Bulgaria to adopt Euro from January 2026 — what it means for travellers

Bulgaria steps into the Eurozone — from Sofia’s skyline to the Black Sea coast, travel just got simpler with the euro.

From January 1, 2026, Bulgaria will officially replace its national currency, the lev, with the euro, becoming the 21st member of the Eurozone. The European Council approved the final legal steps for the transition, fixing the conversion rate at 1 euro = 1.95583 lev — the same as the current rate under the EU’s exchange-rate mechanism.

This shift, coming nearly 19 years after Bulgaria joined the EU, marks a significant economic milestone. Bulgarian Prime Minister Rossen Jeliazkov celebrated the announcement on X, saying, "We did it! As of 1.1.2026, Bulgaria will officially adopt the euro.We thank all institutions, partners and everyone whose efforts made this landmark moment possible. The government remains committed to a smooth and effective transition to the euro in the interest of all citizens."

What This Means for Indian Travellers

For Indian globetrotters, Bulgaria’s euro adoption brings more predictability in travel costs. As of now, 1 euro equals roughly Rs 101.9, making it easier to plan expenses. Whether you’re exploring Sofia’s art-deco architecture, Plovdiv’s ancient Roman theatre, or Bansko’s mountain trails, you’ll be paying in euros from next year — simplifying everything from booking hotels to buying local souvenirs.

Bulgaria — A Rising Balkan Gem

Bulgaria’s appeal lies in its blend of culture, history, and affordability. The capital Sofia offers vibrant nightlife, historic churches, and cafés set against a backdrop of Mount Vitosha. In Plovdiv, one of Europe’s oldest cities, cobbled lanes lead to Roman ruins and creative art districts. Nature enthusiasts can head to Rila Monastery, Seven Rila Lakes, or the Black Sea coast, known for sunny beaches and charming seaside towns like Varna and Burgas.

Easier Access with Schengen Integration

Bulgaria is also on track to join the Schengen Area fully by early 2026, alongside Romania. This means travellers with a standard Schengen visa will soon be able to enter Bulgaria without additional paperwork, enjoying smoother cross-border travel across Europe.

With a stable currency, streamlined travel access, and a growing tourism profile, Bulgaria is set to become one of Europe’s most convenient and value-for-money destinations for 2026 and beyond.