Bulgaria
Destination Guide
Bulgaria's beguiling blend of nature and history guarantees unforgettable trips
With golden coastlines and soul-stirring mountains, Bulgaria hums with passion and allure.
In addition to the natural beauty of the 230-mile-long Black Sea Coast, the magnificent mountain ranges are filled with abundant flora and fauna. The Balkan Mountains run through the centre of the country.
Immerse yourself in the rich traditions of Bulgaria, where folk dances, music, national costumes, and traditional rituals are still part of everyday life. Situated on the eastern Balkan peninsula, Bulgaria shares borders with five countries – Greece and Turkey to the south, Macedonia and Serbia to the west, and Romania to the north.
Bulgaria is known for its great value for money. Eating out and holiday spending are typically cheaper than in other European holiday destinations.
Currency
Bulgarian lev
Capital
Sofia
Electricity
Two-pin electrical adaptor
Driving
On the right
Bulgaria's climate ranges from sunny summers to lofty snowy heights in the winter.
Bulgaria experiences a typical European climate, with continental influences in the interior and a Mediterranean climate along the coast. Summers are typically hot and dry, with temperatures exceeding 30C (86°F) in July and August. Winters can be cold, especially in mountainous regions, with temperatures dropping below freezing and ample snowfall for skiing.
Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures and are ideal for outdoor activities. Rainfall is generally low, particularly in the summer months, making Bulgaria a popular destination for summer vacations and outdoor adventures.
Bulgarian cuisine is a collective of traditional meals intertwined with Slavonic, Greek and Turkish flavours.
One key factor to Bulgaria’s fresh and flavourful taste is the organic, fresh, local produce. Yoghurt is added to many Bulgarian dishes and tastes better here than in the country where it originated.
Traditional dishes include kavarma (individual casseroles of pork or veal, onions, and mushrooms) and shopska salad (diced tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and parsley topped with grated white cheese). Drink a cold Bulgarian beer or wine for your holiday health. Be warned, vegetarians are not widely catered for and may have restricted choices.
Health care is accessible in Bulgaria for UK travellers, but we always recommend travel insurance.
With the GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card), UK travellers can receive emergency medical treatment and essential healthcare services at state-run healthcare facilities on the same terms as Bulgarian citizens. This coverage includes treatment for sudden illness, accidents, and pre-existing conditions that require urgent medical attention. However, it’s important to note that the GHIC does not cover private healthcare services or medical repatriation to the UK.
Tap water is safe to drink in Bulgaria.
UK visitors in Bulgaria should ensure they have comprehensive travel insurance that covers any potential medical expenses, including private healthcare services, medical repatriation, and emergency evacuation if necessary.
Where to go?
History and Culture
Plovdiv is one of Europe's oldest continuously inhabited cities and is a living museum of history and culture. Explore the well-preserved Roman amphitheatre, stroll through the cobblestone streets of the Old Town lined with colourful Renaissance-era houses, and visit the Ethnographic Museum to learn about Bulgarian folklore and traditions.
For Kids and Teens
Sunny Beach is Bulgaria's largest seaside resort. Here, you will find Aquapark Nessebar, the largest water park in Bulgaria, promising a thrilling day out for all ages. With a wide range of slides, pools, and attractions, including the adrenaline-pumping Kamikaze slide and the lazy river, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Relaxation
Known for its mineral springs and therapeutic climate, Sandanski is a popular destination for relaxation and wellness. You can soak in the healing waters of the local spas, explore the nearby natural wonders like Melnik's sandstone pyramids, or unwind in the town's charming parks and gardens. Pure bliss!
Action
Known as Bulgaria's premier ski resort, Bansko is the perfect destination for winter sports enthusiasts. With its extensive network of ski runs, modern ski lifts, and snow parks, Bansko offers thrills for skiers, snowboarders, and freestyle riders of all levels. Vitosha Mountain is another fun alternative destination to explore.
Nightlife
As the capital city, Sofia offers a bustling nightlife with something for everyone. From trendy rooftop bars and chic cocktail lounges to underground clubs and live music venues, the city has a vibrant scene that caters to all tastes. Vitosha Boulevard and the area around Alexander Nevsky Cathedral are trendy for bars and late-night revelry.