Are you planning a trip to Bulgaria? Then we have some good news for you. We have compiled for you what you need to know before you go on holiday in Bulgaria. Where to visit in Bulgaria? Where to eat? What are the must-see places? What are the things to consider when you are on holiday in Bulgaria? Here is some useful and important information to make the most of your Bulgaria holiday!
Bulgarian Weather and Best Time to Visit
Summer (June to August): Hot and dry, ideal for the Black Sea coast (Varna, Burgas, Sunny Beach). Temperatures range from 25-35°C (77-95°F).
Winter (December to February): Snowy and cold, perfect for skiing in Bansko, Borovets and Pamporovo. Temperatures drop to -10°C (14°F) in the mountains.
Spring and Autumn: Warm and pleasant, great for exploring Sofia, Plovdiv, Veliko Tarnovo and the countryside.
Currency and Payments
Currency: Bulgarian Lev (BGN).
Exchange Rate: 1 EUR ≈ 1.96 BGN.
ATMs are common and cards are widely accepted, but cash is used in smaller towns or markets.
Language and Communication
Language: Bulgarian.
Learning a few phrases (e.g. “Blagodarya” = Thank you) is a great help.
English is spoken in tourist areas, but not as common in rural areas.
Transportation
Public Transport: Buses and trains are the main means of public transport.
Taxis: Affordable, but negotiate a fare or make sure the meter is working.
Car Rental: Useful for remote areas. Driving is on the right side of the road.
Must-see Places
Sofia: Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Vitosha Mountain.
Plovdiv: Roman theatre, old town architecture.
Bansko and Borovets: Ski resorts.
Black Sea Coast: Sunny Beach, Nessebar (UNESCO heritage site).
Rila Monastery: Magnificent Byzantine architecture in the Rila Mountains.
Must-Try Dishes!
Banitsa: Pastry filled with cheese, eggs or spinach. Shopska Salad: Fresh salad with tomatoes, cucumbers and feta-like cheese.
Kebapche: Grilled minced meat rolls similar to kebabs.
Tarator: Cold cucumber soup with yogurt and garlic (perfect for hot days).
Cultural Tips
A slight nod or smile goes a long way in interactions.
Nodding and shaking are the opposite: nodding means “yes” and shaking means “no”!
A 10% tip is appreciated in restaurants.
Safety
Bulgaria is generally safe for tourists, but pickpocketing can occur in crowded places.
Tap water is drinkable in most areas, but bottled water is also available.
Wear sunscreen, especially if you are visiting during the summer months along the coast.
Enjoy your trip to Bulgaria! If you have specific places or experiences in mind, I can make special recommendations.