Paying for your holiday in Bulgaria
Bulgaria uses the euro (€). Whether you are staying in Burgas or heading to a pool villa in Bryastovets, bring a payment card and some euro cash. Here is how to prepare, use ATMs and avoid unnecessary currency conversion.
Last reviewed:
What currency does Bulgaria use?
Bulgaria adopted the euro on 1 January 2026. The changeover period has ended: since 1 February 2026, the euro has been the country’s sole legal tender.
Plan your holiday spending in euros. If you are returning after an earlier visit, you no longer need to buy Bulgarian levs. Advice in older guides about paying in BGN refers to the former currency.
Should you bring cash or use a card?
Bring both. Card payments are generally straightforward in larger cities, while carrying cash is particularly useful in rural areas. Acceptance still depends on the individual business.
For small shops, markets, taxis and village visits, check the payment method before buying or travelling. Keep some smaller euro notes and coins for everyday purchases.
Bring your physical card and know its PIN, even if you usually pay by phone. A backup card, kept separately, is also useful if your main card is lost or declined.
Using ATMs in Bulgaria
You can withdraw euro cash during your trip. Before confirming, check these separate costs:
- The ATM operator’s fee: read the on-screen charge. Cancel before confirming if you do not want to pay it.
- Your card provider’s fees: check its overseas withdrawal charges before travelling.
- Currency conversion: if your card is billed in another currency, check how the conversion will be handled.
A bank-branch ATM is a practical place to start, but always read its charges. Do not assume that a familiar bank name means a free withdrawal.
Choose euros when offered currency conversion
If your card is billed in pounds, dollars or another currency, a payment terminal or ATM may offer to convert the amount for you. This is called dynamic currency conversion (DCC).
Our practical recommendation is to choose EUR and decline the terminal or ATM’s conversion, leaving conversion to your card provider. Mastercard also recommends this approach. Your own provider’s fees can still apply.
| On-screen choice | What it means |
|---|---|
| Pay in EUR / decline conversion | The transaction is charged in euros; your card provider handles any conversion needed. |
| Pay in your home currency / accept conversion | The merchant or ATM service converts the amount using its offered rate and charges. |
Do you need to exchange money before travelling?
If you already have euros, set aside some cash for arrival. If you are travelling from the UK or another country outside the euro area, compare the cost of buying euros beforehand with your card provider’s overseas charges.
You can bring euro cash or plan to withdraw it after arrival. A small amount ready for your first purchases saves having to look for an ATM immediately.
If you bring another currency to exchange, use a bank or authorised exchange office. Ask how many euros you will receive after all charges before handing over your money, and keep the receipt. A “0% commission” sign does not tell you the full cost.
A little preparation for your stay
For a villa holiday in Bryastovets, we recommend arranging some cash while you are in Burgas or visiting the coast. Plan ahead rather than leaving your first withdrawal until you reach the village.
For accommodation payments, follow the amounts, deadlines and payment methods in your booking confirmation. Before arranging a transfer or an optional service, confirm how payment should be made.
Have a practical question before arrival? Contact our family team and we will help you prepare for your stay.
What if you still have Bulgarian levs?
Can you still spend lev banknotes and coins?
No. The period when both currencies could be used for cash payments ended on 31 January 2026. Exchange leftover levs for euros.
Where can you exchange leftover levs?
The Bulgarian National Bank (BNB) exchanges lev banknotes and coins into euros free of charge, without a time limit or limit on the amount, at the fixed rate of €1 = BGN 1.95583.
The compulsory free-exchange period at commercial banks ended on 30 June 2026, so they may now charge a fee. Check the official exchange locations and conditions before making a special trip.
Your quick money checklist
- Bring some euro cash for arrival and small purchases.
- Check your card’s overseas payment and withdrawal fees.
- Bring your physical card, know your PIN and keep a backup separately.
- Choose EUR when offered conversion at a terminal or ATM.
- Check your booking confirmation for accommodation payment details.
