Source: Freepik
Key Takeaways
- PC Garage and Kartela.ro are among the businesses that accept cryptocurrency for purchases in Romania.
- Romania has a thriving Bitcoin ATM network, ranking among the top 10 globally, with machines in major cities like Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timișoara, and Iași.
- Cryptocurrency income is taxed at 10%, whether from trading (capital gains) or payments for goods and services (personal income).
- Romania’s crypto regulations align with EU’s MiCA framework, ensuring legal clarity and taxation guidelines for digital asset transactions.
An Overview of Spending Crypto in Romania
Romania is steadily establishing itself in the global crypto landscape, as cryptocurrencies transition from being just investments to becoming part of everyday transactions. While adoption is still expanding and not all businesses accept digital payments, well-known merchants like Kartela and PC Garage now support cryptocurrency.
This allows customers to make purchases more easily using digital assets. Interestingly, as of February 2025, the country ranks among the top 11 globally for reported crypto ATMs, providing convenient access to cash when needed.
With an expected 5.65 million crypto users by 2025, the country’s crypto adoption is also growing rapidly, making it easier than ever to spend digital assets.
“The user penetration rate in Romania’s cryptocurrency market is forecasted to be 28.63% in 2024 and is expected to increase to 29.07% by 2025.”
Furthermore, a major step toward mainstream adoption came in 2021 when Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu became the first in Romania to allow students to pay tuition in crypto. This reflects the country’s expanding blockchain ecosystem, opening new opportunities for both individuals and businesses.
“It is a pilot project and, if it turns out to be a successful one, we will look into the possibility of offering our students the opportunity to pay tuition and administrative fees via cryptocurrency, and perhaps other digital currencies, too.”
Here’s a look at the best places to spend crypto in Romania and make the most of your digital assets.
Best Places to Spend Crypto in Romania
| S/N | Best Places to Spend Crypto in Romania | Category |
| 1 | PC Garage | Online Shopping & Electronics |
| 2 | Kartela | Mobile and Prepaid Services |
| 3 | Altex | Online Shopping & Electronics |
| 4 | Travala.com | Travel and Accomodation |
| 5 | Hotelul Popasul Regelui Transalpina | Accomodation |
PC Garage
Supported Crypto: Bitcoin
PC Garage is a leading online retailer in Romania specializing in IT and communication products. Based in Bucharest, the store has a wide range of laptops, gaming computers, mobile devices, monitors, and other electronics.
You can conveniently pay with Bitcoin, making it a great option for crypto users. As one of the best places to spend crypto in Romania, PC Garage provides a seamless shopping experience for tech enthusiasts looking to use digital currencies.
Kartela
Supported Crypto: Bitcoin
Kartela makes it easy to recharge your prepaid SIM from anywhere in Romania with just an internet connection.
You can top up any network instantly and pay with Bitcoin, making it a hassle-free option for crypto users. The platform provides a quick way to keep your mobile balance topped up using digital currency.
Altex
Supported Crypto: Bitcoin, Ethereum, USDT, Binance Pay via Bitrefill
Altex is Romania’s leading retailer for electronics, home appliances, IT, and multimedia
products, offering everything from laptops and gaming consoles to perfumes and baby products at great prices.
While crypto payments aren’t accepted directly, you can buy Altex gift cards on platforms like Bitrefill using Bitcoin, Ethereum, USDT, Binance Pay, and more.
Travala
Supported Crypto: BTC, ETH, BNB, USDT, AVA, XRP, ADA, TRX, LTC, DOT, DAI, BCH, LINK, and XLM
Travala.com makes it easy to explore Romania with its extensive selection of hotels, safaris, and travel experiences.
As a leading crypto-native booking platform, it accepts over 100 cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, BNB, USDT, and more. Additionally, you can enjoy seamless bookings and even earn up to 10% back in Bitcoin.
Hotelul Popasul Regelui Transalpina
Supported Crypto: Bitcoin
Nestled in the Tău Bistra, Hotel Popasul Regelui Transalpina provides a relaxing getaway with stunning lake views. You can enjoy family-friendly accommodations, a restaurant, an on-site grocery store, and free WiFiTh
Additionally, the hotel also features a sauna, hot tub, and playground. As the first hotel in Romania to accept crypto payments in 2018, guests can pay with Bitcoin.
……and now more and more people want to be able to pay a service with Bitcoin. I was surprised by the growing number of such requests, which mainly came through our website, especially from tourists outside the country.”
Traian Cornea, manager of Popasul Regelui Hotel.
Tools For Spending Crypto in Romania
Source: Freepik
As crypto adoption grows, several tools make spending crypto in Romania easier and more convenient. From wallets to Bitcoin ATMs, here are the key tools that can help:
Crypto Debit Cards
Crypto debit cards make it possible to spend crypto anywhere traditional card payments are accepted.
The UPay Card is one of the options available in Romania, allowing users to instantly convert crypto into fiat for everyday purchases. However, if you need to withdraw, the UPay Card comes with a 2% withdrawal fee.
