Romania
Money in Romania: currency, ATMs, cards and tipping
Use the Romanian leu (RON); cards work in cities and most shops, but keep cash for villages, markets and small services. Tip about 10% in restaurants, usually in cash. For rural stays, agree the currency before arrival.
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Key facts
- Currency
- Romanian leu (RON)
- Cash necessity
- 2 (keep cash for rural areas and small vendors)
- Typical tip
- ≈10 % of the bill, left in cash
Currency and payment methods
Romania uses the leu (RON, plural lei); the euro is not legal tender. In 2026 the rate is about 5 lei per €1 (check live rates).
Contactless cards are accepted in Bucharest, major cities, chain stores, hotels and fuel stations. Rural guesthouses, markets, monastery entries and some parking areas require cash.
Use bank ATMs (BCR, BRD, Banca Transilvania, ING) and decline any on‑screen currency conversion. Avoid standalone Euronet‑style machines and airport exchange booths for poor rates.
- City: card or contactless works everywhere.
- Village: carry cash; small shops often quote prices in euros but prefer lei.
- ATMs: look for bank logos; avoid “conversion” prompts.
Tipping in Romania
Restaurant service is usually 10 % of the total bill. The tip is normally left in cash, even when you pay by card.
In cafés and bars a small change left on the table is appreciated. For taxis, round up the fare or add 5–10 % if the driver was helpful.
Guides, drivers and hotel staff may receive a tip of 10–20 lei for good service.
| Service | Typical tip |
|---|---|
| Restaurant (full bill) | ≈10 % in cash |
| Café/bar | Small change (round up) |
| Taxi | Round up or 5–10 % |
| Guide/driver | 10–20 lei per day |
Questions people ask
What currency is used in Romania?
Romania uses the Romanian leu (RON). The euro is not accepted as legal tender.
Should I use cash or a card in Romania?
Use cards in cities and chain stores; keep cash for villages, markets, small guesthouses and any place that only accepts cash.
How much should I tip in Romania?
Tip about 10 % of the restaurant bill, usually in cash. Small change for cafés, round‑up for taxis, and 10–20 lei for guides or drivers.
Can I pay with euros in Romania?
No, the euro is not legal tender. Some rural guesthouses quote in euros but prefer payment in lei cash. Always agree the currency before you arrive.
Are ATMs widely available in Romania?
Yes, in cities and towns. Use bank ATMs (BCR, BRD, Banca Transilvania, ING) and decline the on‑screen conversion. Avoid standalone Euronet machines and airport exchange booths.
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
- officialRomania National Tourist Office
Ask about Romania
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