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Home » Europe » Travel Safety
Is Bulgaria SAFE to Visit? (2024 • Insider Tips)
Bulgaria is a strong choice for any traveller.
Sandwiched between the Balkans, and operating a direct train line to Turkey, Bulgaria is bursting with character and unexpected flavours. While often overlooked as a tourist destination, this eastern European country brings a collection of satisfying destinations for a great price.
Unfortunately, alongside a stunning variety of architectural influences and great food, Bulgaria has several common pitfalls that can make your trip far more stressful and complicated than it needs to be.
Alongside Bulgaria’s reputation for organised crime, this could have you asking “ is Bulgaria safe to visit” ?
With that in mind, I’ve created this epic insider’s guide to staying safe in Bulgaria. You’re going to find just about all the information you need to help you achieve top marks in savvy travel, and make sure your Bulgaria visit runs super smoothly.
There is no such thing as a perfect safety guide, as things change quickly. The question of “Is Bulgaria Safe?” will ALWAYS have a different answer depending on who you ask.
The information in this safety guide was accurate at the time of writing. If you use our guide, do your own research, and practice common sense, you will probably have a wonderful and safe trip to Bulgaria.
If you see any outdated information, we would really appreciate it if you could reach out in the comments below. Otherwise, stay safe friends!
Updated December 2023
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Is Bulgaria Safe to Visit Right Now?
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The simple answer to the question is yes , travelling to Bulgaria is safe . In 2022, a total of 10,887,952 international travellers visited Bulgaria based on the country’s National Statistical Institute report. The majority of them had virtually no reported problems.
Despite the country having a few issues, the international community sees Bulgaria as a very safe place to visit. Tourism is, in fact, critical to the country’s economy.
Bulgaria is ranked as one of the most corrupt countries in Europe, and you do hear very rare stories about organized crime, but there are a ton of reasons why you should visit Bulgaria , and these definitely outweigh the setbacks.
Sadly, there have been instances of targeted robberies within tourist areas, so you should be aware of your surroundings, and take extra care of your belongings within crowds. Muggings and pickpocketing do happen here, but violent crime (especially against tourists) is rare.
Local authorities are generally helpful to tourists, but if something has gone very wrong, contacting emergency consular services will most likely make more of a splash.
Bulgaria is generally a very safe country to visit, and while it does have an edgy/ hardcore side, you shouldn’t experience any trouble, even if you go out frequently.
Check out our detailed where to stay guide for Bulgaria so you can start your trip right!
Bulgaria is a fantastic cheap European destination . However, in order to get your stay right, it’s important that you don’t find yourself in a sketchy town, playing with a language that you don’t understand. I’ve listed some places I think are top-notch for travelling, and you should find yourselves right at home!
- Sofia : Sofia is the capital city of Bulgaria, and one of the biggest and most popular ones. There’s an incredible amount of history and culture to soak up here. It’s a very modern and youthful city, with plenty of things to do and explore. There is an array of fantastic Bulgarian food to get stuck in with, and wonderful (powerful?) ex-soviet architecture.
- Varna : Varna is Bulgaria’s third-largest city, located on the Black Sea Coast. You get beaches, culture, stunning parks and an overall very laid-back vibe. During the warm summer months, Varna becomes a tourist hotspot, thanks to great restaurants, a pleasant temperature, and lively nightlife.
- Bansko : For the more adventurous and active backpackers, Bansko is the ideal place. Located in the southwest of Bulgaria, at the foot of the Pirin Mountains, it’s a gateway for some of the best hikes and ski slopes in the country. With a collection of brilliant hotels , fantastic hostels, and unbelievable views, it’s a place that is hard to beat!
Places to avoid in Bulgaria
Whilst safety is less of a major concern here than having fun, it will still pay to keep an eye out in certain sketchy areas. Use your common sense, and make smart decisions. Easy.
Unfortunately, there are parts of Bulgaria where it is worth taking extra caution. Like other countries, Bulgaria has its bad spots!
- Small side streets after dark : This is a no-brainer. If it looks empty and sketchy, simply avoid and stick to the main streets. Especially in larger cities, certain dimly lit roads have reputations.
- Sveta Nedelya Square : This area in Sofia is known for crimes, especially at night. While it’s fine during the day, avoid after dark.
- Red light district near Pliska Hotel : The name itself says it. It’s better to stay away, but there’s nothing to see for tourists anyway (well…). Either way, red-light areas and nightclubs tend to be high-concentration areas for violent crime.
- Resort areas and mountain ski resorts : Since (more) expensive holidays attract people with money, there is an incentive for pickpockets and scammers in these areas. Watch your belongings, and take care that no one can see your PIN! Sunny Beach especially has a slightly dodgy reputation.
You should take extra care when using ATMs Since it is predominantly a cash economy, you will have to do this at several times during your trip. Check the exchange rate before converting, and make sure that you aren’t being watched or followed. Best solution; change money inside a bank’s premises and remember your ID!
Keeping Your Money Safe in Bulgaria
One of the most common things to happen to you whilst travelling is losing your money. And let’s face it: the most annoying way for this to actually occur is when it’s stolen from you.
Petty crime is pretty much a problem all over the world.
The best solution? Get a money belt.
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Bulgaria ranks highly as one of the world’s more “peaceful” countries and has a relatively low level of crime. However, that doesn’t mean that there aren’t issues tourists will face here – especially when it comes to visiting, and staying in, popular destinations.
Knowing how to travel safely anywhere is important, but here are some country-specific tips that should help you stay out of trouble! (and remember travel insurance)
- Be aware of pickpockets – these operate in crowded areas, large city centres, and transport hubs.
- Keep belongings close to you – having a bag that’s easily snatchable isn’t a good idea, make sure straps go across your body
- Consider a money belt – the best way to stop thieves in their tracks!
- Don’t take valuables to the beach – with thieves targeting tourists at beach resorts, having any valuables on the beach is not a good idea
- Make sure your hotel room is secure – there has been a rise in robbery from hotel rooms (especially in Sunny Beach). Make sure doors lock securely, windows close and can be locked, you have a safe, and that it’s in a good area of town
- Be wary of strip clubs – people overcharge wildly and use aggressive techniques in Sunny Beach, Sofia, Bansko and Borovets
- Don’t leave valuables in your car – break-ins to rental cars and cars with foreign number plates are common. Don’t leave important items in your car!
- Always keep an emergency stash of cash – Never keep all your cards/ currency in one place. And hide it all from thieves with a hidden money belt .
- Be careful where you park – tires can be deliberately punctured, the driver distracted, etc… it all ends with your stuff being stolen. Not a good move.
- Avoid stray dogs – feral dogs, especially in packs, are common and can be aggressive; they often have rabies
- Keep away from drugs – the penalties are severe
- Don’t get too drunk in public – “hooliganism” like this is treated severely, maybe more so than in your home country
- Be aware of public displays of affection for LGBTQ+ travellers – there isn’t much tolerance here, especially in more rural areas; even Sofia Pride needs heightened security and police presence
- Don’t take pictures of military installations or government buildings – even if they look cool (and some of them do). Ask permission before you do so; snapping a structure without asking is a sensitive issue
- Don’t cover your face in public – garments that cover your face are prohibited in public; there’s a fine if you’re caught doing so
- Cover yourself up in rural areas – arms and legs; tick-borne encephalitis is a risk, and mosquitoes can be rife, too
- Take a good medical kit with you – you never know when you might need it!
- Try not to look like a tourist – pickpockets don’t target locals, only tourists, so avoid looking obvious. See how other people are dressed and follow suit; casual is best, not designer sports gear, SLRs and gold jewellery
- Look confident – like you know where you’re going; looking lost will single you out as a tourist and, therefore, a target
- Speak a bit of Bulgarian – it’ll be good to know a few phrases to get around, ask directions
- Learn to read Cryllic script – even if you don’t know what the meaning is, being able to read place names and menus will be handy
- Understand head gestures – nodding is “no,” and shaking your head is “yes.” Why? We don’t know, but you should remember this!
- Get a sim card – not getting lost in cities, being able to call restaurants and accommodation. Sim cards change your life for the better.
As long as you make sure you try to blend in, don’t look obvious, and stay aware of your surroundings, you’ll be fine in Bulgaria.
Travelling solo can be amazing anywhere in the world. It’s the ultimate in freedom, allowing you to travel at your own pace, see what you want, stay where you want and do what you want.
Bulgaria is a great place to head off on your next solo travel trip. There are loads of places to see, a ton of accommodation, and so many things to do. Like anywhere, travelling solo can come with some risks, however, so here are a few tips to make sure your trip goes smoothly.
- You should choose your accommodation wisely . Depending on what kind of thing you want, you could opt for a hostel (there are many in Sofia for example), where you can meet other solo travellers, get involved with group activities and have a lot of fun.
- Make full use of tours . In Plovdiv and Sofia, for example, you can get free tours which will help you get to grips with the city, learn about the place you’re travelling to, and talk to some locals.
- Speaking of which, don’t be afraid to talk to locals . Younger Bulgarians, especially in larger cities, generally can speak pretty good English and will be happy to chat to you, talk to you about your trip, and give you a few local tips, too.
- Plan your activities and what you want to do according to the season . Whilst Black Sea beaches are great in summer, they can be perhaps too crowded for you; then again, low season may be too cold or feel not buzzing enough for you.
- Don’t get too drunk . This just is not a good plan, especially if you are by yourself. You could put yourself at risk of being a victim of crime, not find your way home, or even find yourself in trouble with the authorities.
- If you want to meet other travellers, think about getting in touch with them before you visit. Hit up Facebook groups and other places online and ask questions about what people have done before, get ideas on itineraries, that sort of thing.
- Ask the staff at your hostel, hotel or guesthouse for their recommendations. Where is safe to go, where isn’t safe to go, what are good areas to explore, what local, hidden gems they might know about that your guidebook may not have any information on at all. Locals know the score.
- Don’t travel around with too much stuff . Not only is this not fun (trust us), but lugging many bags around with you at one time could put you at risk of being targeted by petty criminals.
- Keep people in the loop . Make sure your relatives and friends back home know what your travel plans are. Consider sharing your itinerary with them and tell them if it changes. Having somebody know where you are and what you’re doing there (and when) is much safer than going off grid.
- Have different ways to access your money . Savings are all well and good, but you should consider opening another bank account so that if you lose one card, you have a back-up pool of money to dip into. At the same time, an emergency credit card may be a good idea for, well, emergencies.
- Don’t take anything valuable to the beach and definitely don’t leave anything unattended on the beach. If you’re by yourself and you go swimming, even something like leaving your phone in your shoes is not a good idea.
- Be careful getting into taxi’s . Bulgaria has a history of fake taxi drivers taking you for a ride you didn’t ask for, so check carefully for a meter, and that someone knows where you’re going.
Bulgaria is actually a really fun country to travel to by yourself. If you want to get to know other people doing what you’re doing, then you will really benefit from the relatively large number of solo (and groups of) travellers making their way through Bulgaria. Don’t forget travel insurance though!
Like pretty much anywhere in the world, the very basic things all female travellers should know apply. Additionally, there are a couple of tricks you might not have thought of when it comes to staying safe in Bulgaria.
Here are our top tips for solo female travellers.
- Bulgarian women don’t tend to go out to bars and nightclubs by themselves. With this in mind, if you want to go out as a solo foreign lady, you should be aware that you will probably attract some attention and may get a few unwanted advances. If you want to avoid that, find some travel buddies to go out with.
- Speaking of which, a good way to meet like-minded travellers – male or female – is to stay at the right accommodation . The key here is research, mainly reading reviews of hostels and hotels that have been written by other female travellers.
- Dress to fit in wherever you are . If you’re staying at a beach resort or in a big city, then things are more modern and free. In the countryside, however, women in Bulgaria tend to cover up in more modest clothing. Take a look around, see what other ladies your age are wearing, and try to follow suit – a good way to not get unwanted attention.
- Be culturally sensitive . In some churches and religious sites for example, women have to cover their head (or hair) and have their shoulders and knees covered. These sorts of coverings are usually on offer at places of worship for women to borrow, but having your own scarf to quickly throw on could come in handy.
- Do not walk around by yourself at night time . No matter how short the journey, walking by yourself at night in an unfamiliar place, in a country you’ve never visited before, is not a clever thing to do. Don’t take the risk and make sure you either have someone to walk home (or around) with or simply get a cab.
- Get yourself on a tour . There’s nothing wrong with hiring your own guide or going on a tour and can in fact be a good way to get to grips with a country, get some insider knowledge, see things you may not have seen otherwise, and to generally make you feel more comfortable. You may get to meet other likeminded travellers, too.
- Be firm with people who may approach you with unwanted attention . Men in Bulgaria can be quite “macho” and might whistle at you, be loud about it and make comments/compliments at you as you pass you by. These are best ignored, but for people who approach you directly, especially when you’re out at bar or on the beach, a firm no should be enough.
- Don’t tell people every detail about your trip – or your life. No stranger needs to know anything about you, really, so if you don’t feel comfortable telling you or the questions are a bit searching, then know that it’s perfectly fine to lie.
- Make sure you have good apps downloaded on your phone to help you in a sticky situation. Things like sharing your location with somebody on Google Maps, having Google Translate, having emergency numbers saved in your contacts (with a symbol at the front so they appear at the top of your contacts), and even an offline maps app like Maps.me – it’s all very useful.
In general, Bulgaria is a pretty safe country for solo female travellers. There are a ton of super interesting sights, excellent experiences and amazing adventures for you to get stuck into without you having to worry all that much about your safety. It’s a well trodden destination.
Having said that, however, it’s all too common for women to be looking over their shoulders – wherever you are in the world, and especially if you are travelling solo. One of the top tips would be to simply not put yourself into risky situations, so trust your gut.
Bulgaria’s capital city, Sofia, shouldn’t be overlooked by travellers. This city is filled with important buildings and stunning attractions and has a youthful energy that’s impossible to deny!
Families are a huge part of Bulgarian culture, and you will be welcomed warmly travelling with your family. Bulgaria has been a firm favourite for many European families looking for a budget beach holiday – so it’s already geared towards families.
The main problems you will probably face when you’re travelling around Bulgaria with your children are natural. Protecting them from the sun (slather on that sunscreen!) and covering their arms and legs to stop ticks and mosquitoes in their tracks, are two of the most common problems you will face.
It’s important to tell your children that they shouldn’t go anywhere near stray dogs wandering around, as rabies has not been eradicated.
Public transport in Bulgaria is generally pretty safe, but it obviously varies throughout the country. For example, in Sofia, there’s the metro, trams and buses; other towns barely have a bus service.
Trains can be quite slow (especially compared to inter city buses). Learning, or reading, some Cyrillic can definitely help you discern where you’re going and which train services are faster.
A good tip for using the Bulgaria State Railways is to look online to find out about routes and fares.
Another form of transport are the matrushkas that shuttle people between city centres and suburbs. More like shared taxis, these run along set routes and can be squashy and sketchy but very cheap.
Buses can be found between major cities, and uber is active in the country. There are generally good transport links between places, but it can be hard if you don’t speak Bulgarian.
The crime rate in Bulgaria is actually super low, which is good! However, you should stay aware of potential muggings, pickpocket hotspots, and getting caught in scams. There have been reports of aggressive confrontations in strip clubs after clients refuse to pay an inflated bill, and problems with ATMS.
The U.S travel authorities rate Bulgaria as level 1, meaning you should take normal precautions to ensure your own safety. Use your common sense, make good decisions and be okay with noping out of a situation. Visits to Bulgaria are vastly trouble free.
Laws in Bulgaria
Bulgaria has pretty standard local laws- don’t do anything traditionally illegal and you won’t have cause for concern. When buying property, consider hiring expert legal advice, since there have been cases of buyers being defrauded.
Everyone’s packing list is going to look a little different, but here are a few things I would never want to travel to Bulgaria without…
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must.
Yesim stands as a premier eSIM service provider, catering specifically to the mobile internet needs of travellers.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
This is a regular looking belt with a concealed pocket on the inside – you can hide up to twenty notes inside and wear it through airport scanners without it setting them off.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Planning a safe trip to Bulgaria can get quite overwhelming. That’s why we’ve listed and answered the most frequently asked questions on safety in Bulgaria.
Is Bulgaria safe for solo female travellers?
Yes, Bulgaria is overall safe for female solo travellers. You will get male attention and catcalling, especially in the main cities, but as long as you ignore it, you won’t get into any trouble. You will be safer when travelling with a group. Avoid going out by yourself, unless you are confident you can handle unwanted attention.
Is Bulgaria dangerous for tourists?
No, Bulgaria is not dangerous for tourists if you stick to the rules and respect the culture. Crime is very low in Bulgaria, however, pickpocketing and petty theft have been recorded in the more touristy areas and main cities. Fake taxies can crop up, so be certain before hopping in a cab.
Do I need travel insurance in Bulgaria?
Yes, you should purchase travel insurance before you travel to Bulgaria. Healthcare can be expensive, especially if you need it done privately, and it’s far better to prepare than have to face the music if something goes wrong.
Is Bulgaria safe for LGBTQ+ travellers?
Yes, Bulgaria is overall safe for LGBTQ+ travellers, if you don’t openly show your sexual preferences. While homosexuality is not illegal in Bulgaria, same-sex marriages don’t yet enjoy legal recognition. While the overall attitude is slightly changing, especially in the main cities, you still come across very closed-minded communities.
Is Bulgaria a good place to live?
