bulgaria travel reddit

5 days in Bulgaria – the must-do itinerary for the first-timer

5 days are not enough to explore the country thoroughly but are a great start to discover the best places to visit in bulgaria.

If you are planning a trip to Bulgaria for the first time, you are probably wondering many things – what to see in Bulgaria, where to go and how much time to spend. Well, all of these questions are tough for us who have explored our beautiful country a lot. However, there are some places that are really a must not only for visitors but for Bulgarians, too. And if you are planning a week-long trip, we have some tips for you. Below we will share our suggestions for a 5-7-day itinerary through the most beautiful and interesting places to visit in Bulgaria. And don’t think we will tell you about tourist-only attractions. These places are among our favourite destinations, too, and are all worth visiting if you plan to spend your first 5 days in Bulgaria.

Sofia, our capital, is a popular starting point for first-timers. And is worth exploring as well. So, we will begin our journey from Sofia , the city where we also live.

Sofia – the largest city in Bulgaria

In Bulgaria we have only four international airports, so most likely your journey will begin from Sofia Airport. No matter at which terminal you arrive, you have an easy access to the city. Sofia is a great choice to spend one or two days.

[divider style=”solid” height=”2px” color=”#000000″]

[display-posts post_type=”null” category=”null” tag=”null” layout=”layout4″ posts_per_page=”1″ id=”33227″]

[success] Sofia Airport has two terminals. Terminal 2 is the main terminal and is connected to the city by metro, bus and taxi. All of these means of transportation are convenient and also not expensive, including the taxi. Terminal 1 is the old terminal where low-cost airlines land. There is a regular shuttle between the terminals. From Terminal 1 to Sofia centre you can also take a bus or a taxi. We often prefer the taxi which would cost 7 – 10 EUR.[/success]

[button text=” Hotels in Sofia” url=”http://sp.booking.com/searchresults.html?city=-838489&aid=1152323&no_rooms=1&group_adults=1″ background_color=”#add2ed” text_color=”#000000″ style=”lt_flat” size=”small” icon=”fa-hotel” open_new_window=”true” rounded=”false”]

I recommend spending two or three days in Sofia , which is not so big but beautiful and green (in the winter it is often white). But if you have only one day, you can visit the main sites of the city. My favourites are:

The Royal Palace, the National Theatre and the City Garden

The area around the National Theatre is the beating heart of Sofia. The park, known as the City Garden , is probably the liveliest in Sofia both in summer and winter. In the summer it is full of young people walking, drinking beer or coffee and hanging out. In the winter it is home to the cosy Christmas market. It is also one of our favourite parts of Sofia and we often go there in the weekends. We even wrote a separate article only about this area – Sofia for Guests and Locals .

The Largo and the oldest mall in Sofia

Here we are in the very centre of Sofia, the Largo area . The Largo is an architectural ensemble of three buildings built in the 1950s by the then Socialist regime. The area was intended to become the new representative centre of the city.

Once the Largo buildings housed the Parliament, the Council of Ministers and TZUM – the oldest shopping mall in Sofia. Nowadays TZUM is still operating as a luxury shopping centre and the other buildings are shared between the Presidency, the Council of Ministers and two ministries.

An interesting point to visit in the area is the St. George Rotunda , located in the inner yard of the President’s headquarters. Next to it you will also see ruins of ancient Roman baths.

Banya Bashi Mosque, the Synagogue, The central Market (Halite), the fountains with mineral water and the Central Bath (now Sofia History Museum)

Going slightly north from the Largo, you will find yourselves between the mosque and Halite market. You won’t miss the two buildings, each one with its special radiance. A hundred metres from there (on the west) is the Synagogue and in the opposite direction Is the former city bath house, now Sofia History Museum. A cute attraction just next to the bath are the hot mineral water fountains.

The Central Bath in Sofia (now Sofia History Museum) used to be a great place in the centre of the city with thermal mineral water. It was built in early 20 th century (1913) and used as a city public bath until 1986. Today you can enjoy only the Sofia History Museum inside the bath’s building.

Vitosha Boulevard and the National Palace of Culture

Vitosha Boulevard has become the main promenade of Sofia since it restoration a few years ago. You can take a nice walk there and have fun and rest on the many cafes and restaurants along it. One end of the promenade is next to the Court House, nearby the Largo. The other end goes to the National Palace of Culture (NDK) , a prominent congress centre and concert hall, also a home to many exhibitions and cultural events. The building is impressive from outside, but you cannot go inside if you are not attending a particular event.

Seven Rila Lakes

The lakes are situated between 2100 and 2500 m above the sea level. They are a group of glacial lakes. The lakes usually freeze in October and melt in June, so you can see real lakes only in the summer. To reach them, you should first drive to Panichishte. From there take the cable car to Rila Lakes hut. Then the trekking path is not difficult. However, I strongly recommend you to check the weather first and wear comfortable shoes and clothes. It is a mountain, after all! You can stay in Rila Lakes hut, but the place is very popular so you have to book in advance. Other options are Panichishte and Sapareva Banya. Sapareva Banya is famous with its thermal mineral springs, hottest geyser in Europe and there you can find nice SPA hotels .

[info]The Rila Monastery and Rila Lakes are reachable only by car and bus. There is no public transport between the monastery and the lakes. You can use and organized shuttles, check here: Get discounts for day tours from Sofia .[/info]

What to see in Veliko Tarnovo

Nowadays you can visit the ruins of the fabulous Tarnovgrad – the hills of Tsarevets and Trapezitsa . And enjoy the beautiful Old town situated amphitheater like on the hills along the river. The city is very popular tourist destination for Bulgarians as well because of its great historical importance and the preserved attractions. You can enjoy the nice pubs and, because of the many students in Veliko Tarnovo University, lively nightlife. If you prefer to see more historical and religious places, you can visit the nearby Arbanasi village. Set on a high plateau a few kilometers from Veliko Tarnovo, it is popular with a large number of historical monuments (churches, old houses…). Alternatively, you can visit some of the many monasteries in the area.

[button text=”Hotels in Veliko Tarnovo” url=”http://sp.booking.com/searchresults.html?city=-839524&aid=1152323&no_rooms=1&group_adults=1″ background_color=”#add2ed” text_color=”#000000″ style=”lt_flat” size=”small” icon=”fa-hotel” open_new_window=”true” rounded=”false”]

[info]Veliko Tarnovo is one of the top places to visit in Bulgaria. From Sofia to Veliko Tarnovo you could travel by train (quite a complicated and time-consuming option) or bus (around 3 hours). I personally would rather recommend a third option – with an organized guided tour. One of our partners is offering a wonderful day tour from Sofia to Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanassi. Check here the options and book a tour with a discount I have arranged especially for my readers.[/info]

[info]A suggestion from our stay in the region. We like to stay in Park Hotel Arbanassi , a place with great view of Veliko Tarnovo. So if you travel by car it’s a great idea to rest in the hotel and enjoy the Arbanasi village (4-5 km from Veliko Tarnovo).[/info]

[divider style=”double” height=”1px” color=”#000000″]

[display-posts post_type=”null” category=”null” tag=”null” layout=”layout4″ posts_per_page=”2″ id=”29033, 29357″]

Other places to visit in Bulgaria

In Bulgaria, we have a lot great places to see. So if you want to do more than this list, just check our posts about  Bulgaria . In this article we selected the top destinations that are famous, easily accessible and, of course, very attractive and worth visiting. But there are also many others, for example, we like Belogradchik rocks . The rocks are stunning beautiful, but the transport to the rocks is slow and not easy.

Not to miss in Bulgaria

No matter for how long time you are coming to Bulgaria and what you want to see, do not miss to taste traditional Bulgarian food . Despite Bulgarians are a meat-friendly nation, there are plenty of delicious local specialities both for meat lovers and vegetarians. Read our article about How to taste Bulgarian food safely and love it to learn how to enjoy Bulgarian food to the maximum.

Another must-try thing is Bulgarian wine . Either visit a winery or just buy a bottle from a shop – you won’t regret if you are a winelover. Just have in mind not to buy the cheapest bottle (you will be amused to find wine costing as less as 1-2 EUR a litre). In any case, a bottle costing 5 EUR or more would be a good choice. Here you can see some wines we have tried and strongly recommend .

Follow us: Instagram and Facebook

Subscribe to our English newsletter

You may also like, wave resort, pomorie – happy holidaying in bulgaria..., lilac views from zasele village, vazova eco-path, bulgaria, welcome to the home of the best pinot..., airport lounges: la valette club, malta, chasing the orange wine through bulgarian tuscany –..., sofia, bulgaria – for guests and locals –..., social cafe bar & kitchen and our lovely..., becoming an islander – a journey to saint..., topola skies resort and our active family holiday..., rupel wine cellar, bulgaria: where the warm winds..., leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Keep me signed in until I sign out

Forgot your password?

A new password will be emailed to you.

Have received a new password? Login here

Copyrighted Image

Wander-Lush

Easy Bulgaria Road Trip Itinerary for 10 Days of Travel

With stunning national parks, historic cities and sweet villages, and an incredibly diverse landscape of mountains, lakes and rock formations, Bulgaria is a crowd-pleaser when it comes to Balkans travel .

This country has something for everyone – and because it’s so compact and easy to get around, it’s also one of the best places in the region for a road trip .

Whether you’re travelling in peak summer season for hiking or you’re planning to visit Bulgaria in winter to take advantage of the country’s skiing opportunities, there are an infinite number of ways you can design a Bulgaria road trip.

The following itinerary, suitable for summer or winter travel, is tailored to 10 days in Bulgaria but can easily be edited to be shorter or longer. It covers all the highlights, including several national parks, the Black Sea coast and several UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

Renting a car in Bulgaria

Sofia is the logical place to pick up your car in Bulgaria. But don’t book it until you’re done with sightseeing – you don’t need a car for the city centre as metro and bus services are more than adequate.

I recommend using Local Rent to source a budget-friendly hire car from a local agent. Prices average 21 Euros per day, and there are plenty of perks you don’t get with the bigger brands including no deposit, comprehensive insurance included, and delivery to your address in Sofia.

If you’re driving in winter, tyre chains and ski/snowboard racks are optional extras and cost an additional 4-10 Euros (for the duration of the trip, not per day) depending on the vehicle.

→ Check prices and availability here on the Local Rent website .

Where to start your Bulgaria road trip

I recommend starting your itinerary in Sofia, Bulgaria’s capital city. Flights from Western and Eastern Europe service the city’s international airport, and rail and bus connections from neighbouring countries are plentiful.

You should budget at least 1-2 full days for Sofia in order to see the highlights. If you’re short on time, I highly recommend joining a walking tour of the city centre – this small group tour covers the main tourist spots while this alternative itinerary focuses on Sofia’s communist past.

Check out this list of 101 things to do in Sofia for more inspiration.

Bulgaria road trip map

Click here to open the map via Google Drive .

Bulgaria road trip itinerary for 10 days of travel

Day 1: depart sofia to start your bulgaria road trip itinerary in the mountains of rila & pirin.

The highest mountain range in Bulgaria, the Rila Mountains are an experience you don’t want to miss. If you visit in winter, you can play winter sports and ski the slopes. In warmer weather, you’ll want to take advantage of the many hiking trails. 

Having your own car will allow you to access more remote mountain huts which are truly some of the country’s loveliest accommodations. Samovilla in Govedartsi is one of many darling chalets on the fringe of Rila National Park.

Rila Monastery

Leaving Sofia, Rila Monastery should be your first stop. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it was founded in the 10th century and is by far Bulgaria’s most iconic Eastern Orthodox monastery.

Rila sits at a high elevation and takes several hours to reach by car. The way the roads wind up the mountain, you’ll feel like you’re entering another world – especially in winter when the hills are snow capped and sparkling.

Spend a good hour or so wandering the grounds of the monastery and the interior, admiring the stunning frescoes, architectural flourishes and well-kept grounds. There’s a dress code, so make sure you have your knees and shoulders covered to show respect before you enter.

If you can adjust your timeline, consider spending a night inside the monastery. Monks still live there and the gates close early, but it’s definitely a unique experience.

Rila National Park & the Seven Rila Lakes

The most popular hiking trail in these mountains is the Seven Rila Lakes. You’ll see, of course, seven lakes: The Tear, The Eye, The Kidney, The Gemini, The Triplets, The Fish Lake, and The Lower Lake.

Each lake is different, with the Tear being the highest, the Lower Lake being the lowest, the Eye being the deepest, and the Fish Lake being the shallowest. Bring a picnic to enjoy at the Kidney for beautiful views.

The cable car up to the lakes still runs in winter , but you might find that the whole landscape is white-washed with snow, making it difficult to discern the different lakes. Consider spending a day at Bansko or Borovets for skiing and snowboarding instead.

Day 2: Continue to historic Melnik

A few hours’ drive further south towards the border with Greece , Melnik enjoys a prime location in the heart of Bulgaria’s wine region . There’s a wine museum where you can learn about the practice of winemaking and try the local drop. You can also stop by wine stores and vineyards for walk-in tastings.

In addition to sipping local wines, take time to visit the Melnik Earth Pyramids, huge sandstone rocks that have been shaped over the centuries by rain and erosion.

If the weather is suitable, a short day hike up to Rozhen Monastery is a must-do. Built in the 15th century, it was ravaged by fire in the 1600s but has since been restored to its original glory.

Historic Chavkova House , with its sprawling gardens, is the ideal place to stay in Melnik if you want to explore the centre by foot and get some R&R ahead of a busy day 3.

Day 3: Follow the Rhodope Mountains to Trigrad Gorge & Smolyan

The Rhodope Mountains stretch across southern Bulgaria and into Greece. For more amazing day hikes, follow the popular trails since they’re well-marked. If you’re a more experienced hiker, you’ll love the freedom of getting out on the mountains away from the beaten path.

For an unforgettable experience, treat yourself to a night at Petko Takov’s House in Smolyan, a traditional country house with decadent rooms and a taverna.

Trigrad Gorge

East of Melnik, Trigrad Gorge is the third largest gorge in Bulgaria, with walls ranging from 100 to 300 metres high. The ravine was formed by the Trigrad River, which courses through the rocks.

While exploring Trigrad Gorge, make sure you venture to the bottom of the highest cliffs to experience Devil’s Throat Cave – it contains an underground waterfall that merges with the Trigrad River.

After spending time in the rugged Rhodope Mountains, you’ll be glad to see Smolyan, a resort town close to the Greek border. It sits in the valley of the Cherna and Byala Rivers.

The perfect winter escape, it has plenty of indoor activities on offer including museums, art galleries and restaurants that serve national food and regional specialties.

Days 4 & 5: Relax in Plovdiv, Bulgaria’s most charming city

Heading north back into central Bulgaria, Plovdiv is the second-largest city in the country and one of the oldest in the world. There are Roman ruins to explore, including the Roman Forum of Philippopolis and the Ancient Stadium.

While you’re in the Old Town area, visit Dzhumaya Mosque, one of the oldest and largest mosques around. Most modern mosques have one dome, but Dzhumaya Mosque has nine.

Plovdiv is a delightful mix of old and new. As well as gorgeous examples of Bulgarian Revival Architecture you’ll find many hidden treasures, including the Kapana district, with its enticing assortment of street art, craft beer bars and restaurants. Spend an afternoon walking the pedestrian streets and browsing the many independent shops and cafes.

Time your visit just right so you can be atop one of Plovdiv’s seven hills at sunset. You won’t believe the astonishing views. Plovdiv City Center Hotel is a great base for your stay and just a short walk from some of the best sunset spots. Spending two days in Plovdiv gives you a chance to really explore the history – I spent a full week here and never ran out of things to do.

Days 6 & 7: Soak up Black Sea coast vibes in Varna & Nesebar

Bulgaria’s Black Sea offers a different experience depending on the time of year  you go. Outside of summer peak season you can experience the historic cities without the crowds. Nesebar and Varna are both must-sees.

Often called the ‘Pearl of the Black Sea’, Nesebar is a historical fishing town that was once part of the Ottoman Empire. You can easily spend a couple of days here seeing the ancient fortress and ruins.

History is well-balanced with modern conveniences, so you can enjoy the touristy side of town as well. Nestled within the old town but still walking distance from the sea, Kirios Hotel offers guests the best of both worlds.

Further north along the coast, Varna is Bulgaria’s third-largest city. Make time for sights of historical interest including the Archaeological Museum, which has ancient gold artefacts that date back 6,500 years. The Battle of Varna Park Museum has tombs from 4,000 BC with a unique Stone Forest just beyond the battlefield.

If you’d rather stay close to nature, you can enjoy the University Botanical Garden. It spans 360 hectares and is a great place to have a picnic. When you’re ready to relax by the Black Sea, the Sea Garden is a landscaped park that runs along the waterfront.

Guest Rooms Boutique Varna offers simple but comfortable rooms within walking distance of the Roman baths, the port, and other major attractions.

Day 8: Head inland to Veliko Tarnovo, Arbanasi & Nicopolis ad Istrum

After a few days by the sea it’s back to the mountains of Bulgaria’s interior. Veliko Tarnovo is a walkable city with a charming old town and the most impressive fortress in the country, Tsarevets, at its highest point. This city used to be Bulgaria’s capital but is now known for its amazing views and history.

It’s also home to one of the largest universities outside of Sofia. Because the population skews young, you’ll find a lively bar scene and lots of events in Veliko Tarnovo. Hostel Mostel , one of Bulgaria’s best hostels, is a great place to meet people. If you prefer your privacy, Guest House Diabora is set inside a stunning heritage home.

After exploring the fortress grounds, walk or take a taxi up the hill to the nearby village of Arbanasi for magical views looking down onto Tsarevets. The Roman-Byzantine ruins at Nicopolis ad Istrum, 20 kilometres north of Veliko Tarnovo, are also worth a look-in if you’re a fan of archaeology.

Day 9: Drive to Koprivshtitsa via Kazanlak, Shipka & the Buzludzha

By now you should be ready to start winding up your Bulgaria road trip and heading back towards Sofia. But first, there’s still ample time for a mini road trip within a road trip to Koprivshtitsa, making several incredible stops along the way. 

The Kazanlak area has a wealth of natural and historical sights, all worthy of a stopover. Consider visiting:

• The Tomb of Seuthes III
• The Megalith Rock Sanctuary
• The Museum of Roses
• The Museum of Photography

In Shipka, don’t miss the Buzludzha , the famous UFO-shaped Memorial House built by the Bulgarian Communist Party. The drive up Buzludzha Peak is rough and winding, but it’s worth it for the views. The monument is currently closed off for some much-needed restorations, but you can still admire its otherworldly form from afar.

Finally, the last leg of your road trip will take you to delightful Koprivshtitsa, a historical village where you can see landmarks from the Bulgarian uprising against the Turks.

Many of the houses have been preserved with their unique architecture on full display. Some have been transformed into cultural museums while others have been reborn as guest lodgings.

For a chance to sleep inside one of these stunning heritage monuments, stay at Family Hotel Panorama .

Day 10: Return to Sofia

Spend the morning in Koprivshtitsa before returning to Sofia.

Quick tips for driving in Bulgaria

• In Bulgaria you drive on the right-hand side of the road.
• Seat belts are mandatory for both front and back-seat passengers.
• Bulgaria has a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to drink driving – keep this in mind if you plan on visiting the country’s wineries.
• Bring a hands-free mount with you as it’s illegal to use your mobile phone when driving.
• During the winter months (November-March) you must have your headlights on at all times.
• Winter tyres with 4mm of tread are required in winter (enforceable by law). Snow chains are compulsory in some areas when conditions are harsh – be sure to research your route well in advance and add on chains if you need them.

→ Find more great tips for driving in Bulgaria here .

Bulgaria essentials

Here are my favourite resources to help you organise your trip to Bulgaria.

FLIGHTS: Find affordable flights to Bulgaria on Skyscanner .

TRAVEL INSURANCE: Insure your trip with HeyMondo , my preferred provider for single-trip and annual travel insurance.

VISAS: Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa for Bulgaria and apply for an expedited visa online.

SIM CARD: Buy an eSIM and data package for Bulgaria online before you go. My top choice is the Eurolink eSIM from Airalo (10 GB for 30 days).

AIRPORT TRANSFER: Pre-book a private transfer to your hotel in Sofia (prices start from $25 per car ).

ACCOMMODATION: Find the best hotel deals in Bulgaria on Booking.com .

CAR HIRE: Use Local Rent to hire a budget-friendly car from a local agent or Discover Cars to hire through an international rentals company.

