I'm Visiting Copenhagen. Do I Need Cash?

If you are visiting Copenhagen for the first time, you may be wondering if you need cash, or if simply using a credit card is sufficient. The short answer is that Denmark is a largely cashless society, and visitors with a functioning credit or debit card probably do not need to carry cash. Read on for more details!

What currency is used in Denmark? Can I use Euros?

The official currency of Denmark is the Danish Krone (DKK). While Denmark is a member of the European Union, it has an opt-out agreement regarding the Euro, and Euros are not accepted. You may find some touristy souvenir shops in Copenhagen's city center that say they accept Euros, but likely at a very unfavorable exchange rate.

So, I can just use my credit card?

Yes! Most people who live in Copenhagen do not like to carry or use cash. Taxis, restaurants, bars, and even Christmas market stalls will all accept credit card as payment. There are even some situations where cash can be refused-- as an example, during late night hours at convenience stores where vendors are not required to accept cash for security reasons.

What about transaction fees?

While most places will not charge you a transaction fee for using a foreign credit card, some shops are allowed to charge a small fee. Your card's issuer may have fees as well, but you will have to check with your card on what the terms are. Do keep in mind that exchanging your local currency for cash in Danish Kroner will also have fees, and exchanging any leftover Danish Kroner back to your currency will carry another fee. So, accepting that you may have some small credit card transaction fees is ok and a part of travel.

When paying with a credit card, which currency should I pay in?

Using a foreign credit card in Denmark will usually prompt you on the payment terminal if you would like to pay in your card's currency, or in DKK. You should always choose to pay in DKK. When paying in your card's currency, the payment is processed through Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC), which is a service that typically applies a higher exchange rate and sometimes additional fees. Paying in Danish Krone (DKK) ensures the transaction is processed at the actual price from the merchant.

Can I pay with my credit card on my phone?

Absolutely! Apple Pay, Google Wallet and other digital wallets are easily used in Denmark. However, you may see that vendors in Denmark say they accept something called MobilePay, and this is not the same thing.

What is MobilePay, and can I use it?

MobilePay is not the same thing as phone payments like Apple Pay or Google Wallet. It is a Danish app that allows people to send and receive money to individuals and businesses. It is sort of like a local PayPal, or Venmo and is only available to residents of Denmark, Norway, Finland, and Sweden.

Make sure your credit/debit card is setup to work abroad.

Some credit card providers require users to inform the card issuer if the user is traveling abroad before using it in another country as a security measure. It is a good idea to check with your credit card company if your card can be used outside of your home country so you do not have any surprises when you arrive in Copenhagen.

Are there any situations where I need to have cash?

It's not likely, but here are some examples of situations where you may need cash:

• If you visit a local flea market. Larger craft vendors are likely to accept credit card payment, but if it is people selling their personal belongings, or children raising money cash may be your only option.
• In case of power outages or natural disaster. While this is super rare and unlikely, there is always a chance that credit card terminals could go down. If this happens, you are likely not to be alone since many/most people in Copenhagen do not carry cash.

We will note as well that some people just feel more comfortable carrying a small amount of cash when they travel. You should absolutely do what makes you feel comfortable. We do think you will be surprised at how cashless Denmark really is though!

Can I pay with cash for public transportation?

There are not any ticket machines on trains, metro, or buses. You need to purchase tickets at a machine at the station, or on one of the ticketing apps on your phone. 

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We think you will be surprised at how well people in Copenhagen go about their day without carrying cash. Consider sharing this article with others who are visiting Copenhagen soon to help them better plan their trip!