Is Bulgaria safe to live? Bulgaria is not only a safe place to live, but it’s a great place to live. There are many reasons to visit Bulgaria : there’s a great climate, the cost of living is low, there’s rich history, some lovely natural landscapes and a fairly laid back lifestyle. This has actually led to a fair number of “expats” moving to settle in the country permanently. Bulgaria is quite a peaceful place; there’s not too much disruption to daily life, the weather isn’t too crazy (typhoons? not here) and the locals are welcoming and friendly – generally speaking. A daily life thing to consider is the fact that many European tourists come here for a cheap getaway, often involving drinking, especially in the form of stag and hen-dos. This can be somewhat daunting with loud, drunken behaviour being an issue; conflicts can kick off in bars and nightclubs because of this. Bulgaria, with its history, strong national identity and traditions, is a pretty nice place to live. Choosing where to live is important: whilst Sofia offers up an almost multicultural feeling, the Black Sea coast offers up a place to live by the water. You should definitely travel to Bulgaria first and shop around, to figure out the best place for your lifestyle.
Bulgaria is a very safe country. It scores high marks on the Global Peace Index of 2020, has a generally low level of serious crime, no real political upsets, and a complete lack of terrorist threat.
There are problems in Bulgaria, however. The resorts along the Black Sea can be all kinds of crazy and not in a good way (case in point: Sunny Beach). There is an issue with thieves targeting tourists. The roads here can be bad, and taxi drivers can be sketchy.
These are the things you have to deal with when you’re Bulgaria. The best way to avoid most of them is to not take yourself to the tackiest, craziest beach resorts; try your best to not look like a tourist when you’re here (smartphones away, no SLRs, casual clothes, please); and generally use your smarts.
Looking for more info on traveling to Bulgaria?
- Let me help you choose where to stay in Sofia
- Swing by one of these fabulous festivals
- Check out my favorite Airbnbs in the centre of all the action
- Plan the rest of your trip with our fantastic backpacking Bulgaria travel guide!
- Get inspired by these EPIC bucket list adventures !
Disclaimer: Safety conditions change all over the world on a daily basis. We do our best to advise but this info may already be out of date. Do your own research. Enjoy your travels!
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
Agness and Cez
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How hot is Sofia in July? Is the opera house air conditioned during performances? Are most restaurants air-conditioned. Are theaters and hotel and restaurants non-smoking? I am allergic go cigarette smoke.
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Is Bulgaria Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report
- Bulgaria : Safety by City
Bulgaria is a country located in the Balkans on the western side of the Black Sea.
It shares borders with Romania to the north, Serbia to the northwest, the Republic of Macedonia to the southwest, Greece to the south, and Turkey to the southeast.
Even though it’s one of the most interesting destinations in Eastern Europe, it’s still not swamped with stampedes of tourists, which makes it even more appealing.
Bulgaria is one of the few exotic countries in Europe since it’s still unexplored, yet it boasts gorgeous beaches, antique churches, numerous opportunities for tourists that are fans of winter sports and great hiking alike, and larger cities that are open for everyone, yet not crawling with hordes of visitors.
And although it has not been commonly visited by Westerners in comparison to other European countries, or even other countries in this region, this is slowly beginning to change.
- Warnings & Dangers in Bulgaria
OVERALL RISK: LOW
Bulgaria is very safe, generally. Crime rates are low and the most common form of crime is car theft and break-ins. Areas to avoid are the red light district near Pliska Hotel and park areas near Lion's Bridge, or Lvov Most.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
Transportation is relatively safe and reliable in Bulgaria, but it is still somewhat known for reckless drivers and the driving is very hectic.
PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
There is some risk of encountering a pickpocket, especially in larger cities such as Sofia. Apply the basic laws of precaution to avoid such a situation, and follow your common sense.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
Bulgaria has experienced some earthquakes, fortunately with mild consequences. In the mountainous regions, avalanches are possible.
MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM
Bulgaria is mostly safe when it comes to mugging and kidnapping, but it is recommended that you avoid poorly lit and deserted streets and dangerous areas known for street crime like the park areas near Lion's Bridge, or Lvov Most.
TERRORISM RISK: LOW
Even though there haven't been any terrorist attacks in Bulgaria's recent history, they shouldn't be ruled out, so be aware of your surroundings at all times.
SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
As in any tourist destination, there is risk of getting scammed. Check your change twice, negotiate everything in advance, never pay upfront, and be wary of people trying to distract your offering you unsolicited help with your luggage or anything else, as it might be a trick to steal from you. The most common scam is taxi drivers overcharging for rides.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Single women shouldn't have any problems, although special vigilance is advised around Sofia. Be extremely cautious around poorly lit or deserted streets and areas filled with clubs and bars as drunken people may cause havoc.
- So... How Safe Is Bulgaria Really?
Bulgaria is generally a safe country to travel to, and its people, much like in other Balkan countries, are quite friendly even though Balkan people have a falsely bad reputation.
However, even though it is safe, and Bulgaria’s crime rates are not high, you should always use common sense when you are outside of the main tourist areas.
If in Sofia, try to avoid dark streets at night.
Always take care of your belongings and keep them close by your side or safely in your accommodation, and never leave them in a visible place of your car.
When it comes to organized crime, even though it is a serious issue throughout Bulgaria, it usually does not affect tourists.
Also, the presence of organized crime groups are in decline, and Bulgaria is either way much safer than most European countries in terms of violent crimes.
Pickpocketing and scams are common, especially in crowded places (such as bus and train stations, airports and areas near major tourist landmarks), so watch over your valuables, and if you find yourself surrounded by a loud group of people throwing tantrums and making scenes, you should immediately move away from them, as it may be a trick to divert your attention, while they pickpocket you.
However, the most serious problem that travelers can come across is car theft.
If you drive an expensive car, never leave it in unguarded parking lots or in secluded streets at night – your car in these locations is likely to attract criminals.
- How Does Bulgaria Compare?
- Useful Information
Most countries do not need a visa for any stays shorter than 90 days. Any longer than that, you might have to acquire a visa. Make sure your passport is valid at least six months past your planned date of return. If you are not sure about your visa status, visit www.doyouneedvisa.com which will let you know whether or not you need visa based on your nationality and the country you want to visit.
The Bulgarian lev is the official currency in Bulgaria. It is still largely a cash economy, and due to the potential for fraud, it is advised to use credit cards sparingly and with caution - for example, in establishments such as large supermarket chains or reputable hotels.
Considering it's a relatively small country, Bulgaria has a variable and complex climate. Heavy snowfalls are common throughout the country from December to mid-March, and expected in the mountainous areas of Bulgaria. July is the hottest month in Bulgaria with an average temperature of about 23°C,
Sofia Airport is the busiest international airport of Bulgaria located 10 km from the centre of the capital city Sofia.
Travel Insurance
Just like anywhere else, we recommend getting travel insurance when traveling to Bulgaria, since it covers not only the costs of medical problems, but also theft and loss of valuables.
Bulgaria Weather Averages (Temperatures)
- Average High/Low Temperature
Bulgaria - Safety by City
Explore bulgaria.
- 14 Most Beautiful Castles in Bulgaria
- Where to Next?
9 Reviews on Bulgaria
Worst place in europe.
The dirtiest people on earth, they scam you on everything, the maffia runs everything in tourist places, taxis kidnapp you, hotel workers steal, in the market they threathen you to buy things they claim you ”broke”. I was at sunny beach and it was the worst week of my life
@David: “In every herd there is a dirt”. It’s a pity you had your vacation ruined, but it’s also not fair and right to generalize the opinion for a hole country based only on a week spent in the drunkards’ paradise Sunny Beach!!! Maffia also runs the world, taxi drivers may charge you high everywhere in the world as well… Believe me, Bulgarians who want a vacation on the seaside do not go to Sunny Beach. And guess why, not because the hotel workers steal their belongings nor they have to pay for something that some else broke. They do not go there because of the scum coming from all over of Europe just to drink cheap (for their pocket) alcohol beyond unconsciousness in the noisy night clubs, and then do balconing on… the pavement. If you want to see what is Bulgaria like, go to other places like Veliko Tarnovo, Rodopa and Rila mountains, and many others where you will be surprised to meet people from western EU countries who decided to make it their home. Because of the nature, because of the people.
Also avoid Sunny Beach
Just like people go to Amsterdam to get a crack, people (younger tourists) from all around Europe (and Russia) go to Sunny Beach to get wasted. As previous reviewer said, it is not fair stamping the whole country “bad” just because you landed consciously in the worst place. It is like going to Las Vegas and complaining there are slot machines everywhere. Sunny Beach is for alcohol, drinking and vomiting – in that regards, if that is what you wish, is a wonderful place.
As to the Bulgaria and safety, it is, indeed, relatively safe with pickpocketing and mugging being observed. Taxis, especially in Sofia, shall be carefully chosen around major transportation hubs (stations and airports) due to some lookalikes that charge way higher or go on longer routes to the destination.
And, of course, do not expect “safety” on places where drunkards are gathering (some “clubs” and, of course, Sunny Beach).
Sure thing!
If you are British and you went to Sunny Beach, I can understand why you broke things in shops and taxis kidnap you…Brits who visit Sunny Beach are normally such scum, they turn delusional the moment they see real beer!
Totally Agree with All the reviews, every country has its good & bad places, but anybody with any sense will do there homework , stay away from such areas, its not difficult!! However the same ethos applies to the last reviewer highlighting `British` ..Be balanced in your understanding, travelling will give you the best Experiences in life you will ever have.
A small jewel of Eastern Europe
Like it says in the article, Bulgaria is an interesting place to visit that is pretty safe and is not very crowded like other countries. The country has a lot of good things about it, from the low price, generally hospitable staff and people, fantastic beaches, great looking churches, etc. Yes, there are some pickpockets here and there, especially in Sofia and other bigger cities and in more crowded areas. Just be on the lookout for them and you will usually spot them and be able to avoid them with relative ease.
I’ve also heard of muggings so this is a possibility. Doesn’t happen too often and if you avoid badly lit areas and not travel alone at night, then you will be fine. Be careful about taxi drivers as they like to overcharge. Make sure to set the price in advance otherwise you will pay more. Also car theft is a thing here so be careful where you park it.
When I was here I particularly liked:
Krushuna Waterfalls. They are beautiful and easily accessible. You can even follow a pathway and find a cave which is the actual source of the waterfall.
Buzludzha Monument. A huge monument that reminds us of the Soviet era, this place is abandoned but still beautiful in its own way.
The Thracian Tomb of Sveshtari. Well preserved and only discovered in 1982, this tomb is unique in it’s combination of paintings and architecture.
Tsarevets Fortress. A beautiful place, a reminder of past times and wars, this fortress will take you on a ride into the past of Bulgaria.
Pirin National Park. Rare species live here and this park is one of the most beautiful I have personally seen. There’s fishing, hiking or cycling available.
Considering everything I’ve mentioned I don’t see any reason why you wouldn’t give this place a try. It’s usually cheaper than any alternative while offering comparable services and the staff in most hotels and restaurants is helpful and friendly.
Great place if you know where to go
If you are a young traveler looking to get drunk for cheap and go clubbing 24/7 Sunny Beach is your place, it’s filled with degenerates from all around the world. It is nothing but shady hotels, super loud music, fast food, and drug abuse. There is no culture to be seen, and it’s definitely not family-friendly. If you are looking for a real vacation, great hotels, and an overall much better experience I would recommend places like Burgas, Varna, Pomorie, Kiten, Balchik, Nesebar, Golden Sands for beaches, and Pamporovo, Bansko for skiing and extreme sports. If you want to experience life as it is, Sofia/Plovdiv will be your best bet. Your safest way of transportation in the capital will be the Metro, it’s clean, well lit with a ton of security. There are a lot of places to visit within a walking distance, museums, art galleries, historical monuments, cozy bars, and restaurants, hotels are also affordable (4+ *). As with any other country, my best advice will be to use your common sense. Almost everyone from the young generation in Bulgaria speaks English.
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Travel Advisory July 26, 2023
Bulgaria - level 1: exercise normal precautions.
Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.
Exercise normal precautions in Bulgaria.
Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Bulgaria.
If you decide to travel to Bulgaria:
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
- Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
- Review the Country Security Report for Bulgaria.
- Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
- Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist .
Embassy Messages
View Alerts and Messages Archive
Quick Facts
3 Months beyond the departure date from Bulgaria.
One blank page for entry/exit stamps.
Not for stays under 90 days if using a regular passport; visa required if using a diplomatic or official passport.
For information on COVID-19 vaccination requirements, please see the Embassy’s COVID-19 information page for the latest guidance.
10,000 Euros or equivalent.
Embassies and Consulates
U.s. embassy sofia.
16, Kozyak Street Sofia 1408, Bulgaria Telephone: +(359) (2) 937-5100 Emergency After-HoursTelephone: +(359) (2) 937-5101 Fax : +(359) (2) 937-5209 Email: [email protected]
Destination Description
Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.
Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements
A valid U.S. passport is required for U.S. citizens. Your U.S. passport must be valid for at least three (3) months from the expected date of departure from Bulgaria. U.S. citizens traveling on regular tourist passports cannot stay more than a total of 90 days in Bulgaria within a 6 month-period without a Bulgarian visa. This law is strictly enforced. Travelers who depart the country after a 90 day stay will not be able to re-enter Bulgaria without a visa before the six-month period expires.
U.S. official, service, and diplomatic passport holders must obtain a Bulgarian visa prior to arrival. If you are traveling on a U.S. official, service, or diplomatic passport, you will not be allowed to enter Bulgaria without a visa. Please plan ahead and apply for your visa early.
- Visit the Bulgarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs or Bulgarian Embassy website for the most current visa information.
- While in Bulgaria, always carry your U.S. passport or a Bulgarian residence permit, known in Bulgaria as lichna karta. U.S. passport cards are recognized as proof of citizenship and identity but are not sufficient for international air travel to and from Bulgaria.
Visitors are required to maintain medical insurance for the duration of stay in Bulgaria. You may be required to present proof of medical insurance at the port of entry.
Visit the CDC’s website for immunization information.
The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors or foreign residents of Bulgaria.
Find information on dual nationality and customs regulations on our websites.
Traveling Through Europe: If you are planning to visit or travel through European countries, you should be familiar with the requirements of the Schengen Agreement.
- Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the period of stay if you plan on transiting a Schengen country review our U.S. Travelers in Europe page .
- You will need sufficient proof of funds and a return plane ticket.
- For additional information about visas for the Schengen area, see the Schengen Visa page.
Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites.
Safety and Security
Terrorism: Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:
- High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
- Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
- Places of worship
- Schools
- Parks
- Shopping malls and markets
- Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)
The U.S. Department of State has assessed Sofia as being a LOW-threat location for terrorism directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests.
For more information, see our Terrorism page.
Crime: U.S. government personnel are not prohibited from traveling to any specific areas of Bulgaria due to crime. Most criminal acts in Bulgaria take place in Sofia. Other districts with a slightly lower level of crime than Sofia are Varna, Plovdiv, Burgas, and Stara Zagora. The lowest crime levels are in the districts of Smolyan, Kardzhali, Vidin, Silistra, and Razgrad. Most of Bulgaria experienced a decrease in crime in 2021 compared to 2020.
ATM skimming, credit card fraud, and traffic incidents remain the most common threats to U.S. citizens in Bulgaria. Majority of incidents involving U.S. citizens are monetary in nature, though incidents of racism, ethnic slurs, and harassment of African Americans and religious minorities have occurred. Report crimes to the police by dialing 112.
- Pick pocketing and purse snatching are frequent occurrences, especially in crowded markets, on shopping streets, near airport ATMs and aboard the busy tram and bus lines. Con artists often operate on public transportation and in bus and train stations.
- Use caution at ATMs . Be wary of people who approach you at an ATM and offer assistance. Do not give your PIN to anyone under any circumstances.
- Police stations should provide translators for anyone who needs to report a crime but will often require the victim to return at a later time or bring his/her own translator.
- Use taxis with meters and clearly marked rates displayed on a sticker on the passenger side of the windshield. Taxi drivers are known to overcharge unwary travelers particularly at Sofia Airport, the Central Train Station, and at Black Sea resort areas. The airport has a clearly marked exit within the arrival terminal that leads travelers to metered taxis at a fair rate and a booth to assist with obtaining taxi services. Inquire about the fare before entering a taxi and always account for all luggage, packages, and hand-carried items before paying and releasing a taxi. Popular mobile application based taxi services like Uber or Lyft do not operate in Bulgaria, but there are local taxi services that use similar mobile applications such as Yellow Taxi and Taxime.
- Automobile theft and break-ins are common in residential areas and in parks. Four-wheel-drive vehicles and late-model European sedans are the most popular targets.
- Burglary is a common crime. If you plan to reside in Bulgaria on a long-term basis, take measures to protect your home and consider installing window grilles, steel doors with well-functioning locks, and an alarm system.
Demonstrations occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on significant holidays, and during international events. They mainly occur in downtown Sofia in the areas surrounding and between Parliament and the Presidency.
- Demonstrations can be unpredictable; even those intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational.
- Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations.
- Exercise caution if unexpectedly found in the vicinity of large gatherings or demonstrations.
- Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.
- In an emergency, U.S. citizens should call the police (#112), seek a safe location, and wait for assistance.
- Messages regarding demonstrations are posted on the Embassy's website .
Local Laws & Special Circumstances
Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.
Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.
Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.
Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Although counterfeit, and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also pay fines or have to give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See the U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.
- Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Bulgaria are severe; convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.
- Driving under the influence could land you immediately in jail.
- Bulgarian law enforcement authorities may take you in for questioning if you take pictures of certain government buildings, embassies, or military facilities.
Special Circumstances: Bulgaria is still largely a cash economy, especially outside of major cities.
- You may exchange money at local banks or exchange bureaus. Be wary of people on streets offering to exchange money, they are usually con artists who intend to swindle unsuspecting travelers.
- Damaged or worn U.S. dollar bank notes are often rejected at banks or exchange bureaus.
- Most shops, hotels, and restaurants do not accept traveler's checks. Credit cards may not be accepted outside the major cities. Local banks such as Unicredit, Bulbank, Bulgarian Postbank, and United Bulgarian Bank (UBB) can cash travelers’ checks.
