I know you can spend whatever amount one chooses, but I was curious as to how much money (U.S. $) I should have converted? We will be in Czech Republic(3 days), Budapest(2 days), and Vienna(2 days). That's three different currencies. I'll have my credit cards, etc. I'm just thinking how much local currency to bring, and no, we aren't big spenders or shoppers. Just your average folks. Thanks again, Johnny

Such a very personal thing really.

I'd be thinking of no more than 100GBP (200USD?) cash equivalent absolute max for a couple of days, just for myself, and would expect to bring some of that back. I have a sandwich or suchlike for lunch, and a meal in 'ordinary' restaurants in the evening (preferably a pub/pivovar/bar). I use public transport (get a 48-hr pass, or similar) and walk a lot. I don't do the shopping thing, but I do do churches/castles/museums etc.

Prague and Budapest are very good value for food, beer and public transport (both are excellent for the latter). Entrance fees seemed reasonable to me too. I can't speak for Austria, but I suspect it is like Germany/UK, so you'll need to spend a bit more there.

Try to avoid changing money twice if you can, because you'll always lose out. Maybe take 200USD cash equivalent in each currency, and use ATMs if you find you need more (I'm assuming you'll pay for inter-country transport and accommodation with your card).

Tell your card provider you'll be abroad (and where)because the increase in fraud has led to cards being stopped much more frequently. Learn the numerical equivalent of your PIN (or change it) if it includes letters (European keypads have numbers only, in my experience).

Vienna - costs in Euro:

Meal 8,00 - 14,00 in "normal" restaurants, cheaper lunch-specials.
Drinks(much more expensive than in USA, and no free refill) for example
Coke 0,25l - 2,30 € in a restaurant, 0,89€ for 0,5l in a supermarket.

Entrance fees:
Museums: 10-20€
zoo: 15€
etc ...

It really depends what u want to see ...
and for example tickets for schönbrunns castle could be bought in advance with creditcard. http://www.schoenbrunn.at/en/

most tourist attractions take credit cards, many restaurants too. but mcdonalds do not for example ;)

Hi,

Honestly, I would advise you not to take any of the local currencies at all. Just bring 100-200 USD in cash as an emergency stash and depend on ATMs and shops/restaurants/hotels accepting credit card payment for all your normal spendings.

The countries you are going to all have a very well developed ATM network.

Regards,
Bart W.

You do need at least a little local currency when you first arrive, imo, unless you are happy to seek out the airport ATM/pay commisssion at an exchange booth. You won't be able to pay for public transport/taxi with a card or USD.