Money, cards and ATMs in Romania

The currency is the leu, not the euro

• Romania uses the Romanian leu (RON). Joining Schengen did not change that, and there is no adoption date.
• Places that quote prices in euro are quoting a tourist rate. Pay in lei and you will pay less.
• Cards work nearly everywhere, contactless is standard, and Romania's banking is more modern than its reputation.

ATMs and exchange

• Always refuse the machine's offer to charge you in your own currency. Dynamic currency conversion at an ATM or a card terminal costs several per cent, every time, and the offer is worded to sound helpful. Choose the local currency and let your own bank convert.
• Use bank ATMs rather than the independent machines in tourist areas, which add their own fee on top.
• Exchange offices (casa de schimb) are common and the rate is displayed. Read the commission line, not just the rate.
• Avoid changing money at the airport beyond what you need for the train.

Everyday costs

• Romania is inexpensive by EU standards, and noticeably cheaper outside Bucharest.
• Tipping is around 10 per cent in restaurants where service is not included.
• Carry small notes. A 200-lei note is hard to break in a village shop.