The currency of Romania is the Leu, with one Leu – plural Lei – equalling 100 Bani. The recently introduced New Leu is now the dominant currency, through the Old Leu can still be used until the end of 2006. Notes come in denominations of Lei500, 100, 50, 10, 5 and 1, with coins coming in denominations of 50, 10, 5, 2 and 1 Bani. To get the value of the Old Leu in comparison to the New, simply add four zeros to the end of the number.

Note: As of 1 July 2005, Romania's legal tender, previously coded as ROL, has been redenominated so that Lei10,000 are exchanged for 1 new Leu (RON). The old Leu will be legal tender until the end of December 2006.

Currency can be exchanged at banks and at authorised dealers, as well as at a lot of shops, hotels and restaurants. The most widely accepted and welcomed currency is the US Dollar, so bringing a supply of hard currency is recommended. All receipts should be kept in case they are required by customs or other officials, and it is not recommended that the black market is used for currency exchanges. Traveller’s cheques are accepted in larger hotels and banks, but not many other places. To avoid additional charges, they should be made out in US Dollars or Euros.

ATMs are becoming more popular, though they are not widespread. Credit and debit cards are accepted in larger hotels and restaurants, as well as bigger car hire firms, though again the use of them is not widespread. See:

Visa:               http://www.visa.com/atms/
MasterCard:  http://www.mastercard.com/cardholderservices/atm/