Bulgaria travel guide
Bulgaria Tourism | Bulgaria Guide
You're Going to Love Bulgaria
A mix of top beaches on the Black Sea coast, rich churches, and bustling cities make Bulgaria one of the hottest destinations in Europe.
What to do in Bulgaria
1. Discover Sofia
The buildings of the capital city of Bulgaria mix the old and new style that is a testimony of the country's most recent history.
2. Visit the Oldest City in Europe
Speaking of historical places, a trip to Plovdiv has to be part of every traveler's itinerary in Bulgaria. Inhabited since 6000 B.C., the city is the second largest city in the country and the 2020 European Capital of Culture.
3. Lose Track of Time at Sunny Beach
Whether you enjoy sand, sun, and sea or not, Sunny Beach is the largest resort in the country where the party never ends.
4. Visit the Rila Monastery
A short day trip from Sofia, the Rila Monastery has become one of the top tourist attractions in Bulgaria.
5. Visit Veliko Tarnovo
Home of a medieval atmosphere and narrow cobblestoned streets, the old town of Veliko Tarnovo is one of the must-see destinations in Bulgaria for history enthusiasts.
When to visit Bulgaria
Between June and August is the best time to visit Bulgaria if you enjoy warm weather and spending time at the beach. Top events around this time are the Varna Summer International Festival, the International Jazz Festival, and the Rose Festival.
How to Get to Bulgaria
Entry Requirements
Bulgaria is part of the European Union but not part of the Schengen Agreement, so all passengers must show a valid passport or an EU national identity card upon entering the country.
EU citizens don't need a visa. Nationals from Canada, the USA, Australia, and New Zealand don't need a visa for stays of up to 90 days.
Plane
Most international flights to Bulgaria arrive at Sofia Airport. The country is well-connected to other European cities with regular flights. Passengers flying in from elsewhere in the world will most likely need to account for at least one layover.
Train
Bulgarian State Railways operates all international connections. There are regular trains to Bulgaria from North Macedonia, Serbia, Romania, and Turkey. Connections are more frequent in the summer.
Car
To drive in Bulgaria, your car needs to display a sticker that you can purchase at the border, valid for one week to one month. Cars rented in Bulgaria should already include this sticker.
Bus
There are several international bus routes connecting different cities in Europe to Sofia or Plovdiv. Customs and border control happens aboard the bus, but in some cases, you may be asked to disembark.
Boat
There are regular ferry boat connections across the Danube River from Bechet (Romania) to Oryahovo in Bulgaria.
Popular airlines serving Bulgaria
Where to stay in Bulgaria
Accommodation in Bulgaria ranges from hotels and hostels to family-owned guesthouses, with rates for every budget. The cities of Sofia, Varna, and Plovdiv tend to be the most expensive.
Where to stay in popular areas of Bulgaria
Most booked hotels in Bulgaria
How to Get Around Bulgaria
Public Transportation
Minibuses, trolleybuses, and public buses are the most common modes of public transportation in most cities and towns in Bulgaria.
Getting around by taxi in the cities is also a popular alternative. All taxis should have a working meter – don't accept negotiation for a flat rate.
Trains
Trains are operated by Bulgarian State Railways, and the trips are more scenic than comfortable or practical. They can be express, fast, or slow passenger.
Bus
Bulgaria is served by a good network of buses connecting all towns, cities, and villages in the country. These routes are operated by Biomet, Union-Ivkoni, and Etap-Grup.
Car
If you're getting around Bulgaria in your car, you'll need to carry the registration papers, proof of insurance, a valid driver's license, and the sticker purchased at the border.
To rent a car you need to be 21 years old or older and have a license for at least a year.
Plane
Bulgaria Air operates the only two domestic flights routes in Bulgaria, from Sofia to Varna or Burgas.
The Cost of Living in Bulgaria
ATMs are easy to find. Pay with credit or debit cards in larger businesses and with cash elsewhere. You can exchange your money at the airport. One-week groceries cost around 50 BGN (28 USD). A cheap meal is about 10 BGN (6 USD).