DAY TRIPS & CITY TOURS: Find the best city tours and day excursions in Bulgaria using Get Your Guide or Viator .

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Subscribe to future posts

• Bulgaria Travel Tips

Why Bulgaria? Bulgaria is a country in southeastern Europe. While it may not be as well-known as a tourist destination, there is plenty to do and see.

With its beaches, mountain huts, hearty food, historical monasteries, beautiful cathedrals, and Roman ruins, Bulgaria has a lot to offer.

This Bulgaria travel guide will help you plan your next vacation.

Popular Guides

• Places to Visit in Bulgaria

Our Highlight

Table of contents

Table of Contents

Fast Facts about Bulgaria

• Power voltage is 230V at 50 Hz.
• The official currency is the Bulgarian lev and 1 lev is equal to 0.57 USD.
• The best way to get around is by car.
• To enter, you will need a U.S. passport valid for three months after entry.
• You do not need a visa if your stay is under 90 days.
• Vivacom, M-Tel, and Telenor are the most popular mobile providers. A prepaid SIM card can be purchased through either of them.
• The sales tax rate is 20%, with a reduced rate of 9% for hotel services.

Things to See and Do in Bulgaria

• Come explore the largest public park in Bulgaria .  Located in Varna, the park includes beautiful gardens, a zoo with tigers, kangaroos and bears, and an aquarium.
• National Historical Museum:  Come see the largest museum in Bulgaria. Featuring a vast collection of 650,000 historical items, there is plenty to see and learn here about Bulgarian history.
• Alexander Nevsky Cathedral:  One of the largest Eastern Orthodox cathedrals in the world, come explore this majestic cathedral in Sofia.Dating back to 1912 and reaching heights of 148 feet, this cathedral holds numerous mosaics, murals, and royal thrones, as well as an Orthodox museum.
• Come see these Roman ruins. Built in the 2nd century AD, these ancient thermal baths were how the Romans once bathed.The third largest Roman ruins complex in Europe, the roman baths are a fascinating glimpse into the past.

Bulgaria Travel Guides

• 10 Places to Visit in Bulgaria This Year

Accommodation

Budget  – You can find prices for a hostel for about 18-22 leva. Enjoy dorm-styled or private rooms, free breakfast, storage lockers, and great locations in the city.

Mid Rang e – For mid-range hotels, expect to pay between 60-80 leva per night. Stay in private rooms, workout at the fitness center, dine at the hotel restaurant and bar, and swim in the pool (indoor or outdoor).

High End  – Upscale hotels will range from 150-300 leva per night. Take in the best with top-of-the-line service, polished guest rooms with minibars and refrigerators, room service, multiple restaurants and a nightclub, babysitting services, outdoor pools with a pool bar, and more.

Check out our favorite booking platforms  Booking.com ,  Tripadvisor  and VRBO   for the best deals on accommodation in Australia

Food : The cuisine of Bulgaria favors vegetables, dairy, meat like pork or chicken, seafood, and spices as staples. Shopska salad (tomato and cucumber salad with Bulgarian feta cheese) and tarator (cold yogurt soup) are popular dishes.

If you’re out for breakfast or want a treat, try a banitsa, a pastry with cheese and yogurt. Expect to pay around 10-20 leva per meal for an average restaurant or 30-50 leva for high-quality restaurants.

The Best Ways to Get Around Bulgaria

Getting to bulgaria:.

Getting to Bulgario:  The Sofia International Airport is the main airport and is just 6 miles from the center of Sofia, Bulgaria’s capital. Other major cities like Varna and Plovdiv also have their own airport, though only Varna takes flights from the US.

Flights:   You can check for the best flights on   Skyscanner

Transportation:

Train:  Trains, especially overnight trains, are a good way to get a more scenic view of Bulgaria.There are three types of trains express (ekspresen), fast (barz) and slow (patnicheski). Go from the capital Sofia to Varna in 7.5 hours for 25-30 leva.

Buses : Buses are a cheap way to get around and can be found throughout major cities and towns. Fares start at about 1 lev.

Metro:  Sofia has its own metro that travels throughout the city, with speeds up to 50 miles per hour. Prices start at 1.60 leva. The metro operates from 5 AM to midnight, with new trains arriving every 7-14 minutes.

Taxis / Uber  : Taxis are an alternative way to get around. Most taxis have meters, though rates will vary. You can find taxis with a starting fee of 0.70-0.80 lev and a meter of 0.70 lev per kilometer traveled. Take a taxi from the airport to the city center of Sofia, for example, for about 15 leva.

Car Rental:  To rent a car, you need to be at least 21 years old and have a U.S. license as well as an International Driver’s Permit. Prices average around 60 leva per day. 

You can also compare  prices here

When to go To Bulgaria

The best time to visit is right before or after the summer (April-May or September-October).

In these months, you can find lower prices while still having pleasant weather (about 70-75 degrees Fahrenheit for spring, 65-70 degrees Fahrenheit for autumn) for outdoor activities.

If you are going to Bulgaria to ski, then December-February is the best time, though note that some of the smaller towns will be shut down during this time.

Where to Stay in Bulgaria

Les Fleurs Boutique Hotel :  Stay in this trendy four-star hotel in the capital of Sofia. Attractions like the National Palace of Culture and the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral are both just a short trip away. Once you’re done exploring, come back to relaxed rooms with minibars and flat screen TVs, complimentary breakfast, and the hotel’s restaurant.

Ramada Plovdiv Trimontium :  Stay in the heart of Plovdiv at this great four-star hotel. Great attractions like the Plovdiv Roman Theater and the ruins of Nebet Tepe are just a 15-minute walk away. The hotel comes with free breakfast and Wi-Fi, an outdoor pool, and a casino.

Grand Hotel Varna :  Be right by the Bulgarian Black Sea at this all-inclusive 5-star hotel in Varna. Stay in great rooms with balconies and sea views, head to the gym, swim in the outdoor pool, relax on the private beach, and dine at one of the 3 restaurants. Nearby attractions include the Sea Garden, the Aladzha Monastery, and Evxinograd, the 19 th -century palace.

What to Pack for Bulgaria

• Power Adapter:  As the voltage is higher than the US, a power adapter will ensure all of your electronics can be charged properly.
• Walking Shoes:  Keep your feet comfortable with a sturdy pair of walking shoes.
• Modest Clothing:  If your trip itinerary includes going to monasteries, make sure to bring clothes that cover your knees and elbows

See our packing tips:  packing tips

Bulgaria Travel Guide: Best Booking Resources

Whenever we travel to we make sure to start with these companies. We have tried a lot of different ones over the years and all of these have consistently proven to be the best when it comes to offering great prices.

We have used every one of these personally and continue to do so.

• Booking.com : This is our go site to when comparing prices for accommodation. It usually has the cheapest prices, especially in Europe and we love their interface. Not to mention you get free cancellation and you are guaranteed the best price.
• Trip Advisor :  What we like about Trip Advisor is that we can look at all the reviews and then book our accommodation. TripAdvisor is where we go when we want to compare prices with multiple accommodation providers.
• VRBO : is the main search engine we use when we are looking for a home or apartment rental. It can sometimes be cheaper than hotels and it is the best way to stay in areas that offer a more local feel.
• Hostelworld :  With one of the largest databases of hostels in the world, Hostelworld is the go-to site when you are looking for budget accommodation.
• Skyscanner : This is the first place we check for flights. It consistently comes back with the cheapest and best options. It allows us to compare a lot of airlines to get the best price.
• Rome 2 Rio :  If you want to see how to get somewhere by plane, train, bus, ferry or car Rome2Rio lays it all out for you as well as related costs.I love how they show it all to you on a Google Map and it works offline.
• Get Your Guide:  For all your day trip and city guide needs, we use Get Your Guide. It has the world’s largest collection of things to do with more than 30,000 activities in 7500 destinations.
• World Nomads Insurance:  When traveling to Italy you should always have travel insurance. We have found the best bang for your buck is by far World Nomads.

Bulgaria Travel Guide: Related Articles

Travel Blogger, Copywriter, Entrepreneur

166 Bulgaria Travel Tips: The Ultimate Guide

Home » Blog » 166 Bulgaria Travel Tips: The Ultimate Guide

Welcome to the ULTIMATE travel guide to Bulgaria.

If you’ve been looking for helpful Bulgaria travel tips , you’ll love this comprehensive post, covering everything you need to know about your trip to the gorgeous Balkan country.

In a tiny territory, Bulgaria packs lakes, rivers, beaches, and mountains. It’ll fascinate you with its fantastic food, profound culture, and unmatched magnetism.

Hi! My name is Svet Dimitrov.

I hail from Bulgaria and I absolutely adore my country. Now, it’s your turn to fall in love with it.

The travel tips below represent Bulgaria in its pure, unadulterated form. They’ll truly aid you in experiencing the mind-blowing nature, the jaw-dropping beauty, and the scrumptious food of Bulgaria in a witty and amusing way. Dig in slowly!

Things to Do & Know Before You Go to Bulgaria

Here’s a list of several things you need to do before you travel to Bulgaria .

• Type A – for an airport transit .
• Type C – for a short stay with the aim of transit or a planned stay.
• Type D – for a long-term stay.

The Bulgarian diplomatic mission in your home country issues the different visas. Find more information about the three visa types here .

• EU, the U.S., and Schengen area member states don’t need a visa . Bulgaria is a member of the European Union, so if your country is an EU member, too, you can stay in Bulgaria for up to 90 days without a visa. This also applies to all Schengen area members, which are not EU member states, as well as to U.S. citizens.
• Arm yourself with a Bulgarian phrasebook . In the capital, Sofia, and in big cities, you’ll get around with English. However, venturing yourself out in the countryside, where the real beauty of Bulgaria unveils, will face you with language challenges. Thus, having a Bulgarian phrasebook in your backpack or rolling travel rucksack will be helpful.
• Bulgaria’s standard voltage is 230 V . You can use and/or charge your electronic devices in Bulgaria if your country’s standard voltage varies from 220 to 240 V. This is the case in Europe, the U.K., Australia, and the majority of countries in Asia and Africa. Don’t worry about the small deviations – manufacturers take them into account.
• If your country’s standard voltage is 100 V – 127 V, bring a voltage converter . The power sockets in Bulgaria are of type F, also known as “Schuko”. If you’re from the U.S.A. , Canada, or South America (with a few exceptions), you’ll need a voltage converter in Bulgaria.
• The country is located in Southeast Europe. Bulgaria sits on the Balkan Peninsula, bordering Romania to the north, the Black Sea to the east, Greece and Turkey to the south, and Serbia and North Macedonia to the west.
• Bulgaria’s time zone is EET. Eastern European Time (EET), which Bulgaria uses, is 2 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC). Other EU countries in this time zone are Cyprus, Estonia, Finland, Greece, Latvia, Lithuania, and Romania.
• Bulgaria is a parliamentary republic . By form of government, Bulgaria operates under a parliamentary system. The head of government is the prime minister , whereas the president’s powers are more limited.
• There are numerous mountains . The Balkan range divides the country into two parts – North and South. The majority of mountain chains – Rila, Pirin, the Rhodopes, etc. – are found in the southern part, while the Danubian Plain takes most of the northern part.
• Bulgaria has plenty of beaches . The country’s coastline of 354 km (220 mi) offers numerous shimmering beaches with fantastic resorts. If you want to escape the crowds of tourists, my personal recommendation is the beaches around the Kavarna region .

I’ve described most of them in more detail below.

Food in Bulgaria Heaven for Vegans, Vegetarians, and Meat Lovers Alike

Bulgarian food is not among the most famous worldwide, but I’m on a mission to make it so. The variety of fruits and veggies, peculiar spices, and fragrant herbs will make you wonder why you haven’t tasted this cuisine earlier. Ready to explore?

• Try the fruits and veggies in spring and summer . Bulgarian fruits and vegetables , especially in summer, are probably the most succulent you’ll ever taste. If you want to indulge in the real home-grown delicacies, go to a market or visit the countryside. I promise you a juicy sensation!
• Bulgaria is a vegan paradise . If you are a vegan or a vegetarian, you’ll have plenty of mouth-watering options. Salads come in abundance, and there are meals that are perfect for fasting (if you are on a keto diet, for instance). Most places will offer vegan dishes.

*My personal recommendations are : beans stew; lentils soup; stuffed peppers with beans; banitsa with leek and sauerkraut (zelnik).

• Bulgarian cuisine uses a lot of meat, too . If you love meat like I do, don’t worry. Besides all the vegan and vegetarian meals, Bulgarian cuisine has a titillating abundance of meats. The most popular meat dishes include chicken and pork , but you’ll find dishes with beef , lamb , and rabbit . Turkey is not very popular, but there are places that serve it. Horse and game meat are a delicacy, and they’re usually an ingredient of dried meats or sausages.
• Try the best yoghurt in the world . Few people know that Bulgaria is the Sacred Land of Yoghurt . Known for around 4,000 years, it was in 1905 when the Bulgarian scientist Stamen Grigorov, discovered the bacteria responsible for the existence of natural yoghurt. As a sign of recognition by the scientific community, the bacteria received the name Lactobacillus bulgaricus .
• Banitsa and boza are Bulgaria’s most typical breakfast . A scrumptious pastry and a gooey drink make for the perfect breakfast combo in the Eastern European country. Banitsa is usually salty (epitomising white brine cheese or sirene ), while boza is a sweet and very thick, fermented drink typically produced of rye, wheat, barley, or einkorn. The latter also contains around 0.1% alcohol due to the fermentation, so don’t drink too much if you’re going to drive.

Bulgarian Drinks The Source of Potent Life

The most important thing that you need to know about drinking in Bulgaria is this:

Don’t drink in shots!

Not only you’ll get drunk quickly, but you won’t be able to enjoy the fabulous beverages that pleasantly soothe the mind, body, and soul.

• Drink plenty of mineral water . Bulgaria comes second, only after Iceland, in the variety of its mineral springs. It’s non-surprising that in the southern part of the country, you’ll find Velingrad – the Spa Capital of the Balkans . The mineral water in Bulgaria is one of the best you’ll ever quench your thirst with, guaranteed!
• Tap water, especially in Sofia, is safe to drink . While there are exceptions, most of the tap water in Bulgaria is safe to drink. If you want to be completely certain that you won’t bug your stomach, though, stick with mineral water.
• Bulgaria might be the birthplace of wine . Wine is related to the ancient Thracians. And they lived in the lands of modern Bulgaria. Does this mean Bulgaria is the birthplace of wine? I’ll let you decide, but this relates to the next tip.
• Taste the various Bulgarian red wines . Bulgaria used to be the second largest exporter of wine in the world some 30 years ago. This position has changed, but nowadays, it’s claiming its place back in the top 5. I’ve spoken to many wine connoisseurs, some of them hailing from France and Italy, and they claim Bulgarian red wine is among the Top 5 in the world. Consume it slowly and accompany it with cold meat appetisers or assorted cheeses.
• Even if you’re not a fan of highly alcoholic beverages, Bulgarian rakia is a must . The fiery beverage comes in many different varieties, but the two most notable ones are made from grapes and prunes ( plums ). Rakia* is the ideal accompaniment to any salad – whether it’s spring greeny or autumn reddy. Senior people say it helps cure 30+ illnesses. And we know we can’t argue with senior people, can we?

Note : Rakia is an aperitif, not a digestif.

• Don’t drink your beverage in shots . Much like eating, when Bulgarians drink, they do it slowly . That’s due to many reasons but mainly because we like taking our time to enjoy the food and drinks with our friends and family.
• Look into the eyes of your companions. When you clink your glass with a Bulgarian and your lips pronounce ‘ Nazdrave ’ (Bulgarian for ‘ Cheers !’), you have to look them in the eyes. That’s a sign of respect.
• Try the thick goo called “boza”. How does a fermented grains drink sound to you? You’ll either love it or hate it, but you just can’t miss tasting it. The best thing about it? It has negligible amounts of alcohol. Just don’t forget to consume it with banitsa .
• Quench your thirst with ayran in every season. Ayran is one of the most refreshing drinks Bulgaria (and some other Balkan countries) offers. It’s super easy to make, and you can find it in virtually every restaurant in Bulgaria. It’s made of yoghurt, so the good ones are thick and satiating.

I can literally go all day talking about food and drinks. And you will, too, when you come to visit Bulgaria.

Health and Health-Related Tips

In this section of my 166 Bulgaria travel tips, I’ll provide you with useful information on how to manage your health in Bulgaria.

• Have your insurance ready . Bulgarian hospital services are definitely more affordable than most EU countries. Yet, having an insurance with you will save you from a lot of trouble if you ever need medical or other assistance.
• Have hand wipes with you . It’s rare that you won’t find soap or toilet paper in restrooms in Bulgaria. But it happens. So, I’d suggest you always carry antibacterial hand wipes and a hand sanitiser with you.
• Summers in Bulgaria can get very hot . Sofia typically gets the “coolest” weather in summer. However, if you visit Pleven , Plovdiv , or Veliko Tarnovo in the summer months, be prepared. The maximums sometimes reach 40-42 C (104-107 F). Avoid the heat, drink plenty of water, and bring electrolytes with you.
• Don’t approach feral dogs . Rabies is fatal when untreated. The alarming number of stray dogs in the country makes this an issue. In the unfortunate event a dog bites you, immediately seek medical help.
• Use a pharmacy if you have to . If you’ve forgotten your medication or you’ve run out of it, visit a pharmacy. In most cases, it won’t be an issue to purchase prescription medication without a prescription. Showing one in English should be okay, too. The pharmacists might require your ID card or passport, though. Most of them speak good English.
• Big cities have hospitals with English-speaking staff . Bulgarian hospitals in the countryside can be an unpleasant adventure. However, hospitals in the capital, Sofia, and the majority of them in towns over 100,000 are neat and there are English-speaking staff.
• Bring some probiotics with you . If you’re coming from a country that has a totally different cuisine from Bulgarian, this might upset your stomach. Having some probiotics with you would be helpful. Just make sure you’ve talked to your doctor about this. I personally suggest probiotics with at least 5 billion microorganisms.

Pollution in Bulgaria

Compared to China , Bulgaria is not as polluted. But as a member of the European Union, Bulgaria is not doing great in terms of clean air.

• Sofia is one of the most polluted capitals in the EU . That sounds scarier than it is. The pollution is usually slightly above 50 particles. But it can peak in the winter months when it’s foggy.
• Some large towns are slightly polluted, too . In big towns like Plovdiv, Stara Zagora, or Pleven, there could also be some pollution, especially in winter. But don’t sweat about it too much. It’s just above the safe zone.

• Bring a mask if you’re sensitive. If you’re very sensitive to pollution, it’s only wise to place a mask in your luggage. Plus, they’re light and take little space.
• Choose an airtight mask that forms a close-fitting seal around your face.
• Basic cotton masks or surgical-style masks might be more hazardous than wearing nothing at all.
• Check out material of the pollution mask – it has to be able filter out even the smallest particles of matter.
• If you’d like to exercise outdoors, look at the mask’s ventilation – it needs to have some space for breathing.
• Consider the style of the mask. Those that are most effective are rarely pretty, so a good idea might be to place the “ ugly ” one under the “ pretty ” one. No, this won’t double the protection, but it’ll be less awkward when you walk around with it.

Accommodation in Bulgaria Hotels, Hostels, and Airbnb

Bulgaria has relatively cheap accommodation, compared to Western standards. But that doesn’t mean the quality is worse, by any means.

There aren’t many countries that have both golden sandy beaches and jaw-dropping mountains within an hour of each other. Due to that and the fact that new airline routes are opening every month, tourists have been flocking to Bulgaria to benefit from this powerful combo.

And where there are tourists, hotels follow. New accommodation is mushrooming to keep up with the rising demand.

General Accommodation Tips

• Smoking is forbidden . Unlike China, smoking in public spaces, including hostels and other accommodation, is not allowed in Bulgaria. Great news for you, non-smokers. For smokers, I suggest you book a room with a balcony.
• Get your hotel’s business card when you check in . It will have the name and address of the hotel in both Bulgarian and English . If you lose your way, show the card to a taxi driver or ask for directions on the street.
• Most hotels/hostels offer complimentary breakfast . You can expect to have a buffet breakfast included in the price for the night. But if I were you, I’d double check.
• Lock your valuables and have earplugs on you . If you opt to stay at a hostel or other shared accommodation spots, it’s advisable to lock your valuables and bring earplugs to sleep like a baby.
• Most accommodation spots have a FREE Wi – Fi . But it gets even better. The speed will be fast as Bulgaria is among the Top 10 in the world by internet speed.
• Avoid holidays and high seasons if you want to get the best deals . The months of July and August are the craziest in summer. December, around Christmas, is also busy. And make sure to avoid Easter holidays, too – just remember that Bulgaria celebrates Easter with the Orthodox Christians and Christmas with the Catholics.

