The reason behind this is purely economic – AmEx charges merchants higher fees per transaction, so smaller businesses choose not to accept them. The cards themselves are issued by a few banks in Europe, but they’re just not popular.
In this post
Can Amex be used in Europe?
Yes, American Express is accepted in Europe but to a limited extent. For cardholders that know where they’ll be traveling, the Amex acceptance map can be a useful tool in determining where an American Express card will be accepted in Europe.
Do most European places accept Amex?
American credit cards work throughout Europe (at hotels, larger shops and restaurants, travel agencies, car-rental agencies, and so on); Visa and MasterCard are the most widely accepted. American Express is less common, and the Discover card is unknown in Europe.
Is Amex accepted in Germany?
Amex is unfortunately not widely accepted in Germany. You will even have trouble paying with a Visa or Mastercard in some places. Most places that cater to tourists (hotels, major sightseeing spots, well known restaurants) will however accept Visa/Mastercard.
Is Amex accepted in Paris?
Carte Bleue (French affiliate of Visa) and MasterCard (aka EuroCard) are the most widely accepted credit cards in France, with JCB and Diners Club also widely accepted. Because of the high commission fees, American Express is usually only accepted in larger stores and expensive restaurants; always ask in advance.
Why is Amex not widely accepted?
Why Isn’t American Express Accepted Everywhere? If you have an American Express card, then you may have visited merchants who accept other credit cards, but not your Amex. The reason has to do with the interchange fees charged by the credit card payment networks such as Visa, Mastercard, Discover and American Express.
What is the best way to pay for things in Europe?
key takeaways. European travelers should always have some cash on hand; getting it from an ATM abroad is usually the easiest, most advantageous way. Credit cards are generally accepted, especially in cities; but check with your card issuer about foreign transaction fees and currency exchange fees.
Why is Amex so popular?
Amex is so popular because it offers high-end credit cards with great rewards and luxury perks, which have become status symbols in popular culture over time.
Does Mcdonalds take Amex?
McDonald’s accepts American Express credit cards. McDonald’s accepts the following credit cards: American Express, Visa, Mastercard, and Discover. Customers can pay with their contactless-enabled Amex by swiping or inserting their card into the reader at the register.
Where Amex is not accepted?
Places Where American Express is Not Accepted: Cuba, Sudan, South Sudan, Iran, Syria. Major Retailers That Accept American Express: Amazon, IKEA, Sears, Target, Walmart, Lowe’s, Apple, Best Buy, Staples, CVS. Major Retailers That Don’t Accept American Express: Costco, small non-chain stores/restaurants.
Can I use Amex in France?
Your Card will work across the globe wherever American Express is accepted, allowing you to make payments and withdraw cash whilst you travel. Just be aware of any additional fees.
Is Amex accepted in Spain?
American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard, and Visa credit cards are all widely accepted in Spain.
Is Amex accepted in Amsterdam?
American Express Cards in the Netherlands
American Express (AMEX) is active in the Dutch card market though as mentioned its cards are not as widely accepted in Europe as Visa or Mastercard. American Express offers charge cards which must be paid off every month.
Does Chanel in Paris accept Amex?
You can use your Amex at Hermes and Chanel, but to my knowledge Capital One is the only card that does not charge foreign transaction fees, so using that instead may work out a bit cheaper and you can get miles too!
Does Chanel accept American Express?
Chanel accepts payment via Credit Cards including MasterCard, American Express, Visa and it also accepts international credit cards from various different countries.
Is Amex widely accepted in London?
Lots more ‘yes’. More and more places are saying ‘yes’ to American Express. Accepted at your favourite brands across the UK.
Why are Amex fees so high?
The main reason why Amex cards are so expensive is that many American Express credit cards offer generous rewards rates and high-end perks, which warrant steep annual fees. Amex cards are targeted toward people with good credit and high incomes who are likely to charge large amounts to their cards every month.
Are American Express worth it?
The bottom line
The American Express® Gold Card is great for some, but a money-losing proposition for others. If you’re a regular traveler who spends a lot on dining and at U.S. supermarkets, you can easily get more value out of this card than you pay in annual fees.
Does Amazon take American Express?
Amazon Pay accepts credit and debit cards. Credit cards currently accepted include Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express, Diners Club, and JCB. The Amazon.com store card is available for use with selected merchants.
Is it better to take euros or use debit card?
Paying with your debit card is almost always cheaper than withdrawing money from it. Within the euro countries, paying with a debit card or credit card is free. Withdrawing money with your debit card in another European Union country does not cost more than it does in your home country.
What credit card is most accepted in Europe?
The most widely accepted credit cards in Europe are Visa and Mastercard credit cards. Visa and Mastercard are the two most widely accepted credit card networks, not just in Europe but worldwide. So, any card on either network will work everywhere you want to use it.