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Should you pay in Danish kroner or your own currency when paying by card in Denmark?

Pick the local currency on the screen.

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Short answer

When you pay by card or use an ATM in a country with another currency, you are often asked to choose between the local currency and your own currency. Paying in your own currency is usually more expensive than paying in the local currency, because the shop or ATM operator charges for handling the conversion. In Denmark this means you should choose Danish kroner (DKK). Under EU rules, the trader or provider must tell you the amount of any conversion fee before you agree to the payment.

Practical info

Why

  1. The conversion is done at the rate chosen by the shop or ATM operator.
  2. Your own bank still adds its own currency surcharge.
  3. The fee must be shown before you confirm.

Details

Your bank may also charge a currency surcharge, and the size depends on the bank and the type of card.

Tip

Read the screen carefully and press the option in DKK before you enter your PIN.

What may differ

The exact cost depends on your bank, your card and the amount you pay.

Common misconception

Many think paying in their own currency is safer because they see the exact price.

What actually happens

You see the price, but you usually pay more for it than if you choose kroner.

People also ask

  • Can shops in Denmark charge a fee for card payments?
  • Which credit cards are accepted in Denmark?
  • Where can you exchange money in Copenhagen?

Sources

This answer is for reference only. Payment rules, limits and fees change, so check the official sources or your bank before you pay.

Practical info
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