Bulgaria

Money Exchange

The currency is the Bulgarian Lev (£1 = 2.8Lev) which is pegged to the Euro.

Bulgaria is still largely a cash economy, so visitors will need a reasonable amount of Leva. It is strongly recommended that foreign currency (either Euro, US Dollars or Sterling) is exchanged only at banks or licensed exchange bureaus, as changing money in the street may result in fraud. It is to be noted that damaged or very worn bank notes are often not accepted in Bulgaria. Major branches of the following Bulgarian banks will cash travellers' checks on the spot for Leva or another desired currency: Bulbank, Bulgarian Postbank, HVB Biochim, First Investment Bank, and United Bulgarian Bank (UBB). UBB also serves as a Western Union agent and provides direct transfer of money to travellers in need. Most shops, hotels and restaurants, with the exception of the major hotels, still do not accept travellers' checks or credit cards. However, ATM cash machines are increasing in numbers in the main towns and resorts, allowing Leva to be drawn with all major debit/credit cards

Information provided by the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in the United Kingdom