Originally Posted by
joshwex90
In Paris and Rome, I used a card that absolutely has no PIN (Chase Sapphire Preferred) at unattended kiosks that had been problems in the past, specifically public transportation. No problem - read the chip and paid. No need for PIN or to go to a manned booth.
I've had hit or miss experiences with kiosks. I'd guess there's some kind of limit where it may not require a PIN?
However, for the poster above, you'll generally have no problems using chip & signature cards in Europe, as long as you're providing the card to a person and not a machine. They'll just have you sign instead of enter a PIN. And also be aware that some smaller merchants may not accept cards, although that seems to be decreasing each time I go to Europe. When there, I always carry enough cash with me to purchase transportation and meals at a decent, average-priced, restaurant. Better to be safe than sorry.
Also, be aware that, in my experience, Visa is accepted much more than Amex.