Get ready to embark on the European adventure of a lifetime! When traveling through Europe, having the right credit card in your wallet can make a world of difference. Not only can the right card help you save on foreign transaction fees, but it can also provide you with great rewards and perks that will enhance your travel experience. We've done the research and compiled a list of the best credit cards for Europe travel. Keep reading to discover which card best suits your needs and how to maximize its benefits during your European escapade.
Best Credit Cards For Europe Travel Table of Contents
1. Chase Sapphire Preferred Card
1. Chase Sapphire Preferred Card
The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is an excellent choice for travelers, with no foreign transaction fees and a wide range of travel-related benefits. It offers:
- 2x points on travel and dining worldwide
- 1x point on all other purchases
- 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months
Plus, points can be transferred to participating airline and hotel partners, such as United, Southwest, and Marriott, which makes this card extremely flexible for redeeming rewards.
2. American Express Platinum Card
Another great option for travelers is the American Express Platinum Card. While it does have a steep annual fee of $695, it provides many luxurious travel perks, such as:
- Access to over 1,200 airport lounges worldwide
- Up to $200 of annual airline fee credits
- Global Entry or TSA PreCheck fee reimbursement
- 5x points on flights booked directly with airlines or through Amex Travel
With its unmatched travel benefits and rewards, this card is a must-have for frequent jet setters.
3. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is an excellent option for those seeking simplicity and value. With no foreign transaction fees and a generous reward structure, this card is perfect for European travelers:
- 2x miles per dollar spent on all purchases
- 60,000 bonus miles after spending $3,000 in the first 3 months
- Up to $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck fees
Furthermore, miles can be redeemed for travel expenses, either through the Capital One travel portal or as a statement credit.
Choosing The Right Card For You
When selecting the perfect card for your European travel needs, consider your spending habits, travel goals, and whether or not you're willing to pay an annual fee. Remember, the right card can greatly enhance your European experience, from saving on foreign transaction fees to scoring airport lounge access and more.
Best Credit Cards For Europe Travel Example:
Sarah is planning a two-week vacation to Europe and is considering applying for a travel credit card to maximize her rewards and save on foreign transaction fees. After reviewing the options, she decides on the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card, as it offers double points on her primary spending categories - travel and dining - and has a reasonable annual fee of $95.
During her trip, Sarah spends $3,000 on hotel accommodations, flights, and sightseeing, earning 6,000 points. She also spends $1,500 on dining, racking up an additional 3,000 points. As a result, she earns a total of 9,000 points from her vacation spending and will have enough points to redeem for a future getaway, courtesy of her Chase Sapphire Preferred Card.
Now that you're well-informed about the best credit cards for Europe travel, it's time to make a decision and start earning valuable rewards. As you embark on your European adventure, ensure you're swiping the right card to save on fees and maximize your benefits. Once you've returned from your trip, don't forget to share your experiences with your fellow Flik Eco readers in the comments section and explore our other guides on personal finance, investing, and more. Safe travels!
