With its diverse cultures, iconic landmarks, and rich history, Europe is a dream destination for many Indian travellers. With multiple countries and currencies under the Eurozone, the Euro (€) is the most widely used currency, making it essential for Indian travellers to have a convenient and cost-effective way to manage their expenses abroad.

Forex cards have emerged as a clear winner when managing money overseas over traditional options like cash, credit, or debit cards. A forex card offers competitive exchange rates, zero currency conversion fees, safety against currency fluctuations, and wide acceptability. Unlike credit or debit cards, forex cards are pre-loaded with foreign currency, ensuring controlled spending and eliminating high international transaction fees.

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In this blog, we’ve curated a list of the best forex cards for Europe, considering factors such as exchange rates, ease of use, security, and special benefits. Whether heading to Paris, Rome, Zurich, or Amsterdam, this guide will help you choose the most suitable Forex card to ensure a smooth and hassle-free trip.

Which forex card is best for Europe?

Here are the top 6 forex cards every Indian should consider for their European travel:

• AtlysX Multi-Currency Card

• Orient Exchange Forex Card

• Niyo Global Card

• BookMyForex Forex Card

• Thomas Cook Borderless Prepaid Card

• HDFC Multicurrency Platinum ForexPlus Card

AtlysX Multi-Currency Card

The  AtlysX Multi-Currency Card is a versatile and user-friendly forex card that supports up to 14 major currencies, including EUR, making it an excellent choice for frequent international travellers. This card has no issuance fee, allowing you to enjoy its benefits without any upfront cost. It offers zero markup on the first load, enabling you to add funds at real-time exchange rates without hidden charges. Additionally, there are no base currency fees, so you can spend in the local currency of your destination without incurring extra costs. The card can be reloaded anytime, even during your trip, through the Atlys app for seamless access to funds. Its long validity ensures you can use it for multiple trips over several years without needing a replacement. As India’s only digital-first forex card, it eliminates the need for physical documents or branch visits, providing a hassle-free, modern travel money solution.

• Issuance Fee: Free (exclusive for Atlys customers)

• ATM Withdrawal Charges: USD 3 per transaction

• Supported Currencies: EUR GBP, HKD, JPY, NZD, AUD, CADand more

• Markup Fees: No fees (on the first load)

• Exchange Rates: Real-time exchange rates

• Validity: 5 years

• Maintenance Fee: No maintenance charges

Orient Exchange Forex Card

The Orient Exchange Forex Card is a prepaid travel card designed to provide Indian travellers with a seamless and cost-effective way to manage expenses abroad. Allowing users to load multiple foreign currencies at interbank rates with zero markup fees ensures that travellers can make purchases and withdraw cash without worrying about unfavourable exchange rates or hidden charges. 

• Number of Currencies Supported: Up to 14 major currencies, including EUR, GBP, USD, and more.

• Cash Withdrawals from ATMs: International ATM withdrawals are subject to minimal charges, ensuring access to cash when needed.

• Maximum Daily Limit: Limits are determined based on the amount loaded and are subject to local ATM operator restrictions.

• Markup Fee: Zero forex markup on supported currencies, providing cost savings on international transactions.

• Application Fee: No issuance charges, making it economical to obtain the card.

• Reload Fee: Free reloads at interbank rates, allowing for conveniently adding funds as needed.
  ATM Withdrawal Fee: Minimal charges apply for international ATM withdrawals, ensuring cost-effective access to cash.

• Exchange Rate: Funds are loaded at competitive interbank rates with zero exchange margin, protecting against rate fluctuations.

• Customer Support: Dedicated customer support is available to assist with any queries or issues during travel. 

Niyo Global Card

The Niyo Global Card is a prepaid travel card that simplifies international transactions for Indian travellers. It allows you to load funds in Indian rupees (INR) and spend them in multiple foreign currencies, including euros (EUR), without additional conversion fees. This feature makes it an ideal companion for your European adventures.

• No. of Currencies Supported: 130+ currencies, including EUR

• Cash Withdrawals from ATMs: ₹110 + GST per transaction internationally

• Max. Daily Limit: ₹7.5 lakh for POS and online transactions (ATM limits depend on the local bank or ATM operator)

• Markup Fee: Zero forex markup on supported currencies

• Application Fee: None (free issuance)

• Reload Fee: Free

• ATM Withdrawal Fee: ₹110 + GST per transaction internationally

• Exchange Rate: Competitive Visa exchange rates, no hidden charges

• Customer Support: 24/7 in-app live chat support and emergency assistance

BookMyForex Forex Card

The BookMyForex Multi-Currency Forex Card is a prepaid travel card designed to simplify international transactions for Indian travellers. It allows users to load up to 14 currencies, including USD, EUR, GBP, and more, facilitating seamless spending across over 150 countries. 

• Number of Currencies Supported: Load up to 14 different currencies, including USD, EUR, GBP, AUD, CAD, SGD, AED, and more, enabling seamless transactions across multiple countries.

