Is Bulgaria Really Worth Visiting as a Tourist?

People are different in every way possible, including in the way they travel. Some tourists prefer a fast-paced city break, while others enjoy the tranquility of nature. Some seek history, others modern experiences. 

Because of these differences, whether or not a country is worth visiting can’t really be answered in a one-sided way. Some will absolutely love Bulgaria, others might not enjoy it as much—it’s just the truth. 

However, I’ll give you an overview of various aspects of traveling in Bulgaria, so you can decide for yourself if it’s worth your time.

Never been to Bulgaria? Here’s what you should know

If you are visiting Bulgaria for the first time and/or thinking about whether or not you should go at all, there are a few fundamental things to keep in mind. 

While some aspects of the country might feel familiar, others may be a bit different from what you’re used to. Let’s break it down.

Communicating in English

The official language of Bulgaria is Bulgarian, and while not everyone speaks English, you’ll find more Bulgarians are fluent in English than ever before. Younger people, especially those under 40, are more likely to communicate in English. It is quite common for the elderly to know a bit of Russian. 

Getting by in restaurants, shops, and even on the street, is fairly easy. You may encounter some locals who don’t speak English, but it’s not too much of an obstacle. Hand gestures and a friendly smile can go a long way!

Reading the Cyrillic alphabet

One thing that can be a bit of an adventure for a first-time visitor is the Cyrillic alphabet. It might seem daunting at first, but trust me, you’ll be just fine – after all, hundreds of tourists survive Bulgaria every month! 

Most restaurants will have English menus, and major attractions are often marked in Latin characters as well. That said, there are places where you’ll see only Cyrillic script, such as at some bus stations or small shops. 

You can always use a free photo translator so you don’t miss an interesting attraction’s description. It also might be a good idea to take photos of the Cyrillic names of cities or places you’re visiting. That way you’ll always have a quick reference to help you when in doubt.

Paying and calculating costs in Lev

Bulgaria uses the Lev (BGN), which means you’ll need to exchange currency if you’re coming from a Eurozone or other non-Lev country. 

While exchange rates can vary, here’s a simple trick: divide the price in Lev by two, and that will give you a rough estimate of the cost in euros or dollars. For instance, if a craft beer costs 10 Lev, that’s about 5 euros or 5 dollars. 

As for payments, debit and credit cards are accepted in most of the popular tourist spots across the country that might be of your interest. 

However, cash is still very much the norm in some places, so make sure to always carry some with you. You don’t want to find yourself stuck in a situation where a small shop or restaurant only takes cash. It sometimes happens to me as a local, and it’s a pain.

Staying safe

“Is Bulgaria safe” is a common question among tourists. In terms of safety, Bulgaria is pretty much on par with other European countries. Thankfully, it’s not among the countries with high risks of terrorism, like Germany or the UK, so it’s considered quite safe to travel around. 

That said, always stay aware of your surroundings, just as you would anywhere else. As long as you take basic precautions, you’ll have no trouble enjoying your time here.

Choosing when to go

There are four distinct seasons in the country, so the best time to visit Bulgaria will depend on what type of activities you enjoy.

If you’re after sunny beach days and swimming in the sea, the warmer months of July and August are the ideal time to visit the Bulgarian Black Sea coast. These months offer the best weather for sunbathing and beach activities, though keep in mind that they are also the busiest months, so expect crowds in popular seaside towns.

For those who enjoy winter sports, the best time for skiing or snowboarding is from December to March, when the snow conditions are prime. The mountains offer a variety of slopes for all skill levels, from beginners to experts.

If you prefer to avoid the crowds, consider traveling during the spring (April to June) or autumn (September to November). These seasons offer pleasant weather, fewer tourists, and the chance to explore both the cities and countryside at a more relaxed pace.

Is Bulgaria worth visiting?

Bulgaria is absolutely worth visiting, even though it’s somewhat underrated as a tourist destination.  The country has a rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and a range of tourist attractions that make it unique. 