Corruption remains an important concern of the Bulgarian government. You may refer complaints of public corruption by e-mail to the Ministry of Justice at [email protected] or by phone to +359 2 987 0697. All grievances must be submitted in the Bulgarian language.
If you plan to import an automobile to Bulgaria, be aware that customs duties on personal vehicles can be high. All documents must be originals or certified copies and contain an apostille. See more information on the Bulgarian Customs Agency website.
Faith-Based Travelers: See the following webpages for details : :
- Faith-Based Travel Information
- International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
- Human Rights Report – see country reports
- Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
- Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad
LGBTQI+ Travelers: There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTQI+ events in Bulgaria.
However, LGBTQI+ individuals face cultural stigma and widespread discrimination. LGBTQI+ individuals engaging in public displays of affection may attract unwelcome attention or harassment.
According to LGBTQI+ organizations, courts rejected the right of same-sex partners for protection against domestic violence because the law treats “spousal” only as applying to married persons who cannot legally be the same sex. The Commission for Protection against Discrimination reported receiving very few cases regarding sexual orientation.
See our LGBTQI+ Travel Information page and section six of our Human Rights report for further details.
Travelers with Disabilities: Bulgarian law prohibits discrimination against persons with physical and mental disabilities in employment, education, and access to health care, but societal discrimination persists. Bulgarian law requires improved access to buildings for persons with disabilities and new public projects take this requirement into account, but authorities rarely enforce this law in older buildings. Commuting in Bulgaria is very difficult for disabled individuals. Buses, trams, and trolleys generally lack accommodation for disabled travelers. The Sofia metro is the most accessible system for disabled individuals, but its transportation network is limited to Sofia. Disabled travelers should consider traveling with a friend or family member who can assist them in navigating the transportation systems in Bulgaria.
Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips .
Women Travelers: See our travel tips for Women Travelers .
For emergency services in Bulgaria, dial 112.
Ambulance services are widely available, but training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards.
- Adequate health facilities are available at some hospitals in major cities, but health care in rural areas may be below U.S. standards.
- Hospitals and doctors require payment “up front” prior to service or admission. Credit card payment is not always available.
- Medical staff may speak little or no English.
- Patients bear all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.
- Not every hospital/clinic in equipped for pediatric care. If you need emergency services for an infant/child, please call ahead to ensure those services are available.
The U.S. government does not pay medical bills . Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.
Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Credit card payment is not always available. See our webpage for more information on insurance coverage overseas. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.
We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.
Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the Bulgaria’s Customs Agency to ensure the medication is legal in Bulgaria.
Vaccinations : Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Further health information:
- World Health Organization
- U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.
The air quality varies considerably and fluctuates with the seasons. It is typically at its worst in the winter. People at the greatest risk from particle pollution exposure include:
- Infants, children, and teens
- People over 65 years of age
- People with lung disease such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema
- People with heart disease or diabetes
- People who work or are active outdoors
Health Facilities: The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals in Bulgaria. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.
Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery
- U.S. citizens have suffered serious complications or died during or after having cosmetic or other elective surgery.
- Medical tourism is a rapidly growing industry. People seeking health care overseas should understand that medical systems operate differently from those in the United States and are not subject to the same rules and regulations. Anyone interested in traveling for medical purposes should consult with their local physician before traveling.
- Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for information on Medical Tourism, the risks of medical tourism, and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Bulgaria.
- We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications.
- Your legal options in case of malpractice are very limited in Bulgaria.
- Although Bulgaria has many elective/cosmetic surgery facilities that are on par with those found in the United States, the quality of care varies widely. If you plan to undergo surgery in Bulgaria, make sure that emergency medical facilities are available and professionals are accredited and qualified.
Pharmaceuticals
- Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescription in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with few controls. Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients. Medication should be purchased in consultation with a medical professional and from reputable establishments.
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for use in the United States. Please visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration websites for more information.
Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy : If you are considering traveling to Bulgaria to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please see our ART and Surrogacy Abroad page .
Surrogacy is illegal in Bulgaria. For additional information, visit the Government of Bulgaria’s website for information on foreigner surrogacy.
Travel and Transportation
Road Conditions and Safety: The Bulgarian road system is largely underdeveloped.
- Roads are in poor repair and full of potholes.
- Rockslides and landslides are common on mountainous roads.
- Livestock and animal-drawn carts are common on roads, especially during agricultural seasons.
- In winter, roads are icy and potholes proliferate.
- Some roads lack pavement markings and lights.
- Motorists often drive with dim or missing headlights
Traffic Laws: Driving in Bulgaria is dangerous. Aggressive driving habits, lack of safe infrastructure, and a mixture of late model and old model cars on the country’s highways contribute to a high fatality rate in road accidents.
- A U.S. state driver’s license is only valid in Bulgaria when used in conjunction with an International Driving Permit. Such permits must be obtained in the United States prior to travel. Following recent enhanced police enforcement, most rental car companies now require international driving permits to rent cars to U.S. state driver’s license-holders.
- Avoid confrontations with aggressive drivers. Drivers are known to speed, swerve into oncoming traffic or go the wrong way on divided highways.
- Traffic lights late at night blink yellow in all directions, leaving the right-of-way unclear and contributing to frequent accidents.
- Heavy truck traffic creates numerous hazards along the two-lane routes from the Greek border at Kulata going to Sofia, and from the Turkish border at Kapitan Andreevo to Plovdiv. Expect long delays at border crossings.
- If pulled over by a police officer, be aware that under Bulgarian law the police officer may not collect fines on the spot but may confiscate your driver’s license depending on the offense.
- Right turns on red lights are not permitted.
- Keep your headlights on at all times no matter the time of day or weather.
- At unregulated crossings, the driver on the right has the legal right-of-way, but this rule is frequently ignored.
- The use of seat belts is mandatory in Bulgaria for all passengers.
- Drivers may be charged with driving under the influence of alcohol with a blood level as low as 0.05 percent. The penalties for drivers involved in an accident resulting in injury or death range from a US $25 fine to life imprisonment.
- Check out Bulgaria’s Ministry of Interior’s road rules guide .
Public Transportation: Sofia’s metro system and the extensive bus network are reliable modes of transportation. Taxi cabs are plentiful but are known to overcharge passengers. Do insist on use of the meter when using a taxi or use a mobile application based taxi service.
See our Road Safety page for more information. For specific information concerning Bulgarian driving permits, vehicle inspection, road tax, and mandatory insurance, please visit the Bulgarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. V isit the European Commission site for latest information on speed limits, traffic fines, and regulations.
Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Bulgaria s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Bulgaria’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page .
Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Bulgaria should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts. Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website , and the NGA broadcast warnings .
For additional travel information
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
- Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
- See the State Department’s travel website for the Worldwide Caution and Travel Advisories .
- Follow us on Twitter and Facebook .
- See traveling safely abroad for useful travel tips.
Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Bulgaria . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.
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Updated information
(Updated on April 14, 2022)
Messages from the Ministry of Tourism:
Updated information for travelers on entry to Bulgaria
Recommendations of anti-epidemic measures in tourist sites & activities for winter season 2021/2022, covid-19 health travel protocol.
Guidelines for the functioning of accommodation establishments and food and entertainment establishments in the conditions of danger of COVID-19 infection in Bulgaria – (Version 17)
Useful links
Wearing a mask is not mandatory in open public places.
All persons, are obliged to wear a protective face mask for single or multiple use in public settings such as public transport, pharmacies and medical establishments. The measures for disinfection and observance of physical distance are preserved.
All operating establishments can now receive visitors in compliance with the Guidelines issued by the Ministry of Tourism for the operation of accommodation establishments and food and entertainment establishments in the conditions of danger of COVID-19 infection in Bulgaria. The accommodation establishments are ready for normal functioning of and have taken the necessary anti-epidemic measures of the Ministry of Health to operate in the conditions of COVID-19. An individual plan for its operation is required for each establishment in accordance with the recommendations and guidelines of the national and regional public health authorities to limit the Coronavirus infection. All accommodation establishments operate in strict compliance with the requirements, which include specific measures to protect the health of tourists with high hygiene.
Yes, public transport operates normally, with no limit on the capacity of vehicles and/or trains, but it is mandatory to wear personal protective equipment.
The use of masks is mandatory when traveling by taxi, bus, train and other public transport.
There are no restrictions on travel within the country. The rules for social distancing and the use of a protective mask should be observed where indicated. Wearing protective masks is mandatory in closed public areas.
Yes. Restaurants and bars are open (indoor and outdoor areas), following several rules of hygiene and social distance. The tables are placed in such a way as to create a safe distance (1.5 m) between the customers. Personal protective equipment (masks, safety helmets and gloves) is mandatory for staff only.
Yes, tourist attractions such as cultural monuments, museums, zoos, aquariums and other tourist attractions are open to visitors as the rules of social distance should be observed and protective masks should be worn.
Yes, depending on the size of the space, different places, such as libraries, shops and supermarkets, allow only a small number of people to enter each time. In pharmacies, healthcare facilities and public transport protective masks should be worn.
The declared measures may be updated according to the development and the spread of COVID-19.
Concerts and cultural events should be held in open and/or indoor areas with reduced capacity to ensure a safe distance between spectators. The use of protective masks and disinfectants is recommended.
Parks are open; individual outdoor sports as well as swimming in the sea are allowed. It is recommended that people keep the distance and follow the safety rules. The distance between the umbrellas is a distance of required 2 m.
The use of balneological (medical SPA), SPA and wellness centers, as well as visits to swimming pools, including pools with mineral water, is allowed, but in strict compliance with hygiene requirements and distance between visitors.
When using fitness centers, physical distance between people doing sports should be guaranteed.
Shopping centers and retail establishments are open. It is recommended that visitors keep the distance and follow the safety rules.
Users and staff are advised to use protective masks and disinfectants.
When using elevators, in case there is no other alternative, the elevator is used with reduced capacity. Customers should keep a distance of 1.5 m between them.
As per a statement from the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) Bulgaria is part of the tourism destinations with safety and hygiene travel stamp.
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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers
Bulgaria travel advice
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Last updated: April 19, 2024 08:38 ET
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Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, bulgaria - take normal security precautions.
Take normal security precautions in Bulgaria
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Petty crime
- Pay particular attention at train and bus stations, tourist sites and crowded areas
- Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
- Avoid showing signs of affluence and carrying large sums of cash
Overcharging
Some tourists have been victims of overcharging in bars and clubs. Discussions about overcharging may lead to threats of violence by security guards, who may force you to pay.
- Be particularly vigilant at tourist resorts along the Black Sea, where this practice is most common
Vehicle theft
Vehicle thefts and break-ins occur frequently.
- Park in a guarded location whenever possible
- Store your valuables safely out of sight
Always be suspicious if someone offers to help you with a flat tire. These individuals may have punctured the tire themselves. They may seize the opportunity to steal your purse or other valuable objects while you’re distracted.
Organized crime
Organized criminal groups are active in casinos and nightclubs. Violent crime may occur, and includes bombings and shootouts between rival gangs.
Credit card and ATM fraud occurs. ATMs fitted with fraudulent card readers are common, particularly in Sofia, Burgas and Varna. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:
- pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
- use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
- avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
- cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
- check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements
Overseas fraud
Spiked food and drinks
Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.
There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorist attacks have occurred in a number of European cities. There is a potential for other violent incidents.
Targets could include:
- government buildings, including schools
- places of worship
- airports and other transportation hubs and networks
- public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners
Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.
Keep in mind, however, that even the most secure locations aren’t completely free of risk.
In response to terrorist attacks in other European cities, Bulgarian authorities have strengthened their security measures in all cities, particularly where large crowds gather.
Demonstrations
Demonstrations may occur. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.
- Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
- Follow the instructions of local authorities
- Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations
Mass gatherings (large-scale events)
Road safety
Road conditions and road safety can vary greatly throughout the country. Driving conditions may be hazardous due to aggressive drivers, excessive speeds, poor lighting and a lack of traffic signs and lane markings. Potholes and wandering animals are common on rural roads.
- Avoid confronting aggressive drivers, as they may be armed
- Avoid driving after dark outside of major cities
- Be especially cautious when driving during winter, as roads may not be plowed or salted
Pedestrians
Be cautious when crossing streets. Drivers don’t always give pedestrians the right of way.
Police occasionally solicit bribes. They may delay you if you refuse to pay the bribe, but you’re unlikely to experience additional problems beyond inconvenience.
Public transportation
- Use only licensed taxis with meters
- Verify the tariffs on the taxi’s window before entering, as taxi drivers sometime overcharge
- At Sofia Airport, visit the taxi booth in the arrivals terminal to obtain a fair rate
Rail services
Rail services are generally poor. It’s preferable to travel via inter-city buses.
Public transportation systems
Most cities and larger towns have public transportation systems. Inter-city buses are frequent, comfortable and relatively fast. Regular bus service exists between most of Bulgaria’s major cities and towns.
Disruptions and delays to public transportation services, including at ferry ports, railway stations and border crossings, may occur.
We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.
Information about foreign domestic airlines
Beware of stray dogs, especially those travelling in packs. They can be dangerous and could expose you to disease if they bite you.
Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.
We have obtained the information on this page from the Bulgarian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.
Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada .
schengen_area
- Schengen area
Bulgaria entered the Schengen area on March 31, 2024. Air and maritime border controls are no longer in effect. Land border controls will remain in effect until further notice.
Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.
Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.
Regular Canadian passport
Your passport must be valid 3 months beyond the date you expect to leave Bulgaria.
Passport for official travel
Different entry rules may apply.
Official travel
Passport with “X” gender identifier
While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.
Other travel documents
Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.
Useful links
- Foreign Representatives in Canada
- Canadian passports
Health Insurance
You must present proof of medical insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage) that’s valid in the European Union (EU) and covers the costs of emergency medical care and evacuation.
Tourist visa: not required for stays of fewer than 90 days in any 180-day period Business visa: not required for stays of fewer than 90 days in any 180-day period Student visa: not required for stays of fewer than 90 days in any 180-day period
You must obtain a visa before travelling if you plan to stay in Bulgaria for more than 90 days. Bulgaria doesn’t grant extensions once you’re in the country, except in cases of emergency or marriage to a Bulgarian citizen.
Bulgaria is a Schengen area country. Canadian citizens do not need a visa for travel to countries within the Schengen area. However, visa-free travel only applies to stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Stays are cumulative and include visits to any Schengen area country.
If you plan to stay in the Schengen area for a longer period of time, you will need a visa. You must contact the high commission or embassy of the country or countries you are travelling to and obtain the appropriate visa(s) prior to travel.
- Foreign Representatives in Canada
Other entry requirements
Upon entry, you may have to show proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay, as well as documents verifying your return or onward travel plans.
Children and travel
Bulgarian authorities may consider a child born to a Bulgarian parent to be a Bulgarian citizen, even if the child was born in Canada and has a Canadian passport.
Accordingly, children under 18 may only leave Bulgaria when accompanied by both parents or with the consent of both parents. The absentee parent(s) must provide a statement of parental consent to travel, notarized by Bulgarian authorities. You or your child must present this consent form to the authorities upon exiting Bulgaria.
Furthermore, if you’re a single parent or the parent of a child travelling alone, you should contact the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in Canada before travelling, to ensure that your child meets current entry and exit requirements. These may change without notice.
- Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Bulgaria (some content in Bulgarian only)
- Travelling with children
Yellow fever
Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).
Relevant Travel Health Notices
- Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
- COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.
Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.
Routine vaccines
Be sure that your routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.
Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.
Pre-travel vaccines and medications
You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary.
Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.
Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.
- There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.
Country Entry Requirement*
- Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.
Recommendation
- Vaccination is not recommended.
* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.
About Yellow Fever
Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada
There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.
Practise safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.
Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a risk in some areas of this destination. It is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). It is spread to humans by the bite of infected ticks or occasionally when unpasteurized milk products are consumed.
Travellers to areas where TBE is found may be at higher risk during April to November, and the risk is highest for people who hike or camp in forested areas.
Protect yourself from tick bites . The vaccine is not available in Canada. It may be available in the destination you are travelling to.
Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus. Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.
Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.
Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.
Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.
It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.
Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.
The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.
The flu occurs worldwide.
- In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to April.
- In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and October.
- In the tropics, there is flu activity year round.
The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.
The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.
In this destination, rabies may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal.
If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional.
Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife.
Safe food and water precautions
Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.
- Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
- Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
- Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs.
Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.
Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.
The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.
Insect bite prevention
Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:
- Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
- Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
- Minimize exposure to insects
- Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed
To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.
Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.
Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever is a viral disease that can cause fever, pain and bleeding under the skin. In some cases, it can be fatal. It spreads to humans through contact with infected animal blood or tissues, or from the bite of an infected tick. Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from tick bites and avoid animals, particularly livestock. There is no vaccine available for Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever.
Animal precautions
Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.
Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.
Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.
Person-to-person infections
Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:
- washing your hands often
- avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
- avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.
Medical services and facilities
Health care is inadequate. Private hospitals and clinics located in cities are often better staffed and equipped than public or rural facilities. Cash payment is required at time of service.
Medical evacuation can be very expensive and you may need it in case of serious illness or injury.
Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.
Travel health and safety
Keep in Mind...
The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.
Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.
You must abide by local laws.
Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .
Transfer to a Canadian prison
Canada and Bulgaria are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in Bulgaria to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Bulgaria authorities.
This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.
Identification
- Always carry photo identification, such as a passport
- Keep a photocopy in a safe location in case of loss or seizure.
Dual citizenship
Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Bulgaria.
If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Bulgaria, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .
Travellers with dual citizenship
International Child Abduction
The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Bulgaria.
If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Bulgaria, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Bulgarian court.
If you are in this situation:
- act as quickly as you can
- contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
- consult a lawyer in Canada and in Bulgaria to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
- report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre
If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.
Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.
- List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
- International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
- The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
- Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
- Emergency Watch and Response Centre
Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.
Drugs, alcohol and travel
Face covering
It’s illegal to wear clothing or masks that partially or completely cover the face in public places. Failure to comply can result in arrest and heavy fines.
