Bulgaria — Currency & Money

Bulgaria adopted the euro on 1 January 2026, replacing the lev at the fixed rate of 1.95583; prices are displayed in both currencies through the transition year and leftover leva remain exchangeable at the Bulgarian National Bank indefinitely. Cards are widely accepted in Sofia and the resorts, but adult venues, taxis and small-town Bulgaria remain cash-first.

Use ATMs attached to bank branches — card skimming has a long history on the coast — and always decline dynamic currency conversion. Tipping is 10% in restaurants, round up in taxis. In resort strip clubs check every card charge on the terminal screen before confirming: inflated transactions are a documented scam.