Hotel Types in Bulgaria

Bulgaria boasts an extensive base of 16,000+ hotels. From unpretentious 1- and 2-star hotels through decent 3-star family hotels to the grand 4- and 5-star beach and mountain resorts, rest assured you’ll be able to find yourself a spot to your liking.

• One-star or two-star hotels are clean and basic . Prices start at $15-20 per night, and the staff is likely to speak English. Most will have a private bathroom, but other conditions will be basic.
• Mid-range three-star hotels are a great blend of price and comfort . These are probably the most sought-after options. Expect an air conditioner, a flat-screen TV, a fridge, a gym, a phone, and a cosy private bathroom. Prices start at $35-40 per night.
• Four- and five-star hotels are a great deal, too . If you’re not on a strict budget, splurging on a five-star hotel is a good deal for the money you pay. Expect multiple facilities, SPA centres, swimming pools, gym and fitness spaces, and concierge services. Breakfast will be hearty, with a mix of international and continental options. Prices start at $50-55 per night.

*All hotel prices are according to research on Agoda, Booking, and Expedia.

Hostels and Other Accommodation Options

Sofia and Plovdiv boast dozens of hostel options, but most smaller cities and towns will have little to none. Thus, either look for a guest house or an Airbnb.

• Hostels are good, cosy, and inexpensive . The majority of hostels in the country will be around $10-15 per night, breakfast included. Plus, most of them will offer breakfast. My personal recommendation is Hostel Mostel .
• Spoil yourself at an authentic guest house . Many old, traditional houses, dating from the time of the Bulgarian Renaissance, now function as guest houses. Their exterior might look a bit rustic, but inside, they are conveniently refurbished. This is not only to preserve the authentic atmosphere of the past but also to accommodate you in a convenient way. Most will be affordable, with prices between $15 and $50, depending on the size, the conditions, and the number of people.
• If you are into hiking and trekking, visit a mountain hut. Bulgaria’s territory prides itself on numerous mountains with jaw-dropping vistas. One of the most genuine ways to enjoy nature’s mind-boggling creations is to visit some of the innumerable mountain huts. Keep in mind that the conditions there are basic and bathrooms are a luxury, rather than a given.

Airbnb in Bulgaria

• Airbnb is getting more and more popular in Bulgaria . If hotels and hostels are not your cups of vacation tea, you can then opt for an Airbnb spot. Just remember to do proper research of the place, read the reviews, and contact the owner with any questions prior to booking. If you’re staying in Sofia, my friend Geri from WhenWomanTravels offers a fantastic apartment right in the very heart of Sofia. Book your stay in this pearl here .

The Top Bulgarian Cities to Visit

Ready for a virtual tour around Bulgaria’s major cities and must-visit spots? Cool, let’s go!

Disclaimer: To facilitate your travel plans for Bulgaria, I’ve included a recommended tour for you after each place. This is an affiliate link, which means I receive a small commission when you book a tour – at NO extra cost for you.

Sofia Population: 1.27 million Location: South-West Bulgaria Province: Capital city of Bulgaria Landmarks: Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Boyana Church, National Palace of Culture Famous for: 7,000+ years of history

Plovdiv Population: 347K Location: South-Central Bulgaria Province: Plovdiv Landmarks: Ancient Roman Amphitheatre, Old Town, The Seven Hills (Tepes) Famous for: The oldest city in Europe (dating back to 6th millennium BC)

• European Capital of Culture for 2019
• Roman Amphitheatre
• Art District “Kapana”
• Quaint Old Town Full-Day Virtual Reality Tour of Plovdiv and Asen’s Fortress : Profit from a full-day trip from Sofia to Plovdiv. The tour includes exploring its Old Town, the Roman Theatre, and numerous churches, as well as a visit to the mediaeval Asen’s Fortress. Discover all tours from Plovdiv here .

Varna Population: 336K Location: North-East Bulgaria Province: Varna Landmarks: Aladzha Monastery, Roman Thermae, Sea Garden, Dolphinarium Famous for: The oldest gold treasure in the world (dating back to 4200-4600 BC)

Burgas Population: 196K Location: South-East Bulgaria Province: Burgas Landmarks: Burgas Lakes, Sea Garden, St. Anastasia Island, Aqua Kalite Famous for: The largest oil refinery in South-eastern Europe

Ruse Population: 143K Location: North-East Bulgaria Province: Ruse Landmarks: Ivanovo Rock Monastery, Opera House, Sveta Troitsa Cathedral Famous for: The Little Vienna due to its Neo-Baroque and Neo-Rococo architecture

Stara Zagora Population: 136K Location: South-Central Bulgaria Province: Stara Zagora Landmarks: Antique Forum August Trayana, Samara Flag Monument, Mineral Baths Famous for: The only Museum of Religions in a temple in the world; numerous Bulgarian poets

Pleven Population: 94K Location: North-Central Bulgaria Province: Pleven Landmarks: Kaylaka Park, Panorama Pleven, Storgozia Fortress, Wine Museum Famous for: The birthplace of wine; the water cascade

Veliko Tarnovo Population: 68.5K Location: North-Central Bulgaria Province: Veliko Tarnovo Landmarks: Tsarevets and Triaditsa Hills, The Old Town, Arbanasi Village Famous for: The capital of Bulgaria during the Second Bulgarian Kingdom

Shumen Population: 75K Location: North-East Bulgaria Province: Shumen Landmarks: Madara Rider, Shumen Fortress, Pliska and Preslav Famous for: Shumensko Beer

Blagoevgrad Population: 69K Location: South-West Bulgaria Province: Blagoevgrad Landmarks: Park Bachinovo, Varosha Etnographic Complex, Stob’s Pyramids Famous for: The American University in Bulgaria

Kazanlak Population: 44K Location: South-Central Bulgaria Province: Landmarks: Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak, Valley of Roses, The Tomb of Tsar Sevt Famous for: The Festival of Roses

Velingrad Population: 21K Location: South-Central Bulgaria Province: Pazardzhik Landmarks: Dorkovo Pliocene Museum, Historical Museum, Avramavo Train Station Famous for: The Spa Capital of the Balkans

Melnik Population: 325 Location: South-West Bulgaria Province: Blagoevgrad Landmarks: Korpodopulova House, Rozhen Monastery, Sand Pyramids Famous for: Bulgaria’s smallest town; open-air museum

Other Must-Visit Spots in Bulgaria

If you’re spending more than a week in Bulgaria, and I strongly suggest you do, here are some more ideas for places that will blow your mind.

• The Belogradchik Rocks Location: Belogradchik, North-West Bulgaria Province: Vratsa If you’ve been to Montserrat’s Monastery near Barcelona, you’ve experienced some breathtaking rock formations. Well, the rocks near Belogradchik are as breathtaking (if not more) than those in the Montserrat Mountains. See them for yourself – I bet you won’t regret it. Day Trip to the Belogradchik Rocks and Fortress from Sofia : Marvel at the heart-stoppingly beautiful Belogradchik Rocks – recognised as one of Europe’s most gorgeous landscapes. The tour includes a visit to the impressive Belogradchik Fortress, which dates back to the Middle Ages.

• The Seven Rila Lakes Location: South-West Bulgaria Province: Kyustendil Imagine 7 footsteps of giants in the mountains that are now full of water. This is one of the legends for the origin of the Seven Rila Lakes. The highest lake – the Teardrop – lies at 2,535 m (8,317 ft). A few steps above it, you’ll find a jaw-dropping vista of all the lakes. The Seven Rila Lakes: Full-Day Tour from Sofia : Put your trekking shoes to a test by hiking the drop-dead gorgeous Seven Rila Lakes. After a 90-minute drive from Sofia, see for yourself why these glacial lakes go by the name “The Blue Pearls of the Rila Mountains”. Explore all other Rila Lakes tours here .
• Cabyle Location: South-East Bulgaria Province: Yambol Ancient Thracian fortresses, anyone? The small town of Cabyle (Kabyle or Cibeles) lies just opposite of Yambol. If you’re a worshipper of history, this 4,000-year old settlement will go beyond your expectations. Further read: Cabyle – the Ancient Thracian Village
• Koprivshtitsa Location: South-West Bulgaria Province: Sofia How about a powerful plunge in the 19th century? The incredibly charming little town of Koprivshtitsa gives you the unique chance to stroll in the past. Strikingly beautiful old houses line its cobble-stoned streets. And when you grow weary of walking, stop at one of its many restaurants to quench your hunger with traditional delicacies. Koprivshtitsa Day Trip : Explore the quaint little town of Koprivshtitsa with its strikingly beautiful 19-th century architecture.
• Hisarya Location: South-Central Bulgaria Province: Plovdiv Having been through a horrendous kidney stone crisis, I know what’s to give birth now. Jokes aside, Hisarya’s mineral water is said to effectively cure kidney stones. What’s more, the town has a Roman Thermae and holds the remains of the ancient Roman City Diocletianopolis.
• Asen’s Fortress Location: South-Central Bulgaria Province: Plovdiv Do mediaeval fortresses strike your fancy? Well, add to the mix a high rocky edge and a gorgeous river, and you’ll be picturing the stunning Asen’s Fortress. Located very close to Bulgaria’s second largest monastery – the Bachkovo Monastery – archaeological findings from the area date from the time of ancient Thracians. Plovdiv and Asen’s Fortress Private Day Trip : Combine your trip to the magnificent Asen’s Fortress by exploring Plovdiv, Europe’s oldest town, and its majestic hills. See all tours to Plovdiv and Asen’s Fortress here .
• Buzludzha Monument Location: Central Balkan Mountains, Bulgaria Province: Stara Zagora Have you seen a UFO? Well, that’s what this weird, ginormous monument reminds of. What’s even more peculiar – it’s a symbol of socialism! Next to the UFO building stands a staggering 70 m (230 ft) tower. But there’s more! The glass stars that flank the tower’s north and south sides are 12 m (39 ft) across – believed to be the biggest in the world! Day Tour to the UFO Building : Discover the imposing Buzludzha Monument and learn about Bulgaria’s communist era from your guide. The tour also includes a visit to the Museum of Socialist Art in Sofia.

Nightlife in Bulgaria Bars, Clubs, and Discos

Among the many things Bulgarians are famous for is the fact that we love having fun. The enormous variety of entertainment venues in the country proves that.

• Your music liking will be fulfilled . From casual pubs and elegant piano bars to noisy rock clubs and pulsating discos, you’ll find a place to dance the night away. Guaranteed.
• Sofia has one of the best nightlives in Europe and the world . The vibrant, vivacious, and voluptuous capital of Bulgaria offers to its many locals and tourists some of the best bars and clubs not only in Europe but in the world. Visiting Sofia, but not sure where to go? Join the Sofia Pub Crawl for a bar tour and discover some of the best pubs and clubs in town!
• Don’t worry about the party stopping at midnight . Most clubs and discos in Bulgaria stay open until early morning. In summertime, most seaside party venues are open non-stop.
• Smoking is forbidden by law . Unfortunately, this law is mostly trespassed after 22:00 (10 PM), so don’t wear your best clothes as you’ll have to wash them after a long stay at the club. During summer, you’ll find a plenty of outside bars, so this won’t be an issue.
• Entrance fees are affordable and booze is inexpensive . The entrance to most bars and clubs in Bulgaria is either FREE or between 5 and 10 BGN (special events have a higher price). Alcoholic beverages are quite affordable, too – a guarantee for an (un)forgettable night.

Personal recommendation: The area in front of Ivan Vazov National Theatre in Sofia’s City Garden is a popular gathering spot.

Transportation Everything You Need to Know about Travelling in Bulgaria

Contrary to most of Western Europe, trains are cheaper or as cheap as buses in Bulgaria. This section will tell you more about how to travel in Bulgaria .

• Taxis are quite affordable . The rate per km in Bulgaria varies from 0.6 BGN to 1.20 BGN. The fare should be displayed on the left side of the windshield of the car.
• Beware of taxis around bus and train stations, and airports . Most of them are ‘illegal’ taxis that charge at least twice as much and are driven by questionable characters.
• Public transport is affordable, too . The price varies from 1.00 BGN in the countryside to 1.60 BGN in Sofia. The price is the same for the metro line in the capital.
• Many locals use Facebook rideshare groups . For this option, you’ll have to probably know some Bulgarian. However, since the majority of people in these groups are young, they’ll speak some English. Just go to Facebook groups and search for your departure and destination spots. For instance, here’s the one for people travelling from Sofia to Plovdiv and back . A piece of advice: Take a look at the driver’s profile before you message him/her. And don’t forget to respect the rules of the group.

• Buses are nice, cheap, and quicker than trains . If you’re from Western Europe, this might surprise you. But having read the previous tip, you’ll understand why buses in Bulgaria usually take you faster from point A to point B. If you don’t fancy trains (hey, I’m not judging) or sharing rides with strangers (creeps are everywhere, I know), hopping on a bus is your thing. I recommend Etap and Union Ivkoni .
• Flights are also an option . Bulgaria has four airports that serve civil passengers – Sofia, Plovdiv, Varna, and Burgas. Since the furthest distance is from Sofia to Varna, catching an early morning flight from the former to the latter gives you a chance to arrive on time for a business meeting or enjoy the whole day, unwinding on the golden sands.
• If you hire a car, drive with your lights on. Whether it’s dark, raining, or even sunny, your car lights must be on. Don’t forget them as the police might pull you over and fine you.

Religion in Bulgaria The Top 10 Monasteries to Visit

Religion has played a significant role in the history of Bulgaria. Although it has one predominant religion, there are several other that peacefully coexist in the country. Let’s see.

• Bulgaria’s religion is Christianity . Since its adoption as state religion in 865, Christianity has been prevalent in Bulgaria. The dominant majority is Eastern Orthodox Christians, with Catholicism and Protestantism representing less than 2% combined.
• The second largest religious group is Islam . Throughout the Ottoman rule, Sunni Islam spread on the lands of Bulgaria. It’s a significant minority nowadays, representing around 8% of the population.
• You can practice any religion . The Bulgarian constitution safeguards the free exercise of any religion. Plus, the country has never experienced any major ethnic or religious conflicts. The religious communities coexist in peace.
• Bulgaria celebrates Christmas on a different day. Although Bulgaria is Eastern Orthodox, we celebrate Christmas Eve with the Catholics – on the 25 th of December. In contrast, other Eastern Orthodox countries celebrate Christmas on the 6 th of January due to using different calendars.
• Marvel at some of the largest Eastern Orthodox temples in the world. If you happen to trot Sofia’s boulevards, a must-marvel-at landmark is the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. Located in the very heart of the city, the temple is the second largest in the world, after St. Sava in Belgrade, Serbia .
• Dress appropriately in churches and monasteries . While Bulgaria is nowhere near strict as some Muslim countries in terms of clothing, outfits that reveal too much are a huge no-no . Also, make sure you remove any headwear in churches.
• Visit the Boyana Church . The Boyana Church is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its jaw-dropping frescoes. It’s a tiny church that cosily sits in the outskirts of Sofia, at the foot of Vitosha mountain. The entrance fee is 10 BGN (5 EUR).

Insider tip : The entrance is free on Mondays after 3 PM.

• Visit some of Bulgaria’s monasteries . There are 220+ monasteries on the territory of Bulgaria. Some of the most famous ones are the Rila Monastery , the Bachkovo Monastery , and the Troyan Monastery . Check out the top 10 in the list below.

The Top 10 Monasteries in Bulgaria

Bulgaria’s monasteries are quiet and mystical, yet full of life. This list is my personal selection.

Culture and History Peculiar Habits and Fascinating Differences

Weird cultural peculiarities.

• The nodding and shaking of heads in Bulgaria is confusing . When we agree with something, we don’t nod but shake our head. Likewise, when we don’t agree with something, we nod rather than shake our heads. Bulgaria is the only country in the world that does that – as far as I know.
• People in Bulgaria stare . Probably that’s typical of some Asian countries, such as China , but in Europe , not so much. So, if you are Scandinavian, African-American, or Asian, be prepared for some staring.
• There are obituary signs on trees and residential buildings . Peculiarly enough, those signs with photos that are usually put on trees and the entrances of old residential buildings are not of burglars or “Wanted” people but of individuals that have passed away.
• There are numerous name days . We take our names seriously. In some countries across the globe, locals also celebrate name days, but in Bulgaria, it’s a big thing. Especially on Ivanovden, when 300,000+ Ivans and the like celebrate.

Fascinating Historical Facts

• Bulgaria is the third richest country in the world when it comes to archaeological sites . Preceded only by Greece and Italy, Bulgaria takes the third place in terms of the number of its archaeological sites and historical artefacts.
• There are thousands of Thracian tombs. Up until today, more than 15,000 Thracian tombs have been unearthed or discovered on the territory of modern Bulgaria. The majority of them are yet to be explored in more detail.
• The oldest golden treasure in the world is in Bulgaria. Unearthed near the coastal city of Varna, the world’s oldest golden treasure dates back 6,000+ years. It consists of approximately 3,000 objects.
• Bulgaria is Europe’s only country that has not changed its name since its inception. The First Bulgarian State dates back to 681 AD when Khan Asparukh crossed the Danube River from the north and established the country. Its name has not undertaken any changes since then.

Other Peculiar Facts About Bulgaria

• In battle, the army of Bulgaria has never lost a single flag. That’s a fact to be proud of, isn’t it?
• Bulgaria is the largest producer of rose oil . Over 75% of the world’s rose oil comes from Bulgarian soils. This means it’s highly likely that your perfume contains Bulgarian rose oil. 
• A Bulgarian song was played in outer space . “ Izlel e Delyu Haydutin ”, a folk song by the Bulgarian folk music performer and singer, Valya Balkanska, went to deep space on the board of the American Voyager I and Voyager II space probes. It was a part of a collection of the Earth’s finest cultural artefacts, together with Bach’s and Mozart’s masterpieces. They served as a message to alien intelligence.
• The inventor of the first computer was of Bulgarian descent. John Vincent Atanasoff, whose name is associated with the invention of the first electronic computer, was a physicist whose origins are traced back to Bulgarian soils.
• Bulgarian women are incredibly beautiful. You have been warned. The mixture of Slavic, Thracian, and Proto-Bulgarian traits has produced something irresistible.

When to Visit Bulgaria

Depending on your preference, Bulgaria can be attractive all year round. This section tells you what’s hot in every season.

• Winter . Ski fan? Most of Bulgaria is blanketed by snow for four months of the year, making the country a fantastic destination for winter sport fanatics. It’s not uncommon to be able to ski in April, too. Popular mountain resorts include Bansko (Pirin), Borovets (Rila), and Pamporovo (the Rhodopes).
• Spring . If you worship greenery, May is your best choice when the days are long, the weather is pleasant, and the girls are hot. The average temperatures in April and May are between 15 C (60 F) and 21 C (70 F) – perfect for sightseeing.
• Summer . If you don’t mind hot weather, July and August are your months. The seaside will be jam-packed, so you might wanna lose yourself in lush forests and jaw-dropping mountains. August is full of festivals, too.
• Autumn . The most colourful season, without any doubt. October is usually warm, with ups of 25 C (77 F), making it excellent for walks. But the real fall beauty awaits you at the beginning of November when the foliage shows its numerous colours.