Despite these advantages, Bulgaria often flies under the radar when compared to other popular Eastern European destinations like Turkey, Romania, Greece, and Croatia. There are a number of complex reasons for this. 

For one, I don’t remember the last time Bulgaria was not in a political crisis, so naturally, the main focus hasn’t been placed on boosting tourism and foreign visitors. While there has been some progress in developing tourism infrastructure, some areas are still far from catching up with modern standards.

However, this doesn’t take away from Bulgaria’s tourism potential. The country has a lot to offer and can easily stand toe-to-toe with its more famous neighbors. 

So, if you’re looking for a more laid-back, less crowded experience, Bulgaria can offer a fulfilling and authentic adventure without compromising on what makes Eastern Europe so appealing to travelers.

Let’s see if you should visit Bulgaria based on your travel preferences!

For nature lovers

If you’re a nature lover, Bulgaria is a fantastic destination. 

There are 39 mountains within the country, each offering unique flora, fauna, and diverse topography. 

The most notable mountain ranges are:

• Pirin
• Rila
• Balkan (Stara Planina)
• Vitosha
• Rhodopes

These mountains are packed with hiking trails, caves, waterfalls, and panoramic views that are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts like you.

If you enjoy winter sports, Bulgaria is a good spot to consider. Although the local ski resorts are not as well-developed or famous as those in Austria or France, the snowfall during the winter months makes Bulgaria ideal for skiing and snowboarding. 

The country has several winter resorts, including popular ones like:

• Bansko
• Borovets
• Pamporovo
• Chepelare
• Vitosha

Bansko, in particular, regularly hosts the Ski World Cup and European events, making it a major draw for winter sports enthusiasts.

But it’s not just about the mountains. 

The Black Sea to the east offers a great summer getaway. While it’s not as famous as some Mediterranean destinations and tends to be a bit cooler, the Bulgarian Black Sea coast has a lot to offer. 

You’ll find a mix of wild hiking trails, dramatic cliffs meeting the sea, and both luxurious and budget-friendly resorts. Whether you’re into peaceful seaside retreats or vibrant beach towns, there’s something for everyone.

For cultural travelers

If diving into local culture is your thing, Bulgaria has some unique opportunities for you.

While there aren’t many official government-led cultural programs, individual locals often offer volunteer programs, including permaculture, farm stays, and coliving arrangements where you can stay with a local family or community. These experiences can help you connect with Bulgarian culture in a way that’s much more personal.

Even without staying with a local family, there are plenty of ways to learn about Bulgarian culture. 

The country has several ethnographic regions, each with its own distinct folklore, music, dances, customs, traditions, cuisine, and dialects. While some of these traditions have been adapted over time to suit modern life, many are still celebrated and cherished. 

Throughout the year, you can visit a variety of festivals (both popular and lesser-known) that celebrate Bulgarian culture. These festivals focus on everything from music and dance to clothing, craftsmanship, and more.

Food and wine are also central to Bulgarian culture. 

If you’re a wine lover, don’t miss a visit to Melnik, Bulgaria’s wine capital, or make sure to celebrate Bulgaria’s Wine Day on February 14th. 

You can sample local wines such as:

• Mavrud
• Rubin
• Melnik
• Pamid
• Gamza (Kadarka)

All of them hail from different regions of Bulgaria. Wine festivals and competitions take place across the country, so there are plenty of opportunities to dive into the local wine scene.

For foodies, Bulgaria offers a rich culinary experience. While meat and dairy are staples—many have heard of Bulgarian yogurt and white brine feta cheese—there are also plenty of delicious vegetarian options that are less famous but no less tasty. 

The list of must-try foods and snacks is long, so if you want to experience the full range of Bulgarian cuisine, a two-day stay won’t be nearly enough unless you’re planning to explode!

For wellness enthusiasts

Bulgaria might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think about wellness travel, but it’s definitely worth considering. 

