Things To Do
in Bulgaria

A firm handshake and direct eye contact are common for first meetings; use formal titles and surnames unless invited to use first names.

Dress modestly when visiting religious sites—cover shoulders and knees; women may be asked to cover their heads in some monasteries.

Accept offers of food or drink as a sign of hospitality; it’s polite to finish what’s on your plate and say 'Blagodarya' (thank you).

Avoid heated political debates, sensitive historical topics and crude humor with older generations; showing curiosity and respect for local traditions is appreciated.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory—rounding up or leaving 5–10% in restaurants is common for good service. Small tips for taxi drivers and hotel porters are customary; cafés and fast-food places generally don’t expect tipping.

The currency is the Bulgarian lev (BGN). Cards are accepted in most urban businesses, restaurants and bigger shops; carry cash for markets, small towns and some taxis. ATMs are widely available in cities; notify your bank of travel to avoid blocked cards.

Warm to hot temperatures on the plains and coast (June–August), perfect for Black Sea beaches and cultural festivals; expect crowded seaside resorts in July–August and bring sun protection.

Mild weather, colorful foliage in the mountains and a quieter tourist season—ideal for hiking, wine tasting and city sightseeing with cooler daytime temperatures.

Cold in the interior with snow in the mountains (December–February); Bulgaria’s ski resorts in Bansko, Borovets and Pamporovo are active, but some rural areas may be difficult to reach in heavy snow.

Blooming landscapes, fewer tourists and pleasant temperatures—great time for hiking lower-elevation trails, visiting monasteries and sampling fresh spring produce.

The country’s largest international airport, 10–15 km east of Sofia city center; served by taxis, buses and airport shuttles with direct flights across Europe and beyond.

Smaller regional airport near Plovdiv with seasonal and charter flights; good access to central Bulgaria, the Rhodope Mountains and Plovdiv city.

Main airport for the northern Black Sea coast with summer seasonal flights, transfers to Varna city and nearby resorts by bus, taxi or car.

Serves the southern Black Sea resorts and offers frequent summer charters and scheduled flights; convenient for reaching Sunny Beach, Sozopol and Pomorie.

The majority population, predominantly Bulgarian-speaking and Eastern Orthodox Christian by tradition.

A significant minority group concentrated in some regions, primarily Muslim and preserving Turkish language and cultural traditions.

Present across the country with diverse cultural practices; socio-economic disparities exist and sensitivity is important when engaging.

Growing city-based demographic of young professionals, creatives and foreign residents contributing to a lively cultural and startup scene in major cities.

The most popular sport with passionate local support for club and national teams; attending a match offers insight into local culture and energy.

Widely practiced in winter at resorts like Bansko, Borovets and Pamporovo with well-developed slopes and infrastructure for international visitors.

Popular indoor sports with strong local club competition; volleyball has a notable fan base and good youth participation.

Growing interest, especially with high-profile Bulgarian players on the international circuit drawing attention to the sport.