Bulgaria Embraces Euro: A New Chapter in Travel Convenience
Bulgaria officially transitioned to the euro on January 1, 2026, replacing its national currency, the lev. This significant shift makes Bulgaria the 21st European Union member state to adopt the shared currency. This historic change brings over 357 million people under the euro, greatly simplifying travel for European visitors.
For travelers, the transition implies fewer financial hurdles when exploring Bulgaria’s Black Sea beaches, historic cities, and mountain landscapes. As of January 1, 96% of ATMs in Bulgaria dispense euro banknotes, with the remaining expected to switch within two weeks. The lev and euro will co-circulate for one month at a fixed conversion rate of 1.95583 lev to €1, while prices will continue to be displayed in both currencies until August 2026.
“With one less currency to worry about, the country becomes easier to navigate, budget for, and enjoy,” note tourism experts. The change eradicates the extra preparation previously required at borders and cash machines for visitors from the euro area. Hotels, restaurants, transport providers, and attractions now operate in the same currency used across much of Europe.
Source: FTN News