Photography
It’s illegal to photograph military installations.
Drinking and driving
Penalties for drinking and driving are severe.
The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%. If a police officer suspects you of drinking and driving, they could confiscate your driver’s licence on the spot and detain you. If you’re convicted, you can expect heavy fines and a possible jail sentence.
Driver’s licence
You can drive with a Canadian driver’s licence for up to 90 days after your arrival. You must carry an international driving permit for longer stays.
More about the International Driving Permit
Driving laws in Bulgaria
- You must possess a vignette or highway permit to travel on Bulgarian roads. You can purchase this electronic vignette at ports, border points, post offices and large gas stations
- Always drive with your headlights on
- Winter tires are mandatory during winter months
- All vehicle occupants must wear a seatbelt
- Children under 10 may ride in the front passenger seat if they’re secured in a child car seat and the airbag has been disabled
- It’s illegal to use a cellular telephone while driving, unless the phone includes a hands-free device
- You must carry a fire extinguisher, first aid kit and warning triangle in your car, as well as a reflective vest. You must always wear this vest when leaving a vehicle that is stranded or involved in an accident
- Carry all related documents, such as ownership, registration and proof of Bulgarian car insurance, in your vehicle
Follow speed limits on all roads. Police conduct frequent checks and may collect fines on the spot. Depending on the offence, they may also confiscate your driver’s licence at the scene.
2SLGBTQI+ travellers
Although the laws of Bulgaria don’t prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex, homosexuality isn’t socially tolerated.
Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics
The currency in Bulgaria is the lev (BGN).
Bulgaria’s economy is primarily cash-based. Most businesses also accept euros and major credit cards. ATMs are widely available. The United Bulgarian Bank in Sofia can process international money transfers.
If you are carrying €10,000 or more, or the equivalent in other currencies, you must make a declaration to customs when you enter or leave the European Union. It includes sums in:
- banknotes and coins
- bearer negotiable instruments such as cheques, travellers’ cheques, promissory notes and money orders
- bonds, shares
- gold coins with a gold content of at least 90 %
- gold bars, nuggets or clumps with a gold content of at least 99.5 %
- any other convertible asset
This does not apply if you are travelling within the European Union or in transit to a non-EU country.
EU cash controls - European Commission
Earthquakes
Bulgaria is located in an active seismic zone.
Bulgaria is prone to flooding after heavy rains. Flooding is often localized, but widespread flooding has occurred in the past. Consult Bulgaria’s National Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology for information and flooding alerts.
In winter, there’s a risk of avalanches in mountainous regions. This risk increases when temperatures rise rapidly after a particularly harsh winter. Extreme weather can also cause landslides.
In the summer and early fall, there’s a risk of wildfires.
National Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology - Bulgaria
Local services
For emergency assistance, dial 112.
Consular assistance
Bulgaria, Moldova
For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Romania in Bucharest and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.
The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.
The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.
If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.
Learn more about consular services .
Risk Levels
take normal security precautions.
Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.
Exercise a high degree of caution
There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.
IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.
Avoid non-essential travel
Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.
Avoid all travel
You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.
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Bulgaria Traveler View
Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.
- Packing List
After Your Trip
There are no notices currently in effect for Bulgaria.
⇧ Top
Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.
Routine vaccines
Recommendations.
Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include
- Chickenpox (Varicella)
- Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
- Flu (influenza)
- Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)
Immunization schedules
All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see Your COVID-19 Vaccination for more information.
COVID-19 vaccine
Hepatitis A
Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Bulgaria.
Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.
Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.
Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.
Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book
Dosing info - Hep A
Hepatitis B
Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Bulgaria. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Bulgaria.
Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book
Dosing info - Hep B
Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.
All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .
Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book
Bulgaria is free of dog rabies. However, rabies may still be present in wildlife species, particularly bats. CDC recommends rabies vaccination before travel only for people working directly with wildlife. These people may include veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers working with specimens from mammalian species.
Rabies - CDC Yellow Book
Tick-borne Encephalitis
For travelers moving or traveling to TBE-endemic areas
TBE vaccine is recommended for persons who will have extensive exposure to ticks based on their planned outdoor activities and itinerary.
TBE vaccine may be considered for persons who might engage in outdoor activities in areas ticks are likely to be found.
Tick-borne Encephalitis - CDC Yellow Book
Avoid contaminated water
Leptospirosis
How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)
- Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
- Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
- Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
- Avoid contaminated water and soil
Clinical Guidance
Avoid bug bites.
Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic fever
- Tick bite
- Touching the body fluids of a person or animal infected with CCHF
- Avoid Bug Bites
Leishmaniasis
- Sand fly bite
Airborne & droplet
Avian/bird flu.
- Being around, touching, or working with infected poultry, such as visiting poultry farms or live-animal markets
- Avoid domestic and wild poultry
- Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
- Bite from an infected rodent
- Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
- Avoid rodents and areas where they live
- Avoid sick people
Tuberculosis (TB)
- Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.
Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Bulgaria, so your behaviors are important.
Eat and drink safely
Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.
- Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
- Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
- Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
- Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel
You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.
Prevent bug bites
Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Bulgaria. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.
What can I do to prevent bug bites?
- Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
- Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
- Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
- Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
- Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.
What type of insect repellent should I use?
- FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
- Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
- Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
- 2-undecanone
- Always use insect repellent as directed.
What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?
- Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
- Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.
What can I do to avoid bed bugs?
Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .
For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .
Stay safe outdoors
If your travel plans in Bulgaria include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.
- Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
- Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
- Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
- If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
- Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
- Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
- Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.
Stay safe around water
- Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
- Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
- Do not dive into shallow water.
- Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
- Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
- To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.
Keep away from animals
Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.
Follow these tips to protect yourself:
- Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
- Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
- Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
- Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
- If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.
All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:
- Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
- Go to a doctor right away.
- Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.
Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.
Reduce your exposure to germs
Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:
- Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
- If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
- Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
- Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
- If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.
Avoid sharing body fluids
Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.
Protect yourself:
- Use latex condoms correctly.
- Do not inject drugs.
- Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
- Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
- If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.
Know how to get medical care while traveling
Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:
- Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
- Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
- Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
- Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Bulgaria’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
- Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.
Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).
In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.
Select safe transportation
Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.
In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.
Be smart when you are traveling on foot.
- Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
- Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
- Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.
Riding/Driving
Choose a safe vehicle.
- Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
- Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
- Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
- Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
- Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
- Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.
Think about the driver.
- Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
- Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
- Arrange payment before departing.
Follow basic safety tips.
- Wear a seatbelt at all times.
- Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
- When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
- Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Bulgaria may be poor.
- Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
- Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
- If you choose to drive a vehicle in Bulgaria, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
- Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
- Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
- Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
- If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
- Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.
Medical Evacuation Insurance
If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.
Helpful Resources
Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.
The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.
Maintain personal security
Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.
Before you leave
- Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
- Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
- Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
- Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.
While at your destination(s)
- Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
- Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
- Follow all local laws and social customs.
- Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
- Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
- If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.
Healthy Travel Packing List
Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Bulgaria for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.
Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?
It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.
If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.
For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .
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Is Bulgaria Safe? 10 Important Insider Travel Tips
If you’re wondering is Bulgaria safe to travel, let me tell you:
Bulgaria is safe to visit. Use common sense, avoid doing things you wouldn’t do at home, and you won’t have any issues traveling the country. Some areas have higher crime rates, but most tourists, including US citizens, will have a safe visit by staying vigilant, even when walking at night.
Remember that if a situation feels off, it probably is.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Stay alert and don’t let anyone get too close to you.
As a Bulgarian who’s lived several decades in the Balkan country without ever being robbed or feeling threatened, I want to share my most important insider travel safety tips , so you can have an amazing trip to Bulgaria.
Ready to explore?
Let’s dive right in!
Is Bulgaria Safe to Visit in 2024?
As a tourist, you won’t have any issues visiting Bulgaria in 2024.
The country remains mostly unaffected by the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine.
The migrants, who are taking over other parts of Europe, don’t stay long in Bulgaria.
And the political corruption only affects locals but not travelers.
We don’t participate in military conflicts. The crime rates are quite low, according to statistics . We don’t engage in heated political debates and public protests are non-violent. Moreover, we’re tolerant towards different religions and ethnicities, which coexist in Bulgaria without conflicts.
The only thing travelers must keep in mind is petty crimes and violence on the roads.
If you’re aware of your surroundings and don’t walk drunk at night, you will stay safe in Bulgaria .
So, is Bulgaria safe? Yes, it is, especially if you follow my important insider tips for traveling the country.
Top 5 Safest Places to Visit in Bulgaria
Is Bulgaria safe to visit? Well, some places are safer than others.
In Bulgaria’s cities, the centers are usually very safe, while it’s better to avoid the poorer residential areas.
Below are my top 5 safest places to visit in Bulgaria :
- Sofia : the city center is quite traveler-friendly. There are also a ton of amazing things to do in Sofia . Check out which scams and areas you should avoid in the sections below.
- Plovdiv : the Old Town and the city center are very safe for tourists.
- Other Bulgarian big cities : all major cities, such as Varna, Veliko Tarnovo, Burgas, and Stara Zagora are safe to visit if you avoid certain neighborhoods.
- Hidden Black Sea beaches : if you visit Bulgaria on a beach vacation, I recommend going to the more secluded coastal towns and beaches.
- Countryside : the Bulgarian countryside is very safe to visit. Don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path and explore places such as Melnik , Velingrad , and Koprivshtitsa on road trips or day trips from Sofia .
Top 5 Places to Avoid Visiting in Bulgaria
In any country you travel, there are places you should avoid.
In Bulgaria, these include residential areas in the bigger cities and some of the most touristy resorts. While your life will hardly ever be in danger, your vacation mood and your wallet might suffer in these spots.
Here are my recommendations for 5 places to avoid in Bulgaria if you want to stay safe:
- Dodgy neighborhoods : in Sofia, these are Filipovtsi and Fakulteta Districts. In Plovdiv, avoid going to Stolipinovo. If you’re visiting Varna or Burgas, stay away from Maksuda and Meden Rudnik.
- Tourist towns on the Black Sea : the most touristy places on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast have the worst reputation. Avoid going to Sunny Beach and Golden Sands because of the travel scams, low quality of service, and questionable cleanliness.
- Ski resorts : while Bulgaria is worth visiting for its majestic mountains, the ski resorts are overpriced, overcrowded, and lacking quality service. Also, roads aren’t always well-maintained in winter.
- Back alleys at night : stray dogs, potholes, and dodgy characters might scare you in the dark back streets in big cities and resorts in Bulgaria.
- Highways and main roads at night : the transportation network in Bulgaria is in questionable condition. Moreover, the roads are poorly lit at night. On top of this, encounters with drunk drivers are not uncommon. For these reasons, I personally avoid driving at night when possible.
Travel Scams and How to Avoid Them When Visiting Bulgaria
The last section might have you questioning if Bulgaria is safe.
Most of the travel scams below are widely known and practiced in almost every destination on Earth.
However, a couple of them can’t be pulled off anywhere else but in Bulgaria. Since they’re very typical, you should read the following lines carefully before your trip.
Even I as a local have almost fallen for some of them! That’s how simple yet clever they are. But you can still easily avoid them when you know what to watch out for.
Here’s what you should know about traveling safely to Bulgaria.
1. The Fake Exchange Rate
Bulgaria is mostly a cash economy. Outside the capital Sofia, only major chains accept card payments.
Don’t exchange your money anywhere else but in banks. The Bulgarian currency Lev is tied to the Euro. The official exchange rate is €1.00 = BGN1.95 (approximately $1.00 = BGN1.80).
The trick dealers at exchange kiosks use is adding an extra digit to the exchange rate.
This means that for exchanging €1.00, you’ll only get BGN1.195 . It’s hard to notice the difference and many people have fallen for this scam.
2. The Old, Invalid Banknotes
The currently valid Bulgarian banknotes and coins are issued after 1999 .
You can check what they look like at the Bulgarian National Bank’s Official website .
Scammers might try to hand you old, invalid banknotes or coins when returning your change or exchanging money on the street.
The latter you should never do anyway.
This scam has been reported mostly at big, touristy places on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast . Not only should you be careful in such places, but my advice is to generally avoid visiting these unauthentic, overpriced, tourist traps.
3. The Beggars
You’ll encounter beggars in city centers and in touristy towns.
Never, ever, for no reason whatsoever, give them money!
No matter how miserable, poor, young, old, or disabled they appear to be, they are actually earning more money than you out of the goodness of people.
They’re organized in groups and begging is a lucrative business.
4. The Fake Taxis
Inflated taxi rates aren’t something new. You can experience this scam in almost every big city or touristy place
However, fake taxi companies are something you should be extra careful about in Bulgaria.
In Sofia, there are a handful of well-known, established, and reliable taxi companies.
The scammers fake their stickers and make their cars appear as if they belonged to a reputable company. They only change a letter in the logo of the company and a few digits in the telephone number.
The safest way to catch a taxi is by using one of the official apps or asking someone you trust to call you a cab.
5. The Pickpockets in Crowded Areas
Large gatherings attract pickpockets like magnets everywhere in the world.
In Bulgaria, one of the most popular places for pickpockets to perform their “crafts” are jam-packed public transportation buses and trams .
Some are so good that they’ll manage to “relieve” you of your valuables even while waiting for a few seconds at a traffic light on a street corner.
To avoid being ripped, frequently check your belongings. Backpacks are not suitable for crowded places and if you must carry your valuables in one, put it in front of you.
The best way to evade being robbed is to always be aware of your surroundings. Don’t let anyone get too close to you. This means not getting on a crowded bus or tram, and waiting for the next one.
In Sofia, the safest way to travel by public transport is the metro. The constant police presence and video surveillance make it hard for pickpockets to get away with your belongings.
On top of that, one of the most interesting facts about Sofia is that many of the metro stations display art and historic artifacts. Check out Serdica II if you want to admire Roman antiquities.
6. The “Free” Gift
Sometimes in the streets or at underpass exits, a stranger might hand you something small: a postcard, a tiny Christian icon, or a bracelet.
The person will insist it’s free and it’s a gift for good luck, good fortune, or whatever other reason.
The moment you take it, they’ll tell you that you have to pay them. They’ll follow you around and won’t accept to take back the object they insisted on giving you.
So after you get annoyed, you’ll budge and give them money.
This is a popular trick played on tourists all over the world. I’ve witnessed it in multiple destinations. Don’t fall for it – simply deny anything from anyone you don’t know.
7. The Inflated Bill
Before paying your bill at the restaurant or handing over your money to the bartender, make sure they’ve asked for the correct amount.
Sometimes you’ll find an extra salad or a beer you didn’t order on the bill. Rarely it’s an honest mistake, more often it’s your waiter trying to make a few bucks on the side.
Be polite and point out the error. Most of the time, they’ll apologize and recalculate your bill.
8. The Absent Ticket
When traveling in Bulgaria, you have to buy your transportation ticket in advance.
Theoretically, it’s possible to buy it from the driver. But it’s almost impossible to receive a ticket unless you have an exact change.
The most popular place to pull this scam is at Sofia Airport. If you want to use public transportation to get to your accommodation, remember to buy a ticket BEFORE you hop on the bus or metro.
Tourists have reported that they caught the bus from the airport without tickets. The driver refused to sell them because they didn’t have exact money. Moments after the bus departed, they were fined for not having valid tickets.
When using the metro, remember that tickets are only valid at the time and from the station of purchase.
9. The Dark Back Alleys
Sadly, most back alleys in Bulgaria are poorly lit at night .
This doesn’t necessarily mean that you’ll be mugged if you wander on foot to your accommodation. It simply means that it might be dangerous to do so as obstacles are often in your way.
It is still safe to walk at night in Bulgaria, it’s just unpleasant.
Take a longer route and use the main streets to walk home or call a cab to take you there. The risk is not worth it, especially if you’ve just had a few drinks and are not fully focused.
(By the way, the pothole in the photo above has since been fixed. The sidewalk is now quite nice to walk on. But not all sidewalks are, unfortunately. )
10. The Stray Animals
When walking the streets of any Bulgarian town, you’ll notice the presence of stray dogs and cats .
I get it, we all love animals. However, please suppress your urge to pet them, give them food, or – god forbid – take them with you. They carry countless diseases and can turn aggressive in a blink of an eye.
Unfortunately, the latter is also true for domestic dogs. Often, they walk the streets unleashed and might attack you for no apparent reason.
It’s safest to keep your distance and try to avoid confrontation with both the animal and its owner.
Is This a Scam: People Selling Small Things at Your Table
When eating out, sometimes old women might approach you, selling seasonal flowers.
Other times, young people might offer you keychains, pens, or small souvenirs at your restaurant table. They’ll leave them on the table alongside a note, saying that they’re produced by deaf or disabled people.
These are not scams . Instead of begging, these people are trying to earn a few extra bucks to be able to support themselves.
If you could spare a few coins, buy something small that you could either gift to someone else or keep as a reminder of how fortunate you are to travel to beautiful places like Bulgaria.
FAQs About Safety in Bulgaria
You didn’t find the answer you were looking for in the previous sections?
Don’t worry, we’re still not done!
Here are some more answers related to the question “Is Bulgaria safe”:
Is It Safe for Americans to Go to Bulgaria?
It is safe for US citizens to travel to Bulgaria. You can sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrolment Program (STEP), which allows you to receive travel alerts and will locate you in case of an emergency.
Is Bulgaria Safe to Walk at Night?
It’s perfectly safe to walk in Bulgaria at night. However, you should keep a few tips in mind.
Back alleys are usually poorly lit and potholes dot the streets and sidewalks. On top of that, stray dogs walk unattended. Don’t carry large amounts of cash or flashy jewelry.
If you decide to walk in Bulgaria at night, choose a broader, well-lit main street or bring a small flashlight with you.
Is Bulgaria Safe for Female Tourists?
If you’re worried if Bulgaria is safe for women, let me reassure you. Most places in Bulgaria, especially the large cities and the most famous landmarks, are very safe.
Take common-sense precautions, keep your valuables hidden and out of reach, and you’ll be perfectly safe as a (solo) female traveler in Bulgaria.
