Bulgaria
Money in Bulgaria: currency, ATMs, cards and tipping
Use euros for all purchases; withdraw cash at bank ATMs if you plan to visit villages or markets, and tip around 5‑10% of the bill in restaurants. Bulgaria adopted the euro in 2026, cards work in cities, and cash is needed in rural areas.
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GuideBulgaria
Key facts
- Official currency
- Euro (EUR)
- Cash necessity
- 2 (recommended in rural areas)
- Card acceptance
- Widely accepted in cities, limited in small villages
- ATM recommendation
- Use bank ATMs, avoid independent exchange booths
- Typical tip
- 5‑10% of the bill
Quick answer
Bulgaria uses the euro (EUR) after the 2026 adoption. ATMs are common in cities; bring cash for remote areas. Credit/debit cards work in most hotels and restaurants. Tip 5‑10%.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Currency | Euro (EUR) |
| ATMs | Bank ATMs in cities, limited in villages |
| Cards | Widely accepted in urban areas |
| Tipping | 5‑10% of the bill |
Details and practical steps
The lev stopped being legal tender on 1 January 2026; banks still exchange old notes (check). Prices are now shown in euros, sometimes with lev equivalents during the transition – pay the euro amount.
In Sofia, Plovdiv and other major towns you can use Visa or Mastercard at most merchants. For small villages, guesthouses and market stalls, carry cash.
When using an ATM, select the option to dispense euros rather than your home currency to avoid dynamic currency conversion fees.
Avoid independent exchange booths that quote rates in small print; use bank ATMs or official exchange offices.
Additional notes
The euro adoption has caused a slight price rounding up; budget travelers should still expect €40‑65 per day (see parent country cost table).
If you need foreign currency for a side trip to a neighboring non‑euro country, exchange euros locally before crossing the border.
Questions people ask
What currency is used in Bulgaria?
Bulgaria uses the euro (EUR) after the 1 January 2026 transition from the lev. Old lev notes can still be exchanged at banks (check).
Should I use cash or a card in Bulgaria?
Use cards in cities and hotels; carry cash for rural villages, markets and small guesthouses. ATMs are common in urban areas.
How much should I tip in Bulgaria?
Tip roughly 5‑10% of the bill in restaurants; rounding up the total is common. Some places include a service charge — check the bill.
Are there any fees when using my card in Bulgaria?
Always choose euros at ATMs and card terminals to avoid dynamic currency conversion fees. Your home bank may charge a foreign transaction fee — check before you travel.
Can I exchange old lev notes?
Yes, banks and the Bulgarian National Bank still exchange old lev notes (check). Some exchange booths may offer poor rates — use bank ATMs instead.
Check live
Prices, schedules, rules and availability change. Open these to confirm today's details before you book.
Deep dive
Every source; changeable facts are marked check
Sources
- secondaryVoykit – Bulgaria guide
Ask about Bulgaria
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