Bulgaria Travel Guide

Majestic mountains compete for your attention alongside stunning golden beaches, historic towns and a beguiling assortment of working villages locked in age-old traditions; Bulgaria is a country rich in history, nature and unforgettable experiences. 

Bulgaria is not somewhere you typically imagine as a must-visit and the result is that it is often overlooked in favour of its European neighbours. However, being an overlooking country only goes in your favour. To visit Bulgaria is to open yourself up to several soul-stirring mountain ranges, the authentic warmth of Bulgarian hospitality and off-the-beaten-track experiences. Bulgaria is vibrant, intriguing, culturally-rich and forward-thinking all at once. 

As for the country’s full history, it is rich and vibrant, which has left behind numerous fortresses, ruins and traces of Neolithic settlements. From the breathtaking scale of the cities built by Romans to the Thracian tombs and the astonishing religious architecture still standing today, Bulgaria’s history emanates from unlikely spots between modern cities and untamed landscapes. Paving the way for modernisation, many of Bulgaria’s key cities have painted over the communist-era image with an array of cultural attractions, lively nightlife and dining experiences. 

Seven mountain ranges form the backbone of the country with glacial lakes, folkloric villages and forests hiding wolves and bears. Mountain bikers, skiers and keen hikers will rejoice at the adventures offered up in Bulgaria. Those in search of coastal magic will flock to Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast where long sandy beaches, fine weather and miles of turquoise water are backed by charming seaside resorts and villages. 

Venturing off the beaten path is a must in Bulgaria. As the road signs disappear and the trails become more remote, those in nature will find that whilst they may not speak the same language, locals will only be more than willing to help. Bulgarian hospitality and rich folklore traditions have been proudly preserved in many towns and villages throughout the country, and the graciousness of locals becomes evident as soon as you arrive. 

Read on to see why you should visit Bulgaria and the gems that it has waiting for you from UNESCO sites to spectacular beaches and everything in between. This Bulgaria travel guide tells you everything you need to know and more;

The best time to take a Bulgaria tour depends on what you plan to do there. 

Bulgaria boasts a continental climate with dry, hot summers and bitter winters. In the big cities, July and August’s sweltering heat can make it almost unbearable, and the popular coastal regions become overwhelmed with European visitors. 

If you’re looking to make the most of the heat and the long summer then travelling to Bulgaria between June and August will be the best time. You should expect temperatures of up to 35°C daily and water warm enough to swim in. The mountain regions are cooler at this time. 

In winter, temperatures can drop to -5°C and snowfall is common. Great for those looking to hit the slopes but less so for those looking to explore the cities and remote villages. Many of the smaller towns shut down during this time. 

Ultimately, for a good mix and pleasant weather, the best time to visit Bulgaria is the shoulder seasons - April to June and September to October. Prices will be lower than the peak months of July and August, and the temperatures will be pleasant.

Whether it’s the Black Sea coast, its charming traditions or the mountains that draw you in, it’s impossible not to be enchanted by Bulgaria. Read on for the best places to go in Bulgaria;

Sofia’s Old Town & St Alexander Nevski Cathedral

The dynamic capital city, Sofia, makes for the perfect starting point or base for your Bulgaria tour. Here, you’ll get an introduction to Bulgarian history, culture and traditions. You’ll be able to spend your time touring the eclectic mix of architecture from Roman treasure to Ottoman mosques and of course, the pride of Bulgaria, the St Alexander Nevski Cathedral. 

The second-largest cathedral in the Balkan region, this awe-inspiring church is a symbol of the country. The St Alexander Nevski Cathedral was built in honour of the 200,000 Russian soldiers who died fighting for Bulgaria’s independence in the late 1800s. 

Three days is ample time to explore the city like on this 3-day Sofia tour. Due to Bulgaria’s compact size, you can take day trips from Sofia to other parts of the country.

The Historic Plovdiv

Plovdiv is Europe’s oldest continuously-inhabited city. This heartthrob of a city, which happens to be Bulgaria’s second-largest is home to a charming old town packed to the rafters with 19th-century colourful mansions which have been restored to home museums, galleries and guesthouses. 

In 2019, Plovdiv was voted the European Capital of Culture. With this recognition, it has grown in popularity, drawing even more culture, art and architecture lovers to its atmospheric streets. 

Those short on time can split their 4-day holiday in Bulgaria between Sofia and Plovdiv. Day trips from Plovdiv are plentiful, allowing you to explore other parts of Bulgaria such as the Bachkovo Monastery whilst staying in this romantic waystation-come-cultural destination. 

Rila Monastery

Rising from a carpet of forest that spreads through a valley in the mountain range by the same name, Rila Monastery is Bulgaria’s largest and most famous monastery. It has been a spiritual centre for over a millennium.