Is Bulgaria Safe for Families with Children?
Bulgaria is safe for travelers visiting with their families. Hotel pools and resort beaches have lifeguards. Ski resorts provide ski lessons.
Many places offer discounts and special services for children. Still, you shouldn’t leave your kids unattended while enjoying your vacation in Bulgaria.
What Are the Emergency Numbers in Bulgaria?
The emergency number in Bulgaria is 112. It’s the same as in most of Europe.
You can dial it for free from your mobile.
Here are other direct emergency numbers you might want to save:
- For calling the police directly, dial 166 .
- For the fire department, dial 160 .
- And to call an ambulance, dial 150 .
Is Bulgaria Safe – Now You Know the Answer
There you have it – the most comprehensive expert answer to the question “ Is Bulgaria safe “.
If you avoid the touristy places and poor residential districts of the big Bulgarian cities, as well as follow my insider safety travel tips, you’ll have a blast visiting Bulgaria.
Don’t let the media scare you with its negativity. Bulgaria is safe for travelers and locals alike. And totally worth visiting!
Now, I’d like to hear it from you:
Have you traveled to Bulgaria? In your opinion, is Bulgaria safe?
Let me know in the comments below!
After spending months living in Spain and the USA, years in Germany, and decades in Bulgaria, I set up on a mission to find the most epic road trips, the best beaches, and the most authentic local experiences for your next adventure.
Thanks for sharing N! Very useful tips here. would say for tourists, the main one to watch is really the unlicensed/fake taxis. Otherwise, for the other scams, it should not be too painful :)
As for general safety, as long as one exercises common sense, the place is really safe. I have checked and found that for instance, victims of intentional homicide per 100,000 inhabitants per year in Bulgaria is only 1.1, even lower than Europe’s average of 1.6 and the global average of 8.2 in 2016!
So wishing all a good time in Bulgaria!
Thanks for commenting, David!
You’re right, Bulgaria is safe for tourists. In fact, it’s much safer than many popular travel destinations.
Fake and overpriced taxis are a problem anywhere in the world. The scams, which are typical for Bulgaria and I always warn visitors about, are the first and the second on the list. You can’t pull them off in many places :) Other than that, using common sense is all you need to stay out of trouble!
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Bulgaria Travel Guide
Last Updated: August 30, 2023
Often overlooked by travelers, Bulgaria is actually one of my favorite countries in Europe .
Because it’s under the radar, here you’ll find few crowds and plenty of affordable activities. I arrived with few expectations and was blown away by the country’s affordability, incredible history, mountainous landscapes, Black Sea beaches, and wild nightlife.
Bulgaria’s long history is evident everywhere, from ancient Neolithic settlements to mysterious Thracian tombs to fortresses left behind by powerful tsars. Even some of the smallest, most nondescript churches have elaborate religious artwork inside, including paintings of saints and vivid murals.
And, if you’re a nature lover, there are several mountain ranges throughout the country offering all kinds of stunning hikes.
In short, Bulgaria is amazing and I can’t speak its praises enough. Don’t speed through the place. There’s a lot to see and do here.
This travel guide to Bulgaria can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time here.
Table of Contents
- Things to See and Do
- Typical Costs
- Suggested Budget
- Money-Saving Tips
- Where to Stay
- How to Get Around
- How to Stay Safe
- Best Places to Book Your Trip
- Related Blogs on Bulgaria
Click Here for City Guides
Top 5 things to see and do in bulgaria.
1. Explore Sofia
Sofia is Bulgaria’s dynamic capital city full of museums, Eastern Orthodox churches, communist architecture, and trendy galleries, restaurants, and clubs. The city has thousands of years’ worth of history and dates to the 8th century BCE when it was inhabited by the Serdi tribe. One of the oldest buildings is a brick rotunda that was built in the 4th century by the Romans. It was originally used as a bath but later became a church – and it’s survived almost completely intact. Don’t miss the Alexander Nevski Cathedral, built in the 1880s in the Neo-Byzantine style. It’s massive and has enough room for 10,000 people inside (you can even explore the crypt which is full of unique religious icons). Museums like the National Art Gallery, the National Historical Museum, and the National Institute of Archeology are all worth a visit and feature unique cultural and historical exhibits.
2. Relax in Varna
Varna is a major tourist destination during the summer when its beaches fill up with visitors. Like most of Bulgaria, the area has a rich history. Archeological remains of early settlements have been uncovered at over 30 sites, the oldest of which dates back to the Stone Age. Modern Varna was established in the 6th and 7th centuries when the Slavic people gained power in the Balkans, and the city emerged as an important hub for trade due to its prominent location on the Black Sea. Now it’s known as one of Bulgaria’s most popular seaside resort towns thanks to its beautiful beaches. I had a lot of fun wandering the streets, visiting the Roman Baths, walking through the big central park, and relaxing by the beach. Make sure to check out Aladzha Monastery, which is one of the oldest in Bulgaria (it dates back to the 4th century) and offers stunning views of the city.
3. Visit Plovdiv
Plovdiv is the second-largest city in Bulgaria and is the oldest continuously inhabited city in Europe (archeologists have discovered evidence of settlements dating back to the Neolithic period in 6,000 BCE). Over the years, Plovdiv has been ruled by Greeks, Romans, Celts, Huns, Slavs, Bulgars, Thracians, and Ottomans. You can explore ruins spanning the centuries on a walk-through Old Town with cobblestone streets and architecture from the Middle Ages and the Bulgarian Revival. The city is the cultural hub of Bulgaria and was named the European Capital of Culture and is part of the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities. Be sure to visit the Roman Amphitheater, see the Archaeological Museum, and relax under the leafy trees in the Tsar Simeon Central Garden.
4. Go to Veliko Tarnovo
Once the capital of the Bulgarian Empire, Veliko Tarnovo is now a charming university town. Much of the city is perched on the cliffs with white houses and iconic red roofs spanning the hillsides. For excellent photo opportunities visit the Sky Walk which overlooks the city and the river winding through the cliffs. Not much happens here, but I loved the cobblestone streets, the historic castle ruins, the little cafes, and the nearby mountain hikes. Like any university town, there are some eclectic spots to grab a drink like the Hipster Art Bar which has a fun atmosphere and is a great place to meet people.
5. Explore the Rila Mountains
The Rila Mountains are the highest mountain range in the Balkans, with Mount Musala towering over 3,000 meters (10,000 feet). Most of the mountain is protected within Rila National Park and the rest falls within the Rila Monastery Nature preserve, so it’s a hotspot for biodiversity and nature enthusiasts. You can trek to the top on a day hike or take on some of the less challenging hikes in the mountains. During the colder months, the Rila Mountains become packed with skiers, and if you want to treat yourself there are some luxurious spas around the area. Other highlights include the Seven Lakes route, Skakavitsa Waterfall, and the Rila Monastery. The monastery is the largest in Bulgaria and was established in the 10th century by Saint John of Rila. It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Other Things to See and Do in Bulgaria
1. check out the museum of socialist art.
This museum in Sofia showcases art from when the country was under Communist rule (1944-1989). A large outdoor sculpture park contains everything from a giant statue of Lenin that once stood in the center of the city to the red star that topped the socialist party headquarters. Inside you’ll find all kinds of propaganda, documentary videos, photos, and more. Admission is 6 BGN.
2. Hike the Balkan Mountains
This mountain chain is at the center of Bulgaria. It’s part of the epic European Long Distance Route (E3) following the chain’s main ridge to the Portuguese seaside, spanning a distance of 6,950 kilometers (4,320 miles). For shorter day hikes, find a base town like Apriltsi and trek from there. The Mount Botev summit and the hike to Vodnite Dupki are two popular hikes.
3. Hit the beaches on the Black Sea
This 402-kilometer (250-mile) stretch of Bulgarian coast lies along the Black Sea. About one-third of this coastline is covered in pristine, sandy beaches. Avoid Sunny Beach (it’s tacky and crowded) and check out some of the quieter beaches instead, like Pomorie Beach or Sinemorets Veleka Beach.
4. Unwind in Balchik
Balchik is a small coastal town on the Black Sea. The area used to serve as the summer residence for Queen Marie of Romania (1875-1938). You can tour her Balchik Palace on the seaside promenade and admire the interesting blend of Gothic and Islamic architecture. There are not very many rooms, but they all contain original furnishings and paintings by Queen Marie herself. There’s also a botanical garden with over 600 species of plants. Admission is 15 BGN.
5 Go skiing
Bansko, Borovets, and Pamporovo are the three biggest resort towns in Bulgaria. Most people prefer Bansko because its resort has the longest ski runs and it’s doable as a day trip from Sofia. There are several hotels and budget accommodations within Bansko (although Bansko isn’t the prettiest of towns). A one-day ski pass is 90 BGN in Bansko and 85 BGN in Borovets and Pamporovo.
6. Stop and smell the roses in Kazanlak
Bulgaria is one of the biggest producers of rose oil in the world and the town of Kazanlak has hosted the Festival of Roses since 1903. During the first weekend of June, the local community organizes this international event that attracts thousands of tourists. There are rose-picking rituals, events to learn about the rose distillation process, a street procession, acapella choirs, folklore concerts, art shows, exhibitions, and even wine-tasting. Best of all, most of the events are free!
7. Visit the Varna Archaeological Museum
The Varna Archaeological Museum is home to the Varna Necropolis, a prehistoric archaeological site that contains the oldest processed gold in the world (it’s 7,000 years old). The gold was extracted from 62 graves (it was custom to bury people with gifts at that time). On display, you’ll also find intricate jewelry and other artifacts, as well as oddities like Roman surgical tools and ancient Hellenistic headstones. Admission is 10 BGN.
8. Explore Stara Zagora
Stara Zagora is a smaller city located in the south of Bulgaria, famous for its annual linden-tree bloom (the whole city smells incredibly floral — like a combination of honeysuckle and jasmine). For me, the main attraction is Stara Zagora’s historical significance. Other than once being an important crossroad for the Romans, Ottomans, and Thracians, Stara Zagora also contains some amazing prehistoric relics, including ancient burial mounds dating back 8,000 years. The Neolithic Dwellings Museum sits on one of these prehistoric mounds, along with the remains of a home. It’s 5 BGN to visit and super informative!
9. Tour the Bachkovo Monastery
Just outside of Plovdiv is the Bachkovo Monastery, dating to 1083 (although most of it was built from the 17th century). The main attraction in the monastery is the Church of Sveta Bogoroditsa, which has an interior completely covered in colorful frescoes painted by Zahari Zograf in 1850. The refectory (dining hall) is also full of murals displaying the building’s history. Pilgrims often come to the church to pray in front of the Madonna, which is encased in gold and silver. It’s free to visit the monastery, but the onsite museum costs 2 BGN and the refectory is 6 BGN.
10. Visit the Etâr Ethnographic Open-Air Museum
The Etâr 19th-century ethno-village in Northern Bulgaria is a recreated Bulgarian town lined with cobblestone streets and dozens of traditional shops and workshops devoted to cobblers, furriers (someone who works with furs), glass workers, jewelers, leatherworkers, potters, bakers, and more. Costumed performers move between buildings, making it feel like you stepped back in time (or at least onto a movie set). You can poke around recreated traditional homes, and some of the workshops are still powered by running water. It’s a bit cheesy, but you can pick up neat handmade souvenirs here. Admission is 5 BGN.
11. Hike at Emen Canyon
If you’re visiting Veliko Târnovo, head west to Emen Canyon. Carved out by the Negovanka River between tall limestone cliffs, the canyon is home to deep creeks (perfect for swimming) and picturesque waterfalls. A two-hour hike on the Negovanka Ecotrail takes you along 90-meter-high (295-foot) bluffs, leading to viewpoints over the canyon and a 10-meter-tall (32-foot) waterfall. It’s a beautiful region to explore on foot!
For more information on specific cities in Bulgaria, check out these guides:
- Plovdiv Travel Guide
- Sofia Travel Guide
- Varna Travel Guide
- Veliko Tarnovo Travel Guide
Bulgaria Travel Costs
Accommodation – Hostel dorms with 5-8 beds cost between 15-25 BGN per night. Private hostel rooms cost 30-60 BGN per night. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels also include self-catering facilities.
Budget two-star hotels range from 50-100 BGN per night. If you want to stay at one of the resort areas on the Black Sea, expect to pay double that amount during the summer.
Airbnb is available across Bulgaria, with private rooms ranging from 20-55 BGN per night. An entire home/apartment costs around 60-110 BGN.
For those traveling with a tent, there are also well-maintained campgrounds around the country, especially along the coast. Most tent sites start at 5-20 BGN per night for a basic pitch without electricity.
Food – Bulgarian cuisine is hearty and similar to that of its Balkan neighbors. Meaty stews with lamb, goat, or chicken are common, as are sausages and all kinds of yogurts (dairy products are big here). Popular dishes include kebapche (grilled mincemeat), shopska salad (a salad with tomato, cucumber, and cheese; similar to Greek salad), and moussaka.
Overall, food is very affordable throughout Bulgaria. Local street food eats like banica (cheese pastry) are as little as 1.50 BGN. You can pick up a hearty shopska or kebab for about 6 BGN.
For fast food (think McDonald’s), you can get a combo meal for about 12 BGN. A casual meal at a restaurant serving traditional cuisine costs around 14 BGN. A large pizza also costs around 10 BGN.
If you want to splash out, a three-course meal with a drink costs around 30 BGN.
Beer is 4 BGN while a latte/cappuccino is 3.50 BGN. Bottled water is around 1.50 BGN.
Grocery shopping is very cheap here, costing about 45-65 BGN per week for basic staples like rice, pasta, seasonal produce, and some meat.
Backpacking Bulgaria Suggested Budgets
If you’re backpacking Bulgaria, expect to spend about 55 BGN per day. On this budget, you’ll be staying in a hostel dorm, cooking most of your meals, limiting your drinking, taking public transportation to get around, and sticking to mostly free activities like hiking and going to the beaches. If you plan on drinking, add 5-10 BGN to your daily budget.
On a mid-range budget of 135 BGN per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb, eat out for most meals at cheap fast food joints, have a couple of drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more activities and tours like visiting museums or going skiing.
On a “luxury” budget of 200 BGN per day or more, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink more, rent a car or take more taxis, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!
You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in BGN.
Bulgaria Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips
Bulgaria is one of the most affordable destinations in Europe. You can do a lot on a tight budget here as most of the country’s attractions (such as museums and historical sites) are cheap. You’ll find it hard to break the bank here unless you’re spending your time on the Black Sea coast during peak season and intentionally trying to splurge. Here are some ways to save money in Bulgaria:
- Avoid Sunny Beach – I don’t understand the appeal of a beach that’s overpriced and crowded with tourists. Hit up one of the other coastal beaches instead.
- Stay at Hostel Mostel – Staying at this hostel chain can lower your costs because they include free breakfast and free dinner. They have locations in Sofia and Veliko Tarnovo .
- Eat at the bakeries – Bakeries in Bulgaria have an inexpensive range of sweet and savory pastries that can fill you up. Two of my favorite snacks there are banica and krenvirshka.
- Stay with a local – If you plan ahead, you can usually find Couchsurfing hosts all throughout the country. This way, you not only have a free place to stay but you’ll connect with a local host that can share their insider tips and advice.
- Take free walking tours – Walking tours are a great way to get familiar with a city and its culture. Sofia, Veliko Tarnovo, and Plovdiv all have free walking tours. Just be sure to tip your tour guide at the end.
- Enjoy free events – Many of Bulgaria’s festivals are free to attend, and during the summer many city parks have free scheduled events and concerts. Ask your hostel or host what’s going on during your visit.
- Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.
Where to Stay in Bulgaria
Bulgaria has lots of fun, affordable hostels around the country. Here are my favorite and suggested places to stay:
- Hostel Mostel (Sofia)
- Hostel 123 (Sofia)
- Hostel Mostel (Veliko Tarnovo)
- Hostel Old Plovdiv (Plovdiv)
- Yo-Ho-Hostel (Varna)
- Nomado Hostel (Varna)
How to Get Around Bulgaria
Public transportation – Public transportation in Bulgaria is very affordable. Sofia has a subway with two lines connecting the city center and the airport, as well as the central bus and train stations. Tickets are 1.60 BGN each.
In other cities, public buses are the most common mode of public transportation. Fares are usually between 1-2 BGN. Trolleybuses and trams are also common and generally cost the same.
Some cities, like Sofia, have a daily transportation pass for 4 BGN per day. A three-day pass is 10 BGN.
Taxi – Taxis are readily available everywhere, with rates starting at 2 BGN, costing an additional 1-2 BGN per kilometer. Always make sure your driver uses the meter so you avoid getting ripped off. Ridesharing like Uber is not available here.
Bus – Bulgaria has lots of private and public minibusses and coaches to get you between the smaller towns and cities. A bus from Sofia to Varna costs around 33 BGN and takes seven hours, while Varna to Plovdiv is 27 BGN and also takes seven hours. A three-hour journey from Sofia to Veliko Tarnovo shouldn’t cost more than 30 BGN.
Train – Train travel in Bulgaria is often cheaper than taking the bus, but it’s a lot slower. For example, the same Sofia to Veliko Tarnovo journey costs just 20 BGN but takes a little over four and a half hours by train (instead of three by bus). You can use the Bulgarian State Railways website (bdz.bg) to plan your trip.
Flying – There are limited domestic routes around Bulgaria, making this an inconvenient option for most travelers. That said, flying is affordable here. A one-way trip between Sofia and Varna costs about 160 BGN, while a one-way trip between Sofia and Burgas is about 106 BGN. Unless you’re pressed for time, though, I’d stick to the bus.
Car rental – Car rentals are super affordable here, costing as little as 25 BGN per day. If you have someone to share the ride with, this could be an affordable and flexible way to get around the country. Drivers need to be 21 years old and have an IDP (International Driving Permit).
