Can I Use Euros In Marrakech

Can I Use Euros In Marrakech? Before visiting Morocco you think about the currency and money exchange, Yes you can use Euros in Marrakech in big hotels, restaurants, and shops, although it is a good idea to carry Moroccan money cash for day to day transactions and away from big cities and touristic areas. Insider tip: Any payments made in Euros would be at a rate that is disadvantageous to you. You need to have an idea for the exchange rate, and it is not always close to what you see online, have a look in the banks and exchange offices. 

Cards are increasingly used in touristic and wealthier areas. All supermarkets take them, even chains of mini superettes such as BIM. Most mid to upmarket restaurants take cards as do most international chains. Larger shops will take them. But 

Can I pay in US Dollars 

Beside euros  U.S. dollars and British sterling are widely accepted,   Australian or New Zealand Dollars are not accepted 

Denominations of the local currency MAD

The local currency is the  Moroccan Dirham (MAD)

Coins are issued in denominations of  ½, 1, 2, 5, and 10 dirhams.

Banknotes are issued in denominations of 20, 50, 100, and 200 banknotes.

The Dirham is officially is a closed currency meaning it can only be traded within Morocco , however, Dirhams are being sold and bought in travel agencies and at major airports in several countries. The import and export of the currency are tolerated up to a limit of 1000DH.

Where to exchange money in morocco

you Can exchange money at the airport once you arrive generally the exchange rate is poor so it is better to change just a small amount, it is possible to change it also in hotels and they have also low exchange rates. The best place to change money is office change (Bureau De Change) they offer the best rates and you can easily find them everywhere.

In Marrakech, there are two exchange offices where I recommend you to go if you are in the old medina look for the Hotel Ali exchange office in the square Jemaa el Fna, if you are in Newtown there is hotel Farouk office exchange not far from the plaza center.

If you’re exchanging your cash, make sure to bring along undamaged banknotes that are common

if you’re bringing cash to exchange upon arrival, make sure that you have clean, crisp, common notes. Don’t take regional banknotes from the UK, for example, as Scottish or Northern Irish notes won’t be recognized. Similarly, if your bills are in anything less than perfect condition, then the exchange service may be reluctant to take them.

Exchange Rates 

 For current exchange rates, check Here 

Credit Cards and Debit Cards in Morocco

Morocco operates largely as a cash-based economy, so don’t expect to use your credit card everywhere. In major cities like Marrakech, you can use credit cards in big malls and shops. However, some restaurants, even if they accept card payments, often require a minimum bill amount, usually more than 100 MAD (around 10 Euros).

You can also use your credit cards at ATMs, but remember to inform your bank before traveling. Unusual activity abroad may prompt your bank to block the card until they confirm it’s you using it. Cards offer a convenient way to pay for goods and services during your travels. You will generally get a better deal if you pay in the local currency. Be cautious of offers to be charged in your home currency through Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC). DCC typically rounds up the exchange rate, costing you more. Therefore, it’s best to select “local currency” when given the option.

Using ATMs

ATMs are the easiest way to get cash and are available throughout big cities. However, in small villages and towns, finding ATMs can be challenging. Keep in mind that during busy times, especially weekends, cash machines may run out of money and stay out of service until they are restocked. Some reliable banks with ATMs include BMCE, Banque Populaire, BMCI, Société Générale, and Attijariwafa Bank. You can find these ATMs in big cities, but be aware that machines in busy areas, like large squares or downtown, may be empty by the end of the day. Don’t wait until you have no cash left to withdraw more.

Tipping & Common Costs

In Morocco, it’s customary to tip guides, drivers, and trekking guides between 100 and 200 dh per day. At larger restaurants, check your bill to see if a service charge has been included. If not, a 10% tip is a nice gesture for good service.

Typical Costs:

• Mint Tea: 5-20 dh | £0.4-1.6 | $0.5-1.9 | €0.47-1.87
  • A visit to Morocco isn’t complete without trying the famous mint tea. Most riads offer tea upon arrival for free. A pot typically costs between 5 and 20 dh.
• One Liter Bottle of Water: 5-10 dh | £0.4-0.8 | $0.5-1 | €0.5-1
  • Avoid drinking tap water as it often causes stomach issues. Stick to bottled water.
• Cup of Coffee: 7-20 dh | £0.6-1.2 | $0.7-1.5 | €0.65-1.4
  • Enjoy a cup of coffee on a terrace, perfect for watching the sunset or daily life in Morocco.
• Can of Coke: 3-7 dh | £0.25-0.55 | $0.3-0.7 | €0.3-0.6
  • A standard soft drink.
• Glass of Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice: 5-20 dh | £0.4-1.6 | $0.5-2 | €0.47-1.9
  • Fresh orange juice is readily available from colorful carts, especially in Jemaa el Fna. Prices vary.
• Pack of Local Cigarettes: 20-35 dh | £1.6 | $2 | €1.87
  • Commonly available.
• Beer: 11-40 dh | £0.9-3.2 | $1.1-4 | €1-3.75
  • Alcohol is available but more easily found in newer parts of town.

Read more in this article Can you drink alcohol in Morocco?

Local snacks 

1-5dh | £0.1-0.4 | $0.1-0.5 | €0.1-0.5

From little carts you’ll find a lovely array of fresh sticky pastries and cakes, whilst small shops sell local crisps and sweets pretty cheaply. For imported goods, always expect to pay considerably more.