Currency Calculator Euro guide
Currency Calculator Euro: Convert Euros to Pounds and Back
Use our euro currency calculator to convert euros to pounds or pounds to euros at today's reference rate, and see how much card and bureau fees really cost.
By the AllCalculator editorial teamUpdated 15 October 20263 min read
Whether you're planning a trip to Spain, paying a French invoice or comparing prices online, you'll want to know what euros are worth in pounds. The answer changes every day, and the rate you see on the news is rarely the rate you actually get.
Our Currency Calculator Euro converts euros to pounds or pounds to euros at today's reference rate, and shows the effect of any fees. For US dollars, use our USD to British Pound Calculator.
Where the exchange rate comes from
The calculator fills in the European Central Bank's reference rate for the euro against the pound. It's published every working day at around 4pm Central European Time and is widely used as a fair, independent benchmark. You can always type in a different rate, for example the one quoted by your bank or bureau.
Why you get less than the reference rate
The reference rate is a mid-market rate, halfway between the price to buy and the price to sell. Most providers add a margin on top:
- Bureaux de change and airports often build in a margin of several percent, with the worst rates usually at airports.
- Debit and credit cards may charge a foreign transaction fee, often around 3%, unless you use a card designed for travel.
- Travel money cards and specialist apps usually come closest to the reference rate.
Use the fee box to see what a fee or margin costs you. A 3% fee on €500 of spending is around £13 at typical rates.
How to use the calculator (Currency Calculator Euro)
- Enter the amount.
- Choose the direction: euros to pounds, or pounds to euros.
- Check the exchange rate, which fills in automatically. Type your own if you prefer.
- Add any fee as a percentage.
You'll see the converted amount, the rate both ways and a table of quick conversions for common amounts.
A worked example
Say the reference rate is £0.86 per €1:
- €100 in pounds: 100 × 0.86 = £86.00
- £100 in euros: 100 ÷ 0.86 = €116.28
- With a 3% card fee, €100 of spending costs you about 86 × 1.03 = £88.58
The calculator uses the latest reference rate, so your figures will differ from this example.
Tips for getting more euros
- Avoid changing money at the airport. Order travel money online in advance, or use a travel-friendly card.
- Always pay in euros when abroad. If a card machine or cash machine offers to charge you in pounds, say no. This is called dynamic currency conversion, and the rate is usually poor.
- Check your card's fees before you travel. Some charge a fee every time you pay or take out cash.
- Compare the rate you're offered against the reference rate. The closer it is, the better the deal.
Planning a trip? Our Fuel Cost Calculator works out the cost of a drive, and our Jet Lag Calculator helps with longer journeys.
Frequently asked questions
How do I convert euros to pounds?
Multiply the number of euros by the exchange rate in pounds per euro. At £0.86 per euro, €50 is 50 × 0.86 = £43.
How do I convert pounds to euros?
Divide the number of pounds by the rate in pounds per euro, or multiply by the rate in euros per pound. At £0.86 per euro, £50 is 50 ÷ 0.86 = €58.14.
Why is the rate at the airport so different?
Bureaux at airports know travellers have few alternatives, so they usually add a bigger margin. You'll normally get more euros by ordering online in advance or using a fee-free card.
Is the euro rate the same every day?
No. Exchange rates move constantly. The reference rate is updated once each working day, so the calculator shows the latest one.
Knowing the real rate makes it easier to spot a good deal. Check today's rate with the Currency Calculator Euro before you change money or pay abroad.
Sources and further reading
- European Central Bank: Euro foreign exchange reference ratesecb.europa.eu
- MoneyHelper: Getting the best deal on travel moneymoneyhelper.org.uk
- Bank of England: Exchange ratesbankofengland.co.uk
Links open official and independent websites in a new tab.
This guide is general information to help you understand your options. It isn't financial, tax, legal or building advice and doesn't take your personal circumstances into account. Figures were checked when the guide was last updated and can change, so confirm anything important with GOV.UK, HMRC, a regulated adviser or a qualified tradesperson.