To find the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .
When to Go to Bulgaria
If you want hot weather and lots of time on the Black Sea coast, summer (June-August) is the best time to visit. Temperatures average 29-32°C (84-90°F) and the water is ideal for swimming. These temperatures are fairly consistent across the country, although the mountain regions can be cooler.
Spring and fall weather can change from day to day. Temperatures range between 5-21°C (41-70°F) in the spring and the weather can be quite foggy and cloudy, with not a lot of sunshine. But if you want fewer crowds and lower prices, this is the best time to come.
The fall months (September-October) are best for hiking as the autumn foliage is starting to show. Fall temperatures range from 2-21°C (36-71°F).
Winter can be frigid, with temperatures dropping as low as -5°C (23°F). The snow-capped mountains are beautiful during this time, and many people come here to hit the slopes. If you’re not coming here to ski or do winter sports, however, I’d skip a winter visit.
How to Stay Safe in Bulgaria
Bulgaria is a very safe country to visit. Violent crime against visitors is very rare. Scams and petty crime like pick-pocketing are the most common danger you’ll face when you’re traveling the country, but even those are rare.
That said, it’s always a good idea to keep your valuables secure and out of sight when out and about.
Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).
When taking taxis, always make sure the meter is on. A common scam is for taxi drivers to tell you that their meter is broken. Insist that you want a taxi with a working meter or negotiate the cost upfront.
You can read about common travel scams to avoid right here.
If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.
The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.
Bulgaria Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources
These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.
- Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
- Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
- Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
- HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
- Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
- The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
- Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
- FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
- SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
- LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
- Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
- Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
Bulgaria Travel Guide: Related Articles
Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Europe and continue planning your trip:
The 6 Best Hotels in Copenhagen
The 6 Best Hotels in Florence
The 7 Best Hotels in Madrid
The 6 Best Hotels in Vienna
The Best Walking Tours in Barcelona
How to Be a Digital Nomad in Europe
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Exercise normal safety precautions in Bulgaria.
Bulgaria (PDF 256.65 KB)
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Local emergency contacts
Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.
Call 112 or go to a hospital.
Call 112 or go to the local police station.
Advice levels
- Bulgaria experiences extreme weather. Heatwaves and wildfires occur throughout the summer period. Heavy snowfall and storms can occur throughout the winter period. Monitor the media and follow the advice of local authorities if you're in an area affected by extreme weather.
- Beware of pickpocketing and bag snatching in crowded places and on public transport. Take care of your belongings.
- Protests occur regularly. They can disrupt public transport and turn violent without warning.
- Watch out for drink spiking. Don't leave your food or drinks unattended.
- Bombings, shootouts and gang wars can occur. Always be aware of your surroundings. Monitor the media for risks.
Full travel advice: Safety
- Rabies may be present in wild animals. Get medical help straight away if you get bitten.
- Avoid stray dogs. They can be vicious, and attacks are common.
- Tuberculosis, typhoid, measles and hepatitis are common. Avoid raw or undercooked food.
- Healthcare standards are well below those in Australia. Medical supplies can be limited. Major cities have good hospitals. You may need to be evacuated if you're seriously ill or injured. Make sure your insurance covers this.
Full travel advice: Health
- Don't use or carry illegal drugs. Penalties include heavy fines and prison sentences.
- Always carry valid photo ID.
- It's illegal to cover your face in public. Don't wear a balaclava or full veil.
- Same-sex relationships are legal in Bulgaria but aren't widely accepted. Avoid public displays of affection.
Full travel advice: Local laws
- You don't need a visa if you're visiting Bulgaria for tourism purposes. In other cases, you'll need a visa.
- Bulgaria partially joined the Schengen area on 31 March. Border checks will cease between Bulgaria and other Schengen countries for air or sea travel. Checks continue to be undertaken at land borders between Bulgaria and other Schengen countries.
- If you're travelling without a visa, ensure your entire visit to the Schengen area is within the 90-day limit.
- Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest Bulgarian Embassy or Consulate for enquiries relating to your ability to enter Bulgaria from your departure country.
Full travel advice: Travel
Local contacts
- The Consular Services Charter details what we can and can't do to help you overseas.
- The Australian Consulate in Sofia provides limited services and doesn't issue passports or provide notarial services.
- You can get full consular help from the Australian Embassy in Greece.
- Follow the Embassy's social media accounts to stay up to date with local information.
Full travel advice: Local contacts
Full advice
Pickpocketing and bag snatching are common. Be careful:
- at tourist sites
- in crowded markets
- on shopping streets
- on trams and buses and at major transport hubs
Car theft is common. Only some owners get their vehicles back.
Car break-ins are also common, especially when valuables are easily visible. Park in a secure car park wherever possible.
To protect yourself from crime:
- keep your belongings close, particularly in crowded areas
- carry a photocopy of your passport
- hold bags and backpacks in front of you
- when driving or parking your car, make sure any valuables are out of sight
Violent crime can happen, including:
- turf wars between rival gangs
Organised crime groups are active in casinos, nightclubs and the sex industry.
Watch out for drink spiking, especially at popular night spots. Never leave your food or drinks unattended. Don't accept food or drinks from strangers.
More information:
- Avoiding sexual assault overseas
Cyber Security
You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.
Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.
More information:
- Cyber security when travelling overseas
Scams and fraud
ATM skimming and credit card fraud are common. Internet fraud also happens.
To protect your credit and ATM cards:
- use ATMs within banks, shops and shopping centres, especially at night
- check ATMs for skimming devices before using them
- don't use ATMs that look like they've been tampered with
- be aware of any people who approach you at an ATM
- always keep your credit card in sight
- be aware of internet scams
While there have been no recent terrorist attacks in Bulgaria, they can still happen.
In recent years, terrorists have attacked several European cities. Targets have included:
- public transport
- transport hubs
- public places that travellers visit.
European security forces have also disrupted several recent planned attacks.
Bulgarian cities and winter ski resorts all have heightened security measures.
To protect yourself against terrorism:
- look out for possible danger, especially in public places
- take care around potential terrorist targets
- report anything suspicious to the police
- monitor the media for emerging threats
- take official warnings seriously
- follow the advice of local authorities
If there's an attack, leave the affected area as soon as it's safe. Avoid the affected area in case of secondary attacks.
Terrorism is a threat worldwide.
Civil unrest and political tension
Protests, rallies and other demonstrations can occur without warning.
Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent. Injuries sometimes occur.
- Demonstrations and civil unrest
Climate and natural disasters
Bulgaria experiences natural disasters and severe weather , such as:
- earthquakes
- heavy snowfall
Large earthquakes are rare, but earth tremors are common.
Extreme weather can cause landslides and flooding. During the winter months, storms and heavy snowfall are common. Avalanches may happen in mountain regions, including at popular ski resorts, especially when warm temperatures follow a harsh winter.
From June to October, there are regular alerts for wildfires . Large-scale and fast-spreading fires in forests and fields are becoming more frequent. Heat waves and dry conditions contribute to the danger of fire.
Get updates from the National Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology .
Take official warnings seriously. Follow the advice from local authorities.
If there's a natural disaster or severe weather:
- secure your passport in a safe place
- keep in touch with family and friends
- monitor the media, other local sources and the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
- Travel insurance
Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave.
Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.
If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.
If you're not insured, you may have to pay thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.
You may need to show proof of travel insurance in Bulgaria at the port of entry.
- what activities and care your policy covers
- that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away
Physical and mental health
Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.
See your doctor or travel clinic to:
- have a basic health check-up
- ask if your travel plans may affect your health
- plan any vaccinations you need
Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.
If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.
- General health advice
- Healthy holiday tips (Healthdirect Australia)
Medications
Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.
If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Bulgaria. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.
Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:
- what the medicine is
- your required dosage
- that it's for personal use
Health risks
Stray dogs roam city streets, often in packs. Dogs can be vicious, and attacks are common. Don't approach stray dogs, and seek medical advice immediately if bitten.
Rabies may be present in wild animals.
If an animal scratches or bites you, seek immediate medical help. If you're going to work with wildlife in Bulgaria, your doctor may recommend getting the rabies vaccine before you travel.
Tick-borne encephalitis
Tick-borne encephalitis is a risk, especially if you travel through forested areas.
Ticks are common in country areas from April to October.
Other health risks
Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases are common.
They include:
- trichinellosis
- tuberculosis
- west nile virus
To protect yourself from illness:
- in rural areas, drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
- avoid ice cubes
- avoid uncooked and undercooked food, such as salads
- avoid wild game food
- practice good hygiene (washing hands, cleaning and disinfecting objects and surfaces)
Get medical help if you have a fever or diarrhoea.
Medical care
Healthcare standards are well below those in Australia. Medical supplies are limited, particularly outside major cities. Staff rarely speak English.
Several private medical clinics and hospitals in Sofia and other major cities are well-equipped and well-staffed. However, treatment can be expensive. You may also need to pay doctors up-front.
If you become seriously ill or injured, you may be evacuated to a place with better facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.
You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.
If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.
It's a legal requirement to have a form of ID or a copy of the bio pages of your passport with you at all times.
Covering your face in public is illegal, including wearing a balaclava, full veil or anything else that hides your face. This doesn't apply to wearing a face mask to protect from airborne disease.
It's also illegal to:
- drive with a blood alcohol reading of 0.05% or higher
- refuse to take a breathalyser test
- smoke in any enclosed public place
- take photos of military sites or other secure places
- have sex with a child (under 18 years of age)
- view or distribute child pornography
Penalties for possessing or trafficking drugs can be severe. They can include heavy fines and prison sentences.
- Carrying and using drugs
Australian laws
Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.
- Staying within the law and respecting customs
Dual citizenship
Bulgaria recognises dual nationality.
If you're a dual citizen, this limits the consular services we can provide if you're arrested or detained.
- Dual nationals
Local customs
Same-sex relationships are legal but aren't widely accepted. Outside the capital Sofia, attitudes are generally more conservative.
There have been incidents of discrimination, verbal abuse and vandalism targeting LGBT+ people.
- Advice for LGBTI people
Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering.
You don't need a visa to enter as a tourist for up to 90 days. You'll need a visa for other types of travel.
Bulgaria partially joined the Schengen area on 31 March. Border checks will cease between Bulgaria and other Schengen countries for air or sea travel.
Checks continue at land borders between Bulgaria and other Schengen countries.
If you're travelling without a visa, ensure your entire visit to the Schengen area, including your stay in Bulgaria, is within the 90-day limit. This applies to all arrivals (air, land and sea).
Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest Bulgarian Embassy or Consulate for details about visas, customs and quarantine rules.
- Official Tourism Portal of Bulgaria
- Visas and entry requirements in Europe and the Schengen Area
Other formalities
Children under 18 years of age, including dual nationals, may only leave Bulgaria:
- if both parents accompany them or
- if they have consent from both parents
A Bulgarian notary must certify any parental consent.
If you're a single parent, ensure your child meets entry and exit rules.
- Embassy of Bulgaria in Australia
- Advice for people travelling with children
Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.
Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.
You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.
The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport .
Lost or stolen passport
Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.
Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.
If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:
- In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service .
- If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate .
Passport with 'X' gender identifier
Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.
- LGBTI travellers
The currency of Bulgaria is the Bulgarian Lev (BGN).
Declare amounts over 10,000 euros, or equivalent, if you're travelling between Bulgaria and any non-EU country. You need to do this on both arrival and departure. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.
If you don't declare or give incorrect information, you'll need to pay a fine.
You don't need to declare cash if travelling to or from another EU country.
Access to money
Bulgaria is mostly a cash economy, particularly outside of Sofia, although credit and debit card use is increasing.
Exchange money in banks, large hotels or exchange bureaus. Avoid unofficial or street sellers.
Local travel
Carry your passport when you cross borders, even within the Schengen area .
Check with local authorities and transport providers for the latest information on entry and exit changes and delays.
Driving permit
You'll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) and your current Australian driver's licence to drive in Bulgaria.
Your travel and vehicle insurance might be void if you don't have an IDP.
Get your IDP before you leave Australia.
When hiring a car, keep a copy of the original contract from the car hire company with you. If you're travelling across a land border into Bulgaria with a hire car, the contract should make clear that the vehicle can travel into Bulgaria.
- Driving or riding
Road travel
Major city streets and intercity highways are generally in good condition.
Driving on rural and secondary roads is hazardous due to the following:
- poor maintenance and lighting
- narrow roads
- poor driving standards
- wandering livestock and horse-drawn carts
- rockslides and landslides on roads in the mountains
Police strictly enforce traffic laws and conduct frequent checks. These include radar speed checks.
Depending on the offence, they may collect on-the-spot fines or confiscate your licence.
If you drive in Bulgaria:
- keep your headlights on, even during the day
- use winter tyres from November to March
- carry a fire extinguisher, first aid kit and warning triangle in your vehicle
You'll get a fine if you don't have a valid vignette (a permit for using the road network in Bulgaria). You do not need to print the vignette. Authorities accept electronic evidence.
Motorcycles
Ask your travel insurer whether your policy covers using a motorcycle, quad bike or similar vehicle.
Always wear a helmet.
Use only authorised taxi and limousine services. Try to arrange these through your hotel.
Don't hail taxis on the street. Use taxis with meters that display clear rates.
Taxi drivers may overcharge, particularly at airports and train stations.
You can find companies offering metered taxi services inside Sofia Airport.
Public transport
Keep your belongings close on public transport, as petty crime happens.
The train system is poor by European standards. There have been several fires on trains.
Accessible public transport is available in Sofia and other large cities. However, it's limited in some parts of Bulgaria.
- Transport and getting around safely
DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.
Check Bulgaria's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.
Emergencies
Depending on what you need, contact your:
- family and friends
- travel agent
- insurance provider
Always get a police report when you report a crime.
Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.
English-speaking operators are available.
Consular contacts
Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
The Australian Consulate in Sofia provides limited services and doesn't issue passports.
Australian Consulate, Sofia
37 Trakia Street Sofia, 1504 Bulgaria Phone: (+359) 2946 1334 Email: [email protected]
You can get full consular help from the Australian Embassy in Greece.
Australian Embassy, Athens
Level 2 5 Hatziyianni Mexi Street Athens 11528 Greece Phone: +30 210 870 4000 Email: [email protected] Website: greece.embassy.gov.au Facebook: Australia in Greece
X: AusAmbAthens
Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.
24-hour Consular Emergency Centre
In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:
- +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
- 1300 555 135 in Australia
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50 Things you should know before traveling to Bulgaria
So, you are thinking about traveling to Bulgaria? Don’t worry we have you covered!! Here you’ll find all the things you should know before traveling to Bulgaria.
This is a 50 Bulgaria travel tips list where we cover all about the Bulgarian people and the most interesting facts about it! You’ll also discover all the top destinations , what to eat in Bulgaria , how to travel around the country, and how much this will cost you!
This is the ultimate Bulgaria travel guide, with 50 things to know before traveling to Bulgaria!
Page Contents
Bulgaria and the Locals
#1 Bulgaria is located in southeastern Europe, in the Balkans Region. It is bathed by the Black Sea, and it is bordered by Romania to the north, Serbia and Macedonia to the west, and Greece and Turkey to the south.
#2 Bulgaria has been an EU member since 2007, however, it isn’t part of the Schengen treaty. Together with Romania, they are the only EU countries that aren’t part of it yet!
This means that even if you are from the EU, you’ll need your ID to enter Bulgaria. Anyway, the visa requirements for Bulgaria are similar to other EU countries; check here for further details!
#3 Bulgaria is the poorest country in the EU. Although it has been growing fast in more recent years, it still really shows in some parts and infrastructures. Furthermore, we can see some visible poverty, like beggars and homeless people.
There are some elderly people selling flowers and other things in the streets, which is heartbreaking. It isn’t as bad as in Georgia or Armenia , but still surprising to see it in an EU country.
#4 The climate in Bulgaria is similar to Central European countries, with cold, wet winters and hot and dry summers. The seasons in Bulgaria are very distinct; while in the Winter, there are regular snowfalls, particularly in the mountains, in Summer the temperatures go well beyond 30º making the Black Sea a great beach destination .
#5 Nearly one-third of Bulgaria is covered in forests which isn’t a surprise because the country is very mountainous with over 40 mountains on its territory.
Needless to say, they are great for skiing, mountaineering, and hiking. On the other hand, the rest of the territory is made up of vast plains which are used to produce corn and sunflowers.
#6 Bulgarian is perfectly unintelligible to almost anyone outside the country. However, that’s not the worst… Bulgarians use the Cyrillic alphabet, making everything even more difficult for us Westerners.
We can’t really read or understand anything if it is written only in Bulgarian, not even the name of places or towns.
#7 Even though most Bulgarians speak very little English, particularly the older generations, It is still probably the best language for you to get around. On the other hand, in the more touristy areas, more people speak English, and you’ll communicate better.
#8 Although communication is often difficult you will quickly notice that Bulgarians are usually very nice and attentive to tourists and travelers. They take their time to explain correctly and give good information. They want you to like Bulgaria, which makes us feel very welcome.
#9 While visiting Bulgaria, you will certainly notice one thing very quickly… Bulgarians are good looking! Both men and women are easy on the eyes, and they really know how to present themselves.
#10 Modern-day Bulgaria stands in the region where the ancient Thracian civilization (famed for their gold-making, fierce warriors, and the gladiator Spartacus) lived before the Roman Empire conquered them and later the Ottoman. You can still find over 15 000 Thracian tombs spread through Bulgaria.
#11 Bulgaria is the biggest producer of Rose oil in the World. In fact, it produces more than 80% of the world’s Rose Oil and Rose Water. All the oil is produced in only one region, called Rose Valley, and it is regarded as the best in the world.
The Rose Water also makes an excellent souvenir or gift to someone back home, as it is one of the things Bulgaria is famous for.
