Cash in Europe

At this point, the U$ blows compared to the euro. That translates to you getting screwed if you have to use euros. Add on the fees for converting money and the cash you get just isn’t worth what you think. For sheer value, I preferred using my credit card (though most places didn’t take amex so I had to use the inferior visa card).

If you need cash, then look into getting currency for that country (crowns in Prague and florints in Budapest). These two places used both forms of currency, so you could get slightly more for your U$. Vienna only had euros so we got screwed there.

Cash is also risky in areas with pick pockets. There were definitely areas in Prague and Budapest that make you hold on to your wallet tighter. I guess that’s just common sense.