Here’s a short recap:

• Best time to ski : January to March
• Best time for exploring cities on foot: April, May, September, and October
• Best time for beach fun or summer hikes : July and August

Why You Should Visit Bulgaria

There are so many reasons to visit Bulgaria that if I have to put them in an article, it’ll be thiiiiis long. Wait, you’re already reading it ???? So, to end this guide of 166 Bulgaria travel tips, here are some more:

• For the love of ancient history . It is one of the oldest nations in Europe and its cultural heritage is among the Top 3 in the world. Thracians, Romans, Byzantines are some of the many ancient nations who have inhabited the lands of modern Bulgaria.
• For the love of great food . If you ask me, eating food should be a ritual-like activity in every country. Thankfully, in Bulgaria that’s the case. Locals enjoy their food and drinks slowly, often with a good company. Bulgaria’s location has contributed to the diversity of its mouth-watering cuisine, which unites the fiery Balkan spirit with the mild fragrance of the Mediterranean, and is generously sprinkled with the spicy love drops of the Middle East.
• For the love of staggering mountains . Craggy rocks, jaw-dropping cliffs, and heart-stopping vistas. Snow caps, superb skiing conditions, and fantastic summer hikes. All within an hour or two from the capital city. Who needs more, really?
• For the love of scintillating beaches . If your only desire is to get enough Vitamin Sea, Bulgaria’s fantastic beaches will meet even your wildest expectations. Just don’t wait as the corrupted officials and shady businessmen are trying to cement them ;-(.
• For the love of fascinating festivals . Fire dancing, rose picking, dressing up in traditional costumes, enthralling bagpipes… I know one thing for certain – your mind will be blown! You might as well pack another one :-))
• For the love of different cultures . Unless you’ve already been to the Balkans, you’ll experience a culture that’s nothing less than peculiar. Different alphabet, nodding of the head, unrivalled hospitality, slow eating and drinking – there’s charm in everything.
• For the love of fast internet . Who can say “NO” to speedy internet? In Bulgaria, you’ll be sure to do some work if needs be. WiFi is widely available in bars, cafés, hotels, and restaurants. Just don’t spend all your day working and venture out to explore its precious beauties.
• For the love of folk dances . Irregular rhythms, enthralling music sounds, and gorgeous costumes. These are some of the many characteristics of Bulgarian folk dances . Your trip to Bulgaria won’t be the same if you don’t experience this spectacle of upbeat music and captivating dancing.
• For the love of rejuvenation . Bulgaria is one of the best places to relax, chill-out, and let every sense of you be pampered. As mentioned, Bulgaria’s diversity of mineral springs takes the second place in the world. So, whether or not you are a spa fan, you will unwind like a regal celebrity.

Bulgaria abounds in history and culture, and it has been attracting a growing number of tourists, digital nomads, and adventure-craving explorers.

The country boasts a unique combination of breathtaking mountains and a drop-dead gorgeous seaside. If you add the fact that all this comes at reasonable prices and good service, the question isn’t which of the innumerable spots to visit but rather – which first?

I sincerely hope you’ve enjoyed reading my ultimate travel guide to Bulgaria .

Now, I’d like to hear from you:

Which tip did you enjoy the most?

Do you want to visit Bulgaria after reading my guide?

Or maybe you’ve already been to Bulgaria before.

Either way, let me know by shooting a quick comment below.

28 comments on “ 166 Bulgaria Travel Tips: The Ultimate Guide ”

• mode_comment Latest Comments
• thumb_up Top Comments

Russ Crowley

A wonderful read. I’ve never been to Bulgaria but, who knows… I hope to one day.

Thanks very much, Russ 🙂

Well, that’s the idea – to attract more people to Bulgaria.

This is a monumental and crowning achievement of an article. It makes me want to visit Bulgaria more and more. I might even joggle it closer to the top of my list. Well done Svet!

Bulgaria is ecstatic about your future visit, Hung! Thanks for the good words!

Rali Bakita

Svet, you did an amazing job!!! Wow… sure described 166 things + with ease and detail, lots of tips and info packed in! Ready to go back home to visit my mom in Plovdiv soon… Thank you for your hard work, lots of tourist will love it…. I know I am a Bulgarian and I surely enjoyed it! Very proud of your work????????

Thanks for the great words, Rali!

The idea is to attract more tourists to our gorgeous country as it needs to see more eyeballs.

And if I can bring a lady to her mother in Plovdiv, then – even better!

Bulgaria has a big potential for the tourism, and not only the beach tourism, any reader of your post could understand that Bulgaria could be on the top of the most interesting places for visiting in the world due to its culture and heritage… great work, congratulations!!!

I agree, Luis, and that’s a big part of my website’s mission – to put Bulgaria higher on people’s “must-visit” places.

¡Muchísimas gracias! Voy a visitar su sitio de web ahora 🙂

I have a question: Why Baba Vida Castle in Vidin is not included in your article?

There are many places, which are not included in the article. But they will be once I update it in the future 🙂

Hey, as bulgarian I can say cudos for the tips. May I also suggest to include some tips on crime, pickpokets etc, as this is one of the more common questions that foreigners ask before visiting

Thanks, Pesho. That’s a great suggestion, and yes, this will be included in the future update 🙂

Excellent Blog very informative thanks for writing Svet much appreciated

You’re very welcome, Mark. Glad you enjoyed it 🙂

John Russel

Great article! If i might add, for anyone that is going to Bulgaria, i would definitely recommend for you to try some of heir national dishes like banitas or bob chorba!

I’ve included those in the post already…, but thanks for reading.

If you are travelling to Bulgaria, then it is a must that you go to the numerous vineyards that they have in the countryside. It has a different ambience, and it is one for the best experience.

Yep, Greg, you’re right. We do have some great vineyards. In fact, Bulgarian wine is in the TOP 5 in the world. 🙂

This is my first time planning a trip to Bulgaria next summer. Thank you, I found a lot of useful information.

You’ll love Bulgaria in summer. Just don’t forget to try the tarator – the summer soup!

I will fly to Bulgaria in two weeks. Now I know what I’m going to do there. Thank you for your tips and recommendation.

You’re very welcome, Harald. Glad you found the guide useful. Let me know how you like Bulgaria in winter 🙂

Doloris Draughon

This is the most comprehensive Bulgaria travel guide I’ve seen on the internet. 166 Bulgaria Travel Tips, wow!

Good job Svet. Thanks for putting the work!

Oh, thanks for the good words, Doloris. That was my aim – create the largest travel guide about Bulgaria online. And I delivered 🙂

Thank you for a great and accurate information about Bulgaria. I’ll defenetly use it for sur.

You’re very welcome, Bextol. When are you planning to visit Bulgaria? 🙂

Rosana Calgary

This is a very complete post about traveling to Bulgaria! I’m marking this post for later because this country has a lot to offer, so much history and interesting museums to see. Thank you.

Glad you found it useful, Rosana 🙂

Leave a Reply Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published.

You may use these HTML tags and attributes: <a href="" title=""> <abbr title=""> <acronym title=""> <b> <blockquote cite=""> <cite> <code> <del datetime=""> <em> <i> <q cite=""> <s> <strike> <strong>

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

10-Day Bulgaria Itinerary

Bulgaria is a relatively off-the-beaten-path and inexpensive European destination. The country boasts incredible landscapes, stunning monasteries, a beautiful coastline along the Black Sea, and ancient Roman ruins.

Bulgaria is one of my Top Budget Destinations Around The World !

Here is the ultimate 10-day bulgaria itinerary.

I can plan your trip!

Let me take care of the research and bookings so you can be stress-free.

My travel advisor service is FREE

I work with any budget

3 Nights in Sofia

Sofia is the capital of Bulgaria, and its food, architecture, and culture are a fascinating blend of Western European, Soviet, and Middle Eastern influences.

Spend your first two days exploring the city. I recommend starting with the Free Sofia Walking Tour to get oriented. Other must-do activities are touring the St. Alexander Nevski Cathedral (pictured above), stroll through the Borisova Gradina, a mineral bath in a hot spring spa, a pub crawl , and a Communist Tour .

Then spend your third day in Sofia on one of these day trips:

The 7 Rila Lakes : To get here, you’ll drive about an hour and a half from Sofia and take the Panichishte Resort cable car up to the start of the hiking routes. The hike to the viewpoint to see all 7 of the lakes will take about 5 hours round trip, but you can walk along and between the individual lakes at lower altitudes on shorter and less strenuous hikes.

Vitosha Mountain : This is the majestic mountain you’ll see at every turn in Sofia. It’s home to some of the best panoramic views of the area. It’s also where you’ll find the Golden Bridges, which are actually stone rivers with a unique golden hue.

Prohodna Cave : Also known as “The Eyes of God,” this is one of the most famous and accessible caves in the country. You can hike or rappel into the cave, depending on your adventure level.

1 Night in Belogradchik

When you depart Sofia on your fourth day, I recommend renting a car for the rest of this itinerary. A car will save you a lot of time. Trains only serve the larger cities, and buses can take up to three times longer than a car. Plus, the road and driving conditions in Bulgaria are good, and with a car, you can stop anytime you see something amazing!

Belogradchik is home to the Belogradchik Rocks and the Belogradchik Fortress. If I could only recommend one thing to do in Bulgaria, it would be to visit the Belogradchik Fortress – one of the most beautiful and unique places I’ve ever visited.

Join the Newsletter

These rocks created a natural fortification, so the ancient Romans built the Belogradchik Fortress in the 1st – 3rd century AD. The fortress extends from the base of the Belogradchik Rocks up to The Citadel (pictured in the top image on this page) on top of the rocks.

The Belogradchik Fortress is open from sunrise to sunset, so you should leave Sofia by mid-morning at the latest for the roughly three-hour drive. I would plan to spend 3-4 hours at the fortress climbing up the stairs and trails to the peaks of the rock formations for some of the most stellar views you’ll ever see.

You should eat lunch before you arrive at the fortress and bring snacks and full water bottles. After you’ve explored the fortress and rocks to your liking, head to the quaint mountain town of Belogradchik for the night.

You could do the Belogradchik Fortress as a day trip from Sofia, but it will be a long day trip, and the town of Belogradchik is lovely.

2 Nights in Melnik + a Sidetrip to the Rila Monastery

Depart Belogradchik this morning and head south to the Rila Monastery, which is on your way to Melnik. The Rila Monastery is the largest and most famous Eastern Orthodox monastery in Bulgaria.

Melnik is a premier wine destination in Eastern Europe. The town is also at the base of the famous Melnik Earth Pyramids – sandstone rock formations in the shapes of pyramids, giant mushrooms, ancient towers, and obelisks.

When you arrive in Melnik, I recommend walking the length of the picturesque town and having a sit-down dinner. Here’s my guide to the Best Local Foods to Try in Bulgaria .

On day 6, you should hike to the Rozhen Monastery, which will take you past some of the most popular and interesting rock formations of the Melnik Earth Pyramids. Later in the day, you should do a tour and tasting at a vineyard.

This area is good for growing international grape varieties, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or Syrah. But there are two local grape varieties you need to try. The first is Shiroka Melnishka (also called Broad-leaved Melnik), and the second is Ranna Melnishka (or Early Melnik).

I recommend Villa Melnik because its tasting room has extraordinary views of the countryside and mountains. Villa Melnik is one of the Best Wineries in Bulgaria .

1 Night in Plovdiv

On your seventh day, make the four-hour drive to Plovdiv. Plovdiv is one of the oldest cities in the country, and it’s built on and around seven hills. This, combined with its size, abundance of ancient Roman ruins, and cosmopolitan “feel,” is why the city is often considered a less-expensive and less-touristy Rome.

Highlights for your time here are: visiting the Theater of Philippopolis (pictured above), exploring the Old Town, trying the local Mavrud wine and Rakia with dinner, and watching the sunset from Nebet Tepe, also known as “The Guard Hill.”

2 Nights in Varna

You don’t need to rush to leave Plovdiv on your eighth day if there’s something you didn’t get to do the day before. On your way out of the city, take a 30-minute drive to Asen’s Fortress. Then head to Varna on the coast.

Varna is a resort city on the Black Sea. The oldest gold treasure in the world was discovered at a necropolis in Varna. And the collection is now on display at the Archaeological Museum.

Must-do activities when you’re here are: have a beach day, stroll through the Sea Garden, visit the Aladzha Monastery cave complex, tour the Varna Cathedral (pictured above), and see the Stone Forest.

The Stone Forest, also known as Pobiti Kamani, looks like ancient columns, but they’re actually naturally-formed stone pillars.

Varna has a large airport and train station. So from here, you should be able to make your way home or to your next destination.

Alternative Coastal Town: Varna is one of the larger and more popular coastal towns. So, if you want a more intimate resort town, I’d recommend Sozopol. It’s more off-the-beaten-path, but it’s also more expensive. But if you’re visiting in the low season from November to March, then you should stick with Varna. Because nothing in this town will be open.

Shop My Bulgaria Essentials

What would be on your Bulgaria itinerary? Share below so we can work together on providing even more options for a Bulgaria trip!

Plan the rest of your trip.

The Best Wineries in Bulgaria

The Best Foods in Bulgaria

Recommended tours in bulgaria, your travel checklist, book your flight, get travel insurance, book your accommodation, make sure you're traveling with the best credit card to earn travel points and avoid international fees, find out if you need a visa and get one here, pin this itinerary.

This Bulgaria itinerary is not a sponsored post. And, as always, the thoughts and opinions expressed here are entirely my own. Some of the links in this Bulgaria itinerary are affiliate links. And, at no cost to you, I may earn a small commission.

I would definitely include the medieval capital of Bulgaria – Veliko Turnovo. Also, while at Asen’s fortress, one should make it to the amazing Bachkovo monastery next door. And then, not far from Varna is the palace of Balchik and Cape Kaliakra with the Kaliakra fortress on top of the cliffs. From the coastal towns, I wouldn’t miss Nesebar with its ancient churches and medieval fortifications.

Lucy On Locale

These are great additions! Thanks for sharing!

Hello! Great post – some really useful tips in here 🙂 I was just wondering how you found driving over there, please? I’m going to Sofia, Plovdiv and Veliko Tarnovo and have booked buses, but I’m now considering hiring a car. I’ve heard the roads can be quite old and the drivers quite aggressive, but I’d be interested to hear your first hand experience, please.

Thank you 🙂

The rules of the road are the same as in the U.S., but the driving is very aggressive, and blinkers aren’t generally used as much as I was used to, but it didn’t make me too nervous, and I was able to adapt quickly. The hardest part of driving was that all road names are in Cyrillic, so I couldn’t read or pronounce any directions. I had to strictly use my GPS as a visual aid (the audio directions were no help to me). Overall, I’m glad I opted for a rental car but always plan more time into your drives than you think you’ll need.

post a comment cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

lucyonlocale

1,182 12,213

The Perfect Bulgaria Itinerary: 5 to 10 Days (or More!)

Last Updated on February 14, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

The Balkan country of Bulgaria has long been overlooked on standard European travel routes, where traditional tourists rarely travel farther east than Hungary or Croatia. However, for those more intrepid visitors keen to see the delights that southeastern Europe has to offer, planning a 5 to 10 days in Bulgaria itinerary is a fantastic idea.

Though relatively small in size, Bulgaria has a lot to offer visitors and really can appeal to almost every personality. Bulgaria boasts cosmopolitan cities and ancient metropolises, rugged mountains and pristine beaches, world-class skiing and incredible wine country — it can seem that wherever your interests may lie, Bulgaria will have it.

Table of Contents

When to Visit Bulgaria

You are likely going to want to know when is the best time of year to visit this European nation. Well, luckily for travellers, Bulgaria has its merits no matter what time of year you choose to visit so it all depends on what you’re after on your trip.

While it is located in southeastern Europe, don’t expect Bulgaria to have the same kind of climate as other southern European countries like Croatia , Portugal, Italy or Spain. Contrary to these countries, Bulgaria experiences a much more continental climate with very cold and snowy winters and hot, muggy summers. With this kind of climate, you can best bet to enjoy all of the seasonal activities that come throughout the year.

Winter in Bulgaria sees high temperatures averaging around freezing throughout most of the country, though it can certainly be colder high in the mountains or warmer in the coastal areas along the Black Sea.

With the winter freezes come a lot of skiing opportunities at some of the most affordable prices in all of Europe. Destinations like Bansko are incredibly popular in the wintertime, however, you can also easily combine a skiing holiday with a cosmopolitan city break without leaving Sofia by visiting Vitosha Mountain.

Summers, on the other hand, can get incredibly hot, with average temperatures soaring to well over 30°C (86°F) and humidity can be quite high, as well. The inland cities in the summer can be sweltering, however, the coast becomes a bustling mecca for sun worshippers and party seekers alike.

The mountains can also be a pleasant escape with ample hiking opportunities and mild temperatures in the high altitude. Summer is also, not surprisingly, when tourist crowds are at their peak, as are accommodation prices.

If you’re sensitive to either the cold or heat and want to avoid tourists as much as possible, then probably the best time to visit Bulgaria would be in the shoulder seasons.

The months ranging from March-May and September-October see some of the mildest temperatures, though you should be prepared for the occasional cold snap or frequent rains (especially in Spring). However, in the shoulder seasons, you are just as likely to have beautiful warm temperatures and sunny skies that steadfastly cling to summer.

No matter which time of year you choose to embark on your trip to Bulgaria, you are sure to be met with a beautiful country eager to welcome your exploration!

Getting To & Around Bulgaria

Now that you’ve figured out which season to travel to Bulgaria, we need to discuss how you plan to get around once you’re there.

First things first, it is likely that you will begin your Bulgaria itinerary by flying into Sofia airport, which has frequent connections from budget airlines like Ryanair and Wizzair to a number of cities throughout Europe. The affordability of reaching Bulgaria has made it an attractive option for travellers looking to explore a lesser-visited corner of Europe.

There are other international airports in the country besides Sofia, however, and you can just as easily begin your trip from any of these. The highest-trafficked airports after the capital include Burgas and Varna on the Black Sea and Plovdiv airport, which serves a couple of flights per week from destinations like Tel Aviv, Belfast, Manchester and Dublin.

If you’re visiting Bulgaria as part of a longer Balkans itinerary you will be happy to know that a few of the country’s major cities are fairly well connected with neighbouring countries. Travellers can easily reach Sofia from Thessaloniki in Greece, Belgrade or Nis, Serbia and also from Skopje , North Macedonia and Istanbul , Turkey, the latter of which will transit through Plovdiv.

You can also reach Sofia by overnight bus or train from Bucharest , Romania. It is also possible to find a direct connection to the northern city of Veliko Tarnovo to Bucharest as well.

Once you’ve arrived in Bulgaria, you need to know how you plan to get from point A to point B. Like elsewhere in the Balkans, if you’re relying on public transport for your Bulgaria trip, then your best option is going to be the bus.

While there is a train network in Bulgaria, it largely hasn’t been updated since the 1960s and can be incredibly slow, uncomfortable, and inefficient. The only time I would generally recommend using the train network in Bulgaria is if you have an affinity for communist-era railways.

In contrast, the bus system is quite comfortable and well-developed and they also tend to be much faster than the trains.

If you are only travelling between major cities, you will find that connections between transport hubs tend to be frequent and the system is easy enough to navigate, even if you have a language barrier. It can be helpful to know what the city you’re travelling to looks like spelt in the Cyrillic alphabet so you know which booth to buy your tickets from.

Most smaller city centres are easily navigable by foot, including cities like Plovdiv and Veliko Tarnovo, however, in Sofia, it might be necessary to use the public transportation system. The metro in Sofia is efficient and user-friendly, with everything written in both Bulgarian and English.

If you need to take a taxi in Bulgaria, make sure to practice the general precautions you would with taxis throughout the world as, unfortunately, Bulgaria is not immune to taxi scams. However, there are a number of taxi apps in various cities where you can call a reliable cab.

If you do hail one off the street, make sure to do some research on reliable taxi companies beforehand and ensure that the meter is running. Taxi rides are incredibly affordable in Bulgaria, especially when compared to some Western European countries.

5 to 10-Day Bulgaria Itinerary

Bulgaria has a lot to offer visitors and, therefore, travellers can easily spend a number of weeks or even months within the country and always find something new to explore. However, if you only can spend 5 days in Bulgaria, then the first five days of this itinerary is outlined to be a complete trip.

If you have a week, the same concept applies if you have 7 days in Bulgaria. And if you’re fortunate enough to have 10 full days to spend in this Balkan nation, then you can enjoy the entirety of the outlined route.

Days 1-3: Sofia

It is likely that you will begin your Bulgaria itinerary in the capital city of Sofia. Though Sofia may not have to best reputation among Balkan cities (when we first planned to visit, we were told to skip it by numerous people), we’ve found that it has a lot to offer visitors with great energy and many interesting things to do.

Though you could easily spend a week or more exploring Sofia , we recommend spending 3 of those days in the capital. Start off with a free walking tour of the city to get your bearings, a great way to get some context to the incredible history you’re going to see in the Bulgarian capital.

There are a number of things to occupy yourself during these three days in Sofia including visiting the top monuments like the ancient city of Serdika and the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.

You can also take the time to visit some of Sofia’s many museums, enjoy its thriving culinary scene, and learn more about its communist history.

Though it may not be the most beautiful of cities, there is a very cool edge that Sofia holds and it can be worth also learning about its burgeoning street art scene.

If you only have three days, we do recommend that you spend all of them in Sofia as it will allow you to really get to know the city. However, if you want to see more of the countryside, it is possible to go on a day trip.

Rila Monastery – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – is one of the most popular day trips from Sofia, as is the nearby Vitosha Mountain, which you can reach by Sofia’s own public transport.

