The Lev (BGN) is the national Bulgarian currency and exchanges approximately at the follow rate:

1.95 Leva (BGN) = 1 Euro

Price Level

• 1 beer (0.5l) = 0.80- 1.50 BGN
• 1 coca-cola (0.3l) = 0.70 - 1.00 BGN
• 1 mineral water (0.5l) = 0.60 - 0.80 BGN
• Coffee/ Tea = 0.40 - 0.60 BGN
• Main course = 3.00 - 8.00 BGN
• Salad = 2.00- 3.50 BGN

Lodging

• Budget: BGN 15 - 25
• Mid-range: BGN 25 - 45
• High: BGN 45 -65
• Deluxe: BGN 65+

Despite a 20% value-added tax, you'll probably find that souvenirs, admission prices, food and drink, and all forms of transport (including taxis) are cheap.

Cash is easily changed at numerous small exchange offices, usually for no commission. Travellers' cheques are more of a hassle as not every bank will accept them, but still you’ll find enough places to cash them for a commission of around 5%. Cash advances on credit cards might also be a bit of a problem, but ATMs are a common sight around the city.

Waiters and taxi-drivers expect the bill to be rounded up to the nearest convenient figure. With non-metered taxis you needn't add a tip to the fare you agreed on beforehand.