Covering a staggering 8,800 square metres, inside its thick stone walls, you’ll find astonishing religious art, elegant columns and colourful architecture. What makes this monastery that little more majestic is its backdrop against the mist-shrouded mountains. 

In less than two hours, you can travel from Sofia to Rila Monastery. It is also worthwhile tying in your Rila Monastery tour with a visit to the Seven Rila Lakes!

Skiing in the Pirin Mountains: Bankso & More

With more than 100 peaks rising over 2,000 metres, the Pirin Mountains are a playground for superb outdoor adventures. In the summer, the mountains draw in avid hikers, whilst the winter brings the skiing and snowboarding junkies. 

Set at the base of Mount Vihren at 2,915 metres, you’ll find the Balkan’s best skiing and mountain resort, Bankso. Accessible on day trips from Sofia, Bankso ski holidays are favoured for the 75 kilometres of ski runs and for having some of the longest in the region. 

You can explore the key Bulgarian destinations and have a day or two skiing on a trip like this 9-day self-drive Bulgaria tour. 

Visit Veliko Tarnovo

Through its vibrant history as the capital of the Bulgarian empire, medieval charm emanates from Veliko Tarnovo’s amalgamation of fortified walls, cobblestone lanes, impressive castles and well-preserved historical houses.

Wrapped in the bends of the Yantra River and set against a backdrop of forested hills, Veliko Tarnovo is home to the magnificent Tsarevets Fortress, the citadel of the Second Bulgarian Empire, which is worth a visit.

As well as exploring the charming streets, you’ll visit the evocative handicraft market, Samovodska Charishiya, almost unchanged for two centuries, on this 6-day Bulgaria tour.

Discover the Seven Rila Lakes

The highest mountain range in the Balkans, the Rila Mountains are home to some of the most stunning scenery in Bulgaria. Outdoor enthusiasts will have their sights set on a Seven Rila Lakes hiking tour which weaves its way around each glacial lake that are over 2,500 above sea level. 

Each of the seven lakes is named by their most characteristic feature such as ‘The Teardrop’ (Salzata, locally) due to its incredible water clarity. You can explore the Seven Rila Lakes on this 8-day Bulgaria private tour with a local. 

Varna & The Black Sea Coast

As well as the mountains and culture, Bulgaria is most well-known for its beaches on the Black Sea Coast. A third of this beautiful 250-mile coastline is home to pristine, sandy beaches. Sunny Beach is the most popular for all-inclusive holidays to Bulgaria; you’ll find the quieter beaches like Pomorie Beach or Sinemorets Veleka Beach have all the beauty without the crowds. 

Varna, the maritime capital, is one of Bulgaria’s most popular coastal cities and the main gateway for those heading to the beaches on the Black Sea Coast. This cosmopolitan summer retreat has been a favourite of locals all over the Balkans for over a century. Its port city charm is complemented by its historic landmarks including the Roman baths and the archaeological museum, as well as its buzzing culture and restaurant scene. 

Varna holidays are easy to tie in with a number of other destinations, just like on this 14-day tour with a Bulgaria guide.

Explore Nessebar

Divided into an Old and New Town, the UNESCO-listed ancient part of Nessebar sits on a rocky outcrop which juts out into the Black Sea. Fronted by a pretty beach, Nessebar is a town of rich history. 

Nessebar’s narrow cobblestone streets guide you past a series of quaint, two-storey houses, complete with winding staircases, tiny shops and romantic restaurants. The town itself has a rustic charm that makes it feel more like a countryside village than the popular summer retreat it’s become. 

You can explore Nessebar’s mixture of Roman, Byzantine and medieval buildings on this 9-day best of Bulgaria private tour. 

Step Back in Time in Stara Zagora

One of the oldest cities in the world, Stara Zagora has a colourful history spanning 8,000 years. Stara Zagora acted as important crossroads for the Thracians, Ottomans and Romans for many years, as well as a prehistoric settlement prior to that. 

According to archaeological evidence from ancient burial mounds, the city was first settled in Neolithic times, favoured for its rich and fertile soil and temperate climate. Today, Stara Zagora wears its well-preserved history with pride. Its dining and nightlife scene is strong, and it is a great place to spend part of your Bulgaria trip. 

Immerse Yourself in the Etara Ethnographic Open-Air Museum

A short distance from Veliko Tarnovo, you’ll find the town of Gabrovo and within it, the Etara Ethnographic Museum which has the sole purpose of transporting you back to the Bulgarian National Revival era. 

Spread over seven hectares of land, the ethno-village replicates 19th-century life with cobblestone streets, over 50 shops and workshops featuring the trades of the time, and hundreds of costumed performers. The whole scene makes you feel as though you have taken a step back in time.

