The Best Credit Cards for Traveling
We’ve divided the 15 best travel credit cards in Europe into three distinct classes to help you choose the perfect fit for your lifestyle and travel habits. Whether you’re an occasional explorer or a seasoned jet-setter, each category is designed to match different spending needs and reward expectations. The Jetset Essentials class features accessible, low-fee cards with practical travel benefits ideal for casual travelers. Globetrotter Plus includes mid-tier cards offering a strong balance of perks, such as lounge access, travel rewards, and solid insurance coverage. For frequent flyers and luxury seekers, the Elite Voyager class delivers premium experiences with top-tier benefits like global concierge, elite travel insurance, and high rewards rates. No matter your travel style, these categories make it easier to compare and find the best card for your next journey.
| Card (Bank) | Benefits | Monthly Fee | Rating | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Curve X / Black / Metal Curve |
1% cashback (Metal) | £0–£14.99 | 4.6/5 | Visit Curve |
| Revolut Ultra / Metal Revolut Bank |
Cashback & lounge access | £0–£55 | 4.5/5 | Visit Revolut |
| bunq Easy Travel Card bunq |
Fee-free payments abroad | €0–€2.99 | 4.3/5 | Visit bunq |
| Wise Multi‑currency Debit Wise (formerly TransferWise) |
No FX markup, multi‑currency | £0 | 4.4/5 | Visit Wise |
| N26 You / Metal N26 Bank |
Insurance + travel perks | €4.90–€16.90 | 4.4/5 | Visit N26 |
| Monzo Premium Monzo Bank |
Travel Insurance + LoungeKey | £15 | 4.5/5 | Visit Monzo |
| Starling Euro Travel Card Starling Bank |
No fees abroad | £0 | 4.7/5 | Visit Starling |
| Barclaycard Rewards Barclaycard (UK) |
No FX fee + cashback | £0 | 4.3/5 | Visit Barclaycard |
| Santander World Elite MC Santander |
LoungeKey + Cashback | £15 | 4.2/5 | Visit Santander |
| CaixaBank Travel Cards CaixaBank |
No FX fees abroad | €0–€3 | 4.1/5 | Visit CaixaBank |
| Bank Norwegian Visa Bank Norwegian |
No FX fees + Points | €0 | 4.0/5 | Visit Bank Norwegian |
| Fineco Credit/Debit FinecoBank |
Multi-currency card | €0–€2.95 | 4.2/5 | Visit FinecoBank |
| Hello Prime Hello bank! (BNP Paribas) |
Travel insurance | €5 | 4.1/5 | Visit Hello bank! |
| Monese Premium Monese |
No fees + Insurance | £14.95 | 4.2/5 | Visit Monese |
| Zopa Travel Card Zopa Bank |
0% FX fee + cashback | £0 | 4.3/5 | Visit Zopa |
The List of Travel Cards by Tie
Elite Voyager Travel Credit Cards
Elite Voyager cards cater to frequent flyers and luxury seekers who want the best travel experience possible. These premium cards come with high annual fees but justify the cost with top-tier benefits such as worldwide airport lounge access, concierge services, elite hotel status, premium travel insurance, and generous reward structures. They’re best suited for those who travel often and value convenience, comfort, and exclusive perks.
Black Card / Metal Card
Curve X
- Online Application: Yes, fully online in supported countries
- Opening Time: Typically approved within 1–3 business days
- Card Delivery: Physical metal card arrives in 7–10 business days
- Card Network: Mastercard (premium tier)
- ATM Fees: Around 3% per withdrawal (varies by issuer and location)
- Limits: High credit limits, often starting from $10,000 depending on credit score
- Main Currencies: Primarily USD, but usable globally with FX conversion
- ✅ Instant virtual card upon signup
- ✅ No FX fees up to €1,000/month
- ✅ Combines all your cards into one
- ✅ Intuitive mobile app and controls
- ❌ Limited ATM withdrawals, fees after €200/month
- ❌ No independent credit line – needs linked card
- ❌ No luxury travel perks or lounge access
Ultra / Metal
Revolut
- Online Application: Yes, fully online via the Revolut app (available in most EEA countries, UK, USA, etc.)
