Golden beaches, warm seas and a pleasantly sunny climate. It’s easy to see why Bulgaria is an ideal holiday destination. But there is much more to discover, and not just in summer. We suggest what to see and how to plan your trip to Bulgaria.
What to see in Bulgaria?
Known as the gateway to the East, Bulgaria surprises with its diversity. Although its best-known tourist attraction is its Black Sea beaches, including the Golden Sands and Sunny Beach resorts, you will also find delightfully unspoilt nature in the Balkan Mountains, which cover around 30 per cent of the country's territory.
The traditional side of Bulgaria can be experienced by visiting charming villages in the valleys, like Bozhentsi, Shipkovo and Arbanasi, along with family-run wineries and vineyards. The whole country is dotted with traces of ancient civilisations and monuments, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Rila Monastery, the Boyana Church, the Ivanovo rock churches and the Nessebar Archaeological and Natural Reserve.
What to experience in the heart of the Balkans?
Whether or not you’re a fan of sunbathing, Bulgaria is the place for you! From spring to autumn you can hike or horse ride along mountain paths and beaches, or go diving, surfing or sailing.
Do you crave adrenaline? There are climbing routes near the towns of Vraca and Malyovitsa, while the Struma, Iskar and Mesta rivers are ideal for rafting. For something a little more relaxing, head to spas rich in natural mineral springs, curative mud and thermal waters, such as Borovets, Panichishte or Sapareva Banya. And if culinary tourism is your thing, be sure to order shoofly salad, banica and kebabche in the local restaurants.
How to get around Bulgaria?
Bulgaria has four international airports - Sofia, Varna, Plovdiv and Burgas. Transfers are available both by public transport and by more expensive coaches. The best way to get the most out of your visit is to hire a car.
For a cheaper option (or if you don't want to test your skills on Balkan roads), you can travel by train or bus. There are narrow-gauge railways in some areas, especially smaller towns, while larger cities such as Sofia, Plovdiv and Varna have metro systems. On the coast, ferries and chartered motorboats or yachts are popular means of transport.
What is the currency in Bulgaria and how do I pay?
The unit of currency in the Republic of Bulgaria is the Bulgarian Lev (лев), which is equal to 100 stotinki. The currency is rigidly pegged to the euro and a conversion rate of 1.95583 BGN = 1 euro is used to determine the current exchange rate.
A safe option in smaller towns, but also on buses or in markets, is to use cash. You can exchange your currency for Leva at Bulgarian banks and exchange offices, although those at airports and hotels tend to offer worse rates. In restaurants and larger towns you can easily pay by card and find ATMs.
What is the weather like in Bulgaria?
Bulgaria has two climatic regions: continental in the north and Mediterranean in the south along the Black Sea coast. The warmest months throughout the country are July and August, when air temperatures reach 27-29°C. The coldest months are December and January, when the thermometer usually reads 0 or -1°C.
The ideal times to visit the Balkans are spring and autumn – especially from April to June and from September to the end of October. Then, you can count on mid-ranging temperatures that are comfortable for sightseeing. It’s also worth noting that, other than high summer, the lowest rainfallis guaranteed in September and early October.
What are the prices in Bulgaria?
Bulgaria is famously affordable, with most goods and services being very reasonably priced compared to the UK. For example, a pint of beer will set you back less than £2, while a coffee would cost around £1.70. If you are planning a road trip around the different regions of Bulgaria, you will be pleased to know that fuel is usually cheaper here than in the UK.
Remember that the most expensive areas by far are the touristy Black Sea resorts. On the other hand, you will find very reasonable prices in the lesser-known and quieter mountain villages, small shops and vineyards.
What documents do I need to bring with me to Bulgaria?
The Republic of Bulgaria has been a member of the European Union since 1 January 2007. Therefore, travellers from other EU member states and the Schengen area, which excludes the UK, can enter Bulgaria without a visa on the basis of an identity card. A valid passport or temporary passport is also a valid document for crossing the border.
Tourists from other countries, including the UK, must present their passports at border control and obtain a visa, which can be issued by diplomatic and consular missions. United Kingdom citizens may stay in Bulgaria for 90 days within a period of six months - counted from the date of first entry.