Bulgaria is a country bordered by five others, so travelling overland by bus, train and car is common. Once in Bulgaria, there are a number of ways to get around which will suit any budget or travel style;

Car

A self-drive Bulgaria itinerary is a great way to see the country. Travelling at your own pace, with highway signs in both English and Bulgarian, driving around this country is easy. To top it off, car rental in Bulgaria is one of the cheapest on the continent; a compact car costs around US$130 for two weeks. 

Tip: If you are bringing your own car to Bulgaria, you’ll need to buy a vignette to display on your windscreen. These are sold at petrol stations and post offices. All rental cars should have one of these already. 

Public Transport - Buses, Trains & More

Public transport is an inexpensive way to get around on your Bulgaria holiday. However, it can be very slow and not always the most comfortable. When travelling between major towns and cities, the autobus will be your quickest, most affordable way. The tickets are bought at the bus station prior to travel or in more remote areas, from the bus driver. 

If capital city breaks are your thing and you have a Sofia trip in mind, then the subway will become your best friend on your trip. Two lines connect important parts of the city, the city centre and the airport for as little as US$0.90. In some of Bulgaria’s cities, you’ll find that trams and trolleybuses are your go-to transport. 

Interestingly, train travel in Bulgaria is often cheaper than private or minibus travel, however, it is a lot slower. The journey between Sofia and Veliko Tarnovo takes five hours by train and only three hours by bus. 

Flying

Due to its compact size, Bulgaria only has two domestic flight routes. Both are operated by Bulgaria air; one is between Sofia and Burgas, and the other is between Sofia and Varna. Neither of the routes usually cost more than US$40.

Whatever you’re looking for, Bulgaria has a wide range of accommodation to choose from. Hostels and hotels are centred around the cities, whilst in the more remote areas, you’ll find small family-run accommodation is more common. 

Here’s a breakdown of the different regions to stay in Bulgaria and what you’ll find there;

Sofia

As the capital city, Sofia is often the top of the list of places to visit in Bulgaria and will likely be your first stop. Filled with atmospheric churches, streets buzzing with outside cafes, boutique shops and beautiful sights; Sofia offers you a multitude of treasures to explore. Unlike the rest of Europe, high-class international hotels are very affordable in Sofia and more and more unique independent hotels pop-up all the time. For those on a budget, the city’s array of arty hostels will suit. 

Basing yourself in Sofia is a great option. Day trips from Sofia to places like Plovdiv are a great option if you are choosing to base yourself in one place. 

The Black Sea Coast

Known for its clean sandy beaches, vibrant nightlife and historic towns, Bulgaria’s Black Sea Coast is a popular choice for trips. From the main cities of Varna and Burgas to the cultural hotspots of Balchick and Sozopol, Bulgaria’s Black Sea Coast offers something for everyone. When it comes to accommodation, that is also true. Here, you’ll find every type of accommodation you can imagine; think campsites and beach huts to skyscraper lodges, and you have only scratched the surface. 

The Countryside

Take advantage of Bulgaria’s rich folkloric customs and slower pace of life by staying in the countryside. For a glimpse of the old Bulgaria, 19th-century wooden houses and charming narrow alleys characterise your stay in places like Leshten. 

Alternatively, for a mix of city life as well as the old Bulgaria, using Veliko Tarnovo as your base for your trip is a great option. With affordable central hotels and hostels, the striking Tsarevets Fortress and graceful Old Town make the perfect backdrop for your Bulgaria tour. 

Mountains & Ski Resorts

If you’re coming to Bulgaria for the powder or the hiking trails in the summer, then the inland mountainous regions offer you remote scenic beauty and ski resorts aplenty. Bankso takes the biscuit for the most famous ski resort as it is home to the longest ski network in the country. 

If you’re looking to hike or enjoy the local cuisine, then the towns within the Rhodope Mountains offer a haven of wooden cabins, spa resorts and international hotel chains to choose from.

Bulgarian fare is like a perfect mix between key Balkan cuisines, Greek and Turkish food. Barbecued meats, an influx of dairy products and fresh ingredients find their way onto the plates of most Bulgarian dishes. 

These meals are usually eaten in restaurants or mehanas (taverns), the latter being a little more folksy in its atmosphere and decor with a wider choice of local dishes. Whilst vegetarian dishes are abundant on Bulgarian menus, the country’s fascination with cheese means that those that choose a plant-based or dairy-free lifestyle may struggle. 

Read for the dishes and drinks that you must try in Bulgaria;

Gyuvech

Literally translating to ‘earthenware dish’, gyuvech is Bulgaria’s best-known dish comprising peppers, aubergines and beans cooked in a rich stew with added meat and stock. A variation of this dish is kavarma which is prepared in a similar way but with a dose of added spice. 

