Banks & Money
The currency of Thailand is the Thai Baht (THB / ฿). Current rate (as of 2026): approx. 1 € ≈ 37–39 Baht.
ATMs
ATMs are available in Thailand on every corner — in 7-Elevens, in front of banks, in shopping malls, at gas stations. They accept all common international cards (Visa, Mastercard, Maestro).
WARNING: Fees! All Thai banks charge a fee of 220 Baht (approx. €6) per ATM withdrawal — this is unavoidable and in addition to your home bank's fees. Strategies:
- Withdraw the maximum amount (usually 20,000–30,000 Baht) to minimize the fee per Baht
- Use a travel credit card without foreign fees (DKB, Comdirect, N26, Wise) — this saves you the foreign currency fee from your home bank
- Always decline the "Dynamic Currency Conversion" at the ATM! If the machine asks if it should convert to euros: choose NO. The ATM rate is always worse than your bank's rate.
Currency Exchange
Exchange offices often offer better rates than banks. The best rates are available at:
- SuperRich (Bangkok) — green and orange logo, the best rates in the city. Branches at BTS Chit Lom and Suvarnabhumi Airport (B level, not upstairs in the arrivals area!)
- Airport: The rate at the arrival gate is poor — exchange only the necessary amount (500–1,000 Baht for the taxi/transfer) and go to an exchange office in the city later
Card Payment
In Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and tourist areas, hotels, restaurants, and larger stores accept credit and debit cards. But: Thailand is still a cash society. Street food, markets, tuk-tuks, small restaurants, taxis, and many smaller hotels accept cash only. Always have at least 2,000–3,000 Baht in small bills with you.
💡 Tipp
The Wise card (formerly TransferWise) is currently the best option for Thailand: Real exchange rates without markup, no foreign currency fees, and you can load Baht at a favorable rate in advance. The 220 Baht ATM fee still applies — but you save on all other fees.