Search "[currency A] to [currency B]" on Google, or check a rate-tracking site like XE.com or a similar service. This is the rate banks and traders use among themselves, before any markup.
No — exchange providers need to make money somehow, and a visible spread with no other fee can be simpler than a fee plus a rate close to mid-market. The point of this tool is to make the true cost visible so you can compare providers fairly.
Airport exchange counters often have high overhead and captive customers who need currency immediately, so they frequently offer some of the worst rates available. Comparing a few options before traveling, or using a low-spread card, often saves a meaningful amount.