Need cash when I land, best place in Belarus? Airport or places in the city?
When I landed in Minsk, I exchanged $50 at the airport counter for a taxi, and the rate was clearly worse than in town. After that, I used Belarusbank ATMs and had no problems. They charged my card at the proper rate with only a small withdrawal fee. Around central Minsk, I also saw exchange windows in shopping centers, which offered better rates than the airport. My advice: don’t panic at arrivals, just withdraw a little for immediate use and do the rest at a proper ATM in the city.
Belarus has strict currency controls, so the safest option is ATMs rather than shady counters. Minsk airport has ATMs from Belarusbank and Priorbank - use those for a small amount. The exchange counters are licensed but not as competitive as city ones. In the city, banks like Belagroprombank and BPS-Sberbank offer fair official rates. Street money changers aren’t common or reliable here, so stick to banks and ATMs. Most travellers find withdrawing directly from ATMs much simpler and safer.
I wouldn’t count on airport exchange counters in Minsk for the best deal. Rates are typically inflated. It’s smarter to use ATMs like Belarusbank, Priorbank, or BPS-Sberbank. They’re all over the city and safe for foreign cards. I usually take out enough for taxis and first meals at the airport, then handle bigger amounts at city ATMs. Currency exchange offices in malls and near Victory Square have better rates than arrivals. You’ll save a decent amount if you wait until you’re in the city.
Minsk airport has exchange counters, but rates aren’t great. I usually withdraw 50-100 BYN from an ATM like Belarusbank or Priorbank right at arrivals, then do larger exchanges in the city. ATMs are reliable and give official rates, often better than airport counters. City exchange places near train stations or in shopping centers offer more competitive deals if you’re carrying cash. For example, I’ve had good luck at Alfa-Bank ATMs in Minsk city center. Avoid exchanging all your money at the airport unless you need it urgently.