- Opening Time: Typically approved within minutes; full features activated after identity verification
- Card Delivery: Premium metal card delivered in 3–7 business days
- Card Network: Mastercard or Visa (varies by region)
- ATM Fees: Free up to €2,000/month, then approx. 2% fee
- Limits: Very high limits on spending and ATM withdrawals (varies by user and region)
- Main Currencies: 25+ currencies supported for holding, spending, and converting (EUR, USD, GBP, CHF, PLN, etc.)
- ✅ Top-tier perks: lounge access, travel insurance, cashback
- ✅ Up to €2,000 ATM withdrawal/month free
- ✅ Premium concierge & subscriptions (e.g. Financial Times, NordVPN)
- ✅ Metal card design with elite branding
- ❌ Monthly fee (~€15)
- ❌ Limited travel perks compared to Ultra
- ❌ No full insurance for all travel needs
- ❌ Cashback minimal outside Europe
Easy Travel Card
bunq
- Online Application: Yes, fully online via the bunq app (available in the EU/EEA)
- Opening Time: Instant account creation after identity verification
- Card Delivery: Physical card arrives in 5–10 business days (depending on location)
- Card Network: Mastercard (credit-like behavior, but technically prepaid)
- ATM Fees: €0.99 per withdrawal (plus possible local ATM surcharges)
- Limits: Daily and monthly spending limits, customizable in app; generally €500–€2,500/day
- Main Currencies: EUR account, but usable worldwide with Mastercard FX rates
- ✅ No monthly fees or subscription required
- ✅ Accepted like a credit card for car rentals, hotels, etc.
- ✅ Strong security features and control via the app
- ✅ Great for travelers wanting no credit check or overdraft risk
- ❌ Not a true credit card – no borrowing or credit line
- ❌ EUR-only account; no multi-currency holding
- ❌ ATM withdrawals not free
- ❌ Limited support outside EEA countries
Multi‑currency Debit
Wise
- Online Application: Yes – fully online via the Wise app or website
- Opening Time: Instant account creation after ID verification
- Card Delivery: Physical card arrives in 5–10 business days; virtual card available immediately
- Card Network: Mastercard (some regions may offer Visa)
- ATM Fees: 2 free ATM withdrawals/month up to $100; then 1.5 USD + 2% fee
- Limits: ATM withdrawal limits up to $250/day by default, expandable via app
- Main Currencies: 50+ currencies supported; hold, convert, and spend globally
- ✅ Mid‑market FX rates with low, transparent fees
- ✅ No foreign transaction fees when using balance in local currency
- ✅ Instant virtual card for secure online payments
- ✅ Supports 50+ currencies with multi‑currency account features
- ❌ Only two free ATM withdrawals/month; additional ones incur fees
- ❌ No credit line – debit only
- ❌ ATM operator fees may still apply
- ❌ FX conversion fees vary depending on currency and amount
You Card / Metal Card
N26
- Online Application: Yes, entirely online via the N26 app (available in most of Europe and select international markets)
- Opening Time: Account setup and digital card access in a few minutes; physical card arrives after verification
- Card Delivery: Physical metal card typically delivered within 5–9 business days
- Card Network: Mastercard
- ATM Fees: Free ATM withdrawals worldwide (up to 5/month in Eurozone; fixed fee applies outside)
- Limits: Daily spending and withdrawal limits customizable in-app; default ranges around €2,500/day
- Main Currencies: Euro account; no multi-currency balance, but excellent FX rates for non-EUR spending
- ✅ Premium metal card with stylish design and enhanced build
- ✅ Free ATM withdrawals in the Eurozone and low fixed fee globally
- ✅ Includes travel insurance (medical, luggage, etc.) and phone insurance
- ✅ Real-time app controls (spending limits, instant locking) and strong security
- ❌ Monthly fee of €16.90
- ❌ Only one currency (EUR) balance—incurs FX fees when spending abroad
- ❌ Insurance benefits may not match full standalone policies
- ❌ Some travel perks restricted depending on country or residency
Elite Voyager Comparison Table
| Bank | Online Application | Delivery Time | Card Network | ATM Fees | Main Currencies |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Curve X | Yes | 5–7 days | Mastercard | Free up to limit, then ~2% | GBP, EUR, USD + FX |
| Revolut | Yes | 3–9 days | Visa / Mastercard | Free up to €200, then 2% | 30+ incl. EUR, USD, GBP |
| bunq | Yes | 5–10 days | Mastercard | €0.99 per withdrawal | EUR (+ FX at market rates) |
| Wise | Yes | 4–7 days | Mastercard / Visa | Free up to €200, then 1.75% | 50+ currencies |
| N26 | Yes | 5–8 days | Mastercard | Free in Eurozone, fees elsewhere | EUR (FX fees vary) |
Globetrotter Plus Travel Credit Cards
Globetrotter Plus cards strike a balance between cost and value, offering enhanced features for those who travel regularly but don’t need luxury perks. These mid-tier cards often include airport lounge access, higher rewards on flights and hotels, travel insurance, and better FX rates. They’re ideal for travelers who want a bit more comfort and flexibility without committing to high annual fees.