Where to Stay in Sofia

Art ‘Otel – This hotel is a great option if you’re after some luxury. They are well located within easy reach of all the major city sights and have a range of clean and comfortable rooms available. They also have a great breakfast included in the room rate.

Hostel Mostel – This hostel is your best bet if you’re travelling solo or on a tight budget. As one of the most popular and well-rated hostels in Sofia, they have a range of dorm and private rooms available, a friendly staff, and great common areas for you to meet other travellers.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Sofia hotels!

Days 4-5: Plovdiv

After exploring Sofia, the final step on a 5-day Bulgaria itinerary should be the second-largest city of Plovdiv. As one of the European Capitals of Culture in 2019, Plovdiv is probably the most tourist-friendly city in Bulgaria and it has a lot to offer visitors.

Plovdiv is thought to be the oldest continuously inhabited city in Europe, with a history dating back over 6,000 years. Though Plovdiv is most famous for its incredible ancient amphitheatre. there is a lot more that the city has to offer, which is why we recommend spending two days in Plovdiv to really get to know the city.

Spend your first day in the city exploring its ancient monuments and Roman ruins like the aforementioned amphitheatre and the ancient stadium. Wander through the picturesque old town and enjoy the view of the city from the ruined fortress on Nebet Tepe.

You can also head into the trendy neighbourhood known as Kapana, which means “The Trap” in Bulgarian.

These windy, pedestrian streets have recently been refurbished by a lot of government investment and are now full of great restaurants, cafes, bars, and independent shops and have become a haven for local artists. If you’re interested in hipster culture or street art, this is the neighbourhood to visit.

You can also use Plovdiv as a base to go wine tasting in the Thracian Valley. The nearby town of Brestovitsa is home to several wineries and is only 20 kilometres from the centre of Plovdiv.

Though Bulgaria may not be the first country that comes to mind when it comes to wine tourism, it has one of the oldest viticultures in the world and produces some truly fine vintages.

Where to Stay in Plovdiv

Hotel Evmolpia – Situated in the Old Town, this charming boutique hotel is within easy walking distance of everything to see and do in Plovdiv, including the amphitheatre, Kapana district, and main pedestrian street. They have a number of clean and comfortable rooms available and a good breakfast.

Hostel Old Plovdiv – Located in the heart of the Old Town, this hostel is located in a traditional revival house and is one of the best places to stay in Plovdiv. They have a very welcoming a helpful staff, a range of comfortable dorm and private rooms available, and a great breakfast included in the room rate.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Plovdiv hotels!

Days 6-7: Black Sea Coast

After spending the first five days in Sofia and Plovdiv, it’s time to head to the coast and enjoy the gorgeous Black Sea.

There are a number of great places to visit on the long coastline of Bulgaria and it really depends on what kind of experience you’re after. If you want a smaller, more sleepy seaside town, then head to lovely Sozopol. This town boasts a couple of fine sand beaches, beautiful cobbled streets, and a laid-back atmosphere.

If you want some more western amenities, a party scene, or a high-end beach resort, the head to Sunny Beach or Nessebar which are significantly more touristy and developed than Sozopol.

If you want a big city vibe but still some great beach time, then head to Varna or Burgas, the biggest cities on Bulgaria’s coast. No matter where you choose, you are sure to enjoy a couple of days enjoying the charms of the Black Sea.

Where to Stay on the Black Sea

Hotel Diamanti – If you’re looking for a more subdued seaside holiday on the Black Sea, then the perfect place to stay in Sozopol would be this hotel. They have a number of affordable rooms available, some with sea views, a restaurant on site, and a great breakfast included in the nightly rate. They are also located within walking distance of everything in Sozopol.

Nomado Hostel – As one of Varna’s highest-rated hostels, this is a great place to visit if you’re looking to see the Black Sea on a backpacker’s budget or as a solo traveller. They are centrally located, have a friendly and helpful staff, an included breakfast, and both dorm and private rooms available.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Black Sea hotels!

Days 8-10: Veliko Tarnovo

If you’re fortunate enough to have 10 days to spend exploring Bulgaria, then heading to Veliko Tarnovo for the last two days is an excellent ending point.

Veliko Tarnovo, located to the north of Bulgaria, is a lively university town that once acted as the capital of Bulgaria. Today, it is famous for its mountain scenery and impressive fortress that commands spectacular views over the city and mountains surrounding.

Veliko Tarnovo is incredibly picturesque and well worth taking a day or two to explore on foot. It is also located very close to a number of great mountains, so it is possible to use the city as a base to go for a great day hike. As the former capital of Bulgaria and another ancient city, there is also a long and fascinating history here that is worth learning about.

As the home of one of Bulgaria’s best universities, there is also a lively, youthful energy which makes for a lot of good eateries, bars, and cafes along with some trendy shops and things to do.

Where To Stay in Veliko Tarnovo

Augusta Spa Hotel – This boutique hotel is centrally located and is a great option if you have a bit of a higher budget when visiting Veliko Tarnovo. They have a range of clean, comfortable, and air-conditioned rooms available, some commanding great views of the medieval fortress, and a great breakfast included in the nightly rate.

Hostel Mostel – This hostel, owned by the same people who run the branch in Sofia, is an excellent option for budget and solo travellers. They have both dorm and private rooms available, breakfast and dinner included, and great common areas to meet other travellers.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Veliko Tarnovo hotels

Have More Time?

If you have more than ten days to spend in Bulgaria, or fancy getting a bit further off the beaten path, there are a few options you could take.

First, if you like nature, small towns, and wine, then heading to the lovely town of Melnik is a fantastic option. This tiny town is relatively easy to reach by public transport from Sofia and is an excellent stopping off point if you’re heading south to Greece after travelling in Bulgaria.

If you want to experience some of the best and most affordable skiing in Europe in the winter or visit a pristine hiking mecca in the summer, then the town of Bansko is also a great option to add to you Bulgaria itinerary.

Finally, the northwestern town of Belogradchik close to the Serbian border is a great offbeat destination in Bulgaria. Famous for its unique rock formations and imposing fortress, spending a day or two here will show you a different side to the country.

No matter how many days you have to devote to a Bulgaria travel itinerary, there is no denying that there are countless things to see and do in this underrated European nation.

Are you planning to visit Bulgaria? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

How to Get From Sofia to Thessaloniki by Bus, Train or Car

The Perfect 1, 2, or 3 Days in Sofia Itinerary

Is Bulgaria Expensive? A Guide to Prices in Bulgaria

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

great itinerary, lots of useful tips too. many thanks. marilyn

Thanks, Marilyn! Hope you have a great trip.

Hi. This looks like a very useful itinerary. Plan to visit next early June after an extended Turkey, Azerbaijan, Armenia trip. Was planning 5 days but I think 10+ will afford a much better flavor of Bulgaria. Thanks!

Hello, What is the best way to travel from Plovdiv to Varna? Bus? Return to Sofia and take a flight to Varna?

Best regards, Oliveira

You can take a bus directly from Plovdiv to Varna 🙂

How affordable and practical would it be to rent a car for places outside Sofia? Or is bus a better option than driving?

Renting a car can be a great option if you want a lot of flexibility and not to be beholden to bus timetables. Prices can vary depending on a number of factors.

How would you recommend getting to Plovdiv from Sofia? Could we take the local bus?

Yes, the bus is the best way if you’re using public transport 🙂

If I want to do a Bulgaria Greece trip. Start in Sofia then to Plovdiv. Can I fly into Greece next from Plovdiv? Or do I need to go back to Sofia to catch a flight?

Hi Dee Dee, Plovdiv airport is quite limited in its routes so I think your best bet would be to go to Sofia if you want to fly to Greece. Alternatively, I would recommend looking at taking the bus and going overland!

Another interesting old town is Koprivshtiza, on the road from Sofia to Black Sea, in high mountains and very picturesque. Also, there are many caves, waterfalls, natural wonders, and spa options to choose from.

Thanks for the tip, Lil!

Thanks a lot for this wonderful guide. I find it quite helpful.

Thanks, Gali! Hope you’re able to plan a great trip 🙂

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

• Travel tips

Bulgaria Itinerary: 5 and 10-Day Itinerary for Solo Travellers

Before my solo trip to Bulgaria, I knew little about the country. As I researched more about Bulgaria, it wasn’t long until I decided that Bulgaria is a place I want to visit.

And after spending two months in Bulgaria, I can honestly say that Bulgaria is worth visiting even if you travel alone. The country has many ancient cities with a lot of history, quaint seaside towns with awesome beaches, and so much more. It is the perfect destination for any solo travellers who want to go off the beaten path.

If this is your first time in Bulgaria, and you’re wondering what to do and how long you should stay, then keep reading. I’ll show you exactly what to see in Bulgaria through my 5-day and 10-day Bulgaria itinerary.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy something through them, I will receive a small commission at no additional cost. Thank you for supporting this website. For more information, please read the disclosure for more info.

What you need to know before starting your Bulgaria itinerary

Before starting your Bulgaria travel itinerary, take a look at some of my travel tips for your first time in this Balkan country:

• You can follow this Bulgaria itinerary throughout the year . However, restaurants, shops and local bed and breakfasts are only open during summer in the small towns along the Black Sea Coast. The best time to follow this Bulgaria itinerary is between June and September .
• This Bulgaria itinerary is relatively fast-paced.  Pack minimally so you can move around easier . Following  my minimalist packing list template  and  pack a carry-on bag weighing less than 7kg .
• Bulgaria is a safe country for solo female travellers . I spent almost two months in Bulgaria in all the cities mentioned in this post and had no issues.
• Bulgarian lev  (plural: leva) is the currency of Bulgarian.  BGN  is the three-letter code. 1 euro = 1.96 lev (fixed rate) . In 2024, Bulgaria will change to the Euro.
• The best prepaid SIM card is A1 . A  15GB SIM card for 30 days   costs 15 lev.  It is available at the Relay convenience store at Sofia airport or any A1 retail store throughout Bulgaria.

5 and 10 days in Bulgaria: How to Get Around

There are two ways to get around Bulgaria: long-distance bus and train . Both options have similar schedules and costs . And both are affordable and “reliable” for solo independent travellers.

No matter which transportation option you choose, I suggest buying your ticket in person for your next leg of the journey once you arrive in a new city. i.e. when you arrive in Plovdiv, buy a bus or train ticket for Burgas.

Long-distance Bus

Many long-distance bus companies have bus routes between Sofia, Plovdiv, Burgas, Varna and other major cities and small towns across the country.

Bulgarian State Railways has train routes connecting all the cities mentioned above. Check the website for train schedules and costs.

But here is what you need to know about Bulgarian State Railways:

• No significant difference between first-class and second-class seats
• It can be hot in summer (not enough or no air conditioning)
• It can be warm in the winter (too much heat)
• Even though the Bulgarian State Railway can be “reliable,” expect delays

How many days in Bulgaria for first-time visitors

If you have no limit to how long you can stay in Bulgaria, I would suggest as long as you can!

If I did it all over again as a first-time traveller to Bulgaria and had limited time, I would stay five days or ten days .

For a five-day Bulgaria trip, I would include Sofia as the capital city has much to do. Plus, I would include seeing Rila Monastery in the Bulgarian countryside and Plovdiv, one of the oldest cities in Europe.

For a ten-day Bulgaria trip, I would include the original 5-day itinerary and add many places along the Black Sea including Burgas , Sozopol , Nessebar and Varna .

5-day and 10-day Bulgaria Itinerary

Here is a quick summary of my 5-day Bulgaria itinerary:

• Day 1-2:  Sofia
• Day 3:  Day trip to Rila Monastery or Seven Rila Lakes
• Day 4-5:  Plovdiv

For 10 days in Bulgaria, follow Day 1 to 5 itinerary and add these destinations:

• Day 6:  Burgas
• Day 7:  Sozopol

Day 8: Nessebar

• Day 9-10:  Varna

Bulgaria Itinerary 5 Days

Bulgaria itinerary day 1-3: sofia and day trip (3 days).

Sofia, the capital city of Bulgaria, is known for its ancient Roman ruins, mineral springs and the biggest Orthodox Church in the Balkans. The history of the city goes back to the Roman Empire when the city was called Serdica. Moreover, Bulgaria was once a socialist republic from 1944 to 1989.

To kick off your Bulgaria trip, explore the capital city for two days and go on a day trip on the third day to the Bulgarian countryside.

Sofia Accommodation: Sense Hotel Sofia

Book your first three nights in Sofia at Sense Hotel Sofia . This modern contemporary hotel has a nice rooftop bar with a view of St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. Plus, it is only 4-minute walk from Sofia University St Kliment Ohridski Metro Station.

Day 1-2: Sofia

There are plenty of things to do in Sofia for your two days in the capital city. The majority of the attractions in the city are within walking distance.

I highlight recommend joining a free walking tour and/or a free food tour . They are both excellent introductions to Sofia and all the best Sofia food .

Plus, walk around Sofia and look for these highlights:

• Visit the largest Orthodox cathedral in the Balkans: Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
• Stroll along Vitosha Boulevard , the main pedestrian street in Sofia
• See the Ancient Serdika Complex and other ruins around the city centre of Sofia
• Try traditional food in a mehana , a traditional Bulgarian tavern decorated in folklore decor.
• Visit one of 30 museums in Sofia
• Learn about Sofia’s communist past through museums and tours

Day 3: Day trip from Sofia

On day three, see the Bulgarian countryside by joining one of two tours:

Rila Monastery and Boyana Church

Rila Monastery is one of Bulgaria’s nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It is Bulgaria’s largest Eastern Orthodox monastery, and it has some of the best  colourful frescoes, iconic architectural monuments, and natural scenery .

The organized day tour includes a stop at another UNESCO site,  Boyana Church , a  medieval Bulgarian Orthodox Church .

Seven Rila Lakes and Rila Monastery

If you like the outdoors, spend the day hiking in Rila National Park and see the Seven Rila Lakes . You will have 5 hours to hike during the self-guided day hike where you can see glacial lakes in northwestern Rila Mountain between 2,100 and 2,500 meters above sea level.

This tour also includes a 1.5-hour self-tour of Rila Monastery  before returning to Sofia.

Bulgaria itinerary day 4-5: Plovdiv and return to Sofia (2 days)

Depart early from Sofia on day four to maximize your time in Plovdiv.

And depending on when you leave Bulgaria, take an evening bus or train back to Sofia on day five to catch your flight.

Travel from Sofia to Plovdiv

Bus: Many long-distance buses travel from Sofia Central Bus Station to Plovdiv South (Yug) Bus Station , including Karat S , Vitosha Express and Arda Tur . The bus journey takes about 2 hours.

Train: There are 11 direct trains daily from Sofia Central Station to Plovdiv Central Station . Take one of the morning trains (6:20-8:50am).

Plovdiv Accommodation: Hill House Plovdiv

Stay one night at Hill House Plovdiv . The hotel is located in the center of the city and is perfect for walking to all the attractions in the city.

Note: Plovdiv city center is about 3km north of both train and bus stations. When you arrive in Plovdiv, take bus 7, 20 or 26 in front of the Plovdiv train station instead of walking for 28 minutes.

Day 4-5: Plovdiv

As the second largest city in Bulgaria, there are plenty of things to do in Plovdiv. Known for its cultural, historical and natural landmarks, Plovdiv is one of the oldest cities in Europe. There are over 6,000 years of history in this small compact city.

Similar to Sofia, there are excellent free walking tours in Plovdiv. Join one so you can get to know the ancient city quickly.

Besides the tour, here are some other interesting highlights to look for:

• Wander around the cobbled streets of Old Town in Plovdiv
• Visit Plovdiv Roman Theatre and the Ancient Stadium of Philippopolis
• Hike up one of six hills around Plovdiv, including Rebet Tepe  and Bunardzhik Tepe
• Roam around Knyaz Alexander I , the Main Street in Plovdiv 
• See colourful art murals and enjoy the nightlife in the Kapana District 

Bulgaria Itinerary 10 Days

Bulgaria itinerary day 1-5: sofia, sofia day trip, plovdiv (5 days).

Follow the previous itinerary for Days one to five.

On day five, stay the night in Plovdiv instead of returning to Sofia. Book two nights of hotel in Plovdiv if you are continuing the itinerary.

Bulgaria itinerary day 6-8: Burgas, Sozopol and Nessebar (3 days)

The second half of the Bulgaria itinerary is all about the Black Sea.

It starts with a seaside town called Burgas, an excellent city as a home base for visiting other towns along the Bulgarian Black Sea coast. And then, the trip continues up the coast to Varna, the third largest city in Bulgaria.

Travel from Plovdiv to Burgas

Bus: Union Ivkoni travels from Plovdiv South (Yug) Bus Station to Burgas Station South Terminal . The bus journey takes about 4.5 hours.

Train: There are 4 direct trains from Plovdiv Central Station to Burgas Train Station daily . Take the fast train in the morning (9:05am-1:07pm).

Burgas Accommodation: Marina Burgas Hotel

Book three nights at Marina Burgas Hotel , a 3-star hotel that is conveniently located next to Burgas Beach. And the hotel is within walking distance to Burgas Station South Terminal, where you can take suburban buses to Sozopol and Nessebar and continue on the itinerary to Varna.

Day 6: Burgas

Burgas is Bulgaria’s fourth largest city and gateway to the Black Sea. The city is very compact and much smaller than Plovdiv, so you can see most attractions in one day.

Here are some things to do in Burgas on day six:

• Sunbathe at Burgas Beach and swim in the Black Sea
• Wander around the Sea Garden
• Take a dip in the pink salty water at Lake Atanasovsko
• Wander around Burgas Old Town
• Try Bulgarian Black Sea Coast cuisine , which includes Black Sea mussels, grilled and fried fish and calamari

Day 7: Sozopol

Sozopol is a small town 35km south of the port city of Burgas. It has over 7,000 years of history, and it is one of the oldest towns along the Black Sea Coast.

When you take a day trip to Sozopol from Burgas , there are some things you must do:

• See narrow medieval cobblestone streets and Bulgarian Revival houses
• Visit Sozopol Archaeological Museum and Ethnographic Museum
• See churches and monasteries in Old Town Sozopol
• Walk from Southern Fortress Wall and Tower to Cape Skamni
• Relax on Sozopol Central Beach or Harmonite Beach

How to get to Sozopol from Burgas: take the Burgas Bus at Burgas Station South Terminal. Look for bus stop #5 at the back of the terminal and wait for the next bus to Sozopol. The bus ride costs 5 lev.

Nessebar is another seaside town on the Bulgarian Black Sea Coast. The ancient town is 35km north of Burgas and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Here are some suggestions on things to see during your day trip to Nessebar :

• Wander around the Western Fortress Wall
• See frescos, decorative motifs and mosaics at some of the preserved churches and monasteries . 
• See the remaining parts of early Byzantine Baths
• Admire three naves, an atrium and arched windows of the Church of Saint Sophia
• Finish the day in Sunny Beach

How to get to Nessebar from Burgas: take the M-Bus or DS Bus at Burgas Station South Terminal. Look for bus stop #3 at the back of the terminal and wait for the next bus to Nessebar. Alight at the Old Town Nessebar bus stop. At the end of the day, take the M-Bus or DS Bus from Sunny Beach bus station back to Burgas. A single ride costs 8 lev.

Bulgaria itinerary day 9-10: Varna and depart from Varna (2 days)

Varna is the last destination on your Bulgaria 10-day itinerary. I chose this as the last stop of the itinerary because many flights fly in and out of Varna Airport.

So for Day Nine, visit Golden Sands Beach and wander around Varna. And depending on when you depart on Day ten, you might still have some time to see more of Varna.

Travel from Burgas to Varna

Bus: Several buses travel from Burgas Station South Terminal to Central Bus Station Varna , including Deily, M-Bus, Travel Express and Varnabus 2000 .

Note: Central Bus Station Varna is northwest of the city centre. Several local buses, including Bus 409 (which can take you to and from Varna Airport), can take you to the city centre.

Train: There are 4 trains from Burgas Train Station to Varna Central Train Station daily . You’ll have to change trains at Karnobat, and the entire journey takes 3.5 hours. Take the 9:25am-12:51pm if you choose the train option.

Varna Accommodation: mOdus Hotel

Book two nights at mOdus Hotel , a modern boutique hotel next to the Varna Sea Garden and in the city’s centre. Moreover, the hotel is only a few minutes from the bus stop to Golden Sands, Central Bus Station Varna and Varna Airport.

Day 9-10: Varna

Varna is a port city located in the northeast corner of Bulgaria. The seaside resort town is famous for its golden beaches, thermal springs and ancient artifacts discovered in the city.

