Bulgaria Joins Eurozone in 2026: What It Means for Tourists from Germany, Greece, France, Italy, and Spain Traveling to Bansko, Sunny Beach, Sofia, and Beyond, YOU NEED TO KNOW!

By: Paramita Sarkar

As of January 1, 2026, Bulgaria officially became the 21st member of the Eurozone, a significant step that will have a lasting impact on the country’s economy and tourism industry. The transition to the Euro was confirmed by the European Commission and the Bulgarian National Bank (BNB), making it easier for tourists from Germany, Greece, France, Italy, and Spain to visit popular destinations like Sofia, Bansko, and Sunny Beach without worrying about currency exchange fees. This historic change will simplify travel for visitors, enhance Bulgaria’s competitive edge in tourism, and create a more streamlined experience for tourists and businesses alike.

What Immediate Changes Should Travelers Expect from the Euro Adoption?

As of January 1, 2026, Bulgaria entered a dual circulation period where both the Bulgarian lev (BGN) and Euro (EUR) are legal tender. However, the Euro is expected to become the sole official currency as of February 1, 2026. Here are the key changes travelers should be aware of:

Dual Circulation Period (January 1–31, 2026)

For the first month, tourists will still be able to pay in lev or Euro, but businesses are required to return change in Euro if the payment is made in lev. This ensures a smooth transition between currencies.

Fixed Conversion Rate

The conversion rate has been set permanently at 1.95583 BGN for €1, which will remain consistent through the transition period and beyond.

Dual Pricing Mandate

To maintain transparency and prevent hidden price increases, businesses in tourism (hotels, restaurants, shops) must display prices in both BGN and Euro until August 8, 2026. This allows tourists to check prices and ensure the correct conversion is being applied.

Free Currency Exchange

Travelers can exchange their BGN for Euro free of charge at all Bulgarian banks and post offices until June 30, 2026. The Bulgarian National Bank will continue to exchange lev for Euro free of charge indefinitely.

How Does Bulgaria’s Euro Adoption Impact Tourism from Major Eurozone Countries?

The Bulgarian government is optimistic that the Euro adoption will significantly boost the country’s tourism sector, which already accounts for 10-12% of the national GDP. Tourists from Germany, France, Greece, Italy, and Spain, who account for a large portion of visitors, will benefit in several key ways:

Elimination of Currency Conversion Fees

Travelers from the Eurozone will no longer have to worry about currency exchange fees or hidden charges. ATMs and currency exchange bureaus will no longer impose the fees that were previously applied when converting BGN to Euro, making travel more affordable.

Enhanced Price Transparency

With prices displayed in both Euro and BGN, tourists from Germany, France, Italy, and Spain will find it easier to compare prices in Bulgaria with other Eurozone destinations like Spain, France, and Greece. Popular resorts like Bansko (ski) and Sunny Beach (beach) will benefit from having prices in Euro, making it clear that Bulgaria offers more affordable pricing than its neighbors.

Increased Investment in Tourism

The adoption of the Euro removes the exchange rate risk for international hotel chains and tour operators, which is expected to increase foreign investment in the tourism sector. As a result, Bulgaria’s tourism infrastructure is likely to improve, making it an even more attractive destination for visitors from Eurozone countries.

How Will Bulgaria Ensure Fair Pricing for Tourists During the Transition?

To protect its “value-for-money” reputation, which attracts international tourists, Bulgaria has implemented several safeguards to prevent price manipulation during the currency transition:

Price Monitoring

The Commission for Consumer Protection will monitor the prices of 101 essential goods used by tourists, including coffee, hotel stays, and transport tickets. This initiative will help prevent price hikes and ensure that businesses adhere to the fixed conversion rate.

Anti-Rounding Rules

To avoid unfair price rounding during the currency switch, businesses are prohibited from rounding up prices. For example, if a coffee costs 3.00 BGN, it should be converted to €1.53, not €1.60.

Key Transition Facts for Travelers Visiting Bulgaria

Here are the key facts tourists need to know about Bulgaria’s currency transition and its impact on travel in 2026:

Long-Term Benefits for Bulgaria’s Tourism Industry

Bulgaria’s transition to the Eurozone opens up several long-term benefits for the tourism industry:

• Easier Travel Across Borders: Tourists traveling from Germany, France, Greece, Italy, and Spain can now enjoy easier access to Bulgaria without the need for currency conversion, making travel more seamless.
• Improved Infrastructure: The influx of foreign investment in Bulgaria’s tourism infrastructure will likely result in improved services, modernized hotels, and enhanced resort experiences.
• Stronger Economic Integration: As part of the Eurozone, Bulgaria will become more economically integrated with neighboring European countries, encouraging more tourism and business cooperation.

Conclusion: Bulgaria’s Bright Future in the Eurozone

Bulgaria’s transition to the Eurozone in 2026 represents a key milestone in the country’s economic and tourism growth. The adoption of the Euro brings numerous benefits for tourists, including lower exchange costs, price transparency, and improved accessibility for visitors from major Eurozone countries. With Bansko, Sunny Beach, Sofia, and other destinations set to benefit from more competitive pricing and increased investment, Bulgaria is well-positioned to become a top tourist destination in Europe for the coming years.

As Euro-using visitors from Germany, France, Italy, Spain, and Greece flock to explore Bulgaria, the country’s tourism sector is set for a major boost, offering an exciting and streamlined travel experience for all.