Romania Basics

The official currency was the Lei, however from 1 July 2005 the new Lei (RON) was introduced (four zeros were dropped from the original national currency), but both old and new coins and notes will be in circulation until 31 December 2006 and shops are currently displaying prices in both old and new lei. Lei are divided into 100 bani. Money may be exchanged at banks, international airports, hotels or authorised exchange offices. ATMs are available at large banks, airports and shopping centres in cities. American Express, MasterCard and Visa are accepted in the main cities. Travellers cheques, preferably in Euros, can be cashed in large banks, some hotels and certain exchange offices in Bucharest but commission is high. It is recommended to travel with some Euros in cash in case of difficulty using credit cards or travellers cheques. US Dollars are also accepted fairly widely.

All passports must be valid for period of intended stay. All visitors must hold all documents required for further travel, onward or return tickets, sufficient funds for period of stay, and proof of reserved accommodations.

No visa is needed by British passport holders for stays of up to 90 days.