Crypto Wallets
To use cryptocurrency for payments, you need a secure and reliable way to store and access your digital assets. This is where platforms like Upay come in.
UPay allows users in Romania to manage their crypto holdings, send and receive payments, and even integrate with merchants that accept digital currencies.
Bitcoin ATMs
Since not all businesses accept crypto payments, Bitcoin ATMs provide an alternative for accessing cash. Romania has several crypto ATMs, with locations in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timișoara, and Iași.
These machines allow users to quickly exchange their cryptocurrency for Romanian leu (RON), providing a practical solution when direct crypto payments aren’t an option.
Crypto Gift Cards
While not all Romanian businesses accept crypto directly, online platforms like Bitrefill allow you to purchase gift cards and other products using digital currencies.
These services expand the range of spending options, making spending crypto in Romania easier.
Tips For Spending Crypto in Romania
Source: Freepik
Spending crypto in Romania is becoming easier, but understanding the regulations and best practices can help you make the most of your digital assets. Here are some key tips to keep in mind:
Leverage Crypto ATMs for Easy Access to Cash
Romania ranks among the top 11 countries globally for reported crypto ATMs, making it easy to convert digital assets into cash when needed.
As most businesses are still gradually accepting crypto directly, Bitcoin ATMs provide a convenient alternative for accessing your funds on the go. Before heading out, check for nearby crypto ATMs to withdraw funds conveniently.
Know the Legal Framework
Romania follows the EU’s MiCA regulations without introducing separate rules. Crypto transactions are governed by Article 116, paragraph (1) of Law 227/2015, which categorizes income from cryptocurrencies as an alternative source of income.
This means crypto is legal for possession, trade, and taxation purposes.
Understand the Tax Rules
In Romania, cryptocurrency is taxed in two ways. Profits from trading are classified as capital gains and taxed at 10%.
If you receive crypto as payment for goods or services, it falls under personal income and is also taxed at 10%. Being aware of these rules helps you stay compliant while spending crypto in Romania.
Stay Updated on Regulations and Adoption
The crypto landscape is still evolving, and regulations may change as more people continue to use crypto. Staying informed about new developments can help you make better decisions when spending crypto in Romania.
Challenges of Spending Crypto in Romania
Source: Freepik
While cryptocurrency adoption in Romania is growing, spending crypto still comes with some challenges. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Limited Merchant Acceptance
Although more businesses are beginning to accept crypto, it’s not yet a mainstream payment option. Finding stores or retailers that accept crypto payments can be tricky, especially for in-person transactions.
Most crypto-friendly businesses are concentrated in major cities like Bucharest, leaving fewer options in smaller towns.
Security Concerns
Using crypto for payments requires careful security measures. Wallet hacks, phishing scams, and fraudulent merchants pose risks to users. Without proper knowledge and precautions, people can face financial losses when transacting with crypto.
Dependence on Crypto ATMs
Since direct merchant acceptance is limited in Romania, many crypto users rely on Bitcoin ATMs to convert crypto into cash.
While Romania ranks among the top 11 countries for reported crypto ATMs, they are not as widespread as traditional banking services.
Additionally, ATM fees, where applicable, and fluctuating exchange rates can affect the overall cost of crypto spending in Romania.
Volatility and Price Fluctuations
Cryptocurrency prices can change rapidly, making it difficult to predict the exact value of your holdings when making purchases. This volatility can discourage businesses from accepting crypto and affect how much you ultimately spend.
Conclusion
From online shopping to in-store purchases, spending crypto in Romania is becoming more practical with the right tools. With crypto wallets like UPay, Bitcoin ATMs in Bucharest, and crypto debit cards, cryptocurrencies are steadily integrating into everyday transactions.
While merchant acceptance is still growing in Romania, some businesses are now recognizing the value of crypto payments. For those looking for the best places to spend crypto in Romania, platforms like PC Garage and Kartela.ro are great starting points.
As people continue to use crypto, more businesses will likely join the wave of accepting crypto payments.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)
Is crypto legal to use in Romania?
Yes, cryptocurrency is legal to own, trade, and use in Romania. The government recognizes crypto transactions and applies a 10% tax on capital gains from trading, as well as a 10% income tax on crypto received as payment for goods and services.
Can you spend crypto in Romania?
Yes, you can spend crypto in Romania. While not all businesses accept digital currencies, the number of crypto-friendly merchants is growing.
What are the best places to spend crypto in Romania?
Some of the best places to spend crypto in Romania include online retailers and service providers that accept digital payments. PC Garage allows customers to purchase electronics using cryptocurrencies, while Kartela.ro offers prepaid mobile top-ups and services through crypto payments.
Are Bitcoin ATMs available in Romania?
Yes, Romania ranks among the top 11 countries globally for Bitcoin ATMs. Major cities like Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timișoara, and Iași have Bitcoin ATMs that allow users to convert crypto into cash easily.
What tools can I use to spend crypto in Romania?
Spending crypto in Romania is made easier with tools like Upay crypto wallets, UPay debit card and Bitcoin ATMs located in cities like Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca.
