Cash and ATMs in Spain: when you still need them

Key rules

• Carry some cash: Cards and Bizum work almost everywhere, but markets, kiosks, small bars and rural businesses may only take cash.
• ATM fee screen: The ATM must show its fee before paying out, and you can cancel for free.
• Independent ATMs: Stand-alone ATMs often charge the most, so use your own bank's machines when you can.
• Limits: Your bank sets your daily limit, and the ATM may also cap each withdrawal.

Do you need cash in Spain?

Yes, a little. Cards are accepted in most shops and restaurants, and Bizum is widely used. But carry some cash so you are not stuck.

You will still want cash at:

• street markets and flea markets
• small bars and kiosks
• tips, usually small change
• some private landlords, tradespeople and small rural businesses
• private sales, and in some communities shared costs

Cash matters most outside big cities and in small businesses.

What ATMs charge

Fees depend on the ATM network and the bank, so plan your withdrawals instead of taking small amounts often.

• Your own bank's ATMs: usually the cheapest option.
• Other banks' ATMs: they may charge non-customers, commonly 1 to 2 euros and sometimes several euros.
• Stand-alone independent ATMs: often charge more, around 3 to 5 euros or more.
• Your own bank: it can add its own fee on top, so check your card terms.

The ATM must show its fee on screen before it pays out, and you can cancel at no cost. Read the screen each time. If the fee looks high, cancel and find another machine.

Withdrawal limits

Your bank sets a daily limit. Typical defaults for debit cards are 300 to 600 euros a day. Premium cards may allow more. Credit cards often have a lower or monthly limit. You can usually change the limit in your bank's app or at a branch.

The ATM can also cap each withdrawal, often at 200 to 600 euros, whatever your card limit is. If you need a larger sum, for example a deposit paid in cash, ask your bank in advance and spread withdrawals over several days.

How to plan

1. Take out a larger amount less often, within your limit.
2. Use ATMs run by your own bank where you can.
3. Keep a small stock of coins and notes for markets, kiosks and tips.
4. Check the fee on screen before you confirm.

The questions below cover fees, limits and where cash is needed.

Frequently asked questions

How much does an ATM charge a non-customer in Spain?

Bank ATMs commonly charge non-customers around 1 to 2 euros, sometimes several euros, and independent ATMs often charge around 3 to 5 euros or more. The ATM must show the fee on screen before you withdraw, and you can cancel at no cost. Your own bank can add its fee on top.

What is the daily ATM withdrawal limit on a Spanish card?

Typical daily limits on debit cards are about 300 to 600 euros, set by the bank that issued the card.

Where in Spain do I still need cash?

You still need cash at street markets, small bars and kiosks, and for tips, which are usually small change. Some private landlords, tradespeople and small rural businesses also prefer it. Cards work in most shops and restaurants, so a little cash is enough.