credit cards - Belgium & Germany

[nappybrain]

Hi does anyone know whether credit cards are commonly accepted in Belgium and Germany e.g shops/supermarkets - outside of the big cities. Know from past experience of visting Holland that there is it impossible to use a credit card in the smaller towns. Would appreciate it if anyone can help. thanks.

All the usual suspects are accepted, and I frequently use my UK visa debit card. Check the shop doors as you go in, if it says Bancontact or Proton only, then you can't use credit cards, but it is worth asking.

Most places in Belgium take credit cards - they only refuse in the sales sometimes if it is a small shop as they have to bear the overheads. I've lived in Belgium 3 years now and haven't had a problem.

thanks that's really useful

Amex/Diners are often not accepted, Visa and Mastercard generally fine