For your last two days in Bulgaria, here are some Varna attractions to consider seeing:

• Visit the beaches of Varna and Varna Sea Garden
• See ancient ruins at Varna Roman Baths
• Stroll around the main pedestrian street in Varna Old Town
• See the famous “Gold of Varna” in the Archaeological Museum of Varna
• Spend the afternoon suntanning on Golden Sands Beach

Which Bulgaria travel itinerary are you going to follow?

If time isn’t an issue, stay in Bulgaria for as long as possible. It is one of the most underrated countries I’ve ever visited.

But if you have limited time, 5 days in Bulgaria is sufficient to see all the highlights around Sofia and Plovdiv. But if you can spend 10 days in Bulgaria, add all the cities and towns along the Black Sea Coast.

And if you are still wondering if Bulgaria is worth visiting, perhaps take a look at my individual blog posts about all the cities mentioned in this itinerary. I put a lot of information on what to see, how to get around and also included hotel recommendations and food options.

I hope you found this post useful for planning your Bulgaria travel itinerary. Let me know which itinerary you will follow or if you have any questions about travelling solo in Bulgaria.

Thank you for reading my Bulgaria itinerary

You might also like these other posts on solo travel in Bulgaria:

Bulgaria posts:

• Sofia Solo Travel: 20 best things to do in Sofia
• Where and what to eat in Sofia: 21 must-try food
• Burgas Travel Guide: Things to do + Getting there + Day trips
• Burgas to Sozopol day trip: 1-day itinerary
• Day trip to Nessebar and Sunny Beach in Bulgaria
• Varna Travel Guide: 9 Things to do

Like this post? Pin it on your Pinterest board!

queenie mak

Hi, my name is Queenie, and I've been a solo traveller for 20+ years and currently based in Hong Kong. Follow me on my adventures through Instagram and my blog!

Further Reading...

Varna Travel Guide: 9 Things to Do in Varna Bulgaria

10 Off the Beaten Path Travel Destinations for Solo Travellers

Burgas Travel Guide: Things to Do in Burgas + Getting There + Day Trips

No comments, leave a reply cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Taipei Accommodation: Where to stay in Taipei Taiwan as a Solo Traveller

Osaka 2 day itinerary for first-time solo travellers, ms travel solo.

15 Things to Know Before Visiting Bulgaria

Disclosure: This post (probably) contains affiliate links. If you click on one, I may make a small commission. Of course, this will come at no extra cost to you and helps keep this site running.

If you don’t know what to expect when visiting Bulgaria, you’re not alone. I had no preconceived ideas about the country when I first went and my planning was honestly very limited. At that time, Bulgaria felt like it wasn’t on people’s radar. Visiting more recently, it still feels that way.

Yes, Bulgaria is fairly popular as a seaside destination in summer, but even that’s not on the same scale as its Mediterranean and Adriatic cousins. All this is to say that visiting Bulgaria was eye-opening, as I began to learn more about the history, culture, and people of this extraordinary country.

My return to Bulgaria may not have always gone as planned, but even then it was a joy to further explore this little corner of Europe. For those thinking of travelling to Bulgaria, here is my Bulgaria travel advice with what I think you need to know for your visit.

Table of Contents

1. Look Past Bulgaria’s Coast

Since Bulgaria’s coast is where the country is most popular with tourists, let’s start there. If you’re seeking an affordable beach vacation, places like Sunny Beach and Sozopol are worth the trip. And the historic port towns on the Black Sea are also worth visiting on their own.

But it pains me that people don’t realise how many other fascinating places there are to visit on a vacation to Bulgaria. The capital Sofia is a good starting point , with its complex history and socialist relics. Look even just a little deeper and you quickly find other cities in Bulgaria to go to, from the immensely cool city of Plovdiv to the former royal capital of Veliko Tarnovo .

Bulgaria’s mountains cover much of the country’s interior and not only are they really fun to explore, they hide lots of great smaller destinations as well. Visiting the Monastery of Dryanovo and the unique Sand Pyramids of Melnik were two highlights of my first visit . Seeing the Rila Monastery and Belogradchik Fortress , two of the most famous Bulgarian attractions, on my return trip was just as memorable.

2. Bulgaria Visa Requirements for Entry

While Bulgaria is part of the European Union, it is not yet part of the Schengen Area that allows free movement between countries, something many EU countries currently benefit from.

This means that when entering Bulgaria you will go through passport control and visa requirements vary. For information on Bulgaria travel requirements , here is one place to start . At the time of writing, travellers from Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada and most of Europe did not require visas for stays under 90 days.

Crossing the border from Turkey to Bulgaria, our train was stopped and border police came aboard. They collected passports, took them away and then returned them. Don’t be alarmed that people would take off with your passport without saying anything – it is fairly common practice in Eastern Europe and the Balkans.

3. Public Transport in Bulgaria

One of the biggest challenges of travelling in Bulgaria is getting around. The country’s mountains tend to get in the way a lot, especially since so many popular things to do in Bulgaria are found in or near them.

There are also drawbacks to public transport in Bulgaria. I’ve yet to travel by train in Bulgaria, aside from the overnight train from Istanbul, but do not hear good things about its reliability. The travellers I’ve talked to who used it encountered significant delays and were told by locals that they often don’t use it.

Travel by bus has always been my go-to in Bulgaria. An extensive bus network of various companies crisscrosses the country, but Sofia is certainly a major hub. I think the buses are good value, especially for how cheap tickets are, and mostly punctual.

One thing to keep in mind is that most major cities have multiple bus stations, so do check which stations you are departing from and arriving at. Information can be found online at Bgrazpisanie or Balkan Viator , but it always pays to check at the station in case of a rare error.

Once you’ve arrived, most cities and towns have local bus networks that are pretty straightforward to use. When I first went in 2016, buses in most cities still had ticket ladies who sold tickets onboard, often for only 1 lev. That’s certainly not the case now in Sofia. Their metro/bus system lets you just use your bank card, it’s that easy.

4. Best Time to Visit Bulgaria

Timing is everything when you visit pretty much any place in Europe and Bulgaria is no different. Go to Bulgaria in summer and you’re met with hot and humid weather, except for the Black Sea coast. Travel to Bulgaria in winter and the chances of snow are pretty high. Did I mention all of the mountains?

So when is the best time to visit Bulgaria? Well, it depends on why you’re going. If you want beach weather, June through August should give you that. Those just looking to visit Bulgaria’s cities benefit from more flexibility as the shoulder season should work just fine.

You’d think the hiking season would line up with beach weather, but actually most of June isn’t great for hiking as there still may be lots of snow in the mountains. Instead, try visiting between July and September when the mountain trails are clear. As for skiing in Bulgaria, January to March should offer the best conditions to hit the slopes in the mountains.

5. Local Customs to Know

Part of the fun of travel is learning local customs and quirks, but they can definitely lead to confusion at first. The big one for me in Bulgaria is that they nod for No and shake their head for Yes.

Non-verbal communication in a country where you don’t speak the language is super important. English is spoken a little in Bulgaria, mainly with younger people and it is growing. But there are still going to be times where you need to rely a lot on gestures and body language.

That means, simple gestures like nods and head shakes become even more critical. If you ask a bus driver “Bansko?” and they shake their head, I guarantee your first instinct will be to keep looking. I know I did. This will take some time to adjust to during your visit, but I found it always helps to rethink what answer you were given to ensure you understood it properly.

6. Language and Reading Bulgarian

The language of Bulgaria is – you guessed it – Bulgarian . The language is heavily Slavic, but with enough twists to distance it from most other Slavic languages, eg. Czech, Russian, Croatian. It’s not the easiest of languages for English speakers to swiftly pick up.

English is generally spoken in the tourist-heavy parts of the coast, particularly in Sunny Beach, but it’s far from guaranteed. Away from the coast, younger people are the ones more likely to know some English. As for second languages, Russian is definitely the most common across the country, with German probably next.

The other major hurdle for tourists in Bulgaria is that they use the Cyrillic Alphabet . While probably best known for its use in Russia, Cyrillic was actually developed in Bulgaria in the 9th century. That knowledge won’t help you read it any better, but Bulgarians are very proud of that fact.

When trying to read Cyrillic, I tend to sound it out one letter at a time like a little kid. It takes some getting used to, but it helps that the following letters are the same as they are in Latin: ‘ A’, ‘E’, ‘K’, ‘M’, ‘O’, ‘T’ . It’s also useful that the following translates easily: a Cyrillic ‘P’ is Latin ‘R’, ‘C’ is ‘S’, ‘H’ is ‘N’, ‘X’ is ‘H’ . With that little language lesson, you now know the first 4 letters of ‘HOTEL’ in Cyrillic are “XOTE”. Good luck with the rest!

A few basic Bulgarian phrases to help you get by include Dobŭr den which means ‘Good Day’; Blagodarya for ‘Thank you’; Molya te for ‘Please’; and Da and Ne for ‘Yes’ and ‘No’.

7. Managing Your Money

Bulgaria is another Eastern European country where your Euro is not of much use. The national currency of Bulgaria is the Lev (BGN) . Thankfully, the Lev seems to have a fixed rate against the Euro at 2 lev to 1 euro, making the mental currency conversion pretty easy.

For those out on the coast, you may not even need to do your own arithmetic as many signs and restaurants are also shown in Euros or Pounds.

But currency conversion shops are widely found around Bulgaria, especially in places like Sofia and the coast. They mainly exist to convert back and forward between Euros and Lev. While you always want to be wary of the rates you’re getting, my experience in Sofia was surprisingly good.

Now if you’re getting cash out of ATMs, a word of warning. Across the country, you’ll find Euronet ATMS – and I highly recommend not using them . While using my Wise card, I used this guide on ATM fees to avoid extra fees.

While having some cash in Bulgaria is useful, you can use your credit card in Bulgaria for a lot of things. Just make sure it’s a card that doesn’t slam you with currency conversion fees or bad exchange rates.

8. Is Bulgaria Safe to Visit?

Yes, in my experience, Bulgaria is a safe place to visit. I’ve travelled across the country in public transport and even hitched rides with people and never encountered problems.

The closest I’ve come to feeling unsafe is when a crowd of loud football fans moved through the centre of Sofia after a game, and that can happen anywhere that loves the sport. That said, I don’t tend to go out drinking/partying or be out in the middle of the night, so my exposure to certain risks is lower.

Safety is always going to be a concern for travellers but it’s also deeply specific to individuals. I’m a white male travelling in a European country, so my experience and feeling of safety in Bulgaria doesn’t necessarily mean that all travellers will feel safe. This is true anywhere.

9. Fading Socialist Reminders

One aspect of tourism in Bulgaria that seems to appeal to many international tourists are the remnants of Bulgaria’s era under socialist rule. During the latter half of the 20th century, the country saw a lot of monuments and buildings created in the very Brutalist style that was in vogue under the socialist republic.

The fall of the People’s Republic of Bulgaria in 1990 still wasn’t that long ago so there are plenty of examples around Bulgaria you can still see today. Buzludzha Monument may be the most iconic of these landmarks, but the capital Sofia has more than a few monolithic, Soviet-looking sights of its own.

Visit the Socialist Art Museum in Sofia and you’ll see all sorts of sculptures and statues from this time period. There’s also the popular Communist walking tour , which lets you learn more about the history and how it affected the people of Bulgaria.

Veliko Tarnovo is another city with its fair share of relics from this period. Look no further than the brutalist Interhotel by the river or the incredibly unusual secular church atop Tsarevets Fortress. Further afield, I’ve heard of abandoned bunkers and the like for those who are into urban exploration.

10. So Much History to Explore

If you said you don’t know the history of Bulgaria, I don’t think anyone would hold it against you. And I’m not just talking about the country’s period of socialism. The good news is that there are plenty of places to visit in Bulgaria that show you the country’s history.

Did you know that you can find Roman ruins in Bulgaria? Plovdiv is home to several ancient Roman landmarks, including a large amphitheatre. Skip ahead and you have landmarks from the middle ages and Bulgaria’s imperial days, such as the Tsarevets fortress in Veliko Tarnovo. There are also plenty of Ottoman landmarks too, many of which are mosques.

Bulgaria’s historical side doesn’t just have to be informative though; it can also be extremely picturesque. From Plovdiv to Veliko Tarnovo and Nesebar, you’ll find gorgeous buildings in the style known as Bulgarian Revival . This architectural style comes from the Bulgarian National Revival movement of the 18th and 19th centuries which also led to Bulgaria regaining autonomy from the Ottoman Empire in 1878.

11. Hiking in Bulgaria

One of my favourite things to do in Bulgaria has been hiking in the mountains there. Now, Bulgaria isn’t one of Europe’s classic hiking destinations, but you’re not going to be disappointed with it if you go.

Most of my hiking in Bulgaria has been around the Rila and Pirin Mountains. But these mountains in the country’s southwest are just two of the main mountain ranges in Bulgaria. You also have the reasonably remote Rhodope Mountains to their east, and the more accessible and extensive Balkan Mountains through the heart of Bulgaria.

Even though it was mostly cold, wet, and foggy for my hiking trip to Bulgaria, I still had a great time. Both when I was meandering around the Pirin Mountains and heading up to the Boyana Waterfall outside Sofia, I loved having the country’s pristine nature practically to myself. I am glad that the weather held up for my Seven Rila Lakes hike though, as the views on that hike are next level.

You have plenty of options for hiking here, both in terms of location, but also whether you want to do a longer hiking trip or just day hikes. For me, I’m still waiting to tackle Musala, the highest mountain peak in Bulgaria.

12. Bulgarian Foods and Drinks

Looking back, I don’t think I’ve been all that adventurous with my food habits when visiting Bulgaria. That’s probably because it’s never hard to find typical Bulgarian restaurants and common Balkan dishes such as kebapche and kufte.

But there are some Bulgarian staples I’ve tried during my visits. Despite their overwhelming volumes of sirene cheese, I’ve had my share of shopska salad and banitsa (pastry filled with cheese). And one of my go-to orders is kavarma , a kind of meat and vegetables served in a clay vessel.

I will admit though I’ve avoided Bulgaria’s famous yoghurt, ayran , simply because I’m lactose intolerant. But if you’re not, don’t skip this popular drink that you can find *everywhere*. Drinks I haven’t shied away from have been Bulgaria’s various beers, Shumensko, Kamenitza, and Pirinsko to name a few.

One thing I only learned about Bulgaria by visiting is that the country is quite a major wine producer. Mavrud, a red wine grape, is probably the best known variety from Bulgaria and is worth trying if you see it on a menu when in Bulgaria. Visit Melnik and you can also explore the town’s fruit wines, which I quite enjoyed.

13. Is Bulgaria Cheap to Visit?

Yes, Bulgaria is an affordable destination to visit and I’d say it’s one of the cheapest countries to travel in across Europe. The Balkans is a generally affordable region for international travellers to visit and I think Bulgaria is somewhere in the middle relative to the rest of the region.

The most expensive places to visit in Bulgaria are going to be the Black Sea Coast and then Sofia. Prices in these places weren’t that high during my first visit to Bulgaria, but accommodation in Sofia was definitely more expensive in 2023. Looking at prices for the coast as well, they also seem to have risen considerably.

Expenses in Bulgaria for things like food, attractions, and public transport are quite reasonable in my opinion. Filling dinners at basic restaurants for one person can comfortably cost 10-15€, while coffee typically only costs 1-2€. Entry to museums and attractions in Sofia typically cost around 5€. Public transport around Sofia for a day cost me less than 3€. A 3-hour bus ride from Sofia to Bansko costs 10€.

14. Is Bulgaria Friendly to Tourists?

As is so often the case with questions like this, it’s hard to say that everyone in Bulgaria is going to be completely friendly to you as a tourist. So many things affect this, from language barriers to perceptions of race/gender/orientation.

Across my Bulgaria travel experiences, I’ve met plenty of welcoming people in the tourism sector (guides, hotel staff, etc.). Then there have been friendly locals like the man that offered to provide suggestions of where to go when I hiked up to Boyana waterfall.

Of course, I’ve also experienced people that have been standoff-ish. And that’s true of most countries I’ve been to in Europe, especially places that are less accustomed to foreign tourists. But in Bulgaria at least, I can’t recall anyone being rude or offensive.

I think if your expectation of “friendliness” is big broad smiles, people greeting you on the street, and endless enthusiasm to help you, you’re going to be disappointed. Basically, don’t expect “American hospitality”.

15. Bulgarian Martenitsa

The bracelet’s colours represent vitality and purity, representing a wish for the wearer’s health in the coming year. Locals wear the bracelets until the first sighting of spring blossom, swallows or storks.

At this point, people take the bracelets off and tie them to trees, passing the wishes of vitality onto the tree. During my visit in July, you were still able to find many trees decorated with Martenitsa.

Resources for Visiting Bulgaria

• Getting There: To find the cheapest and most convenient flights to Bulgaria make sure to check Kayak .
• Accommodation: Here you can find hotels, apartments and guesthouses for across Bulgaria, plus don’t forget Airbnb.
• Tours: There are countless day trips, cruises, and sightseeing tours available in Bulgaria.
• Car Hire: If you want to travel more independently, consider renting a car to drive yourself about.
• Guide Books: Lastly, take a Lonely Planet Guide book if want a physical guide.

What other things would you like to know before visiting Bulgaria? Have you visited Bulgaria and have other insights to share? Please share them in the comments below.

David is the author behind the Travelsewhere travel blog and is always on the search for the quieter, less-visited corners of the world.

You may also like

Where to stay on bulgaria’s coast, see the monumental wonders of veliko tarnovo, bulgaria, visiting plovdiv, an ancient city with youthful spirit, hiking to rozhen monastery from melnik, bulgaria, 21 photos to inspire your first bulgaria trip, the southern border crossing to north macedonia, 23 comments.

This was definitely helpful! We had our big honeymoon planned for Italy at the moment but at 80% sure that we are going to cancel it and do a huge 2 week road trip through the Balkans hitting up Montenegro, Macedonia, Bulgaria and Romania mostly. Keep an eye out because I might be contacting you for recommendations, if you don’t mind! 🙂 I’ve already used your blog for a lot of info!

Glad to hear it Lorelei! I’m such a big fan of the Balkans so more than happy to help if you have questions or need recommendations. Have a great time!

Thank you! I’m just getting started on research so I’ll hit you up if/when I have questions. 🙂

Don’t miss out on Albania if you are doing a Balkan road trip. IMO the most interesting country to visit in the Balkans.

Don’t worry, we WILL visit one day, most likely as it’s own trip! I’m dying to visit!

great tips! I might use them one day:) #wanderfulwednesday

That nodding/shaking your head means the opposite from what we understand of it is definitely new to me! I’ll have to keep that in mind if I ever get to visit Bulgaria. I certainly don’t understand or speak Russian, let alone Bulgarian… 😉

Martenitsa sounds like a lovely custom. Enjoyed reading about it.

Unfortunately in Norway Bulgaria is synonym with party people, so I’ve never wanted to go. Know I should see beyond 🙂

These are great tips. The only thing I really know about Bulgaria is where to locate it on a map. I eventually would like to visit but it’s not high on my list. #wkendtravelinspiration

Haha that’s ok Allison, that’s probably more than many people can. I totally understand the perils of having a long list of places you want to visit. I hope you reach that far down the list one day 🙂

Great tidbits of information! I’ll definitely remember that nodding means no and that shaking your head is yes…wowzers! Bulgaria is on my radar since I’m living in Moscow now. 😀

The former eastern block countries fascinate me. I hope to visit Bulgaria and Romania someday.

We did a great road trip in Bulgaria, and although the roads are not the best, we had a fabulous time. We did see the bracelets on many trees in the church yards. Good article.

I know a few people from Bulgaria and friends who visited really enjoyed it for the culture and low prices compared with other parts of europe. nice reminder of what it’s worth visiting the less touristy parts of the world. #wkendtravelinspiration

Like you, I have no preconceived ideas about Bulgaria. It was good to learn more from you about this country. I am nodding my head, or am I shaking it 🙂

One of the things that intrigues me most in Bulgaria and other former Soviet Bloc countries is the Communist remnants. Particularly architecture and public works. Amazing in their own way, and still historically important. Also, that Bulgarian Revival architecture is great! Looks like another country we’d enjoy just wandering through and admiring! As always, great post!

Stay away from the coast. Party time is not educational.

I think you can still enjoy the coast if you don’t like partying. I know I did.

Bulgaria has become really popular for skiing, if you are a fan of winter sports, Pomporovo or Bansko in the winter will rock your expectations!

