Where to exchange money in Cologne

Are you heading to Cologne? You will want to ensure you are aware of the local currency and how to obtain it. In addition, you may want to keep track of the current exchange rates and where to change your money to the local currency without getting ripped off.

We will give you a list of the best currency exchanges in Cologne that you can visit in person.

There is also a digital alternative to consider by using Wise. This could save you both time and money.

Where to exchange money in Cologne

Are you heading to Cologne? You will want to ensure you are aware of the local currency and how to obtain it. In addition, you may want to keep track of the current exchange rates and where to change your money to the local currency without getting ripped off.

We will give you a list of the best currency exchanges in Cologne that you can visit in person.

There is also a digital alternative to consider by using Wise. This could save you both time and money.

Wise

Spend abroad without hidden fees

Currency exchanges in Cologne

We are aware that there can be times when you need to have some local currency on hand, so avoiding currency exchanges altogether isn't always possible. We have provided a list of currency exchanges you can find in Cologne below.

Don't forget to refresh yourself on the advice in this article to help get the most out of your cash whilst abroad.

Money ChangerAddressContact Information
Western Union, Geldwechsel, Goldankauf, Goldverkauf, Ucambio Exchange & Money Transfer GmbHFrankfurter Str. 40, 51065 Köln, Germany+49 221 6160602
Western Union, Geldwechsel, Gold, Ucambio Exchange & Money Transfer GmbHVenloer Str. 298, 50823 Köln, Germany+49 221 5716625
Ria Money Transfer & Currency ExchangeHohe Str. 142, 50667 Köln, Germany+49 221 92232830
MoneyGramAn den Dominikanern 3, 50668 Köln, Germany+49 221 13084567
Ucambio Exchange & Money Transfer GmbHMailänder Passage 1, 50765 Köln, Germany+49 221 70995266
Reisebank AGHauptbahnhof, Trankgasse 11, 50667 Köln, Germany+49 221 134403
Ria Money Transfer & Currency ExchangeRia Deutschiand GmbH - Köln, Eigelstein 46, 50668 Köln, Germany+49 221 12061017
Money Exchange Deutschland GmbHGroße Budengasse 7, 50667 Köln, Germany
MoneyGramGürzenichstraße 6-16, 50667 Köln, Germany+49 800 4886600
MoneyGramJOSEF-HAUBRICH-HOF 5, 50676 Köln, Germany+49 221 34892090
Western UnionTrankgasse 11, 50667 Köln, Germany+49 221 134403
TravelexTerminal 1C, 51147 Köln, Germany
Ria GeldtransferHohenstaufenring 5, 50674 Köln, Germany+49 221 4204796

Notice anything wrong with our results table? Let us know - If there is a genuine mistake, we will do our best to resolve it.

Euro rate today

First off, in case you’re wondering something along the lines of “does Germany use Euro?”, the answer is yes. The currency in Cologne — and the rest of Germany— is Euro

You can also find it written as EUR in currency exchange shops.


What you should know about exchanging money in Cologne

When exchanging money in Cologne or any foreign city, it's important to be aware how to get the best deals and avoid excessive charges and hidden fees. If you are planning on staying in Germany long-term or looking to make a larger investment you could consider opening a local bank account. Otherwise, use the tips below to help avoid getting overcharged.

1. Pick local currency on ATMs and card payments
When using an ATM abroad, choose to be charged in Euros for a fairer rate and fees. The same applies if you get the option on card machines.

2. Know the exchange rate
Check what the current exchange rate is so it's easier to spot a bad deal from currency exchanges.

3. Avoid exchanging money at airports or hotels
It may be highly convenient, but airports and hotels will almost always offer poor rates and high transaction fees. Avoid this where possible.

4. Use ATMs strategically
Check if your local bank has partnerships in Germany banks to avoid unwanted ATM fees. Also try to plan ahead and make as few withdrawals as possible to avoid multiple extra fees.

5. Be wary of 'zero fee' services
Some services claiming 'no commission' often offer poor exchange rates. These may not reflect the mid-market rate, similar to what you'd see when checking the rate on Google. This can lead to higher costs for you and more profits for them.

Currency exchange bureau who?

Forget all about walking around the city in search for fair exchange rates for a low fee.

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Bottom line

As you can see, there are plenty of options for exchanging money in Cologne. Remember to do your research on the exchange rate and get the most out of your trip. For a fuss-free alternative to exchanging cash, check out Wise.

Please see terms of use and product availability for your region or visit Wise fees and pricing for the most up to date pricing and fee information.
This publication is provided for general information purposes and does not constitute legal, tax or other professional advice from Wise Payments Limited or its subsidiaries and its affiliates, and it is not intended as a substitute for obtaining advice from a financial advisor or any other professional.
We make no representations, warranties or guarantees, whether expressed or implied, that the content in the publication is accurate, complete or up to date.