Monzo Premium
Monzo Bank
- Online Application: Yes, fully online via the Monzo app
- Opening Time: Typically 1–2 business days
- Card Delivery: 2–4 business days
- Card Network: Mastercard
- ATM Fees: Free up to £600/month abroad
- Limits: Up to £10,000 per day in spending
- Main Currencies: GBP (with live FX rates for foreign transactions)
- ✅ Free worldwide travel insurance (AXA)
- ✅ Lounge access via SmartDelay
- ✅ Competitive FX rates with no markup
- ✅ Easy app-based budgeting and analytics
- ❌ £15/month fee
- ❌ No airline or hotel rewards
- ❌ UK-only availability
Starling Euro Travel Card
Starling Bank
- Online Application: Yes (for existing Starling customers)
- Opening Time: Same day
- Card Delivery: 3–5 business days
- Card Network: Mastercard
- ATM Fees: Free worldwide
- Limits: €10,000 daily spend (approx.)
- Main Currencies: EUR only
- ✅ No FX or ATM fees abroad
- ✅ Dedicated Euro balance and IBAN
- ✅ Ideal for travel in the Eurozone
- ✅ Instant card freezing and control via app
- ❌ Must already have a GBP Starling account
- ❌ EUR-only — not useful outside Eurozone
- ❌ No travel perks like insurance or rewards
Barclaycard Rewards Card
Barclaycard Bank
- Online Application: Yes
- Opening Time: 1–3 business days
- Card Delivery: 5–7 days
- Card Network: Visa
- ATM Fees: No fees worldwide
- Limits: Credit-based (usually £1,200–£6,000+)
- Main Currencies: GBP (with no FX markup abroad)
- ✅ 0% FX fees on card and ATM abroad
- ✅ No annual or monthly fee
- ✅ Visa acceptance worldwide
- ✅ Cashback on spending
- ❌ Credit check required
- ❌ No travel insurance or lounge access
- ❌ No support for multi-currency balances
Santander World Elite MC
Santander Bank
- Online Application: Yes (with Santander current account)
- Opening Time: 3–5 business days
- Card Delivery: 5–7 business days
- Card Network: Mastercard
- ATM Fees: Free abroad
- Limits: High credit limits depending on profile
- Main Currencies: GBP (with 0% FX abroad)
- ✅ Priority Pass lounge access (multiple guests)
- ✅ 0% FX fees on global transactions
- ✅ Travel insurance included
- ✅ Concierge service
- ❌ £15/month fee
- ❌ Requires Santander current account
- ❌ Invitation or eligibility criteria may apply
CaixaBank Travel Cards
CaixaBank
- Online Application: Yes (for CaixaBank customers)
- Opening Time: 2–4 business days
- Card Delivery: 5–10 days
- Card Network: Visa or Mastercard (varies)
- ATM Fees: Up to 3% depending on region
- Limits: Based on account profile
- Main Currencies: EUR (FX applies outside Eurozone)
- ✅ Travel-focused benefits in Spain and EU
- ✅ Options for prepaid, debit, or credit cards
- ✅ Easy integration with CaixaBankNow app
- ✅ Some cards offer travel discounts and insurance
- ❌ Most perks locked behind higher-tier accounts
- ❌ Foreign FX fees can apply outside EU
- ❌ Website and support may lack English version
Globetrotter Plus Comparison Table
| Bank | Online Application | Delivery Time | Card Network | ATM Fees | Main Currencies |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monzo Bank (Premium) | Yes | 2–5 days | Mastercard | Free in UK, 3% abroad (after £200) | GBP (FX via Mastercard) |
| Starling Euro Travel Card | Yes | 3–7 days | Mastercard | Free worldwide | GBP & EUR (multi-account) |
| Barclaycard Rewards | Yes (credit check) | 5–7 days | Visa | No fees abroad | GBP (no FX fees) |
| Santander World Elite MC | Yes (invite-only in UK) | 7–10 days | Mastercard World Elite | No FX fees, ATM fees may apply | GBP, EUR, USD (with FX perks) |