This was a very interesting and informative article but let me tell you this . I am Bulgarian myself . I was born and raised in Varna and then later in my life moved to Canada. There is a lot of misinformation floating out there such as the ” shake your head for NO and nod for YES” Simply not true unless they do that in some small high mountain village somewhere there it is absolutely NOT TRUE the rest of the country. Anyhow useful article never the less. Enjoy and happy travels everyone.

Thanks for commenting Ivo. That’s interesting to hear, perhaps it’s a regional thing. I definitely experienced it first hand in the west and know other people who experienced it as well

Visiting Bulgaria in the Winter can be really a great journey. I can say Borovets is one of the most popular destinations for this.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• Bulgaria Tourism
• Bulgaria Hotels
• Bed and Breakfast Bulgaria
• Bulgaria Holiday Rentals
• Flights to Bulgaria
• Bulgaria Restaurants
• Bulgaria Attractions

Bulgaria Travel Forum

• Bulgaria Photos
• All Bulgaria Hotels
• Bulgaria Hotel Deals
• Last Minute Hotels in Bulgaria
• Bulgaria Motels
• Bulgaria Hostels
• Bulgaria Campsites
• Bulgaria Green Hotels
• Casinos in Bulgaria
• Bulgaria Resorts
• Bulgaria Beach Hotels
• Family Hotels Bulgaria
• Romantic Hotels in Bulgaria
• Business Hotels Bulgaria
• Luxury Hotels in Bulgaria
• Spa Hotels in Bulgaria
• Bulgaria Ski-In / Ski-Out Hotels
• 5-stars Hotels in Bulgaria
• 3-stars Hotels in Bulgaria
• 4-stars Hotels in Bulgaria
• Pet Friendly Hotels in Bulgaria
• Bulgaria Hotels with Parking
• Bulgaria Hotels with a Pool
• Beach Resorts in Bulgaria
• Ski Hotels Bulgaria
• All Inclusive Hotels in Bulgaria
• Family Resorts in Bulgaria
• Bulgaria Spa Resorts
• All Inclusive Resorts in Bulgaria
• Bulgaria All Inclusive Spa Hotels
• Bulgaria Casino Spa Hotels
• Bulgaria Beach Spa Hotels
• Bulgaria Pet Friendly Beach Hotels
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Holiday Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travellers' Choice
• Help Centre

Bulgaria Forum

• Europe    
• United Kingdom Forums
• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Holiday Rentals
• Europe forums
• Why Bulgaria?
• Weather in Bulgaria
• Bulgarian Cuisine
• Bulgarian Wine
• What to do in Bulgaria
• Bus Timetables
• Long distance bus timetables
• Accommodation
• Self drive tour suggested route

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Europe » Why Visit Bulgaria: 10 EPIC Reasons to Visit in 2024

Why Visit Bulgaria: 10 EPIC Reasons to Visit in 2024

Sitting flush with Turkey, Bulgaria is the often-forgotten big brother of the Balkan countries. Budget travellers don’t quite reach it – tourists head straight to its beaches.

If you haven’t heard the news yet, let me tell you: Bulgaria is IN, everything else is OUT.

This Eastern European country was never much on my radar until a friend told me I would like it, and I was like, OK! And I booked a flight to Sofia.

I’m glad I took the chance: I adored backpacking Bulgaria.

The best adventures always seem to happen when you’re least expecting them. Watching the sun rise on the top of the highest mountain in the Balkans and pub-crawling in Plovdiv’s hipster district are all top bucket-list experiences. Who’d have guessed?

Maybe I’m biased. After all, I’ve always been a huge fan of Eastern Europe.

Still questioning why visit Bulgaria ? I’m here to tell you just WHY this country, on the outskirts of the Balkans, is so fantastic.

Is it the food? The landscapes? The office chairs at my local co-working space? Spoiler alert, maybe it’s all that and more.

Let’s find out!

10 Reasons Why You Should Visit Bulgaria

First stop, bulgaria; next stop, everywhere else.

Travel in Bulgaria might not have been on the top of your wishlist before. You might be asking me but Elina, what is Bulgaria like? Is Bulgaria worth visiting as a backpacker? Why won’t you stop talking about it?

Give me 10 minutes of your time and I bet I can change your mind. Pop open a beer, sit back, and let me tell you just why you should visit Bulgaria for your holidays.

1. Bulgaria is WAY Prettier Than You’d Expect

When you think of backpacking Eastern Europe , you’ll probably conjure up images of grey Soviet blocks. Backpacking Bulgaria is nothing like you’d expect it to be: its bigger cities are full of grandiose historical architecture that rivals that of St. Petersburg and Prague. Its small towns are unbearably cute with their traditional houses and stone-walled restaurants.

But wait – there’s more! There are tastefully dilapidated side alleys selling antiques and vintage clothes. Colourful towns are built on hillsides (definitely DON’T skip Veliko Tarnovo ). Bulgaria has Roman ruins, sunsets that fall into the Black Sea, and so much more!

And Bulgarian nature? IMPECCABLE.

Its mountains are awesome, and you’ll hear a little more hype on them next. But the beauty of Bulgaria really lies in all its colours.

It’s not a rare sight to spot seemingly endless sunflower fields side to side, with intensely purple rows of lavender, with the backdrop of deep green forests and clear blue skies. You can find hidden waterfalls deep in forests and breathtaking, white knife-edge ridges to climb.

In a word, Bulgaria is gorgeous .

Do You Want to Travel FOREVER??

Pop your email in below to get a FREE copy of ‘How to Travel the World on $10 a Day!’.

2. The MOUNTAINS

It’s no secret that I’m slightly obsessed with hiking. I build all my itineraries around trekking, and it was one of my biggest reasons to visit Bulgaria in the first place.

Bulgaria for hikers is dope as hell! It doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner hiker or an expert, there are peaks for everybody.

4 mountain ranges offer different hiking experiences from super-popular day hikes to more remote, less-trod trails. Most visitors will check out the Seven Rila Lakes (arguably the most popular hike in the country) but don’t leave it at that.

Trace down the origins of Orpheus, the mythic Greek poet, in the Rhodope mountains.

Climb the highest peak in the entire Balkans; even at 2925 m, Musala Peak doesn’t require special mountaineering skills.

Conquer the three highest peaks of the Pirin mountains on a one-day hike exploring the breathtakingly steep Koncheto Ridge – one of the best places to visit in Bulgaria.

Trails are usually well-marked and easy to follow. In addition, there are plenty of huts to accommodate tired travellers. And if you crave your own peace and quiet, pack up your camping stuff : wild camping is not only allowed but encouraged. If you’re visiting Bulgaria for the first time, don’t skip the mountains.

3. Food. SO MUCH FOOD!

Bulgarian food is incredible! True to its Eastern European status, the best Bulgarian food is heavy and hearty – and super cheap.

My favourite memories from Bulgaria are from the evenings sat at my favourite restaurant with my friends, stuffing my face with pork and potatoes, grilled cheese, stuffed peppers, and flaming kebabs. I’m not much of a soup gal (I know – gasp) but tarator , a refreshing, cold cucumber soup that resembles liquid tzatziki, made me change my mind.

And banitsa … These cheese-filled puff pastries are usually huge enough to fill you for brekkie or lunch. They cost about $1, and satisfy my craving for some Balkan burek.

Just a word of condolences to my vegan friends: living da veggie life in the Balkans is not easy, and Bulgaria is no exception. In bigger cities, you’ll surely find some options but in general, a vegan or vegetarian diet is a little trickier than omnivorousness.

And no Bulgaria trip would be complete without some wine tasting. Because GOD DAMN, Bulgarian wine!!! It’s cheap, it’s delicious, it’s absolutely everywhere. If you don’t care for wine, you can flush all the delicious dishes down with some ayran , which is a yoghurt-based cold drink. (A lot like Indian lassi!)

4. It Has Some Real Cool People

Bulgaria sits in the seam between Slavic stoicism and Ottoman hospitality; maybe that’s why its culture is such a funny hodgepodge of outwardly rude and actually lovely.

Walking in the street, you’d think this is a country of tough motherfuckers. Seriously, is smiling in public forbidden or something? Once you actually start chatting with people though, you’ll realise they’re super helpful, friendly, and hospitable.

To avoid confusion, learn some Bulgarian body language. Bulgarians shake their head when they mean yes, and nod when they mean no. Except in big cities, where some people use the universal gestures – except if they’re mixing the two gestures. Actually, maybe just try to get a verbal confirmation to your questions: learning a language is part of the fun!

Many young people speak great English and I made a lot of local friends during my couple-month stay. If the servers at your regular restaurant start to recognise you, they might upgrade your free dessert from watermelon to baklava. (Nothing makes you feel more VIP!)

Customer service in Bulgaria is hilarious: it’s a fifty-fifty chance of being the best or the worst experience. 

Sometimes you’ll get served like the waiter is doing you a favour. You might get the wrong dish, and if you dare complain, they’ll switch it, but you’ll feel like they’re probably casting some ancient Balkan curse on you. 

And sometimes people go out of their way to be nice to you. When a waiter at a taco place realised half of our group spoke Spanish, he started telling us about his favourite places in El Salvador, and bookmarked a town there on my Google Maps that he was convinced I would like to see.

At a whiskey bar, the owner made me take free shots of Fireball with him and the waitress. Shoutout to that man!

5. The Socialist Monuments Are Weird and Plentiful

From 1946-1990, Bulgaria was a socialist state. (What a noble Balkan tradition.) It was a part of the Soviet Block and had a very close friendship with Soviet Russia. Bulgaria’s emo, eh, I mean Soviet phase might be over, but there are tons of fascinating monuments leftover from that period.

Just Sofia, the capital, has a plethora of socialist mementoes scattered all over. Visit the Museum of Socialist Art with a statue garden. (You might spot a freakishly large Lenin-head.) The National Palace of Culture is a cool architectural gem, and the Monument to Soviet Army keeps getting painted over in different themes like superheroes as protest.

But the coolest communist monument in Bulgaria must be the UFO. Yeah, you heard me. The Buzludzha Monument is one of the most unique things to visit in Bulgaria. Located near the town of Shipka, the strangely shaped monument to honour communism was left abandoned when the Soviet regimen fell. It’s been in disrepair ever since. 

The good news is that there are plans to restore it. The bad news is that a guard is now stopping people from actually urban exploring the monument so you can only admire it from the outside.

6. The Beaches Are Pretty Awesome Too

The Black Sea rivals the Adriatic Sea. If you’re travelling to the Balkans looking for a beach holiday and you don’t feel like getting trampled by tourists on the Croatian coast, head to the Bulgarian east. Blue water and white sand beaches are guaranteed.

Don’t get me wrong: the Bulgarian coastline gets a LOT of tourism. Actually, it’s the reason many people see Bulgaria as a holiday destination. The beachside is popular for foreign package-holiday tourists and locals alike, so you won’t really have the place just for yourself.

Still, the beachside is nice for a break from hardcore backpacking (gotta avoid that traveller’s burnout , ya know). And with 400 kilometres of coastline, you’re sure to find some totally wild bits too, if you’re into it.

Varna is the third biggest city in Bulgaria and the biggest hub on the coastline. So that’s where you’ll find the best parties. I’d head to the smaller towns, though (because small Bulgarian towns are cute as fuck), and spend some time relaxing in old, historical streets.

Nessebar and Burgas are pretty cool, and Sozopol comes highly recommended by my Bulgarian buddies.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

7. Not Into Beaches? How about Snow?

Bulgaria is one of those great countries that doesn’t really have an off-season. If you couldn’t make it in the summer, Bulgaria is an awesome option for those interested in winter sports! 

Skiing holidays are expensive as all hell if you head down to the Alps. That’s why many alpinists are turning their backs to icy Aperol Spritzes and looking for better value in Eastern European mountains. Bulgaria is not exactly cheap either, but the prices seem to be about 2/3 of those in the Alps.

Bulgaria is great for first-time skiers but there are also options for more advanced slopers. The downside is that the amount of pistas is not huge.

Do you get bored easily? You could look into off-piste skiing.

Go ski near Sofia at Borovets, the country’s oldest ski resort, or in Bansko – my fav town in Bulgaria! It is one of the best-catered places for snow tourists. Pamporovo near Plovdid is also a good option.

8. Bulgaria is Probably the Cheapest Country in the EU

What a joy! Bulgaria is incredibly cheap – which shouldn’t be surprising, considering it’s located deep in Eastern Europe. However, it is also a country in the European Union. Considering how steep it is usually to travel around its union brothers, Bulgaria for holidays is an absolute steal.

Sure, you can manage to spend money if you’re not careful. In general though, the cost of travel in Bulgaria is very low, and it’s among the cheapest countries in Europe .

Avoid super touristy restaurants and opt for crummy-looking local ones instead. They usually have absolutely delish grandma-style cooking for half of the price.

Similarly, transportation is cheap AF. A train ticket is just a few leva s, a bus ticket is slightly more.

For the brokest backpackers, hitchhiking is still a good free travel option. (On difficulty levels, I’d say hitching in Bulgaria is about as hard as in Central Europe; it’s not super easy, but not too tough either.)

You can easily find a bed in a hostel in Sofia for 10 bucks a night – or rent a whole apartment for a month for $200. In the winter, prices shoot up in popular ski destinations, but summer and shoulder seasons are pretty affordable times to be traipsing around Bulgaria.

9. Is Plovdiv the Coolest City in Europe? Perhaps Yes.

Is Sofia, Bulgaria worth visiting? I mean, sure. Sofia has cool areas and all, but it’s just another pretty, metropolitan capital city. Bulgaria’s second city, Plovid, however…

Ploviv is located about 3 hours east of Sofia. The coolest thing about it is that it’s built on top of ancient Roman ruins; you can literally walk into an H&M and gaze down at some super old stones under the floor. 

But if history’s not your jam, maybe I could entice you with some culture? Some art? The best food in Bulgaria? Plovdiv was named the Cultural Capital of Europe in 2019, and not for nothing.

Plovdiv is filled with gorgeous street art and graffiti, galleries, and statues. My favourite is the statue of Milyo, who was literally just some guy that people knew and liked, so he got a statue in his honour. Apparently, if you whisper your wish in his ear, it comes true. (Results still pending.) There’s a free street art walking tour that also goes deeper into the city’s Soviet past and a regular free walking tour that I definitely recommend.

This is also where you’ll find the BEST food and drink in Bulgaria! From craft beer bars to artisanal gelato, there’s so much goodness here. (Also, the best coffee shops in the country!)

Spend a lot of time in Kavala, Plovdiv’s hipstery nightlife and food district, and grab a sweet lunch donut at Bluestone Donut. Taco Reyes has the best tacos I’ve EVER had, anywhere.

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

10. Bulgaria Is Damn Excellent for Digital Nomads

The first reason I came to Bulgaria was the hiking; the second was the digital nomad community.

Bulgaria is safe , cheap, and extremely livable. It’s no wonder that European nomads are now starting to find it and even settle there. If you’re looking for somewhere to base yourself, Bulgaria is a great option – their tax percentage is pretty damn low…

As every nomad knows, the most important part of every place is the community; and Bulgaria has an awesome one. I found nomads in Bulgaria to be a bit more down to earth than the ones I’ve met in Asia. If that’s your thing, awesome-o.

Sofia and Plovdiv both have pretty big communities but I would definitely recommend checking out Bansko if you’re nomading.

The tiny mountain town only has a few thousand inhabitants but a whopping three coworking spaces. They’ve been hosting a digital nomad festival every summer for a couple of years now. Plus, there are some affordable apart hotels in Bansko for those looking to stay a while.

So, is Bulgaria one of the best countries for digital nomads ? It’s definitely up there.

So there you have it – just the prelude of the ode I want to sing to Bulgaria: my new favourite place in Europe. 

Bulgaria might seem a little off-route, but if you’re travelling the Balkans, planning to backpack Turkey, or even check out Romania, it’s right on your way. 

This also makes it easy to visit for travellers from outside the EU: whenever your time in the Schengen ends, it’s super duper easy to hop over the border to almost any of the surrounding countries to chill there for a few months until you can enter the EU again.

But don’t let convenience be your guide. Why visit Bulgaria? Because Bulgaria is awesome. Come because some girl on the internet told you to, and she probably knows things.

Come, because Bulgaria is more stable, cleaner, and less chaotic than other Balkan countries, yet it’s just as cool and unexpected as any of them.

I loved all of Bulgaria’s little quirks. 

I loved the friendly street cats I stopped to pet on my way to work every morning.

I loved that even though Bansko is the tiniest town ever, they had a music festival almost every weekend in the summer.

I loved that I lived next to mountains and that I could fill up my water bottle from taps of water running from those mountains that tasted better than tap water. (Well, I did fill up at the tap by the church, so technically that was holy water.)

Attractions are plentiful, but you can’t describe the country through top 10 lists of best places to visit in Bulgaria. You just have to come and experience it.

Elina Mattila

Share or save this post

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

23 Useful Sofia Travel Tips for Your First Visit

If you’re planning a trip to Sofia, you’ve come to the right place — literally, we’re the biggest Sofia-themed blog on the internet.

We are two Americans who have made Sofia our home, spending the better part of the past few years in the Bulgarian capital. We’ve hosted dozens of friends during our years in the city, and we’re chock full of useful Sofia travel tips that we think will make your time in the city far more pleasant.

This is a pretty random assortment of Sofia tips – from information on WiFi and SIM cards to cab drivers and beyond – so I’m sure you’ll find something that will be of use to you on your upcoming visit to Sofia.

Want to save this post for later? Pin it!

Our Top 23 Sofia Travel Tips

Currency & exchange rate.

Sofia uses the Bulgarian lev as its currency, and the conversion is easy as hell to remember. The plural of lev is leva, because #Bulgarian. The lev is pegged to the euro at 1 euro: 1.96 leva.

Basically, that means there are two leva to every 1 euro. If you’re traveling around more countries in the Balkans, you may want to refer to our currency guide which breaks it down country by country.

If that’s too much math, just half every price and you’ll get the euro amount, which should be easy enough for you to convert in your head to other currencies if you’re a frequent traveler to Europe.

Tipping in Sofia

Generally, Bulgarians aren’t huge tippers, but servers and taxi drivers have come to expect tips from tourists and use them to help themselves survive in a city where the cost of living is increasing rapidly. And with Bulgaria’s wages being some of the lowest in the EU, frankly, if you can afford to travel here, you can afford to tip here.

We recommend tipping 10% for decent service and 15% for fabulous service (which, I’m going to be honest, is not really Sofia’s strong point – but you should reward it when you see it!).

For a taxi, I recommend rounding up to the nearest leva and perhaps adding another leva if the fare is above 10 leva, such as if you’re coming back from the airport.

For example, for a 11.60 leva ride from the airport to the center, I’d pay 13.

If you stay in a hotel with housekeeping, it’s nice to pay a few leva per day. And any other service, such as massage, nails, salon, etc. we recommend tipping about 10% as long as you are satisfied with the service.

Credit Cards in Sofia

Credit cards are widely used in Sofia. If I don’t have cash and I’m going to a place I haven’t before, I’ll check the window to see if they have any credit card symbols in the front. If they don’t, I’ll ask before I order.

Normally, the answer is of course, but it’s better to find out before you order rather than after!

Note that it’s virtually impossible to get your servers to split your bill in Bulgaria so either tell them from the very beginning that you want separate checks or be prepared for one person to pay and everyone else pay them back.

Also, sometimes, places will accept credit cards but only accept cash tips, so I recommend keeping some leva on you so that you don’t shortchange your server.

ATMs and Currency Exchange

One of my biggest Sofia travel tips is to use ATMs rather than money exchange. By far the best way to get money out in Sofia is by using local ATMs. I recommend ones attached to a bank as they are more secure and will offer a better exchange rate. DSK Bank, Raiffeisenbank, and Unicredit Bulbank are the big three banks around here.

There are other smaller ATMs, but they may charge a fee. Honestly, I use a debit card that reimburses my ATM fees (yay, Schwab!) so I hardly notice these things, but you may want to pay attention.

I don’t really recommend exchanging currency if you can help it as the rates will never be as good as getting it from an ATM. If you do, I’d avoid the train station/bus station and Vitosha Boulevard which see a lot of tourists and have some bad rates sometimes. I remember once trying to turn my leva into Turkish lira at the bus station before my overnight train to Istanbul and I would have gotten only about 40% of the value of my leva!

