Bulgaria

At A glance

Capital City: Sofia

Land size: 108,489 sq km

Population: 6,873,253 (2022 est.)

Official language: Bulgarian

Currency: Bulgarian lev (Лв / BGN)

UNESCO properties and sites:

• Ancient City of Nessebar
• Boyana Church, Madara Rider
• Rila Monastery
• Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo
• Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak
• Thracian Tomb of Sveshtari
• Ancient and Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathians and Other Regions of Europe
• Pirin National Park
• Srebarna Nature Reserve

Source: https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/bulgaria/


Bulgaria offers a number of experiences that will leave you captivated. Explore the vibrant capital city of Sofia, where ancient ruins stand alongside modern architecture, and dynamic cultural scenes thrive. Discover the architectural marvels of Plovdiv, one of Europe's oldest continuously inhabited cities, where Roman ruins and vibrant street art coexist.
Bulgaria's historical treasures, natural wonders, and vibrant culture offer a truly unique travel experience.

Venture into the enchanting landscapes of the Bulgarian countryside, where rolling hills, charming villages, and picturesque vineyards invite you to explore their beauty on horseback. Ride through the enchanting landscapes of the Rhodope Mountains, cantering through verdant meadows, dense forests, and picturesque valleys. Learn more about the ancient Thracians, as you ride from one rural village to the next.
Whether you're an experienced rider seeking thrilling adventures or a beginner looking to connect with these magnificent animals amidst serene surroundings, Bulgaria has something for you.

 

Brief History

The Bulgars, a Central Asian Turkic tribe, merged with the local Slavic inhabitants in the late 7th century to form the first Bulgarian state. In succeeding centuries, Bulgaria struggled with the Byzantine Empire to assert its place in the Balkans, but by the end of the 14th century the country was overrun by the Ottoman Turks.
Northern Bulgaria attained autonomy in 1878 and all of Bulgaria became independent from the Ottoman Empire in 1908. The years under Ottoman occupation have been devastating for the Bulgarian culture and religion.

Having fought on the losing side in both World Wars, Bulgaria fell within the Soviet sphere of influence and became a People's Republic in 1946. From 1954, Todor Zhivkov was the general secretary of the Communist Party and Bulgarian leader. Considered by many to be a dictator, Todor Zhivkov was in command of the country for 35 years, until the fall of the Soviet Union.
Communist domination ended in 1990, when Bulgaria held its first multiparty election since World War II and began the contentious process of moving toward political democracy and a market economy.
The country joined NATO in 2004 and the EU in 2007.

Source: https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/bulgaria/
https://visitmybulgaria.com/brief-history/

 

Cultural Insights

The names "Bulgar", and "Bulgarian" most likely derive from a Turkic verb meaning "to mix." Ethnic Bulgarians trace their ancestry to the merging of Bulgars (or Proto-Bulgarians), a central Asian Turkic people, and Slavs, a central European people, beginning in the seventh century.

The everyday diet is based largely on local, in-season products. Bread, an important staple, is often purchased rather than home baked. Dairy products are widely consumed, particularly yogurt and white-brined cheese. Home-cooked lunches and dinners often include soups, salads, stews, grilled meats, or stuffed vegetables, while meals away from home may consist of foods such as bread, cheese, sausage, and vegetables. Many people can fruits and vegetables and make sauerkraut for winter when fresh produce is unavailable or unaffordable. Typical restaurant offerings are more limited than home cooking, with menus based around salads, soups, grilled meats, and perhaps a meatless offering.

In Bulgaria, gestures for indicating "yes" and "no" are essentially opposite from those common in most of the rest of Europe. A sideways shaking of the head indicates "Yes," and a short upward and downward movement (nod) of the head indicates "No."

Bulgarians generally pride themselves on their hospitality and neighborliness. An uninvited visitor will first be greeted with a handshake or verbal greeting at the outermost doorway or gateway, and will be invited further into the private domestic space depending on the nature of the visit. At mealtimes, a guest will be offered food and drink, and at other times a drink (often homemade rakiya); it is impolite not to accept this hospitality. The obligation to accept a host's offer extends to situations outside of the home, such as when invited for a meal or a drink in a restaurant or other establishment. When visiting someone's home, it is customary to bring flowers or sweets.

On the street or in other public places, strangers will usually avoid making eye contact. In public transportation, it is expected that younger people will give up a seat to an older woman or to a parent with a young child. Failure to do so invites public censure from other passengers.

In ethnically-mixed areas, it is considered polite to greet a neighbor or acquaintance in that person's own language.

Source: https://www.everyculture.com/Bo-Co/Bulgaria.html

 

Transportation

By Air
Sofia Airport is the largest Bulgarian international airport. In 2000, Terminal 1 was totally renovated – the Departure Hall was extended, and a separate building was designated for arriving passengers. On the eve of Bulgarian accession to European Union, Sofia Airport celebrated its 70th anniversary with a new appearance; the opening of Terminal 2.

