Checked on 24 October 2026
The short version: pay by card, choose RON, tip around 10%, bring a European plug adapter and remember 112.
MoneyRONRomanian leu
- Romania is in the EU but doesn't use the euro.
- Cards and phone payments work almost everywhere, including all public transport.
- If a card machine or ATM offers your home currency, choose RON: the offered conversion is usually more expensive.
- Keep a little cash for markets and small bakeries.
Tipping~10%in restaurants and cafés
- Normal if you were happy with the service.
- Tell the waiter the total you want to pay, or leave cash on the table.
PlugsC & F230 V · 50 Hz
- The two round pins used across continental Europe.
- Visitors from the UK, Ireland, the US and Canada need an adapter.
Mobile dataEU roamingfree with an EU SIM
- With an EU SIM, calls and data cost the same as at home.
- From outside the EU, an eSIM or a local prepaid SIM is much cheaper than roaming.
- Coverage is fast across the city, including in the metro.
Emergencies112police · ambulance · fire
- One number for everything.
- Operators can answer in English.
Time zoneUTC+2UTC+3 in summer
- Romania is on Eastern European Time, one hour ahead of Central Europe.
SmokingNot indoorsin any enclosed public place
- Banned in restaurants, bars and cafés.
- Terraces are where smokers go.