The country is home to over 200 mineral spring sites, and every second, over 5,000 liters of mineral water flow to the surface. This makes Bulgaria the second country in Europe with the most mineral water sources, right after Iceland.

These mineral springs have a long history of use for their health benefits, and many of them are known for helping with a variety of health issues. So, if you’re someone who enjoys the idea of wellness through natural healing, Bulgaria offers a number of destinations where you can take advantage of these therapeutic waters.

Some of the most famous hot spring destinations in Bulgaria include:

• Velingrad
• Devin
• Banya
• Hisarya
• Sandanski

Each of these towns has established itself as a wellness destination, offering spa services, thermal baths, and relaxing environments to rejuvenate both your body and mind.

For rural adventurers

Bulgaria is a fantastic destination for rural tourism. 

While it was once mainly chosen as a budget-friendly destination, it has gained popularity among experience-oriented travelers. The countryside and villages offer a mix of nature, outdoor activities, local traditions, and traditional food while still providing accommodations with amenities comparable to 3-4 star hotels.

Some of the most popular regions for rural tourism are Stara Planina and the Rhodopes, both of which are known for their scenic landscapes, historic villages, and opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and exploring local crafts. 

If you’re interested in venturing off the beaten path, the Danube region is also worth considering. While it’s less explored by tourists, it offers authentic rural experiences, stunning river views, and historical sites.

For urban travelers

Let’s be honest—Bulgaria’s largest cities might not be as visually striking as some of the more famous European capitals. However, the city centers are usually well-maintained and offer everything you might need as an urban traveler. 

You’ll find a mix of beautiful historic buildings, museums, restaurants, shopping malls, sports arenas, business events, and accommodations ranging from budget-friendly hostels to high-end hotels.

The most popular city destinations for tourists are:

• Sofia – Bulgaria’s capital offers a mix of historical landmarks, modern districts, and a lively cultural scene.
• Plovdiv – one of Europe’s oldest cities, and known for its well-preserved Roman ruins and artistic Kapana district. 
• Burgas and Varna – these are Bulgaria’s largest coastal cities and they offer a blend of beach life and urban experiences.
• Ruse – often called “Little Vienna,” the city has beautiful architecture and stunning sunsets along the Danube river.
• Veliko Tarnovo – the “City of the Tsars” was the capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire and is famous for its medieval fortress and picturesque old town.

One thing to note is that the outskirts of Bulgarian cities are typically filled with Soviet-era apartment blocks, which may not be the most visually appealing. That said, some foreigners actually find them fascinating, as they represent a piece of Bulgaria’s history. 

Another thing to keep in mind is that public transportation and accessibility in Bulgarian cities are not as well developed as in some Western European countries. However, you’ll definitely manage to get around.

Conclusion

Although Bulgaria may not be as well-known or developed as some of its European counterparts, it has enormous potential for travelers seeking authentic experiences. 

Whether you prefer rural tourism in picturesque villages, urban exploration in big cities, or wellness retreats at mineral springs, Bulgaria is a hidden gem worth discovering.

FAQs

Is there anything worth seeing in Bulgaria?

Yes, absolutely! Although not marketed very well, Bulgaria has a diverse range of attractions, from historic landmarks and natural wonders to vibrant cities and seaside resorts.

Should you travel to Bulgaria?

If you enjoy affordable travel, beautiful nature, and rich history, Bulgaria is definitely worth visiting. It’s perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, culture seekers, and food and wine lovers.

What are the pros and cons of Bulgaria?

Advantages of traveling to Bulgaria include diverse landscapes, history and culture, safety and fewer crowds compared to other European countries. Disadvantages include outdated infrastructure and public transport and a possible language barrier.

Is visiting Sofia, Bulgaria, worth it?

Yes, Sofia has a lot to offer with its mix of history, culture, and modern life. It’s not the most visually stunning city, but it’s affordable and a great starting point to explore Bulgaria.