Category: Bulgaria
About the country
Bulgaria is one of the underrated destinations in Europe. People usually associate it with large resorts at the Black Sea, and more recently, with skiing. However, I think its charm lies elsewhere. People in Bulgaria speak Bulgarian, English, and Russian, adding to the cultural richness of the country.
But first, a few things about traveling to Bulgaria.
Is Bulgaria in the EU?
Yes, Bulgaria has been part of the European Union since 2007. It also recently joined the Schengen Area.
Visa Requirements
If you’re from the EU, UK, or a US citizen, you don’t need a visa to enter Bulgaria. Check here to find the complete list of countries exempt from visa requirements, as well as visa types.
A useful tool to sort the documents you need to travel is iVisa.
Where is Bulgaria and how to get there
Bulgaria is in the southeast of Europe, in the Balkan Peninsula. It is connected to the rest of Europe through flights from most major cities into its airports at Sofia, Bourgas, Plovdiv, and Varna.
Alternatively, you can drive into Bulgaria from Greece, Serbia, Romania, Turkey, and North Macedonia.
Transport
Public transport is difficult if you want to cover a lot of ground. Trains are slow, and information about bus services is usually hard to find and not always reliable.
If driving is an option, a car is the best way to make the most of your trip to Bulgaria. This way you can access the smaller towns as well. An added advantage is that gas in Bulgaria is not that expensive.
Money
Bulgaria’s currency is the leva (BGN). Though you can pay with credit cards in hotels, shops, and bigger restaurants, it’s always a good idea to have some cash with you. ATMs and exchange offices are available in all touristy areas.
As for price levels, compared to western European countries, Bulgaria is still a cheap country.
Accommodation
Accommodation ranges from charming B&Bs to huge resorts. I always rely on booking.com to find the best accommodations.
Best places to visit in Bulgaria
You can have many different travel experiences in Bulgaria. If you first arrive in the capital, you can explore the best of Sofia in one day. Head to Plovdiv, and be amazed at this multi-layered city. You’ll find everything from a Roman major city to a beautiful Old Town and a vibrant modern city. Close to Plovdiv, you can explore a traditional village – Koprivshtitsa. Alternatively, get a taste of the communist era at the Peshtera Museum.
I won’t say much about the sea resorts. If you get to the Black Sea, take the time to visit Balchik Palace – in a bohemian sea town.
Food in Bulgaria
The local food deserves a lot of appreciation. It’s best described by the country’s location between Greece, Turkey, and Serbia. Bulgarian cuisine took something out of each of its neighbors and created a unique blend. You can get an idea about it by reading about the best food in Plovdiv.
Pro travel tip – Nodding
If you are used to shaking your head up and down to express agreement and side to side to say no, you should know that in Bulgaria, these gestures mean the opposite. Remember this when someone asks you if you want that second beer.
Commercial Aspects
If you’re interested in living or opening a business in Bulgaria, you should do your research on fiscal aspects and digital options, like company formation Bulgaria online.