Shopska Salad

A simple but delicious combination of chunky, diced tomatoes, cucumber, pepper and onion, finished with grated sirene cheese and parsley, there will always be a shopska salad on the table. 

Kepapche

The king of the grill, often known simply as kebab, kepapche is the perfect side dish or snack with a cold beer on a Bulgarian summer’s day. The dish itself consists of a long piece of grilled mincemeat with added spices like black pepper and cumin.

The classic kepapche dish is three kinds of grilled meat (kepapche), with an assortment of sides, one being crispy french fries with grated sirene cheese melted on top. Yum.

Banitsa

Simply put: pastry heaven. Found in bakeries all over the country, Banitsa is a slab of layered sweet pastry similar to filo, often filled with sweet white cheese or apples and walnuts. For the savoury version, you can opt for onions, spinach, mushrooms or pumpkin to be your filling. 

Banitsa is a staple part of the traditional Bulgarian breakfast. 

Musaka

Enjoying many different variations across the Balkan region, Bulgaria’s version of this classic dish consists of potatoes, eggs and minced pork meat. The well-known greek version layers aubergine to make this dish, whilst the Bulgarian version is strictly potatoes. The whole dish is then covered in thick Bulgarian yoghurt and baked. 

Lyutenitsa

How do you like your toast in the morning? 

A Bulgarian local will always reply, with lyutenitsa spread on top. Lyutenitsa is a thick relish-like sauce of tomatoes and roasted peppers with added onions, garlic and cumin. Whilst you can buy this relish in commercially-produced jars now, Bulgarian families will often boast that their homemade lyutenitsa is the best. 

Tarator

Last but not least, the perfect accompaniment to any dish. 

Tarator is the ultimate summer refresher. This cold yoghurt soup is made with cucumbers, garlic, dill and sometimes walnuts. It is light, refreshing and famous in Bulgaria for its health benefits.

A country rich in culture and tradition will always have festivals to match; Bulgaria is no exception. Unique traditions have been passed on from generation to generation and Bulgaria celebrates these in a variety of ways;

Rose Festival, Kazanlak

Bulgaria is one of the biggest producers of rose oil in the world. Bulgaria’s rose oil is a major player in the perfume industry as it is also used as a greasing component in space equipment due to its resistance to temperature changes. Every year since 1903 in the first week of June, the town of Kazanlak in Bulgaria’s Rose Valley has celebrated this industry with folk dancing, rose-scented products, live music and a procession led by the elected ‘Queen of Roses’.

It has become one of the top attractions in Bulgaria with thousands of international travellers visiting each year to take part in the Rose Festival. 

Kapana Fest, Plovdiv

This five-day festival of culture sees street parties, musical performances and arty antics carrying on late into the night in Plovdiv’s artistic neighbourhoods. From folk costume shows to conceptual art and an array of vibrant exhibitions in between, this is a festival that art lovers won’t want to miss. 

Surva, Pernik

One of the biggest festivals in the Balkans and Bulgaria, Surva or ‘the International Festival of Masquerade Games’ is one of the world’s greatest traditional folk festivals. Held annually on the last weekend in January, the festival usually involves over 6,000 people from over 100 masquerade groups gathering to participate in this vibrant festival where costumes are an absolute must.

Currency: Bulgaria uses Bulgarian Lev (BGN). At the time of writing, November 2020, 1 BGN was equivalent to $0.61 USD.

Religion: The dominant religion in Bulgaria is Orthodox Christianity; over 60% of Bulgarians belong to the Bulgarian Orthodox Church. 

Language: The official language is Bulgarian; however, in large cities and towns frequented by international visitors such as Varna, Sofia and Plovdiv, most locals will speak some English. When you venture into rural Bulgaria, that is an entirely different story, so knowing a few basic phrases is invaluable.

Visa: Those from the UK and Schengen countries are able to visit Bulgaria visa-free for up to 90 days. Those from other countries should check with Bulgarian immigration before travelling. 

Safety: Overall, Bulgaria is a pretty safe country. The biggest risks are taxi scams and petty crimes like pick-pocketing. Always insist on a meter in taxis and keep your belongings close in crowded areas. 

Planning your Bulgaria travel itinerary couldn’t be easier with Designer Journeys. Our trusted Local Designers in Bulgaria and beyond are professional trip plans and the best at combining local experiences with bucket-list-ticking destinations and adding a touch of finesse to trips that only locals could put together. 

Whatever you’re looking for in your Bulgaria trip, our Local Designers can tailor a trip to suit you. Whether you decide to customise one of our Bulgaria tours or design your own Bulgaria trip from scratch, our Local Designers will work with you to ensure it suits your budget, travel style and interests!