I recommend taking out small amounts of leva from ATMs and if you have any excess at the end of the trip, exchanging it back into a “neutral” currency like Euros, where you’ll get the best rate, rather than trying to change it to another Balkan country’s currency like the lira, denar, or lei where you’ll likely get ripped off.

Cyrillic Alphabet

You can come to Bulgaria without reading Cyrillic… but you will struggle inevitably at some point, as virtually everything will be written in Cyrillic.

From bus destinations to food on menus in non-touristy locations, Cyrillic is omnipresent (and why wouldn’t it be? – the Bulgarian saints Sv. Kiril and Sv. Metodiy invented it!)

I strongly recommend learning Bulgarian Cyrillic before coming to Sofia. It’s almost identical to Russian Cyrillic or Serbian/Macedonian Cyrillic, but there are a few slight differences. You can learn basic Cyrillic in about 4 hours so it’s not that much of an ask.

It’s the number one thing you can do to make your Sofia travel experience run more smoothly, so unless you’ll only be in Sofia for a few hours, I recommend you do it (it’s also a lot of fun!).

Where to Stay When You Visit Sofia

One of my favorite things about living in Sofia is that it has a small, compact, and easily walkable city center that means most attractions are within 30 minutes of each other on foot (and in the event that you need to take transit, it’s never that far away). Coming from living in NYC when every friendship felt long-distance, I love that about Sofia.

We’ve created a guide to all the best places to stay in Sofia here , broken down by budget, which you should find useful when trying to figure out where to stay. We generally recommend staying in the center, which we roughly map as follows: no further north than the train station, no further east than the edge of Zaimov Park in Oborishte, no further south than NDK, and no further west than Mall of Sofia.

Using that zone as your benchmark, aim for something in the middle of that quadrangle. The rest of Sofia isn’t dangerous by any means, but it can be a little out of the way from most of the things you likely want to see.

Here are our top 3 recommendations for where to stay when you visit Sofia:

Budget:  For a hostel, we always recommend  Hostel Mostel .  I have never stayed at the Sofia location but several of my friends have and have always spoken highly of it. I stayed at the one in Veliko Tarnovo and it was excellent.

Perks include a free vegetarian dinner in addition to breakfast included in your stay!  Check rates and availability here . If you are traveling in peak season, be sure to book online, as Hostel Mostel is popular and tends to get booked up.

Mid-range:  For a trendy new boutique hotel that is shockingly affordable, we recommend  R34 Boutique Hotel.  

The location is fantastic, near the Ivan Vazov National Theater in central Sofia. It has gorgeous, loft-inspired details like exposed brick, giant windows, and streamlined but modern décor. It’s a great bargain, too –  check rates, reviews, photos, and availability here .

Luxury : As far as we see it, there’s only one option for the best hotel in town: Sense Hotel . We go to their upscale, beautiful rooftop bar all the time when we have guests in town – it has one of the best views in the entire city and they make fantastic cocktails.

With beautiful views over Alexander Nevsky, Sofia’s most iconic landmark, the hotel couldn’t be in a better location. Sense Hotel also boasts a state-of-the-art fitness center, an art gallery in the lobby, an excellent spa with luxe treatments, and an indoor pool. It’s truly the best choice in town.  Check rates, reviews, photos, and availability here.

Getting a SIM card in Sofia is a relatively straightforward process, and it’s even more straightforward seeing as we’ve written out exactly how to get a SIM card in Sofia .

You will likely need your passport (I always have). I have gotten my SIMs from both A1 and Vivacom and both have been perfectly fine for my needs. Visiting Sofia is a lot easier with a SIM card, as you can use local apps like Moovit and TaxiMe, as well as Google Maps and Google Translate earlier.

A1 in particular usually has the best deals as far as I can tell – I would be able to get 4 gigs of data plus some calls for 6 leva, about 3 euro. Not a bad deal at all!

Food & Dietary Restrictions

Bulgaria is an easy place for vegetarians and slightly tougher for vegans, as the country is more than a bit obsessed with their dairy (and particularly their yogurt and cheese).

Vegetarians, you will be well served by shopska salad, eggplant and pepper and cheese etc. dips, most stuffed peppers and vegetables as they usually are stuffed with rice rather than meat, baked cheeses with honey, and grilled vegetable dishes.

Vegans may have a little more trouble, but there are a few vegan-specific restaurants or vegetarian restaurants that cater to vegans. Check out Loving Hut, Edgy Veggy, Dream House, or Sun & Moon.

Gluten-free people and celiacs, vegetarian/vegan restaurants are a great place to start as they usually are quite savvy about food allergies. A lot of Bulgarian cuisine is naturally gluten free as wheat products are generally not used in any of the BBQ meat and the salads are almost always gluten-free. As always, ask and be prepared with an explanation of your allergy in Bulgarian on Google Translate in case of confusion.

People with nut allergies – peanuts are not commonly used in Bulgarian cuisine, but it still benefits you to ask! My friend with a life-threatening peanut allergy used allergy cards in Romania and Bulgaria and was glad that she had them. Walnuts are more commonly used, so if you have a specific nut allergy, I recommend translating it before eating out at a local restaurant.

You’ll be delighted to know that you can safely drink the tap water in Sofia. Unless you have major stomach sensitivities, there should be no issues. I’ve drank the water here for years without incident; same as Stephanie.

If you’re worried about it, you can buy bottled water or you can fill up from the hot spring taps just outside the Central Mineral Baths like all the locals!

Taxis and Taxi Apps

Uber has been banned in Sofia for years, but luckily, Bulgaria is a pretty tech-savvy place and there are plenty of apps that allow you to hire a taxi in a way that is registered and secure. I highly recommend using an app or calling a reputable company rather than hailing a taxi off the street, as Sofia taxi scams are unfortunately quite common, especially for travelers visiting Sofia for the first time.

Luckily, it’s pretty much impossible to get scammed using an app as everything is tracked. I use TaxiMe because I can store my credit card information inside it and use it cashless, just like Uber.

I’ve also used Yellow successfully a number of times, but I have never successfully been able to save my credit card to it, so I’ve always had to use cash which is why I prefer TaxiMe.

You can also call OK Supertrans at +359 02 973 2121 for a secure, registered ride. They will dispatch you a taxi and send you a text with its registration number as well as an estimate of when it will arrive.

Approved Taxi Stands

The exception for hailing taxis without an app or phone call is at the airport and at the Central Bus Station (important: NOT the Serdika Bus Station nor the Central Train Station, which are about 100 meters and 200 meters away from the Central Bus Station respectively).

You can avoid taxi scams at the airport by going up to the OK Taxi stand and registering your ride. You’ll give the operator your address, he or she will give you a piece of paper which you’ll give to the driver (pro tip: take a quick photo of the paper in case you don’t get it back and you need to make a complaint or you lose something in the car). This ensures your ride from the airport is registered and they won’t do any funny business.

From the Central Bus Station, they don’t have an official dispatch stand like such, but the OK Taxi stand is monitored and the taxis will queue up. No fake taxis should be in the queue, but you can double check that the number is correct – it should say 973 21 21 with zero exceptions. Match it to the number shown on the sign pictured above.

Alternately, you can pre-book an airport transfer , which will be more expensive but guarantee no headache upon arrival and may be a good option if you arrive at Sofia late at night and are nervous about getting in without a hitch.

Sofia Travel Safety at Night

I’ve lived and traveled in countless cities over the years and I consider Sofia city center one of the safest places to walk at night as a solo woman. I never get harassed or catcalled and have never once felt unsafe.

However, I would not walk home alone at night if I didn’t know the neighborhood well and would have to have my smartphone out at all times, or if I were exceedingly drunk. In both those instances, it’s far safer to take a taxi.

Wondering what to do in Sofia at night ? We have a post with a bunch of ideas!

The Sofia Metro

The Sofia metro is a little confusing, but extremely cheap. How many other cities in the world can you get from the airport to downtown in about 30 minutes and under 1 euro? Not many that I can think of, but luckily, Sofia airport connects directly to the metro and getting into the city center couldn’t be easier.

A ticket costs 1 leva 60 stotinki (about 80 euro cents) and can be bought inside the metro at the ticket booth or from the ticket machines, which can give small amounts of change.

The metro is a little confusing as there are two lines and one of them runs in a “loop” – check out the map below.

That means that if you’re heading south from, say, Lavov Most on the blue line, you’d have to switch over to the blue line going in a different direction at Serdika if you wanted to reach the airport -going in a straight line would bring you down to NDK and Vitosha.

Sound confusing? It is, so just download the app Moovit — it’s really helpful for explaining trams, buses, and subways and giving predicted departure time, as Google Maps is still learning its way around Sofia (but is getting better!)

Also – hang onto your ticket, you never know if ticket control will come by!

Sofia Trams & Buses

On the first car of a tram or bus, there will be a driver who is able to sell you a ticket and make change (so long as it’s reasonable – aim for 5 leva or less if you can.

If you get a paper ticket from the driver, you will have to validate it by finding one of the yellow, hole-punchy things on the poles, and punching your ticket. Yes, that’s as technical of a term as I can manage at this point. It’ll make sense when you get on a bus or tram, I hope. Don’t miss this step: don’t forget to validate your ticket on trams or buses!

If your bus or tram has one of those fancy automatic ticket printers, you can use that too. However they only take coins under 50 stotinki, and they don’t give change, so if you have any lev coins, they’re actually worthless. But if you do have lots of small change and can buy a 1.60 ticket out of coins worth less than 50, then they’re helpful. They print with the date and location on it, so you don’t need to validate those.

If ticket control comes by and you don’t have a valid ticket – you’ll have to pay a fine between 30-40 leva, so it’s not worth risking (they come by pretty frequently).

Parking in Sofia

One annoying aspect of Sofia travel is parking. If you don’t have a local SIM that’s either contract-based or pre-loaded with extra money for parking, parking in Sofia sucks.

I’ve only driven and parked in Sofia a few times, and in that handful of times, I’ve gotten my car booted twice and needed to call the Urban Mobility Center to un-boot my car to the lovely tune of 30 leva.

You need to send a text with your license plate number via SMS to the number listed. It’ll be either a Blue Zone number (1302) which costs 2 leva per hour with a max time of two hours or a Green Zone number (1303) which costs 1 leva per hour with a max time of four hours.

However, if you don’t have a local SIM or a SIM that can be billed, you won’t be able to use this service and I’ve never been able to find an actual ticket machine in the city as it’s basically all been phased out and turned to SMS-based parking… so, instead, what I would recommend is parking in one of the private lots if you need to park in Sofia.

They’re usually more expensive, like 2 leva an hour in a green zone, but it is totally hassle-free. There are usually private lots every couple of blocks, so opt for that over street parking if you don’t have a local SIM that has extra lev on it to be used for parking.

Electric Outlets

Bulgaria uses type F outlets (also works with C and E) and the standard voltage is 230 volts. If your country has a standard voltage between 220-240 (like the UK and rest of Europe, as well as Australia, some Asia, and some Africa) you can use your electric appliances without a voltage converter.

Don’t even try to bring your American or Canadian hair dryer to Bulgaria! The voltage is much lower and it won’t work. You’ll fry it without a voltage converter. But since you also need an adaptor, we recommend a dual adaptor/voltage converter (or frankly, just leave it at home and buy a cheap one for Europe travel).

Sofia Travel Resources

We want you to have the best trip to Sofia possible. If these Sofia travel tips weren’t enough, we have plenty of other articles for you!

To help you, we’ve created a number of resources that will be helpful – this 101 things to do in Sofia should be a nice start!

If this will be your first time in Bulgaria, check out our  Bulgaria Trip Planning guide. 

For transportation, check out our guide to  avoiding taxi scams in the city.  If you’ll be flying into Sofia, you can read our tips for flying in and out of the  Sofia Airport.

We also have  Sofia restaurant  and  bar recommendations.  We also have articles for popular day trips from Sofia like  Plovdiv , the  Rila Lakes ,  Buzludzha .

For more resources for your trip, check out our pages on traveling in  Bulgaria  and the  Balkans . 

Planning a Trip to Bulgaria? Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!

We think it’s a good idea to travel to Bulgaria with a valid  travel insurance  policy. Travel here includes outdoor activities and travel to highly touristed sites. It’s a good idea to be covered in case you have an accident or fall victim to theft. Travel insurance will help you recover your expenses and continue to enjoy your trip.

For travel insurance, I use  World Nomads . I’ve been a happy customer of theirs for almost three years, and I’ve never had an issue when making a claim. I’m happy to refer them to anyone I meet.

Get a travel insurance quote for your trip here.

Originally from California, Allison has been living in Bulgaria for the last two years and is obsessed with traveling around the Balkans. She has been published in National Geographic, CNN Arabic, Matador Network, and the Huffington Post. She loves befriending dogs, drinking coffee, geeking out about wine, and cooking food from around the world.

Related posts

Sofia is a dream city for me. I was there a few years back. I wish to visit that amazing city again and again. Thanks for your beautiful blog post. Your photos are also really beautiful.

You’re so welcome!

I am from the Netherlands and thinking of moving to Sofia. I really enjoyed this post as it helps me with understanding the country a bit more. Is it safe as a solo woman to live on my own?

Hi Elisa, that’s great to hear! Sofia is very safe for solo women living on their own. Harassment here is very low, basically non-existant (at least if you’re a straight white cis woman) and we’ve never had any issues since living here. Bulgaria can be a bit difficult to live in – attitudes can be… regressive, rather different than you’re probably used to living in the Netherlands, but overall, we find it a good place to live and have chosen to overlook the negatives in favor of the positives of living here.

Hi Alison / Stephanie

I really enjoyed reading your blog. We are a group of 7 visiting Sofia in March and I was wondering if you could recommend a mid range restaurant for us. Ideally, the restaurant would include some Bulgarian cuisine on the menu and perhaps have some decent beer. Also, a recommendation for a nice lunch venue would be much appreciated.

Thank you so much.

Raketa is a great place for Bulgarian food with a bit of fun and history. Make sure to call and make a reservation, as they can easily get full! For lunch, I suggest 33 Gastronauts, which is my favorite place for a nice lunch out on the town. We have more suggestions in our Sofia restaurant guide: 21 Best Restaurants in Sofia (Picked by Locals!)

Social Signature on Angel Kanchev is new so it hasn’t been added yet, but it’s also a great place for lunch!

This article is so helpful thank you so much! I’m thinking about travelling to Europe next winter (December) – would Sofia be a good destination to travel to at that time?

Hi Nicola! Admittedly, Sofia is better in summer than winter. There can be quite a bit of smog in winter, which is something to be aware of; however, there are still plenty of wonderful things to do in Sofia any time of year. We have a post on winter here: https://sofiaadventures.com/sofia-in-winter/ to give you some ideas for what there is to do in the city. I’d suggest combining a winter trip to Sofia with other places in the mountains like Bansko, Pamporovo, or Borovets to get both city culture and some fresh air, snow, and mountain time!

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

New on Sofia Adventures:

• How to Spend a Magical One Day in Istanbul: Mini Itinerary
• 30 Insanely Delicious Greek Street Foods You Need to Try
• 13 Things That EXIT Music Festival Visitors Should Know

The Bulgaria Travel Tips You Must Know For a Smooth Trip

• June 30, 2021
• Nina Simons

If you are visiting Bulgaria for the first time and you are not sure what to expect, these simple Bulgaria travel tips listed below will help you make the most of your stay there while enjoying its vast cultural heritage and its incredible nature.

The Bulgaria Travel Tips You Must Know For a Smooth Trip!

1. Do you need a visa to stay in Bulgaria?

EU and U. citizens, as well as the Schengen area members, can stay in Bulgaria for up to 90 days without a visa. Members of other states are going to need one of the three visa types .

Tip: You can get in touch with the Bulgarian Embassy in your home country for more information on issuing visas or any special requirements for your country.

2. Bring a Bulgarian Phrasebook

This is by far one of the best Bulgaria travel tips.

The Bulgarian language is the official language in Bulgaria, and it uses the Cyrillic alphabet.  In big cities like the capital Sofia, you will be able to communicate in English, especially with younger people. 

But, most of the middle-aged and older people are more familiar with Russian than English, so learning some of the most common Bulgarian phrases will help you break the ice and manage.

Tip: To avoid language challenges when communicating with the locals, make sure to arm yourself with a Bulgarian phrasebook. Downloading a Phrasebook app or Memrise app will help you get the basics. 

4. More Money Tips

Paying with US dollars or euro isn’t possible in Bulgaria, although some hotels and gas stations accept payments in euros, but at a slightly higher rate. 

The Guidester Difference: Your personal travel guide by Guidester includes what you need to know about withdrawing and using currency wherever you’re going in Europe. In Bulgaria, the best way to get cash is to withdraw money from an ATM or bank chains.

5. Weather Conditions

Bulgaria has a continental climate with four seasons. Summers can get very hot, reaching temperatures as high as 40-42°C/104-107°F while winters are cold with lots of snow. Springtime in Bulgaria is especially lovely with its mild temperatures. 

Tip: Indian summers aren’t uncommon, so fall is a great time to visit this astonishing country.

6. The Time Zone in Bulgaria

Bulgaria uses Eastern European Time (EET) which is 2 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time  (UTC), written as an offset of UTC + 2:00. 

During the spring and summer months, Eastern European Summer Time (EEST) is used. EEST is 3 hours ahead of UTC. 

7. Hiking Spots in Bulgaria

Hiking is a popular activity in Bulgaria and for good reason – Bulgaria’s pristine mountains and breathtaking national parks are perfect spots for an adventure off-the-beaten-path.

You can choose between guided or independent hikes, moderate hiking in the Rhodope Mountains, or more challenging trekking in the Rilla and Vitosha Mountains.  

The cave known as “The Eyes of God” and the impressive but little-known Canyon of Waterfalls near Smolyan with amazing views of the waterfalls and Rhodope Mountains are both worth visiting.

Planning a Trip to Europe?

We can help create your perfect itinerary!

• Worried you'll miss the hidden gems?
• How long should you stay in each place?
• Should you rent a car, train it, or both?

Tip: Before immersing yourself in gorgeous Bulgarian nature make sure to prepare well, especially if you are planning to hike in hot weather.

8. Bulgarian Cuisine

Most famous Bulgarian dishes include moussaka, stuffed peppers (palneni chushki), shopska salad, bob chorba, and yummy mekitsa fried bread .

Vegans and vegetarians are likely to indulge in a variety of savory options like lentils soup, beans stew and stuffed peppers with beans. 

If you are a meat-lover, don’t worry. Bulgarian cuisine offers a plentitude of meat like kufteh , exquisite meatballs.

10. Public Transport

The cheapest way to travel is by train, even if you opt for first class. BUT, running late isn’t unusual, and traveling by train can take longer than in western countries. 

To reach more remote villages, you can take taxi vans available once or a few times a week. You can find more information about how, when, and where you can find these taxi vans in your personal travel guide by Guidester .

Bulgaria Travel Tip: Since many places are not easy to reach via public transportation, renting a car is a good idea. Be prepared for the fact that many roads in Bulgaria are in bad condition.

Bulgaria is one of the most interesting European countries to visit, mainly because of its awe-inspiring nature, but in order to enjoy everything it offers, you need to prepare for the trip and plan it ahead!

The Ultimate Pre-Travel Checklist

Download ‘ 10 Crucial Things To Do Before Traveling Abroad’ to avoid mistakes and ensure a smooth trip; adapters and electronics, packing tips, foreign currency, phone plans, and more!

Each trip is a unique experience. Guidester personalizes your adventure, guiding you to those breathtaking sites, authentic local eateries, and hidden gems!

Recent Articles

7 Best Places To Visit In Normandy: From D-Day Beaches to Coastal Towns

Best Castle Hotels in Europe

Does Europe Have Cicadas? Comparing the 2024 Double Emergence in the USA

12 Places You Must See When Visiting Italy: A First Timers Guide

Montreux: Switzerland’s Picturesque Resort Town on Lake Geneva

Dürnstein on the Danube: Wachau Valley’s Hidden Gem

Travel tips and unforgettable adventures with Travelin Jack

Popular Posts

There are many places you must see when visiting Italy, but your personal interests, timeframe, and budget will dictate how

Sicily is a treasure trove of historical sites, stunning landscapes, and cultural wonders that captivate travelers from around the world.

While it is normally easy to acquire or renew a passport, the State Department says there’s about to be a

Recent Posts

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Update April 12, 2024

Information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Share this page:

Bulgaria Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 26, 2023, bulgaria - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise normal precautions in Bulgaria.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Bulgaria.  

If you decide to travel to Bulgaria:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Bulgaria.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, bulgaria map, search for travel advisories, external link.

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit: