counters and foreign ATMs often apply higher fees. At Paris Change, the transaction is carried out commission-free.
Can I reserve my dollars in advance?
Yes. You can reserve your amount in dollars online, then come and collect it at 4 Boulevard Saint-Michel. This is the best way to guarantee availability and obtain small denominations.
What are the opening hours to come and exchange?
We are open 7 days a week: Monday to Saturday from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm and Sunday from 10:00 am to 7:30 pm, right in the heart of the Latin Quarter.
Ready for your trip to the United States? Check the euro / dollar rate of the day, reserve your dollars online, and come and collect them at 4 Boulevard Saint-Michel, a stone's throw from Saint-Michel, commission-free and 7 days a week.
