Beaches, Bargains and Bulgarian Lev: Everything UK Travellers Need to Know

The Bulgarian Lev (BGN) is Bulgaria's official currency. Its name comes from the old Bulgarian word for "lion". Pretty fitting for a country full of bold landscapes, rich history, and king of the bargain beach breaks!

Interested in what cash you may get? You’ll find coins in stotinki (like Bulgarian pennies – 100 stotinki = 1 Lev), and notes in 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 Lev denominations.

1 GBP is around 2.20 Bulgarian Lev. But it's best to check the latest rates at Hays Travel to make sure you’re getting a great rate!

Bulgaria has fast become one of the top budget-friendly destinations for Brits looking for a great value holiday. With flights from the UK to Bulgaria taking around 3 hours, it’s easy it see why it’s the perfect popular destination for a weekend break or a sizzling family summer holiday.

From the sunny party scene in resorts like Golden Sands or Sunny Beach, to cultural city breaks in Sofia or Veliko Tarnovo, thanks to low in-resort costs, your money goes a lot further here. And if you’re super savvy about how you exchange your GBP to BGN, it goes even further! 

Browse Bulgaria Holidays

Let's start with the basics. If you’re wondering, “How do I get a great value travel money rate for my holiday to Bulgaria?” here are the mistakes you should avoid.

🚫 Airport Currency Exchange Counters
 Low rates + high fees = worst value for your money.
🚫 Withdrawing from ATMs Abroad (without checking fees)
Foreign ATM fees and bad exchange rates can eat into your budget fast.
🚫 Changing Money at Hotels
Convenient, yes. But usually unfavourable rates.
🚫 Leaving It to the Last Minute
Last-minute means fewer options and potentially worse deals.

Whether you're sipping cocktails on the Black Sea coast or soaking up culture in Sofia, having your travel money sorted in advance can make your holiday smoother, safer, and way more fun. Get the best rates and zero stress by ordering your Bulgarian Lev from Hays Travel – the UK’s largest independent travel agent.

✔️ Competitive exchange rates
✔️ No hidden fees
✔️ Order online & collect in-store
✔️ Home Delivery Options 
✔️ Friendly, expert advice on all your holiday money needs

With the average 3-course meal costing £20pp and a coffee setting you back £1.63, Bulgaria is one of Europe’s best value destinations, so your travel money is bound to go a little further on food and drink. But who doesn’t love a freebie?

If you’re planning a city break in Sophia, head over to the Palace of Justice and check out the free walking tours of the city, or a trip to The Red Flat could bag you a free public summer festival surprise! Looking to head to the beach for a family day on a budget? Grab your towels, chairs, and picnic from the local markets where delicious, low-cost meals are the order of the day and make the most of the free beach areas.