Destinations

Bulgaria – Where Mountains, History, and the Sea Unite

General Information 

- Capital: Sofia 

- Area: 110,994 km² 

- Population: Approx. 6.4 million 

- Currency: Bulgarian Lev (BGN)   

- Languages: Bulgarian (English is widely spoken in tourist areas) 

 Visa Requirements 

Most visitors to Bulgaria must: 

- Hold a passport valid for at least three months beyond their stay. 

- Have an onward or return ticket. 

- Show proof of sufficient funds for their stay. 

- Citizens of the EU, Schengen Area, USA, Canada, UK, and many other countries do not require a visa for short stays of up to 90 days. 

About Bulgaria

Bulgaria is a land of rich history, breathtaking natural landscapes, and delicious traditional cuisine. From the golden beaches of the Black Sea to the snow-covered peaks of the Pirin and Rila mountains, Bulgaria has something special for every traveler. 

 Climate 

Bulgaria has a temperate continental climate with four distinct seasons: 

- Summer (June – September): Warm and sunny, ideal for beach holidays. 

- Winter (December – February): Cold and snowy, perfect for skiing. 

- Spring & Autumn: The best time for cultural and nature tourism. 

Main Attractions 

-Sofia – The capital city with ancient history, St. Sofia Church, and Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. 

- Plovdiv – The 2019 European Capital of Culture, featuring a charming Old Town and Roman Theater. 

- Veliko Tarnovo – The medieval capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire with the Tsarevets Fortress. 

- Rila Monastery – The largest and most famous Orthodox monastery in Bulgaria (UNESCO). 

- Bansko – A top winter destination with modern ski resorts. 

- Seven Rila Lakes – One of Bulgaria’s most scenic hiking trails. 

- Black Sea Resorts – Sunny Beach, Golden Sands, Nessebar (UNESCO), and Sozopol. 

- Belogradchik Rocks – Unique rock formations with breathtaking views. 

- Kazanlak – The Rose Valley and the Thracian Tomb (UNESCO). 

- Perperikon – An ancient rock city with a mystical history. 

Transportation 

Bulgaria offers various transport options: 

- Trains – Scenic routes but slower than buses. 

- Buses – The most affordable and convenient way to travel between cities. 

- Taxis – Cheap, but it's best to use official taxi companies. 

- Car Rentals – A great option for exploring rural areas. 

- Domestic Flights – Limited but available between Sofia, Varna, and Burgas. 

Must-Try Food & Drinks 

 Traditional Dishes: 

- Shopska Salad – A refreshing salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, cheese, and peppers. 

- Kavarma – A slow-cooked stew with meat and vegetables. 

- Banitsa – A traditional pastry with cheese. 

- Moussaka – A baked dish with potatoes, minced meat, and eggs. 

- Yogurt – World –  famous for its probiotic properties. 

- Grilled Meat – Kebapche, kyufte, and shashlik served with lyutenitsa. 

Desserts: 

- Baklava  – A sweet pastry soaked in syrup. 

- Kazanlak Donuts – Small doughnuts sprinkled with powdered sugar. 

- Medanki – Honey-flavored cookies. 

 Drinks: 

- Rakia – A strong fruit brandy. 

- Bulgarian Wine – Excellent quality, especially Mavrud and Melnik. 

- Ayran – A refreshing yogurt-based drink. 

- Boza – A sweet, fermented malt drink. 

Travel Tips for Bulgaria 

1. Currency & Payments:  Bulgaria uses the Bulgarian Lev (BGN); credit cards are widely accepted. 

2. Best Time to Visit:  Summer for beaches, winter for skiing, spring and autumn for nature and culture. 

3. Transportation:  Use buses for intercity travel and metro/taxis in Sofia. 

4. Safety: Bulgaria is safe, but beware of pickpockets in tourist areas. 

5. What to Avoid: Tap water is generally safe, but bottled water is recommended in rural areas. 

6. Cultural Experiences: Visit Kukeri Festivals, Rozhen Folklore Festival, and the Rose Festival. 

7. Language Barrier:  English is widely spoken in tourist areas but less common in smaller towns. 

8. Shopping: Handcrafted souvenirs, rose oil, and local wines make great gifts. 

9. Religious Sites Dress Code: Cover shoulders and knees when visiting churches and monasteries. 

10. Tipping:  In restaurants, tipping 5-10% is customary if not included in the bill. 

 Summary 

Bulgaria is a country of rich cultural heritage, stunning nature, and warm hospitality. Whether you enjoy mountain adventures, beach relaxation, or exploring historical landmarks, Bulgaria offers a unique and unforgettable experience!