Bulgaria Quick Guide

Bulgaria travel guide is the best place to start for those who want to explore this beautiful country. Bulgaria is also known as the "land of Dobrin", a name that comes from the river where it is situated. The country is divided in three parts: South Bulgaria, Eastern Bulgaria, and Central Bulgaria. It is an important participant in the transit route of the Black Sea port of Pirin, offering safe and favorable sea conditions for trans-bound passengers. The country offers beautiful sceneries and landscapes that will surely captivate you, thus giving you the reason to go there for a holiday.

Bulgaria Travel Guide will help you in deciding when to go there. Bulgaria is a republic in Southeast Europe, bordered by Greece, Italy, the former Yugoslavia, Turkey, and Austria. It is located in the south-eastern corner of the continent, between the Adriatic and the Mediterranean seas. Bulgaria is an eclectic land, with different terrains ranging from mountains to rolling hills and the mighty Blue Mountains. A blend of ancient and modern culture, Bulgaria is home to some of the most enchanting beaches on the Adriatic seaboard.

The best time to visit Bulgaria is during summer, from May to October. The best time to go there is also from September to March. But if you want to see the blue mountains in all their glory, then the peak season is from November to February. Do not be surprised if you find snow in the mountains! The Black Sea coast is a popular tourist spot, as it is along the way to the picturesque city of Sofia.

Traveling in Bulgaria requires planning and flexibility. You can make your hotel arrangements before you depart or get around town using public transportation. The national bus system is very efficient, although buses do occasionally break down. The motorway network is reliable, but will require you to take a train from Sofia airport to any of the Bulgarian cities of interest. The rail system is clean, comfortable, and fast.

A Bulgaria Travel Guide will help you understand why local designers prefer working in Sofia rather than other local cities. Bulgaria is a diverse country, home to different cultures, ethnic groups, and languages. So if you visit Bulgaria, you will experience the diversity of the people, not just the cuisine. The country is truly a mosaic.

A Bulgaria Travel Guide will tell you about some of the cultural landmarks of the land, the historical monuments, and the places of interest that are offbeat and unique. Visit Razlog and Tonuslav, the former residences of Bulgaria's first President, Alexander Orthodoxov, and his wooden estate, the Garden of St. Nicholas. Stop by at the Prianka Restaurant in Sofia for some authentic Bulgarian fare.

While you're here check out the banks of the Danube River and try one of the delicious authentic Bosnian dishes. Don't forget to try some salsas or other beverages made with chili peppers, garlic, vinegar, and other exotic ingredients. Or try some pirozhki (open-faced sandwiches made with bread slices) or koplov (open-faced pizza) made with freshly made crust. In addition to all the great cuisine you can relax by the riverbank and gaze at the world-famous Bellevue nightclubs.

An important part of any Bulgarian holiday is visiting the serene Black Sea Coast. You can spend days touring the various historical sites and monuments along the coast. Be sure to visit the numerous beaches along the coast during your time there. If you love to shop check out the shopping malls, boutiques, restaurants, etc., along the sandy beaches. Be sure to buy some souvenirs to take back home with you from your Bulgaria Travel Guide.

What vaccinations do I need?

Up to date information for vaccinations before you travel to Bulgaria are available from the NHS Fit for Travel website.

Is it safe to travel?

Best time to visit?

The best time to visit this beautiful country is during the summer months, between June and September, unless you're visiting for the ski resorts that open in the winter months, in which case December to March is the ideal time frame.

Do I need a Visa?

If you hold a British Citizen passport, you don't need a visa to enter Bulgaria.

See which forms you may need for entry into Bulgaria.

What currency do i need?

The official currency of Bulgaria is the Bulgarian Lev (BGN). If you're looking to transfer or spend money in Bulgaria you can grab amazing Bulgarian Lev deals via Wise.com (GBP to BGN).

What about the wildlife?

Bulgaria will enchant you with its range of wildlife. Deer, semi-wild horses and hundreds of bird species, it is better than any zoo.

What is the traditional food?

Bulgarian food? Banitsa (баница): This piece of greasy pastry deliciousness can be purchased in bakeries all over the country. Its standard variety includes a filling of feta-like white cheese (сирене, sirene), though varieties filled with onions, cabbage, spinach, mushrooms or pumpkin can also be found. For your sweet tooth, you can also try banitsa with apples and walnuts. Banitsa in any of its forms is an inseparable part of a traditional Bulgarian breakfast. Combine it with the thick fermented wheat drink boza for a quintessential Bulgarian experience.

What Languages are spoken?

The official language of Bulgaria is Bulgarian, which is spoken natively by 85% of the country's population. Other major languages are Turkish (9.1%), and Romani (4.2%) (the two main varieties being Balkan Romani and Vlax Romani). You can learn some basic Bulgarian before you travel to Bulgaria and really impress the locals!

How much do you tip?

The currency in Bulgaria is the Bulgarian Lev (The restaurants, the usual deal is to tip the waiter about 10% of the total bill. Tipping staffs in service sectors in Bulgaria is customary. The staffs in Bulgaria usually get paid a minimum wage because they make up the rest of their salary in tips. 10% is an average tip in a restaurant.).

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Useful Numbers

  • Police: 112
  • Ambulance: 112
  • Fire: 112
  • UK Embassy: +359 2 933 9222

Time Difference

The GMT time difference is 2 hours

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Learn Bulgarian

Learn some Bulgarian before your trip to Bulgaria


Bulgaria Guidebook

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