re: Prague/Budapest/Vienna

quote:

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Look into the Chase Sapphire card. You will need cash for the places that don't accept cards, but I wouldn't carry an excess amount. When you use the ATM over there decline the conversion rate the machine gives you.

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^^^This.

The Chase Sapphire card is among the best to use when you travel to earn points that can be used for free travel (just don't carry that HUGE balance! )

There are ATMs everywhere.

People differ on this, but I like a stash of local currency when I first arrive in a country because I've seen ATMs be down, not where I needed it etc. Airports/Train stations have them of course, but I like to hit the ground running with maybe $50-$100 in local currency in my pocket (for drinks, snacks, tips, emergencies etc.). AND not always Euros. Here's why...

Speaking of which, let's talk local currencies. Austria, Czechia (yes that's what you call it now!) and Hungary are EU Countries BUT....

Austria is very "westernized" and using Euros is no problem. Czechia? Not so much. The "Crown" is their local currency. LINK Some hotels, shops and restaurants in Prague may accept Euros, but many only take Crowns. This may become more of an issue outside of touristy areas like Prague. The only official currency in Hungary is the Forint. As in Prague, you may find places that will take Euros, but you may not. Credit cards acceptance is pretty high in all these cities, just pays to have some local coin. But just remember not to get stuck with too much of it left as you leave (but your local bank could still help you exchange it when you got back).

Rick Steves On The Subject!