Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
ATMs
ATMs that accept major credit cards (ie Visa, MasterCard and American Express) are
common, found in all sizeable towns and cities. The total amount you can withdraw de-
pends on how much your bank will allow and on how much is in your account; the max-
imum allowed per day by most Bulgarian banks is usually 200 lv.
Black Market
With the currency stabilisation, no black market exists in Bulgaria. Foreigners may still be
approached (especially in Sofia or Varna) and asked to change money, but this is illegal
and there's a high chance you'll be given counterfeit leva, short-changed or robbed, so
don't do it!
Cash
Bulgarian banknotes come in denominations of 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100 leva. Coins come
in 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 stotinki and 1 lev. Prices for smaller items are always quoted in
leva or a fraction of a lev, eg on a bus ticket the fare will be listed as '0.50 lv' rather than
'50 stotinki'.
When changing money, make sure that the foreign banknotes you have are not torn,
marked or grubby, otherwise they may be refused or you may even be given a lower rate
(without being told so in advance). Always make absolutely sure of the precise sum in
leva you will receive before handing over any of your cash. Similarly, make sure that any
leva given to you are not torn or marked. Foreigners may export and import up to 8000 lv
(in any currency) without restrictions.
Credit Cards
Credit cards are commonly accepted in hotels, restaurants and shops in the big cities,
towns and tourist resorts, but acceptance is less widespread in more rural areas. You can-
not rely on using a credit card exclusively in Bulgaria; use it to get cash from banks and
for major purchases only. Some places, particularly the more expensive hotels, will add a
5% surcharge to your bill if you use a credit card.
Moneychangers
Foreign exchange offices can be found in all larger towns, and current rates are always
displayed prominently. They are no longer allowed to charge commission, but that doesn't
always stop them trying; always check the final amount that you will be offered before
