Bulgaria Travel Guide
Top Places to Visit
- Sofia – Capital city with Roman ruins and vibrant nightlife.
- Plovdiv – Europe’s oldest inhabited city with a beautiful old town.
- Rila Monastery – UNESCO-listed spiritual and architectural marvel.
- Veliko Tarnovo – Medieval town with fortress views.
- Sunny Beach – Popular Black Sea coast resort for summer fun.
Language & Culture
Bulgarian is the official language and uses the Cyrillic script. The culture reflects Slavic, Ottoman, and Thracian influences. Hospitality, folk music, and traditional festivals are strong parts of Bulgarian identity.
Transportation, Currency & Food
- Transportation: Buses and trains are common; taxis and domestic flights also available.
- Currency: Bulgarian Lev (BGN).
- Food: Must-try dishes include banitsa, shopska salad, kebapche, and yogurt-based dishes.
Best Season & Entry Points
| Season | Weather | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| May – September | Warm and sunny | Best for hiking, sightseeing, and beaches |
| December – March | Cold and snowy | Ideal for skiing and mountain activities |
Main entry points: Sofia International Airport, Varna Airport, and Plovdiv Airport. Train and bus connections from neighboring countries also available.
Estimated Budget (Per Day/Traveler)
| Category | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $25 – $100 | From hostels to boutique hotels |
| Meals | $10 – $30 | Local taverns and modern restaurants |
| Transport | $5 – $15 | Public transport and taxis |
| Activities | $10 – $50 | Tours, museum tickets, and ski passes |
Packing List Suggestions
- Seasonal clothing (layers for spring/fall, warm gear for winter)
- Travel adapter (Type F plug)
- Comfortable shoes for walking and hiking
- Reusable water bottle, sunscreen, personal medications
Useful Phrases
| Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Zdraveyte | Hello |
| Blagodarya | Thank you |
| Molya | Please |
| Kolko struva? | How much is it? |
| Govori̇te li angliyski? | Do you speak English? |
Health & Safety
- Tap water is generally safe to drink
- Bring any prescription medications
- Be cautious in mountainous areas—check weather forecasts
- Use travel insurance for emergency care
Festivals & Holidays
- Kukeri Festival – Surreal winter costumes and rituals
- Rose Festival in Kazanlak – Held in early June
- Bansko Jazz Festival – August music event
- Orthodox Christmas & Easter – Celebrated with traditions and feasts
Sustainable Tourism
- Support local guesthouses and eco-lodges
- Follow marked hiking trails and respect nature reserves
- Buy local crafts and traditional food products
- Use reusable bags and minimize plastic