#12 Is Bulgaria Safe to Travel? In one word, YES! Bulgaria is a very safe country to travel around. Like in any other touristic country, unfair individuals want to take advantage of distracted tourists, hence the most common crimes are pick-pocketing, bag snatching, and other financially driven offenses…
Violent crime is rare but exists. However, we never experienced this, and furthermore, we always felt perfectly safe in Bulgaria.
#13 One thing Bulgaria needs to improve is littering. We particularly noticed cigarette buts all over the place, particularly on the beaches. I’m not sure if it’s the tourists, the locals, or both, but it really needs to be improved. The country is absolutely gorgeous, and there’s no reason not to take good care of it!
Travel in Bulgaria and top tourist attractions
#14 Bulgaria is home to 10 UNESCO Heritage Sites, 7 of them are cultural, and the other 3 are natural sites. Click here to find out more about them!
#15 Bulgaria has been growing as a tourist destination in the last few years. The coast has always been a hotspot, particularly for Eastern Europe vacationers. However, lately, there are more and more Westerns in Bulgaria.
#16 Along the Bulgarian coast, there are several beaches to choose from, but luckily they aren’t that far away from each other, and you probably can do many of them in the same vacation! There are two major beach destinations, one around Varna and the other around Burgas.
#17 Varna is the 3rd biggest city in Bulgaria, and it has some good urban beaches around it. It is a good place to stop for a day or two on a road trip.
However, if you are looking for beach resort vacations, you’ll want to go to golden sands beach, a few km north. There you have a great beach, full of people and restaurants, bars and everything you’ll need!
#18 On the other hand, Burgas contains a quaint waterfront, nice parks, and a pedestrianized city center. We found the urban beach in Burgas to be superior to the ones in Varna and surprisingly uncrowded. I mean, it has tourists, but we thought it would be much, much more.
Furthermore, Burgas has one big advantage over Varna, it is significantly closer to Nessebar and Sozopol.
#19 Both Nessebar and Sozopol are ancient port towns built in a beautiful setting in rocky peninsulas, with the black sea around. While Nessebar is right next to the huge beach resort of Sunny Beach and is very, very touristy, Sozopol is a few Km south of Burgas and is a bit quieter. Both are nice!
#20 While the beaches of Bulgaria are pretty amazing and deserve at least a few days of relaxing, swimming, partying, and people-watching, we strongly suggest you also give the interior a shot! It has marvelous old towns, fortresses, monasteries, waterfalls, lakes, and mountains that you won’t forget easily!
#21 Veliko Tarnovo is one of those places… It was the capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire, and it was built in a unique canyon.
The setting of Veliko Tarnovo is incredible, and the cobbled, steep streets give this small town an irresistible charm, but what makes it a must-do destination is the Tsarevets, a medieval fortress & palace built on a hill.
#22 Plovdiv is one of the oldest cities in the world, with a history spanning nearly 8 Millenium! The old town of Plovdiv is very pleasant, with narrow streets full of historical buildings.
However, it is a much bigger city (the second in Bulgaria) with many things to do, and it’s the European Capital of Culture in 2019.
#23 Both Plovdiv and Veliko Tarnovo make an excellent base for a day trip to the Rose Valley and some of Thracians Tombs, which are located in Karlovo or close to it.
The Thracian tomb of Karlovo is a UNESCO site, but there are others close to the Valley. Also, you can’t visit the original tomb, which has been sealed forever! You can only visit the exact replica next to it.
Note that the Rose Valley is only worth it during Rose Season between May and June. During the rest of the year, you won’t see many Roses. Apart from this, Karlovo doesn’t really have anything else interesting.
#24 Sofia is located in the east part of the country, and it’s the capital and biggest city in Bulgaria.
Sofia isn’t the most exciting capital city in Europe, but it has some impressive tourist attractions like the Alexandar Nevski Cathedral, the Synagogue, the Market Hall, and the ancient Boyana Church, only 5km from central Sofia.
#25 Believe it or not, we left our favorite part of Bulgaria to the end… Rila National Park with its two main attractions, the Rila Monastery and the 7 Rila Lakes.
Rila Monastery was our biggest surprise in Bulgaria. We knew it was good; we had high expectations but still managed to surpass them… The 7 Rila lakes and the chairlift to them are just a great way to enjoy the mountains and their beauty. If you have time, this is one of the best hiking areas.
What to eat in Bulgaria
#26 If there’s one thing Bulgaria is above the average, really above the average is its food. The ingredients used are just incredibly good! The tomatoes, cucumbers, cheese, yogurt, and fish are some of the best we have ever tried!
#27 Besides being very tasty, Bulgarian food can be healthy! There’s a huge variety of salads!
Our favorite (and almost everyone’s) is the Shopska Salad, made from tomatoes, cucumbers, onion/scallions, raw or roasted peppers, sirene (white brine cheese), and parsley. It’s as simple as it’ great! The Shopska Salad is available in every restaurant you’ll go to.
#28 Besides the Salads, you can also go for a variety of soups! There are many ordinary soups, but among the soups, we need to highlight Tarator and the Shkembe, mainly because they are so different one has to try them!
Tarator is a yogurt and cucumber soup… Yap, you read it right! Think of it as a watered-down version of the Greek sauce tzatziki… It’s very fresh and a Summer favorite among the locals.
Shkembe is a tripe soup with a strong, spicy flavor. It’s usually combined with salt, garlic, and vinegar in a separate cup.
#29 Bulgarian Yogurt is smooth, creamy, and delicious! It’s sometimes said to be the best in the world because it only uses a combination of two strains: Lactobacillus Bulgaricus and Streptococcus Thermophilus.
Yogurt is a staple food in Bulgaria, it’s used everywhere and eaten with almost everything… (even soups…:) ) It’s definitely something you need to try.
#30 I wasn’t expecting to eat much fish in Bulgaria… I love great fresh fish but only if it’s really good, so I don’t really experiment much with fish. However, I gave a try at the trouts in Rila National park, and they were very good!
After that, I discovered that If you like fish, you are in for a treat! The grilled sea bass, sea bream, fried scat and red mullet, the calamares , it only ranged from good to exceptional!
#31 One of the most famous Balkan (and Bulgarian) food is the Kebapche, which is grilled minced meat with spices in a cylindrical form (like a hot dog, I guess).
The meat used is pork or beef, and the preferred spices are black pepper, cumin, and salt! If you like cumin, you’ll love this! Note that Kyufte is very similar to Kebapche but it’s rounded (like meatballs…?) and includes onions and parsley.
#32 Finally, we get to the banitsa… the famous Balkan pastry! We had already tried the Croatian version, and it didn’t disappoint in Bulgaria. You’ll recognize banitsa quickly due to its unique spiral form.
Banitsa is made with eggs, filo pastry, filled with eggs, and baked in the oven. The filling has many variations: salty (spinach, leeks, cabbage) and sweet (apple, pumpkin with sugar, walnuts).
#33 Bulgarians must love coffee! I mean, they can’t live without it… I don’t think I have ever seen so many coffee vendor machines! They are everywhere, so you won’t have trouble finding coffee in Bulgaria. Furthermore, it was very, very cheap!
#34 One thing I liked about Bulgarian restaurants is that they disclose how much the dish weighs.
This is very useful for tourists, as you can have an idea of how much food you are ordering! Particularly because it’s always so cheap, you may assume that the portions are small… Usually, you would be very wrong 🙂
Money and Costs of Traveling to Bulgaria
#35 The official currency of Bulgaria is the Lev (code BGN). Many businesses have prices in Euro and may even accept Euros at a nice rate, however, ask politely beforehand.
The Lev is pegged to the Euro at a rate of 1.95583 Leva = 1 Euro! You can easily withdraw money from an ATM or change it in any of the hundreds of bureau de change .
#36 Is Bulgaria cheap to travel to? Bulgaria is the cheapest country in the European Union and the cheapest country we have ever traveled to in Europe! A couple can easily spend less than 40 Euros per day!
#37 This is possible because Bulgaria is an all-around inexpensive country . Actually, I can’t think of anything that’s priced above the average.
Food and accommodation are extremely cheap, petrol is less expensive than in any developed country. Even most tourist attractions are free (Rila monastery, for example) or very cheap.
#38 Usually we advise people to buy some supermarket foods and try to cook, but in Bulgaria, it really isn’t necessary! Restaurants are really cheap, however, if you still want to cook some meals, note that supermarkets are even cheaper. 🙂
#39 Most shops, restaurants, and bars will accept credit and debit cards; however, we strongly suggest you always carry LEV with you! Surprisingly, the exceptions are the tourist attractions, as many wouldn’t accept cards…
Furthermore, there aren’t ATM costs in Bulgaria, but be aware you may have to pay your home bank fees, particularly the foreign currency fee.
#40 Finally, we found Bulgaria so cheap that we would tip and round up bills regularly, as we thought it was too cheap. Note that we are budget travelers. This doesn’t happen very often! That’s how cheap we found it.
How to travel in Bulgaria
#41 Public transportation is reasonable, particularly if you consider that this is the poorest country in the EU.
The railway network is big and can take you to every major (and smaller) city, and you can even reach the nearby countries through it. However, they are very slow! If you have the time, it’s a cool option, if you don’t, you are better off using your own car and buses.
Important note: Smaller train stations don’t sell international tickets, only national!
#42 Within Sofia you can easily use only public transport, an occasional taxi and walking. However, if you have a car, Sofia is probably one of the easiest big cities we have ever traveled to. Note that Uber and other ride shares don’t work in Bulgaria.
#43 If you don’t have enough time, you want to travel around Bulgaria, particularly to the more remote locations, then a car is the way to go! It’s fairly cheap to rent, and fuel costs are as low as possible in an EU country! You can rent a car for 160 Euros a week, insurance included.
#44 Renting and driving a car in another country can be stressful, but our experience in Bulgaria was very smooth. Drivers in Bulgaria drive reasonably well, very different from Georgia and Armenia for example. They are slightly in a hurry in the bigger towns, but that happens almost everywhere nowadays.
Furthermore, we never had big traffic jams in Bulgaria, not even in Sofia, Plovdiv, or close to the beach. Maybe we are very lucky, but that’s definitely a big plus!
#45 One of the things you need to know before traveling to Bulgaria is that the roads are pretty bad. Not as bad as Armenia, but if that’s the term of comparison, it’s a very bad sign :). But seriously, be careful because you can get into potholes anywhere.
Are you enjoying this guide? Check the 50 things you need to know before going to Armenia!
#46 Nonetheless, while driving in Bulgaria, you should note a few important things:
- Many roads don’t have any markings, which is weirder than anything else.
- Even rare than Road markings are the speed limit signs… you can spend hours driving without seeing one 🙂
- If you travel by your own car, a road vignette is mandatory not at motorways but on all main roads too. It costs €8 for 7 days, and you can purchase it at the border or gas stations. It can’t be purchased online. You’ll see tons of signs advising about this.
- There aren’t highway tolls in Bulgaria, apart from the two bridges − New Europe Bridge and Danube Bridge, both at Danube border crossings to Romania.
#47 Parking is usually a nightmare when traveling by car, particularly in city centers and highly touristy zones. However, in Bulgaria, it was fairly easy and/or inexpensive.
Most places had free parking, and when it wasn’t free it was cheap. Furthermore, finding a parking spot was always very easy.
Other useful information about traveling in Bulgaria
#48 You won’t have any problems getting WIFI in Bulgaria. Most restaurants, bars, and hotels have it for free. Also, if you have an EU sim card, you can use it for free, so you’ll also have a data sim card.
#49 Which vaccines do I need to go to Bulgaria? There is no mandatory vaccination to enter Bulgaria, but some are recommended. The CDC and WHO recommend vaccination against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, rabies, and influenza.
#50 Our final Bulgaria travel tip is: Buy local! It’s cheap, and you’ll help the locals. One of the best ways to buy locally in Bulgaria is from road vendors in the countryside. You’ll see people selling fruits, veggies, honey, nuts, and so on…
Do you remember what we said about the ingredients? They are crazy good! Believe me, you won’t regret it!
Our Recommended Travel Guide Books For Bulgaria
Our recommended Bulgaria travel Guide is the Bulgaria and Romania guide from Lonely Planet , which is particularly useful if you are visiting both Bulgaria and Romania.
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15 Things to Know Before Visiting Bulgaria
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If you don’t know what to expect when visiting Bulgaria, you’re not alone. I had no preconceived ideas about the country when I first went and my planning was honestly very limited. At that time, Bulgaria felt like it wasn’t on people’s radar. Visiting more recently, it still feels that way.
Yes, Bulgaria is fairly popular as a seaside destination in summer, but even that’s not on the same scale as its Mediterranean and Adriatic cousins. All this is to say that visiting Bulgaria was eye-opening, as I began to learn more about the history, culture, and people of this extraordinary country.
My return to Bulgaria may not have always gone as planned, but even then it was a joy to further explore this little corner of Europe. For those thinking of travelling to Bulgaria, here is my Bulgaria travel advice with what I think you need to know for your visit.
Table of Contents
1. Look Past Bulgaria’s Coast
Since Bulgaria’s coast is where the country is most popular with tourists, let’s start there. If you’re seeking an affordable beach vacation, places like Sunny Beach and Sozopol are worth the trip. And the historic port towns on the Black Sea are also worth visiting on their own.
But it pains me that people don’t realise how many other fascinating places there are to visit on a vacation to Bulgaria. The capital Sofia is a good starting point , with its complex history and socialist relics. Look even just a little deeper and you quickly find other cities in Bulgaria to go to, from the immensely cool city of Plovdiv to the former royal capital of Veliko Tarnovo .
Bulgaria’s mountains cover much of the country’s interior and not only are they really fun to explore, they hide lots of great smaller destinations as well. Visiting the Monastery of Dryanovo and the unique Sand Pyramids of Melnik were two highlights of my first visit . Seeing the Rila Monastery and Belogradchik Fortress , two of the most famous Bulgarian attractions, on my return trip was just as memorable.
2. Bulgaria Visa Requirements for Entry
While Bulgaria is part of the European Union, it is not yet part of the Schengen Area that allows free movement between countries, something many EU countries currently benefit from.
This means that when entering Bulgaria you will go through passport control and visa requirements vary. For information on Bulgaria travel requirements , here is one place to start . At the time of writing, travellers from Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada and most of Europe did not require visas for stays under 90 days.
Crossing the border from Turkey to Bulgaria, our train was stopped and border police came aboard. They collected passports, took them away and then returned them. Don’t be alarmed that people would take off with your passport without saying anything – it is fairly common practice in Eastern Europe and the Balkans.
3. Public Transport in Bulgaria
One of the biggest challenges of travelling in Bulgaria is getting around. The country’s mountains tend to get in the way a lot, especially since so many popular things to do in Bulgaria are found in or near them.
There are also drawbacks to public transport in Bulgaria. I’ve yet to travel by train in Bulgaria, aside from the overnight train from Istanbul, but do not hear good things about its reliability. The travellers I’ve talked to who used it encountered significant delays and were told by locals that they often don’t use it.
Travel by bus has always been my go-to in Bulgaria. An extensive bus network of various companies crisscrosses the country, but Sofia is certainly a major hub. I think the buses are good value, especially for how cheap tickets are, and mostly punctual.
One thing to keep in mind is that most major cities have multiple bus stations, so do check which stations you are departing from and arriving at. Information can be found online at Bgrazpisanie or Balkan Viator , but it always pays to check at the station in case of a rare error.
Once you’ve arrived, most cities and towns have local bus networks that are pretty straightforward to use. When I first went in 2016, buses in most cities still had ticket ladies who sold tickets onboard, often for only 1 lev. That’s certainly not the case now in Sofia. Their metro/bus system lets you just use your bank card, it’s that easy.
4. Best Time to Visit Bulgaria
Timing is everything when you visit pretty much any place in Europe and Bulgaria is no different. Go to Bulgaria in summer and you’re met with hot and humid weather, except for the Black Sea coast. Travel to Bulgaria in winter and the chances of snow are pretty high. Did I mention all of the mountains?
So when is the best time to visit Bulgaria? Well, it depends on why you’re going. If you want beach weather, June through August should give you that. Those just looking to visit Bulgaria’s cities benefit from more flexibility as the shoulder season should work just fine.
You’d think the hiking season would line up with beach weather, but actually most of June isn’t great for hiking as there still may be lots of snow in the mountains. Instead, try visiting between July and September when the mountain trails are clear. As for skiing in Bulgaria, January to March should offer the best conditions to hit the slopes in the mountains.
5. Local Customs to Know
Part of the fun of travel is learning local customs and quirks, but they can definitely lead to confusion at first. The big one for me in Bulgaria is that they nod for No and shake their head for Yes.
Non-verbal communication in a country where you don’t speak the language is super important. English is spoken a little in Bulgaria, mainly with younger people and it is growing. But there are still going to be times where you need to rely a lot on gestures and body language.
That means, simple gestures like nods and head shakes become even more critical. If you ask a bus driver “Bansko?” and they shake their head, I guarantee your first instinct will be to keep looking. I know I did. This will take some time to adjust to during your visit, but I found it always helps to rethink what answer you were given to ensure you understood it properly.
6. Language and Reading Bulgarian
The language of Bulgaria is – you guessed it – Bulgarian . The language is heavily Slavic, but with enough twists to distance it from most other Slavic languages, eg. Czech, Russian, Croatian. It’s not the easiest of languages for English speakers to swiftly pick up.
English is generally spoken in the tourist-heavy parts of the coast, particularly in Sunny Beach, but it’s far from guaranteed. Away from the coast, younger people are the ones more likely to know some English. As for second languages, Russian is definitely the most common across the country, with German probably next.
The other major hurdle for tourists in Bulgaria is that they use the Cyrillic Alphabet . While probably best known for its use in Russia, Cyrillic was actually developed in Bulgaria in the 9th century. That knowledge won’t help you read it any better, but Bulgarians are very proud of that fact.
