Local Currency

Currency in Bulgaria

The local currency is the lev comprised of 100 stotinki. Notes are in denominations of 100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1. Coins are in denominations of 1 and 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 stotinki. The lev is tied to the Euro at a fixed rate; €1 = 1.955 lev.

Currency exchange can be done at banks, large hotels and independent currency exchange offices where rates are clearly displayed. It is advised for travellers not to exchange money at unofficial sources on the street as it is illegal for commission to be charged when changing money at official offices. Most credit cards are widely accepted in large cities however Bulgaria still operates mainly on cash. ATM’s are widespread although not all bank machines accept every overseas credit or debit card.

Traveller’s cheques are accepted in major hotels and restaurants although cash is preferred and to avoid additional exchange rate charges travellers should take traveller’s cheques in Euros, Pounds Sterling or US Dollars. Bank hours are Mon-Fri 0900-1600. The value-added tax (VAT) of 20% is included in all prices quoted in Bulgaria. Some restaurants add service charges of 10%, and some top-end hotels list pre-VAT prices.