Currency in Bratislava

What currency is used in Slovakia?

Since 2009 the official currency in Slovakia and therefore also in Bratislava is Euro (€). On January 1, 2009, the Slovak Republic joined the Euro-zone and at the same time adopted the Euro as the official currency.

There are seven denominations of Euro banknotes: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200 and €500, although the 200 and 500 EUR notes are seldom used and especially in smaller shops getting change for an EUR 100 or higher banknote may be difficult. There are also 1 and 2 euro coins. Each Euro is divided into 100 cents and cents come in coins of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50.

What was Slovakia currency before the Euro?

Before the Euro, there was Slovak Koruna (SKK). It remained in circulation only through January 16, 2009 - during this period cash payments were possible both in euro and Slovak korunas. Since January 17, 2009 it is not possible to pay with Slovak crowns anymore. The only "Slovakia money" is the Euro.

Does Slovakia still use Slovak koruna? 

No. It remained in circulation only through January 16, 2009 - during this period cash payments were possible both in Euro and Slovak korunas. Since January 17, 2009 it is not possible to pay with Slovak crowns anymore.

Where to exchange money in Bratislava?

Exchange offices are widely spread; you can find one in any bigger shopping center, bank branch, or even hotels, at travel agencies, post offices, and on the border crossings. Another possibility is to change money directly by an ATM withdrawal. In both cases, you will pay some fee (unless your home bank says elsewise). If you want to avoid paying additional fees issued by banks or exchange offices, you should pay by card as much as possible. However, there can still be some fee issued by your domestic bank. 

We recommend avoiding changing currency at airports or hotels. They often markup the exchange rates and may charge hidden fees. Street transactions are extremely risky

You can check the Official Exchange Rates ECB here: http://www.nbs.sk/en

ATM in Bratislava

ATMs are commonplace in Slovakia, making withdrawing cash simple. Look out for them in shopping centres and supermarkets, and in or near banks.

How can I pay in Bratislava?

In addition to paying in cash, paying by credit or debit card should not be any problem in Slovakia. Moreover, contactless payments are much preferred, especially now in times of Covid-19, which boosted the shift from cash payments to payments made with cards.

Mastercard and Visa payment cards are widely accepted (both signature-based and with PIN-number), Diners Club is widespread, American Express a little less so.

Is Bratislava expensive to visit?

No. As every tourist city, Bratislava is getting more expensive, but in comparison to other European destinations, Slovakia is still cheap. Of course, it depends on the type of accommodation, activities, ways of transportation etc., but in general, you don´t have to be afraid of spending a fortune since the prices in Slovakia are very budget-friendly. It is only necessary to beware of typical tourist traps, for example, when traveling by taxi.