| CaixaBank Travel Card | Yes (Spain residents) | 5–8 days | Visa | Free in CaixaBank ATMs, fees elsewhere | EUR (with FX conversion) |
Jetset Essentials Credit Cards
Elite Voyager cards cater to frequent flyers and luxury seekers who want the best travel experience possible. These premium cards come with high annual fees but justify the cost with top-tier benefits such as worldwide airport lounge access, concierge services, elite hotel status, premium travel insurance, and generous reward structures. They’re best suited for those who travel often and value convenience, comfort, and exclusive perks.
Bank Norwegian Visa
Bank Norwegian
- Online Application: Yes (available in multiple EU countries)
- Delivery Time: 5–7 days
- Card Type: Visa Credit
- ATM Fees: No FX fees, cash withdrawal fees apply
- Currencies: NOK, EUR, USD (converted automatically)
- ✅ No foreign transaction fees
- ✅ Free card with no annual fee
- ✅ Travel insurance included
- ❌ High interest if not paid in full
- ❌ No multi-currency wallet
- ❌ Limited card controls
Fineco Credit/Debit Card
FinecoBank
- Online Application: Yes (Italy & UK)
- Delivery Time: 7–10 business days
- Card Type: Visa Debit (credit optional)
- ATM Fees: Free within limits
- Currencies: EUR & GBP accounts
- ✅ Multi-currency support (EUR & GBP)
- ✅ Low FX conversion fees
- ✅ Strong security and banking features
- ❌ Interface complex for everyday users
- ❌ Not ideal outside Italy/UK
- ❌ Limited travel-specific perks
Hello Prime
Hello bank! (BNP Paribas)
- Online Application: Yes (France, Belgium)
- Delivery Time: 5–7 days
- Card Type: Mastercard Debit
- ATM Fees: Free ATM withdrawals in eurozone
- Currencies: EUR (FX fees outside EU)
- ✅ Free EU ATM withdrawals
- ✅ Full banking features from BNP Paribas
- ✅ Simple mobile app experience
- ❌ FX fees outside eurozone
- ❌ Requires local residency
- ❌ No lounge or premium travel benefits
Monese Premium
Monese
- Online Application: Yes (fully online, UK & EU)
- Delivery Time: 3–7 days
- Card Type: Mastercard Debit
- ATM Fees: Free up to monthly limit
- Currencies: GBP, EUR, RON (multi-currency wallet)
- ✅ Open account without proof of address
- ✅ Multi-currency friendly
- ✅ Real-time FX rates and budgeting tools
- ❌ Premium tier has monthly fee
- ❌ No credit option
- ❌ Limited advanced travel features
Zopa Travel Card
Zopa Bank
- Online Application: Yes (UK only)
- Delivery Time: 5–7 days
- Card Type: Visa Credit
- ATM Fees: No FX fees; cash advance fees apply
- Currencies: GBP (converted on use abroad)
- ✅ 0% FX fees abroad
- ✅ Intuitive mobile controls
- ✅ Transparent credit terms
- ❌ UK-only availability
- ❌ Fees for ATM cash withdrawals
- ❌ No premium travel perks
Jetset Essentials Credit Cards
| Bank | Online Application | Delivery Time | Card Network | ATM Fees | Main Currencies |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bank Norwegian Visa | Yes | 5–7 days | Visa | 0–1.75% (depends on ATM) | NOK |
| FinecoBank Debit/Credit | Yes (Italy & UK) | 3–6 days | Visa / Mastercard | Free in EU / 2% abroad | EUR / GBP |
| Hello bank! Hello Prime | Yes (France / Belgium) | 5–8 days | Visa | Free withdrawals (limits apply) | EUR |
| Monese Premium | Yes | 2–4 days | Mastercard | Free up to €600/month | GBP / EUR / RON |
| Zopa Credit Card | Yes (UK) | 3–5 days | Visa | Cash advance fees apply | GBP |
How does a travel card work?
