Exchange rates and currency calculator

Whether you want to exchange GBP or USD, take advantage of the best online rates by booking your currency directly on our website. 

Key Takeaways

• An exchange rate is the ratio that is applied to one currency when it is exchanged for another.
• Exchange rates are determined by the global currency market and the supply and demand for the currencies being exchanged.
• A good exchange rate is generally considered to be as good or better than the average market rate.  
• To take advantage of the best exchange rates, we recommend that you plan your trip in advance, avoid periods of highest exchange rates, pay attention to the total cost of currency exchange, order your currency in advance and exchange your currency before you travel.

What does the exchange rate mean?

The exchange rate is the value obtained by exchanging one currency for another. This variable is used to assess the economic health of a country and also has a major impact on the tourism industry and international trade. 

The exchange rate is determined by the supply and demand of currencies on the world's trade markets, but it is also influenced by inflation, interest rates and geopolitical events in each country.

Compare the best exchange rates online

Comparing exchange rates online can be difficult and time-consuming. Check out all our tips to help you get a good exchange rate and more change when exchanging. 

What is a good exchange rate?

If you don't regularly exchange currencies, understanding the concept of a 'good exchange rate' can be relatively abstract.

If you keep things down to earth, a good exchange rate will allow you to exchange more currency. The exchange rate can therefore vary from one exchange point to another, so it's worth checking to make sure you're getting the best deal. 

Generally speaking, the exchange rate is compared to the average market rate to determine whether it is favourable or not. The average market rate roughly corresponds to the equilibrium point between supply and demand. If your exchange rate is equal to or higher than the average market rate, you have received a good offer.

How do I get the best exchange rate?

Here are some tips you can apply to get the best exchange rate, whatever currency you are buying. 

Plan ahead

First of all, it's important to research the exchange rate of your currency a few weeks in advance. By following this method, you can estimate the market price and ensure that you make the exchange at the most appropriate time.  Keep an eye on the exchange rates applied by different online exchange offices and observe how they change from day to day. It is therefore important to plan your exchange well in advance so that you have more accurate information about the market.

Trading at a strategic time

To take advantage of the best exchange rates, remember to avoid trading at the busiest times. This is because an increase in demand tends to have a leveraging effect on the price of trades, allowing you to benefit from a less attractive exchange rate. 

Friday is usually considered one of the busiest trading days, which means a high exchange rate. Conversely, Mondays, Wednesdays and weekends tend to be quieter times, when the exchange rate is lower.

See the total price of your exchange

Don't forget to check the details of your exchange rate, not just the exchange rate. Some exchange offices charge high fees or add credit card charges to your order. Although the exchange rate may seem low, these hidden fees can result in you paying a higher price than the market rate. 

Good to know: by booking your currency on our website, you benefit from the best online exchange rate and 0% commission, ensuring a low transaction cost. 

Book your currency online

Booking your currencies online is the best way to benefit from the lowest possible exchange rate. You secure your exchange rate and benefit from a 0% commission rate. You can simply pick up your currency at one of our Finnish currency exchange offices.

Exchange currency before you travel

Are you heading to London and want to take a few pounds with you? Please note that if you exchange euros for pounds when you arrive in England, the applicable exchange rate will be higher. 

This is because bureaux de change usually charge lower exchange rates when collecting local currency. So if you exchange euros at a Finnish bureau de change before you leave, you will get more pounds sterling.