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Country guide

Travel money in Bulgaria

Bulgaria and the euro: what UK holidaymakers should know about leva, dual pricing and the transition.

At a glance

Bulgaria for UK travellers

Destination basics to help you plan cash, cards and when to compare rates before you fly.

  • Capital

    Sofia

  • Currency

    Euro (EUR)

  • Time from UK

    2 hours ahead of the UK in summer

  • Flight from London

    ~3h to Sofia

  • Distance from UK

    ~1,250 miles from London

Map of Bulgaria · Map data

Bulgaria is adopting the euro; during transition you may still see leva (BGN) pricing, dual display or rounding rules. Always confirm which currency you are charged in at the terminal or till.

Cash and ski resorts

Bansko and Sofia weekends draw UK skiers and city-breakers. Small mountain restaurants and ski hire desks may prefer cash; carry a mix with a low-fee card backup.

ATMs

Use bank ATMs in well-lit areas; if asked, decline paying in pounds and take euros instead.

UK preparation

Compare options on our home page. As the euro bedded in, our euro guide becomes increasingly relevant for forward planning.

Airports

Review UK airport guides before you fly seasonal charters to the Black Sea or ski routes.