Money & Currency
Peruvian Sol (PEN)
1 Sol = 100 Céntimos. Coins: 10, 20, 50 Céntimos, 1, 2, 5 Soles. Notes: 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 Soles.
Exchange rate (reference 2025): 1 EUR ≈ 4.0 PEN / 1 PEN ≈ 0.25 EUR
US Dollar or Sol?
Peru is partially dollarized: Hotels, travel agencies, and more expensive restaurants often accept US dollars (sometimes even prefer them). For everyday life, however, you need Soles. Tip: Exchange euros in Lima at the airport or at exchange offices (“Casas de Cambio”) — the rate is fair. In the city, street exchangers (“Cambistas” in safety vests) are often the cheapest option — but only in busy areas and check the notes carefully!
ATMs & Credit Cards
- ATMs (ATM/Cajero): Available in all cities and tourist areas. BCP, BBVA, Interbank, and Scotiabank accept international cards. Maximum withdrawal: usually 400–700 PEN per transaction.
- Fees: Peruvian banks charge 12–25 PEN (3–6€) per withdrawal! BCP and Interbank are the cheapest. Additionally, there are fees from your home bank.
- Credit cards: Visa and Mastercard are accepted in hotels, upscale restaurants, and larger stores. American Express is rare. In local restaurants and markets: cash only!
💡 Tipp
Check EVERY banknote you receive! Counterfeit money (especially 50 and 100 Soles notes) is a problem in Peru. Hold the note up to the light: watermark, security thread, and color changes must be visible. When in doubt: refuse.
Achtung
DO NOT withdraw from ATMs on the street, especially not at night! Use ATMs in shopping centers, hotels, or bank branches. ATM fraud (skimming) occurs — cover the keypad when entering your PIN.
