Bulgaria’s mix of ancient history, scenic mountains, and Black Sea coastline makes it a diverse travel destination, where understanding how to handle money is key to a smooth trip. Whether you’re exploring the cobbled streets of Plovdiv, skiing in Bansko, or enjoying the beaches of Sunny Beach, this guide covers everything you need to know – what currency to bring, the best ways to get money and currency in Bulgaria (Bulgarian Lev (BGN)), cash safety tips, and essential dos and don’ts. With these insights, you’ll avoid unnecessary fees and make the most of Bulgaria’s rich history and natural beauty.
How to pay in Bulgaria – cash or card?
In Bulgaria, both cash and card payments are widely accepted, with cash remaining the preferred method for many transactions. Cash is favored by 60%+ Bulgarians.
You can use cash for:
Public Transportation: While major cities offer card payment options for buses and trams, many regional or rural transport services still require cash.
Local Markets and Street Vendors: Traditional markets and street vendors predominantly prefer cash transactions.
Small Businesses: Many small or family-run shops and eateries favor cash payments, though card acceptance is gradually increasing.
Tips and Gratuities: It’s customary to tip in cash for services such as dining, tour guides, and hotel staff.
Rural Areas: In less urbanized regions, electronic payment facilities may be limited, making cash essential.
You can use card for:
Hotels: Most hotels, especially in urban and tourist areas, accept major credit and debit cards.
Restaurants and Cafés: Many dining establishments, particularly in cities, facilitate card payments.
Retail Stores: Shopping malls, branded stores, and supermarkets widely accept cards.
Car Rentals and Travel Agencies: Established agencies typically offer card payment options.
Online Bookings: Reservations for flights, hotels, and tours can usually be made using cards.
What’s the best currency to take to Bulgaria
Bulgarian Lev (BGN) is typically the best currency to take if you are traveling to Bulgaria. Paying or withdrawing cash in the local currency comes with the least amount of fees, sometimes fee-free too.
While some tour operators and hotels may quote rates in Euros and may accept them from foreigners, paying in Euros instead of Bulgarian Lev can result in poor exchange rates. Therefore, it’s advisable to pay in BGN to avoid losing money.
US Dollars or British Pounds are not widely accepted here.
Where to get currency in Bulgaria
There are 3 main ways to get cash in Bulgaria. They are:
ATMs, or
Currency exchange, or
Money transfer & local pick-up
Types of cards to swipe in Bulgaria
POS machines readily accept Visa and Mastercards. You might also find some places that accept Amex and other cards, albeit less frequently.
Types of cards at ATMs in Bulgaria
If you’re withdrawing money in Bulgaria from an ATM, ATMs commonly accept Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, Plus, Cirrus cards. Some of them accept UnionPay, Diners, Discover cards. Most of them do not accept others like JCB, Amex and Rupay cards.
Should I exchange currency before travelling to Bulgaria
Bringing a small amount of Bulgarian Lev (BGN) before traveling can be useful for immediate expenses like taxis, tips, and small purchases. However, exchange rates outside Bulgaria are often poor, and many foreign banks do not stock BGN.
Withdrawing BGN from ATMs in Bulgaria is a convenient option, as ATMs are widely available in airports, cities, and tourist areas. Most ATMs accept Visa, Mastercard, Cirrus, Plus, and Maestro cards, but check your bank’s international withdrawal fees.
It’s best to exchange money in Bulgaria at banks or licensed exchange bureaus (known as Change offices), which offer better rates than airports or hotels. If exchanging at the airport, do so only for a small amount.
Carrying a mix of cash and cards is recommended. If bringing EUR, USD, or GBP, they can be exchanged easily at banks or currency exchange offices for good rates. While Bulgaria is in the EU, the Euro is not widely accepted, so paying in BGN is necessary.
Where to withdraw money in Bulgaria
You can withdraw money in Bulgaria at leading bank ATMs in the country. The best ATMs for foreigners to use in Bulgaria are those owned by popular banks such as:
UniCredit,
DSK Bank,
Postbank,
UBB,
CCB,
ProCredit, and
Ziraat Bank.
There are other banks with ATMs that also accept international debit and credit cards.
There are no known Global ATM Alliance member banks or All Points network banks in Bulgaria.
Where to exchange currency in Bulgaria
You can exchange currency in Bulgaria at licensed exchange bureaus or banks.
Currency Exchange Offices: In Bulgaria, currency exchange offices are commonly referred to as Обменно бюро (Obmenno Byuro). These are widely available in tourist areas, shopping centers, and airports. Notable providers include Crown Change, Magura Exchange and Tavex.
Banks: Major banks such as UniCredit Bulbank, DSK Bank, and United Bulgarian Bank (UBB) offer currency exchange services. These banks have branches throughout cities, providing reliable services. Operating hours are typically from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM on weekdays.
You can find good currency exchanges using the ATM Fee Saver app – it will guide you to the nearest currency exchange on the map. The app helps you with forex places in 100+ countries, including Bulgaria.
Avoid Airport Exchanges and no-fee exchange offices: Currency exchange services at airports often have less favorable rates and higher fees. It’s generally better to exchange money in the city for better rates and lower charges.
Is carrying cash in Bulgaria safe?
Carrying cash in Bulgaria is generally safe, but standard precautions are advisable. Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur, particularly in crowded areas like train and bus stations, tourist sites, and public transportation. It’s recommended to carry only the cash you need for daily expenses and keep your valuables secure. While credit and debit cards are widely accepted in urban centers, some smaller establishments, taxis, museums, and local markets may prefer cash payments.
To keep your cash safe:
Carry only necessary amounts: Withdraw cash as needed to avoid carrying large sums.
Be discreet: Avoid displaying cash in public places.
Stay vigilant: Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and on public transport.
Is it better to use debit or credit cards or pay by cash in Bulgaria
Use a card if it is fee-free i.e. your bank does not charge any fees to swipe the card, when the merchant / POS also does not impose any extra charge to use a card, you need to use the insurance of the card, don’t want to block cash of large purchases and card’s swipe fees are lower than withdrawal fees.
Pay by cash by withdrawing cash from ATM or exchanging currency where – fees on ATM withdrawals are lesser than fees on swiping cards, you don’t want to leave any digital footprint of your expenses, it is convenient and easier to conduct transactions.
