VISIT BULGARIA

Bulgaria offers a captivating blend of history, nature, and cultural richness. From ancient Roman ruins and Orthodox monasteries to Black Sea beaches and snow-covered mountains, it’s a country full of surprises. With charming towns like Plovdiv and Veliko Tarnovo, vibrant Sofia, and stunning natural parks, Bulgaria remains one of Europe’s most affordable and underrated travel destinations.

❄️ December – February: Winter is perfect for skiing and snowboarding, with popular resorts like Bansko, Borovets, and Pamporovo. Temperatures can drop below 0°C (32°F), especially in mountainous areas.

🌱 March – May: Spring brings blooming valleys and mild temperatures, ideal for hiking, sightseeing, and exploring historic cities. Tourist crowds are still low.

☀️ June – August: Summer is hot, especially in the south and inland. It’s the best time to enjoy the Black Sea coast, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). Coastal resorts can get busy, so book ahead.

🍂 September – November: Autumn offers cooler temperatures, colorful forests, and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s an ideal time for cultural trips and nature escapes in the mountains and countryside.

Bulgaria has a decent transport system, though infrastructure may vary:

🚌 Buses: The most common way to travel between cities and towns. They are frequent and affordable, though schedules may not be available online for remote areas.

🚂 Trains: Trains are slower but scenic. They connect major cities like Sofia, Plovdiv, Varna, and Burgas. First-class carriages are more comfortable.

🚗 Car Rental: Renting a car is convenient for exploring rural areas and national parks. Roads are generally good, but driving in remote areas can be challenging. You’ll need a vignette (road tax sticker) for highways. An IDP is not required if your license is in Latin script.

Cash is widely used, especially in small towns and rural areas. Credit and debit cards (mainly Visa and Mastercard) are accepted in most shops, hotels, and restaurants in cities.

Bulgaria uses two plug types: C and F. They have two grounding holes. Most European plugs work, but check compatibility before you go. Bulgaria operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz frequency.

If needed, you can order an universal travel plug adapter here.

Yes, tipping is appreciated. In restaurants, a tip of around 10% is standard. You can also round up the bill in cafés, taxis, or for small services.

Tap water is generally safe to drink in cities and towns in Bulgaria, though many locals prefer bottled water, especially in rural areas.

Sunday is a closing day for most stores in Bulgaria. National holidays in Bulgaria include:

• New Year’s Day (January 01)
• Liberation Day (March 03)
• Orthodox Easter (date varies)
• Labour Day (May 01)
• Saint George’s Day (May 06)
• Culture and Literacy Day (May 24)
• Unification Day Day (September 06)
• Independence Day (September 22)
• Christmas Day (December 25)

On these days, most businesses and offices will be closed, and many attractions may be shut or have limited opening hours.

In Bulgaria, traffic drives on the right-hand side of the road. The main speed limits are as follows:

• 50 kph / 30mph in urban areas
• 90 kph / 56 mph on open roads
• 130 kph / 81 mph on motorways

During adverse weather (rain, fog, etc.), the speed limits are lowered.

Bulgarian uses the Cyrillic alphabet, but here are some useful phrases with Latin transliteration:

• Hello (informal) = Здравей (Zdravey)
• Good day = Добър ден (Dobar den)
• Goodbye = Довиждане (Dovizhdane)
• Yes = Да (Da)
• No = Не (Ne)
• Thank you = Благодаря (Blagodarya)
• Please = Моля (Molya)
• You’re welcome = Няма защо (Nyama zashto)
• Excuse me = Извинете (Izvinete)
• Day = Ден (Den)
• Night = Нощ (Nosht)
• Good evening = Добър вечер (Dobar vecher)
• Goodnight = Лека нощ (Leka nosht)
• Mister = Господин (Gospodin)
• Ma’am = Госпожа (Gospozha)
• Street = Улица (Ulitsa)
• Goodnight = Път (Put)

💡 Tip: With the GoogleTranslate app, you can download Bulgarian language to use it even offline!

Bulgaria is generally safe for travelers. Petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas and public transport, especially in Sofia. Standard precautions apply:

• Secure Your Belongings: Stay alert in touristy places.

• Emergency Numbers: Dial 112 for police, ambulance, or fire services anywhere in Bulgaria.