By Rail
The train network in Bulgaria is operated by the Bulgarian State Railways (BDZ). You can look up train times on the Eurail train timetable or on the BDZ website.
The majority of trains within Bulgaria do not require advance seat reservations.
An exception are the Express (Ekspresen) trains. They run mainly on the routes Sofia - Plovdiv, Sofia - Varna and Sofia - Burgas. Reservations can be made at the Rila travel agencies, which you can find for example at Sofia train station. Good to know: a reservation is called 'zapazeno myasto' in Bulgarian.

Source: https://sofia-airport.eu/en/about-us/history/
https://www.plovdivairport.com/en
https://www.eurail.com/en/get-inspired/top-destinations/bulgaria-train

 

Money

There are many exchange bureaux in Bulgaria that normally accept major currencies. Check the rates of exchange before making a transaction. Where possible, change money in banks, large hotels, or exchange bureaux. Don’t use sellers on the street.

There is a large network of ATMs that accept standard international credit and debit cards. Check with your card provider whether you will be able to use these machines to withdraw Leva.

Be sure to always carry some cash on you, because there are many places that don’t accept card payments.

Source: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/bulgaria
https://visitmybulgaria.com/useful-information/

 

Health

Adequate health facilities are available at some hospitals in major cities, but health care in rural areas may be below U.S. standards. Facilities in most Bulgarian hospitals are basic and old-fashioned. Standards of medical care are good, although specialized equipment and treatment may not be available. Hospital staff rarely speak English.

Private clinics and hospitals are generally well equipped and not expensive.
There have been reports of overcharging of foreign tourists in private medical clinics in tourist resorts. If you decide to use the services, agree a price in advance.
Hospitals and doctors require payment “up front” prior to service or admission. Credit card payment is not always available.

If you need emergency medical assistance during your trip, dial 112 and ask for an ambulance. If you are referred to a medical facility for treatment you should contact your insurance/medical assistance company immediately.
Ambulance services are widely available, but training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards.
Patients bear all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.

Source: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/bulgaria
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Bulgaria.html

 

Electricity

Bulgaria operates on a 230V supply voltage and uses type C and F plugs.

he Type C electrical plug (or Europlug) is a two-wire plug that has two round pins. It fits into any socket that accepts 4.0 – 4.8 mm round contacts on 19 mm centres. They are being replaced by E, F, J, K or N sockets which work perfectly with Type C plugs.

The Type F electrical plug (also known as a Schuko plug) has two 4.8 mm round pins spaced 19 mm apart. The CEE 7/7 plug was developed to work with sockets E and F and has grounding clips on both sides (to work with Type F sockets) and a female contact (to accept the grounding pin of the type E socket).

Source: https://www.iec.ch/world-plugs

 

Communication

Time zone in Bulgaria: Eastern European Standard Time (GMT+2)

International country code – 359

Three mobile service operators provide Bulgaria with almost 100% 3G and 4G network coverage both on its territory and on territorial waters. By the end of 2022 about 70% of the population is expected to be covered by 5G.
There is internet coverage almost everywhere in the country. In the larger towns and cities, there are wi-fi spots with free internet access. These are located mainly in the trade centers, railway stations and bus stations.

Source: https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/bulgaria/
https://bulgariatravel.org/useful/communications/


Phrasebook

English	Bulgarian
Hello!	Dobar den!
Goodbye	Dovijdane
Good morning	Dobro utro
Good evening	Dobŭr vecher
Good night	Leka nosht
Please	Molya
Thank you	Blagodarya
Yes	Da
No	Ne

Source: https://theculturetrip.com/europe/bulgaria/articles/12-phrases-you-need-to-know-before-visiting-bulgaria/

 

Entry Requirements

The Bulgarian visas are issued by the Bulgarian embassies and consulates abroad, not at the airports or the land and sea passport control points in Bulgaria.

A visa is issued only to holders of passports or travel documents that are valid for Bulgaria for at least 3 months after the end of the intended stay and that contain 2 blank pages. As from 1 January 2006, all children entering Bulgaria will need to have their own passport. Children included in their parents’ passports will only be allowed in if the passport also contains their photograph.

Since 31st of January 2012 The Republic of Bulgaria applies a visa-free system for holders of valid Schengen visas. The holders of Schengen visas have the right to enter and reside in the Republic of Bulgaria for a period of validity of their Schengen visas and permitted duration of stay, but no more than three months in any sixth-month period from the date of first entry.