A travel card is a payment card tailored for international use, making it easier and more cost-effective to spend money abroad. It often comes with perks like no foreign transaction fees, favorable exchange rates, and rewards on travel-related purchases. Some travel cards also include benefits such as travel insurance, airport lounge access, or multi-currency support. They’re ideal for frequent travelers looking to save money and enjoy added convenience while on the go.
Explore banks available in other countries
Types of Travel Cards
Travel Debit Card
A travel debit card is a bank-issued card designed for use abroad, allowing you to spend and withdraw money directly from your account in foreign currencies. It often offers low or no foreign transaction fees and competitive exchange rates. Travel debit cards are ideal for travelers who prefer using their own funds instead of credit or prepaid options.
Prepaid Travel Card
A prepaid travel card is a reloadable payment card that you can load with multiple currencies before or during your trip. It allows you to spend abroad without linking directly to your bank account, offering better control over your budget and often lower foreign transaction fees. These cards are widely accepted and can be used at ATMs, online, and in stores worldwide.
Travel Credit Card
A travel credit card is a credit card designed specifically for travelers, offering rewards and benefits for travel-related spending. These cards often include perks like airline miles, hotel points, airport lounge access, and no foreign transaction fees. They’re ideal for frequent travelers who want to earn rewards while enjoying added travel protections and convenience.
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Read MoreHow to top up a travel card with funds?
- Bank Transfer – Transfer money from your bank account directly to the travel card using an IBAN or account number provided by the issuer.
- Debit/Credit Card – Use a linked debit or credit card to instantly fund the travel card via the provider’s app or website.
- Mobile App – Most travel card providers have mobile apps that allow instant top-ups using saved payment methods.
- Cash Reload (Less Common) – Some providers allow cash top-ups at partner retail locations or ATMs (usually less convenient and may involve fees).
- Direct Deposit – In some cases, you can set up direct salary or income payments to your travel card account.
- Linked Bank Account – Connect your travel card to a bank account for seamless top-ups when the balance gets low.
FAQ About Top Travel Credit Cards
A good travel credit card typically offers no foreign transaction fees, rewards on travel purchases (like flights, hotels, or transportation), travel insurance, airport lounge access, and possibly a multi-currency wallet or card control features.
Credit cards are generally safer for travel due to better fraud protection, emergency support, and perks like car rental coverage or trip insurance. However, prepaid and debit travel cards can help with budgeting and are easier to get.
Yes, most Visa and Mastercard travel credit cards are accepted globally. Just make sure the card supports foreign transactions without hidden fees.
Foreign transaction fees are typically 1–3% charges added to each non-domestic purchase. To avoid them, choose a travel card that explicitly states “0% FX fees” or “no foreign transaction fees.”
Yes, but be cautious—many credit cards charge high interest or fees for cash advances. Some travel-specific or prepaid cards offer free or low-fee international ATM withdrawals.
Yes, as long as you follow basic safety practices: enable app alerts, disable magnetic stripe use, avoid public Wi-Fi for banking, and keep emergency contact info handy.
It depends on your travel frequency. Premium travel cards with annual fees often offer valuable benefits like lounge access, travel insurance, and high reward rates—ideal for frequent travelers.
Yes, most banks and fintechs allow fully online applications. Some cards can even be added to your digital wallet immediately before the physical card arrives.
Yes, as long as you use them responsibly. Making on-time payments and keeping utilization low helps improve your credit score over time.