• Cash Withdrawals from ATMs: Access cash at ATMs worldwide; fees may apply depending on the ATM operator.

• Maximum Daily Limit: Daily transaction limits are subject to the card issuer's policies; please refer to the official website for specific details.

• Markup Fee: Zero markup on interbank rates, ensuring cost-effective transactions without hidden charges.

• Application Fee: No issuance fee; the card is available without any upfront cost.

• Reload Fee: No charges for reloading the card, allowing for conveniently adding funds as

• ATM Withdrawal Fee: While the card itself may not charge ATM withdrawal fees, some foreign banks and ATMs may impose additional charges for cash withdrawals.

• Exchange Rate: Funds are loaded at exact interbank rates with no markups, providing competitive exchange rates and protecting against currency fluctuations.

• Customer Support: 24/7 customer support is available to assist with any queries or issues during travel. 
  

Thomas Cook Borderless Prepaid Card

The Thomas Cook Borderless Prepaid Card is perfect for frequent travellers who want the convenience of carrying multiple currencies on a single card. Its advanced security features and user-friendly interface make it a preferred choice.

• No. of Currencies Supported: 9 currencies, including EUR, GBP, and CHF

• Cash Withdrawals from ATMs: Fixed fees for international withdrawals

• Max. Daily Limit: Depends on the loaded amount and ATM operator limits

• Markup Fee: Zero forex markup on supported currencies

• Application Fee: ₹150 + GST

• Reload Fee: ₹100 + GST

• ATM Withdrawal Fee: $2 per withdrawal internationally

• Exchange Rate: Fixed at the time of loading

• Customer Support: 24/7 helpline and email assistance

HDFC Multicurrency Platinum ForexPlus Card

The HDFC Multicurrency Platinum ForexPlus Card is one of the most popular choices among Indian travellers due to its wide currency support and exceptional features. This card offers enhanced security with EMV chips and PIN protection, making it a safe option for your European journey.

• Currencies Supported: 22 currencies, including EUR, USD and GBP, for seamless multi-country use.

• ATM Withdrawals: Available worldwide; fees vary (e.g., USD 2 for USD, EUR 1.50 for EUR).

• Daily Limit: Up to USD 5,000 (currency-specific limits apply).

• Markup Fee: None for loaded currencies; 2% for unsupported currencies.

• Application Fee: ₹500 + GST; waived on loading USD 1,000 or equivalent.

• Reload Fee: ₹75 + GST per reload.

• Exchange Rate: Locked at loading to avoid fluctuations.

• Customer Support: 24/7 global assistance for emergencies and inquiries.
  

How to Choose the Best Forex Card for Europe?

Selecting the right Forex card for your European travels ensures a hassle-free experience. Here's a guide to help you make the best choice:

• Currency Support: Ensure the card supports essential currencies like the euro (EUR), British pound (GBP), and Swiss franc (CHF) if visiting non-Eurozone countries. Multi-currency cards are ideal for multiple destinations.

• Markup Fees: Opt for cards with zero forex markup fees for loaded currencies, avoiding extra costs on international transactions.

• ATM Withdrawal Charges: Compare ATM fees; some cards charge flat rates while others depend on the operator.

• Daily Limits: Check the daily transaction and withdrawal limits, ensuring they meet your spending needs.

• Exchange Rates: Choose cards offering competitive or locked exchange rates to safeguard against currency fluctuations.

• Ease of Reloading: Look for cards with instant reload options via apps or online portals.

• Customer Support: Prefer cards with 24/7 support for assistance during emergencies.

• Additional Benefits: Cards offering perks like travel insurance, rewards, or no issuance fees can add significant value.

What are the Benefits of Using a Forex Card in Europe?

There are many benefits of using a Forex card on your vacation, and some of them are given below: 

• Cost-Effective Transactions: Competitive exchange rates and zero currency conversion fees save money on purchases.

• Wide Acceptability: Accepted at most ATMs, POS terminals, and online platforms across Europe.

• Secure Payments: Chip and PIN protection ensures safe transactions, reducing the risk of fraud.

• Ease of Budgeting: Preloaded with specific amounts, enabling controlled spending.

• Currency Flexibility: Multi-currency support allows seamless transactions in different countries.

• Convenience: Reloadable and manageable online, offering round-the-clock accessibility to funds.

• Travel Insurance: Some cards include complimentary coverage for lost baggage or card misuse.

Conclusion: 

The AtlysX Multi-Currency Card is the best forex card for Europe due to its exceptional benefits, like no issuance fees, zero markup on the first load, and real-time exchange rates. Its user-friendly app-based management and reload options make it ideal for frequent travellers seeking convenience and flexibility. While other cards like the Niyo Global Card and Orient Exchange Forex Card offer competitive features, the AtlysX Card combines cost-efficiency, ease of use, and robust functionality, making it the top choice for Indian travellers heading to Europe.