Is cash still widely used?
Yes. Romania remains more cash-reliant than Western Europe. While Bucharest has improving card acceptance, local markets, village guesthouses, rural restaurants, and transport outside major cities still predominantly use lei cash. Note that Romania uses leu, not euros.
ATMs and withdrawing cash
ATMs are widely available in cities. BCR and BRD machines are the most common and reliable for foreign cards.
- Fees are around 10 RON per withdrawal for foreign cards
- Good availability in cities; more limited in rural and mountain areas
- Always withdraw RON — avoid dynamic currency conversion
Card acceptance
Moderate. Bucharest and larger cities have reasonable card acceptance at hotels and tourist restaurants. Rural Romania, local markets, and smaller businesses predominantly require cash.
Tips for travelers
- Romania is one of Europe’s most affordable destinations
- Carry lei for rural travel, local markets, and village stays
- Mountain areas (Transylvania, Bucovina) have limited ATM access — plan ahead
- Tipping 10% is customary in restaurants