It’s also handy to have a four-digit PIN as this is still the most commonly used in Europe. You’re likely to encounter problems using a chip and signature card, especially when transacting at automated pay points when there is no human to assist. Make sure your debit card is ‘chip and pin’ rather than ‘chip and signature’.
Most machines recognize foreign cards and offer language choices so you don’t have to fumble through working out the instructions in a foreign language! Using your debit card at an ATM machines is a simple matter. However, if you’re anything like me, you probably like to carry some ready cash when heading overseas. This will most likely be the cheapest way to exchange money, as you get the current exchange rate. You can wait until you touch down in Europe to withdraw money from an ATM or exchange money at the airport. How to Get Cash in Europe – ATM Transactions