Published on
January 2, 2026
Bulgaria has officially joined the eurozone in 2026, replacing the Bulgarian lev with the euro. This is a major step for the Balkan nation, reflecting closer ties with the European Union and offering travelers a smoother experience across the continent.
For tourists, this change means easier currency management and simpler payments when exploring Bulgaria’s cities, beaches, and mountains. Paying for hotels, dining, and transport now mirrors the convenience found in other Eurozone countries.
European officials have welcomed Bulgaria’s adoption of the euro as a symbol of European unity and integration. From a travel perspective, this also signals an exciting new chapter for international visitors who can now explore Bulgaria with fewer financial worries.
Why the Euro Makes Travel Easier
Before 2026, tourists visiting Bulgaria had to convert their money into the Bulgarian lev. With the euro now in circulation, visitors from across Europe and beyond can pay directly without worrying about exchange rates.
Hotels, restaurants, cafes, and local shops have already updated their payment systems to accept euros. This means travelers can use cash or cards with minimal hassle. Even public transportation systems in major cities like Sofia, Plovdiv, and Varna now accept euro payments, making daily commuting much more convenient.
For travelers planning multi-country trips across Europe, Bulgaria’s new currency status makes it easier to compare prices and plan budgets. Combining a visit to Bulgaria with trips to Greece, Romania, or Hungary is now simpler than ever.
Exploring Bulgaria’s Must-See Destinations
Sofia, the capital, is a perfect starting point for euro-friendly travel. Tourists can admire landmarks like Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the National Palace of Culture, and the bustling Vitosha Boulevard. Cafes and restaurants now display prices in euros, helping travelers manage expenses clearly.
Plovdiv, Bulgaria’s second-largest city, offers a mix of Roman ruins, art galleries, and traditional architecture. Multi-city travelers will appreciate the ease of paying with euros while enjoying the city’s open-air theaters and cobblestone streets.
Bulgaria’s natural beauty is another highlight. The Rila and Pirin mountain ranges are ideal for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The Black Sea coastline, with cities like Varna and Burgas, provides sunny beaches and seaside resorts, now fully adapted for euro transactions.
Historic towns like Veliko Tarnovo and Nessebar allow tourists to immerse themselves in Bulgarian culture. From medieval fortresses to charming old town streets, paying with euros simplifies shopping for souvenirs and dining experiences.
Travel Tips for Tourists
- ATM Access: Euro ATMs are widely available, reducing the need to carry cash.
- Card Usage: Credit and debit cards are accepted in most shops, hotels, and restaurants.
- Public Transport: Major cities’ buses, trams, and metro systems accept euros.
- Shopping and Dining: Menus and prices in euros make budgeting transparent.
- Multi-Country Travel: Euro adoption facilitates travel to other Eurozone countries without extra currency exchange.
Cultural Insights for Travelers
Bulgaria’s move to the euro reflects its deeper integration with Europe while maintaining its cultural identity. Tourists can enjoy traditional festivals, local cuisine, and centuries-old architecture alongside modern conveniences.
Travelers interested in European history will find Bulgaria fascinating. The euro adoption makes it easier to include Bulgaria in broader European travel itineraries. Museums, historical sites, and UNESCO World Heritage locations now offer visitors an easier way to pay and plan visits.
Celebrating the Euro in Bulgaria
Bulgaria’s transition to the euro is celebrated across the country with various events and local festivities. European officials see this step as a demonstration of unity, and tourists visiting during this period can experience a vibrant cultural atmosphere.
This currency change is more than an economic adjustment. For global travelers, it opens the door to seamless spending while exploring Bulgaria’s rich landscapes, historical cities, and coastal retreats.
Whether strolling through Sofia’s streets, hiking the Rila Mountains, or enjoying the Black Sea beaches, visitors now have the convenience of the euro. It’s an exciting time to travel to Bulgaria and experience Europe’s newest eurozone member in 2026.
