Exchanging Money
Use these practical phrases to navigate currency exchange bureaus, ask about fees, request specific bills, and compare rates.
Key Phrases
Je peux changer cet argent, s'il vous plaît ?
politeCan I exchange this money, please?
Uses 'pouvoir' (can) instead of the conditional for everyday simplicity.
Tu peux me changer ça ?
casualCan you exchange this for me?
Informal; only use this with friends or people you know very well.
Quel est le taux de change pour le dollar ?
neutralWhat is the exchange rate for the dollar?
A standard way to ask for the rate of any specific currency.
C'est combien pour un euro ?
casualHow much is it for a euro?
A simpler, more conversational way to ask about exchange rates.
Vous prenez des frais ?
politeDo you charge fees?
Uses the 'vous' form, perfect for speaking to staff at an exchange bureau.
Est-ce qu'il y a une commission ?
neutralIs there a commission?
A direct and clear question for any exchange service.
Est-ce que je peux avoir des petits billets ?
neutralCan I have small bills?
Very useful when you need cash for small daily purchases.
Juste des billets de vingt.
casualJust twenty-euro bills.
Short and direct, often used when concluding the transaction.
Le taux est plus intéressant ici.
neutralThe rate is more attractive here.
French speakers often use 'intéressant' (interesting/attractive) for good prices or rates.
Leur taux est moins bien.
casualTheir rate is not as good.
A casual way to say another place has a worse deal.