What Currency Does Romania Use?

Romania uses the Romanian leu (RON), not the euro. UK travellers must pay in lei or use cards.

What Currency Does Romania Use? (UK Traveller’s Guide)

If you’re planning a trip to Romania from the UK—whether to explore the castles of Transylvania, soak in Bucharest’s city life or hike the Carpathians—it’s important to know which currency to use. While Romania is part of the European Union, it has not yet adopted the euro. This guide explains what currency Romania uses, how it works in practice, and what UK travellers need to know to avoid confusion or extra charges.

What Is the Official Currency of Romania?

Romania’s official currency is the Romanian leu.

  • Currency name: Leu (plural: lei)

  • Currency symbol: lei

  • ISO code: RON

  • Subunit: 1 leu = 100 bani

The leu is issued by the National Bank of Romania and used for all transactions across the country.

Does Romania Use the Euro?

No. Although Romania is a member of the European Union, it does not use the euro. It is obliged to adopt the euro eventually, but no date has been set. All prices, wages, and payments are made in RON.

Some tourist-heavy locations may quote prices in euros, but you must pay in Romanian lei unless otherwise agreed.

How Currency Works in Practice

  • All products and services are priced in RON

  • UK debit and credit cards are widely accepted in cities, hotels, restaurants, and shops

  • Cash is still common—especially in rural areas and markets

  • ATMs are widely available and dispense Romanian lei

  • Contactless and mobile payments are supported in most urban locations

Benefits and Considerations for UK Travellers

Benefits:

  • The leu is stable and easy to use for day-to-day purchases

  • Cost of living in Romania is lower than in Western Europe, making it budget-friendly

  • Cards are widely accepted in cities

Considerations:

  • GBP and EUR are not accepted in shops or restaurants

  • You’ll need to exchange pounds for RON or use an ATM locally

  • Some UK cards may apply foreign transaction fees

Tips for Spending in Romania

  • Use a travel-friendly debit card (e.g. Starling, Monzo, Wise, or Chase) to get the best exchange rates

  • Withdraw cash in lei from trusted bank ATMs—avoid exchange offices at airports or train stations

  • If you’re offered the option to pay in GBP at checkout, always choose to pay in RON to avoid dynamic currency conversion

  • Carry some cash for tipping, taxis, or rural purchases

FAQs

Can I use euros or pounds in Romania?
No. The only legal tender is the Romanian leu (RON). You’ll need to exchange your money or pay by card.

Do I need cash in Romania?
Yes. While card payments are accepted in most cities, some smaller businesses, taxis, and rural areas may be cash-only.

Are exchange rates good in Romania?
Generally yes—especially when using ATMs or banks. Avoid changing money at tourist traps or unauthorised exchange booths.