When trying to read Cyrillic, I tend to sound it out one letter at a time like a little kid. It takes some getting used to, but it helps that the following letters are the same as they are in Latin: ‘ A’, ‘E’, ‘K’, ‘M’, ‘O’, ‘T’ . It’s also useful that the following translates easily: a Cyrillic ‘P’ is Latin ‘R’, ‘C’ is ‘S’, ‘H’ is ‘N’, ‘X’ is ‘H’ . With that little language lesson, you now know the first 4 letters of ‘HOTEL’ in Cyrillic are “XOTE”. Good luck with the rest!
A few basic Bulgarian phrases to help you get by include Dobŭr den which means ‘Good Day’; Blagodarya for ‘Thank you’; Molya te for ‘Please’; and Da and Ne for ‘Yes’ and ‘No’.
7. Managing Your Money
Bulgaria is another Eastern European country where your Euro is not of much use. The national currency of Bulgaria is the Lev (BGN) . Thankfully, the Lev seems to have a fixed rate against the Euro at 2 lev to 1 euro, making the mental currency conversion pretty easy.
For those out on the coast, you may not even need to do your own arithmetic as many signs and restaurants are also shown in Euros or Pounds.
But currency conversion shops are widely found around Bulgaria, especially in places like Sofia and the coast. They mainly exist to convert back and forward between Euros and Lev. While you always want to be wary of the rates you’re getting, my experience in Sofia was surprisingly good.
Now if you’re getting cash out of ATMs, a word of warning. Across the country, you’ll find Euronet ATMS – and I highly recommend not using them . While using my Wise card, I used this guide on ATM fees to avoid extra fees.
While having some cash in Bulgaria is useful, you can use your credit card in Bulgaria for a lot of things. Just make sure it’s a card that doesn’t slam you with currency conversion fees or bad exchange rates.
8. Is Bulgaria Safe to Visit?
Yes, in my experience, Bulgaria is a safe place to visit. I’ve travelled across the country in public transport and even hitched rides with people and never encountered problems.
The closest I’ve come to feeling unsafe is when a crowd of loud football fans moved through the centre of Sofia after a game, and that can happen anywhere that loves the sport. That said, I don’t tend to go out drinking/partying or be out in the middle of the night, so my exposure to certain risks is lower.
Safety is always going to be a concern for travellers but it’s also deeply specific to individuals. I’m a white male travelling in a European country, so my experience and feeling of safety in Bulgaria doesn’t necessarily mean that all travellers will feel safe. This is true anywhere.
9. Fading Socialist Reminders
One aspect of tourism in Bulgaria that seems to appeal to many international tourists are the remnants of Bulgaria’s era under socialist rule. During the latter half of the 20th century, the country saw a lot of monuments and buildings created in the very Brutalist style that was in vogue under the socialist republic.
The fall of the People’s Republic of Bulgaria in 1990 still wasn’t that long ago so there are plenty of examples around Bulgaria you can still see today. Buzludzha Monument may be the most iconic of these landmarks, but the capital Sofia has more than a few monolithic, Soviet-looking sights of its own.
Visit the Socialist Art Museum in Sofia and you’ll see all sorts of sculptures and statues from this time period. There’s also the popular Communist walking tour , which lets you learn more about the history and how it affected the people of Bulgaria.
Veliko Tarnovo is another city with its fair share of relics from this period. Look no further than the brutalist Interhotel by the river or the incredibly unusual secular church atop Tsarevets Fortress. Further afield, I’ve heard of abandoned bunkers and the like for those who are into urban exploration.
10. So Much History to Explore
If you said you don’t know the history of Bulgaria, I don’t think anyone would hold it against you. And I’m not just talking about the country’s period of socialism. The good news is that there are plenty of places to visit in Bulgaria that show you the country’s history.
Did you know that you can find Roman ruins in Bulgaria? Plovdiv is home to several ancient Roman landmarks, including a large amphitheatre. Skip ahead and you have landmarks from the middle ages and Bulgaria’s imperial days, such as the Tsarevets fortress in Veliko Tarnovo. There are also plenty of Ottoman landmarks too, many of which are mosques.
Bulgaria’s historical side doesn’t just have to be informative though; it can also be extremely picturesque. From Plovdiv to Veliko Tarnovo and Nesebar, you’ll find gorgeous buildings in the style known as Bulgarian Revival . This architectural style comes from the Bulgarian National Revival movement of the 18th and 19th centuries which also led to Bulgaria regaining autonomy from the Ottoman Empire in 1878.
11. Hiking in Bulgaria
One of my favourite things to do in Bulgaria has been hiking in the mountains there. Now, Bulgaria isn’t one of Europe’s classic hiking destinations, but you’re not going to be disappointed with it if you go.
Most of my hiking in Bulgaria has been around the Rila and Pirin Mountains. But these mountains in the country’s southwest are just two of the main mountain ranges in Bulgaria. You also have the reasonably remote Rhodope Mountains to their east, and the more accessible and extensive Balkan Mountains through the heart of Bulgaria.
Even though it was mostly cold, wet, and foggy for my hiking trip to Bulgaria, I still had a great time. Both when I was meandering around the Pirin Mountains and heading up to the Boyana Waterfall outside Sofia, I loved having the country’s pristine nature practically to myself. I am glad that the weather held up for my Seven Rila Lakes hike though, as the views on that hike are next level.
You have plenty of options for hiking here, both in terms of location, but also whether you want to do a longer hiking trip or just day hikes. For me, I’m still waiting to tackle Musala, the highest mountain peak in Bulgaria.
12. Bulgarian Foods and Drinks
Looking back, I don’t think I’ve been all that adventurous with my food habits when visiting Bulgaria. That’s probably because it’s never hard to find typical Bulgarian restaurants and common Balkan dishes such as kebapche and kufte.
But there are some Bulgarian staples I’ve tried during my visits. Despite their overwhelming volumes of sirene cheese, I’ve had my share of shopska salad and banitsa (pastry filled with cheese). And one of my go-to orders is kavarma , a kind of meat and vegetables served in a clay vessel.
I will admit though I’ve avoided Bulgaria’s famous yoghurt, ayran , simply because I’m lactose intolerant. But if you’re not, don’t skip this popular drink that you can find *everywhere*. Drinks I haven’t shied away from have been Bulgaria’s various beers, Shumensko, Kamenitza, and Pirinsko to name a few.
One thing I only learned about Bulgaria by visiting is that the country is quite a major wine producer. Mavrud, a red wine grape, is probably the best known variety from Bulgaria and is worth trying if you see it on a menu when in Bulgaria. Visit Melnik and you can also explore the town’s fruit wines, which I quite enjoyed.
13. Is Bulgaria Cheap to Visit?
Yes, Bulgaria is an affordable destination to visit and I’d say it’s one of the cheapest countries to travel in across Europe. The Balkans is a generally affordable region for international travellers to visit and I think Bulgaria is somewhere in the middle relative to the rest of the region.
The most expensive places to visit in Bulgaria are going to be the Black Sea Coast and then Sofia. Prices in these places weren’t that high during my first visit to Bulgaria, but accommodation in Sofia was definitely more expensive in 2023. Looking at prices for the coast as well, they also seem to have risen considerably.
Expenses in Bulgaria for things like food, attractions, and public transport are quite reasonable in my opinion. Filling dinners at basic restaurants for one person can comfortably cost 10-15€, while coffee typically only costs 1-2€. Entry to museums and attractions in Sofia typically cost around 5€. Public transport around Sofia for a day cost me less than 3€. A 3-hour bus ride from Sofia to Bansko costs 10€.
14. Is Bulgaria Friendly to Tourists?
As is so often the case with questions like this, it’s hard to say that everyone in Bulgaria is going to be completely friendly to you as a tourist. So many things affect this, from language barriers to perceptions of race/gender/orientation.
Across my Bulgaria travel experiences, I’ve met plenty of welcoming people in the tourism sector (guides, hotel staff, etc.). Then there have been friendly locals like the man that offered to provide suggestions of where to go when I hiked up to Boyana waterfall.
Of course, I’ve also experienced people that have been standoff-ish. And that’s true of most countries I’ve been to in Europe, especially places that are less accustomed to foreign tourists. But in Bulgaria at least, I can’t recall anyone being rude or offensive.
I think if your expectation of “friendliness” is big broad smiles, people greeting you on the street, and endless enthusiasm to help you, you’re going to be disappointed. Basically, don’t expect “American hospitality”.
15. Bulgarian Martenitsa
The bracelet’s colours represent vitality and purity, representing a wish for the wearer’s health in the coming year. Locals wear the bracelets until the first sighting of spring blossom, swallows or storks.
At this point, people take the bracelets off and tie them to trees, passing the wishes of vitality onto the tree. During my visit in July, you were still able to find many trees decorated with Martenitsa.
Resources for Visiting Bulgaria
- Getting There: To find the cheapest and most convenient flights to Bulgaria make sure to check Kayak .
- Accommodation: Here you can find hotels, apartments and guesthouses for across Bulgaria, plus don’t forget Airbnb.
- Tours: There are countless day trips, cruises, and sightseeing tours available in Bulgaria.
- Car Hire: If you want to travel more independently, consider renting a car to drive yourself about.
- Guide Books: Lastly, take a Lonely Planet Guide book if want a physical guide.
What other things would you like to know before visiting Bulgaria? Have you visited Bulgaria and have other insights to share? Please share them in the comments below.
David is the author behind the Travelsewhere travel blog and is always on the search for the quieter, less-visited corners of the world.
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This was definitely helpful! We had our big honeymoon planned for Italy at the moment but at 80% sure that we are going to cancel it and do a huge 2 week road trip through the Balkans hitting up Montenegro, Macedonia, Bulgaria and Romania mostly. Keep an eye out because I might be contacting you for recommendations, if you don’t mind! 🙂 I’ve already used your blog for a lot of info!
Glad to hear it Lorelei! I’m such a big fan of the Balkans so more than happy to help if you have questions or need recommendations. Have a great time!
Thank you! I’m just getting started on research so I’ll hit you up if/when I have questions. 🙂
Don’t miss out on Albania if you are doing a Balkan road trip. IMO the most interesting country to visit in the Balkans.
Don’t worry, we WILL visit one day, most likely as it’s own trip! I’m dying to visit!
great tips! I might use them one day:) #wanderfulwednesday
That nodding/shaking your head means the opposite from what we understand of it is definitely new to me! I’ll have to keep that in mind if I ever get to visit Bulgaria. I certainly don’t understand or speak Russian, let alone Bulgarian… 😉
Martenitsa sounds like a lovely custom. Enjoyed reading about it.
Unfortunately in Norway Bulgaria is synonym with party people, so I’ve never wanted to go. Know I should see beyond 🙂
These are great tips. The only thing I really know about Bulgaria is where to locate it on a map. I eventually would like to visit but it’s not high on my list. #wkendtravelinspiration
Haha that’s ok Allison, that’s probably more than many people can. I totally understand the perils of having a long list of places you want to visit. I hope you reach that far down the list one day 🙂
Great tidbits of information! I’ll definitely remember that nodding means no and that shaking your head is yes…wowzers! Bulgaria is on my radar since I’m living in Moscow now. 😀
The former eastern block countries fascinate me. I hope to visit Bulgaria and Romania someday.
We did a great road trip in Bulgaria, and although the roads are not the best, we had a fabulous time. We did see the bracelets on many trees in the church yards. Good article.
I know a few people from Bulgaria and friends who visited really enjoyed it for the culture and low prices compared with other parts of europe. nice reminder of what it’s worth visiting the less touristy parts of the world. #wkendtravelinspiration
Like you, I have no preconceived ideas about Bulgaria. It was good to learn more from you about this country. I am nodding my head, or am I shaking it 🙂
One of the things that intrigues me most in Bulgaria and other former Soviet Bloc countries is the Communist remnants. Particularly architecture and public works. Amazing in their own way, and still historically important. Also, that Bulgarian Revival architecture is great! Looks like another country we’d enjoy just wandering through and admiring! As always, great post!
Stay away from the coast. Party time is not educational.
I think you can still enjoy the coast if you don’t like partying. I know I did.
Bulgaria has become really popular for skiing, if you are a fan of winter sports, Pomporovo or Bansko in the winter will rock your expectations!
This was a very interesting and informative article but let me tell you this . I am Bulgarian myself . I was born and raised in Varna and then later in my life moved to Canada. There is a lot of misinformation floating out there such as the ” shake your head for NO and nod for YES” Simply not true unless they do that in some small high mountain village somewhere there it is absolutely NOT TRUE the rest of the country. Anyhow useful article never the less. Enjoy and happy travels everyone.
Thanks for commenting Ivo. That’s interesting to hear, perhaps it’s a regional thing. I definitely experienced it first hand in the west and know other people who experienced it as well
Visiting Bulgaria in the Winter can be really a great journey. I can say Borovets is one of the most popular destinations for this.
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Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise normal precautions in Bulgaria. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Bulgaria.. If you decide to travel to Bulgaria: Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.; Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.
The simple answer to the question is yes, travelling to Bulgaria is safe. In 2022, a total of 10,887,952 international travellers visited Bulgaria based on the country's National Statistical Institute report. The majority of them had virtually no reported problems.
Bulgaria is generally a safe country to travel to, and its people, much like in other Balkan countries, are quite friendly even though Balkan people have a falsely bad reputation. ... As to the Bulgaria and safety, it is, indeed, relatively safe with pickpocketing and mugging being observed. Taxis, especially in Sofia, shall be carefully chosen ...
Fake taxis. Stray animals. LGBTQ+ travel safety tips. Natural disasters and weather. 1. Be aware of fake exchange rates. Bulgaria is still mostly a cash economy. While you can pay with a card in the malls and supermarkets, that's rarely the case in other places such as markets, street stalls and most restaurants.
Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. Exercise normal precautions in Bulgaria. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Bulgaria.. If you decide to travel to Bulgaria: Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.; Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.
31 March 2024. Latest update: Information on Bulgaria's accession to the Schengen area from 31 March. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO) provides advice about risks of travel ...
FCDO travel advice for Bulgaria. Includes safety and security, insurance, entry requirements and legal differences.
16 July 2021. UPDATED INFORMATION FOR TRAVELERS ON ENTRY TO BULGARIA. From July 19th, 2021 to July 31st, 2021 on the basis of Order No. RD-01-597/16.07.2021 of the Minister of Health for tourism purposes in the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria tourists are allowed through the following border checkpoints: BORDER CHECKPOINT „Burgas ...
From 20 December 2021 to 31 March 2022 pursuant to Order No. РД-01-977 / 26.11.2021, amended and supplemented by an order No. РД-01-1036/ 17.12.2021 of the Minister of Health for the purpose of tourism on the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria tourists are allowed in the following border checkpoints (BCPs): The entry in the country is ...
Updated information (Updated on April 14, 2022) Messages from the Ministry of Tourism: Updated information for travelers on entry to Bulgaria Recommendations of anti-epidemic measures in tourist sites & activities for winter season 2021/2022 COVID-19 Health Travel Protocol Guidelines for the functioning of accommodation establishments and food and entertainment establishments in the conditions ...
Your passport must be valid 3 months beyond the date you expect to leave Bulgaria. Passport for official travel. Different entry rules may apply. Official travel. Passport with "X" gender identifier. ... Avoid non-essential travel. Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country ...
If your travel plans in Bulgaria include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip. Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe. Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first ...
Read the Department of State's COVID-19 page before you plan any international travel. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 3 Travel Health Notice for Bulgaria due to COVID-19. Improved conditions have been reported within Bulgaria. Visit the Embassy's COVID-19 page for more information on COVID-19 in ...
The Department of State has issued a Level 4 Travel Advisory ("Do Not Travel") for Bulgaria. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ... (that is, the arrest, death, or danger to the safety and security of U.S. citizens), please call +359-2-937-5101. Contact information: U.S. Embassy Sofia, Bulgaria +359-2-937-5100 (business hours)
Bulgaria is now part of the Schengen area, you must follow the Schengen area passport requirements to travel there. To enter Bulgaria (and all Schengen countries) your passport must: have a ...
From August 4th, 2021 to August 31st, 2021 on the basis of Order No. Rd-01-645/28.07.2021, amendmented of Order No. Rd-01-673/02.08.2021 of the Minister of Health for tourism purposes in the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria tourists are allowed through the following border checkpoints: Entry is based on an assessment of the prevalence of ...
Below are my top 5 safest places to visit in Bulgaria: Sofia: the city center is quite traveler-friendly. There are also a ton of amazing things to do in Sofia. Check out which scams and areas you should avoid in the sections below. Plovdiv: the Old Town and the city center are very safe for tourists.
A bus from Sofia to Varna costs around 33 BGN and takes seven hours, while Varna to Plovdiv is 27 BGN and also takes seven hours. A three-hour journey from Sofia to Veliko Tarnovo shouldn't cost more than 30 BGN. Train - Train travel in Bulgaria is often cheaper than taking the bus, but it's a lot slower.
Take care of your belongings. Protests occur regularly. They can disrupt public transport and turn violent without warning. Watch out for drink spiking. Don't leave your food or drinks unattended. Bombings, shootouts and gang wars can occur. Always be aware of your surroundings. Monitor the media for risks. Full travel advice: Safety.
FCDO travel advice for Bulgaria. Includes safety and security, insurance, entry requirements and legal differences.
Thracian Tomb, Things to know before traveling to Bulgaria. #11 Bulgaria is the biggest producer of Rose oil in the World. In fact, it produces more than 80% of the world's Rose Oil and Rose Water. All the oil is produced in only one region, called Rose Valley, and it is regarded as the best in the world.
3. Public Transport in Bulgaria. One of the biggest challenges of travelling in Bulgaria is getting around. The country's mountains tend to get in the way a lot, especially since so many popular things to do in Bulgaria are found in or near them. There are also drawbacks to public transport in Bulgaria.
Bulgaria travel advice. FCDO travel advice for Bulgaria. Includes safety and security, insurance, entry requirements and legal differences. Getting married or registering a civil partnership abroad