Dollars to Euros

Do all local banks pretty much have the same rates and fees? Is there a "best" place to do the exchange for a larger transaction? TIA.

Define "large". And does it have to be done in the US? I've always gotten the best rates from affiliated local ATMs with US partner agreements.

Need approximately $1500 for an overseas apartment rental that requires cash upon arrival. I have been told getting that sum from an ATM in Europe may require several days. The owners are requesting the money when I arrive.

Anyone know the best place that would keep fees & transaction costs low and give a fair exchange rate?

AAA or your bank

Give them good old USD.

You can have your ATM w/d limits raised and make a few different withdrawals when you get there. But if too much to risk it's better with your bank then, but likely a % fee no matter where you have your accts unless in a preferred status (and even then no guarantee of a % or three over the top). You have an AmEx gold or platinum by any chance? Can try them.

We have found Omnex on 33rd in NYC to have pretty good rates for exchange to Euros. The rate was better than our bank. Call in the morning to get the day's rates before you go in.

What about Paypal...can you send them the money that way? Or maybe open an account at an international bank that may have branches where you are going?