You can check the following website to see if you need to apply to a visa to visit Bulgaria: https://www.passportindex.org/travel-visa-checker/

Source: http://bulgarianembassy-london.org/consular-services/visas/

 

Embassies and Consulates

U.S. Embassy in Sofia
16, Kozyak Street
Sofia 1408, Bulgaria
Telephone: +359 2 937 5100

Consulate of Canada in Sofia
7 Pozitano Street, Block #3, 1st Floor, Office #4
Sofia 1000, Bulgaria
Telephone: +359 2 969 9710

Source: for USA https://www.usembassy.gov/
For Canada: https://travel.gc.ca/assistance/embassies-consulates

 

 

UNESCO Sites

Ancient City of Nessebar
Situated on a rocky peninsula on the Black Sea, the more than 3,000-year-old site of Nessebar was originally a Thracian settlement (Menebria). At the beginning of the 6th century BC, the city became a Greek colony. The city’s remains, which date mostly from the Hellenistic period, include the acropolis, a temple of Apollo, an agora and a wall from the Thracian fortifications. Among other monuments, the Stara Mitropolia Basilica and the fortress date from the Middle Ages, when this was one of the most important Byzantine towns on the west coast of the Black Sea. Wooden houses built in the 19th century are typical of the Black Sea architecture of the period.

Boyana Church
Located on the outskirts of Sofia, Boyana Church consists of three buildings. The eastern church was built in the 10th century, then enlarged at the beginning of the 13th century by Sebastocrator Kaloyan, who ordered a second two storey building to be erected next to it. The frescoes in this second church, painted in 1259, make it one of the most important collections of medieval paintings. The ensemble is completed by a third church, built at the beginning of the 19th century. This site is one of the most complete and perfectly preserved monuments of east European medieval art.

Madara Rider
The Madara Rider, representing the figure of a knight triumphing over a lion, is carved into a 100-m-high cliff near the village of Madara in north-east Bulgaria. Madara was the principal sacred place of the First Bulgarian Empire before Bulgaria’s conversion to Christianity in the 9th century. The inscriptions beside the sculpture tell of events that occurred between AD 705 and 801.

Rila Monastery
Rila Monastery was founded in the 10th century by St John of Rila, a hermit canonized by the Orthodox Church. His ascetic dwelling and tomb became a holy site and were transformed into a monastic complex which played an important role in the spiritual and social life of medieval Bulgaria. Destroyed by fire at the beginning of the 19th century, the complex was rebuilt between 1834 and 1862. A characteristic example of the Bulgarian Renaissance (18th–19th centuries), the monument symbolizes the awareness of a Slavic cultural identity following centuries of occupation.

Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo
In the valley of the Roussenski Lom River, in north east Bulgaria, a complex of rock-hewn churches, chapels, monasteries and cells developed in the vicinity of the village of Ivanovo. This is where the first hermits had dug out their cells and churches during the 12th century. The 14th-century murals testify to the exceptional skill of the artists belonging to the Tarnovo School of painting

Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak
Discovered in 1944, this tomb dates from the Hellenistic period, around the end of the 4th century BC. It is located near Seutopolis, the capital city of the Thracian king Seutes III, and is part of a large Thracian necropolis. The tholos has a narrow corridor and a round burial chamber, both decorated with murals representing Thracian burial rituals and culture. These paintings are Bulgaria’s best-preserved artistic masterpieces from the Hellenistic period.

Thracian Tomb of Sveshtari
Discovered in 1982 near the village of Sveshtari, this 3rd-century BC Thracian tomb reflects the fundamental structural principles of Thracian cult buildings. The tomb has a unique architectural decor, with polychrome half-human, half-plant caryatids and painted murals. The 10 female figures carved in high relief on the walls of the central chamber and the decoration of the lunette in its vault are the only examples of this type found so far in the Thracian lands. It is a remarkable reminder of the culture of the Getes, a Thracian people who were in contact with the Hellenistic and Hyperborean worlds, according to ancient geographers.

Ancient and Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathians and Other Regions of Europe
This transboundary property stretches over 12 countries. Since the end of the last Ice Age, European Beech spread from a few isolated refuge areas in the Alps, Carpathians, Dinarides, Mediterranean and Pyrenees over a short period of a few thousand years in a process that is still ongoing. The successful expansion across a whole continent is related to the tree’s adaptability and tolerance of different climatic, geographical and physical conditions.

Pirin National Park
Spread over an area of over 27,000 ha, at an altitude between 1008 and 2914 m in the Pirin Mountains, southwest Bulgaria, the site comprises diverse limestone mountain landscapes with glacial lakes, waterfalls, caves and predominantly coniferous forests. It was added to the World Heritage List in 1983. The extension now covers an area of around 40,000 ha in the Pirin Mountains, and overlaps with the Pirin National Park, except for two areas developed for tourism (skiing). The dominant part of the extension is high mountain territory over 2000m in altitude, and covered mostly by alpine meadows, rocky screes and summits.

Srebarna Nature Reserve
The Srebarna Nature Reserve is a freshwater lake adjacent to the Danube and extending over 600 ha. It is the breeding ground of almost 100 species of birds, many of which are rare or endangered. Some 80 other bird species migrate and seek refuge there every winter. Among the most interesting bird species are the Dalmatian pelican, great egret, night heron, purple heron, glossy ibis and white spoonbill.

Source: https://whc.unesco.org/en/statesparties/bg