Currency exchange in Warsaw: What you should know
[Image by AS Photography from Pixabay] Although Poland joined the European Union more than twenty years ago, the country has kept its own currency. The Polish złoty (PLN) is still used nationwide, and there is currently no indication that Poland will adopt the euro in the near future.
Visitors occasionally encounter tourist destinations where euros are accepted, especially in some holiday resorts. In Warsaw, however, this is very uncommon. In fact, I know only a small souvenir shop in the Old Town that accepts euro coins directly.
For most travelers, there are two practical ways to pay in Poland. The easiest option is using a debit or credit card, as card payments are accepted almost everywhere. The second option is exchanging cash at a currency exchange office, known locally as a kantor. If you choose this route, understanding how exchange rates work can save you a surprising amount of money.
Understanding Exchange Rates
Every currency exchange office operates with two different rates for each currency. One rate applies when the kantor purchases a currency, while the other applies when it sells that currency.
If you arrive in Poland with euros and want Polish złoty, you are effectively giving your euros to the exchange office and receiving złoty in return. From the kantor’s point of view, they are:
- Buying your euros
- Selling you Polish złoty
This distinction is important because exchange rate boards usually display separate columns for buying and selling rates.
Exchange office in Poland
A Common Tourist Mistake
Many visitors look at the large numbers displayed in the shop window without understanding what they represent. Some exchange offices prominently advertise the euro sell rate because it appears more attractive. Unfortunately, that is not the rate relevant to someone exchanging euros for złoty.
The rate that matters to you is the one at which the kantor buys euros. If you focus only on the eye-catching figures in the window, you may end up receiving significantly fewer złoty than expected.
Before You Hand Over Your Money
Take a moment to examine the complete exchange-rate table. Do not feel pressured by queues, sales pitches, or a cashier eager to complete the transaction quickly.
Before agreeing to the exchange, locate the EUR buy rate and calculate roughly how many złoty you should receive. Once the transaction has been completed and entered into the system, disputing the exchange can be difficult.
A few seconds of checking can prevent an unpleasant surprise.
Choosing a Reliable Kantor
Fortunately, the majority of currency exchange offices operate honestly. Good kantors display all rates clearly, explain the transaction if necessary, and show you exactly how much money you will receive before the exchange is finalized.
If the rates are transparent and the staff are willing to answer questions, you are probably in the right place. If information is hidden, unclear, or confusing, it is often better to walk away and find another kantor nearby.
In Warsaw, there is no shortage of reputable exchange offices—so there is no reason to settle for a questionable one.
