Cash Payments and Handling in France: real experience from chats

However, it's highly recommended to carry smaller denominations (5, 10, 20, 50 EUR) for several reasons: 1. **Minimum Purchase Limits for Card Payments:** Many establishments, especially smaller shops or for basic purchases, have a minimum transaction amount (often €3-€5, sometimes up to €20) for card payments. Without small bills, you might be forced to pay cash or buy more than intended. 2. **Acceptance of Large Bills:** While not strictly illegal, large denominations like €500 notes are rarely encountered in circulation and may not be accepted by merchants due to concerns about counterfeiting and the difficulty of making change. It can be challenging to exchange them. 3. **Practicality:** Small bills are more convenient for everyday expenses, public transport tickets, and smaller purchases, avoiding the need to break large notes. While old series Euro notes are acceptable, new series notes are more common. There is no significant price difference or advantage in using old versus new notes for transactions within the Eurozone.

Instances of incorrect change being given or being overcharged for orders have been reported. It is advisable to always check your receipt and count your change carefully. If you suspect an error or overcharge, assertively request a correction or refund. Understanding the local language can be beneficial in resolving such issues. Some advise being firm with cashiers and vendors to prevent them from attempting to overcharge.

However, for smaller transactions or in situations where change might be an issue (e.g., a €150 bill), it's advisable to use smaller denominations like €50 or €100 notes to avoid inconvenience.

While credit cards are recommended for convenience, cash remains a viable alternative for tourists.