In this article, we will explain which currency is used in Bulgaria and what you need to know about it. We will also provide useful tips on currency exchange and the best places to do it.
Which currency to bring
The national currency of Bulgaria is the Lev (BGN). It is considered one of the most stable currencies in the world.
US dollars are not accepted, so before traveling to Bulgaria, make sure to bring euros (EUR). However, you can only pay with them for major purchases or in large supermarkets, so it is best to exchange euros for leva right after arrival.
Import and export of the Bulgarian national currency are prohibited. If you do plan to take leva (BGN) out of the country, you will need to fill out a declaration, and the amount must be small.
Currency exchange in Bulgaria
You can exchange currencies in Bulgaria both in a bank and in exchange offices. Let's describe each of the options in more detail.
Banks
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It is best to do the exchange operation in a bank. In Bulgaria some of the biggest and most frequented are the following banks:
Open hours: weekdays from 9:00 to 16:00, break — from 12:00 to 13:00. Weekends: Saturday, Sunday and public holidays. Information may vary in larger cities.
Important! Before going to the bank do not forget to take passport. It will be required before making money transactions.
Exchange offices
There are many currency exchange offices in Bulgaria. Colorful signs entice tourists with favorable rates and the inscription "no commission". In fact, no commission only applies to the sale of currency.
The rate on the sign and at the exchange office may be different. The reason is that on the signboard information about the rate of the National Bank, and the rate of the exchange office itself, look inside.
Before exchanging, always clarify how many BGN you will receive for the currency. Do not throw away the receipt after making the exchange. It may come in handy if you want to make a return exchange. In big cities, such as Sofia, Varna, Burgas, the exchange rate is more favorable.
Important! It's illegal to change currency by hand in Bulgaria. Nevertheless, there are plenty of money changers on the streets of the cities and their rates are tempting. If you do decide to make the operation, check the bills issued to you at once. It often happens that tourists are given old money (issued before 1999).
Methods of payment and cash withdrawal
In Bulgaria, the most common way to pay is in BGN, despite the fact that large supermarkets and stores quote prices not only in local currency, but also in EUR and USD.
Cash or cashless payments
Credit cards will not help you out in most cases. That's because only large hotels or bank branches have terminals.
When you go to the bazaar or a store, you can forget about credit cards — you can only pay in cash.
Bank machines in Bulgaria
It won't take you long to find an ATM in Bulgaria — there are plenty of them. You won't have any problems with them both on the coast and in the mountain resorts.
Important! Before you take your credit card to Bulgaria, check with your bank to see if you will be able to withdraw money from it and what the fee will be.
