Is Bulgaria cashless?
Mixed#66 of 197 in The Cashlessy Index 2026 · #36 of 45 in Europe
Short answer: Pay by card, but carry a little local cash for small places.
Bulgaria switched to the euro in 2026. Cards are common in Sofia and resort towns, but small shops, mountain villages and some taxis still prefer cash.
Will my card work?
Mostly. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in Bulgaria, though some small businesses are cash only.
Do I need cash?
A little. Cards cover most spending in Bulgaria, but carry some cash for small places.
Local currency: Euro (EUR)
How does tipping work?
About 10% in restaurants. Tips are often left in cash even when paying by card.
Mobile payments
Local apps often need a local bank account or phone number.
Good to know
- Avoid independent exchange booths with "0% commission" signs; the rate is the catch.
Frequently asked questions
Is Bulgaria cashless?
Bulgaria scores 64/100 on Cashlessy (mixed), ranking #66 of 197 countries. Bulgaria switched to the euro in 2026. Cards are common in Sofia and resort towns, but small shops, mountain villages and some taxis still prefer cash.
Do I need cash in Bulgaria?
A little. Cards cover most spending in Bulgaria, but carry some cash for small places.
Are credit cards accepted in Bulgaria?
Mostly. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in Bulgaria, though some small businesses are cash only.
Do you tip in Bulgaria?
About 10% in restaurants. Tips are often left in cash even when paying by card.
Can I use Apple Pay or Google Pay in Bulgaria?
Yes. Phone wallets work at most terminals that accept contactless cards in Bulgaria.
Compare with Europe
Editorial estimate, last reviewed September 2026. Payment habits change quickly; see how we score.