See what the experts are saying about Bulgaria. Get expert advice on how to get there what to see and more.
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Introduction
Founded in 681, Bulgaria is the oldest state in Europe, but its roots reach far deeper into history. In the Valley of Kings, in tombs adorned with frescoes and bass reliefs, archaeologists continue to discover mankind's most ancient gold trea... Continue reading »
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Planning a trip
Visitor Info With limited funds and a (somewhat understandable) suspicion of any centralized bureau, a state-funded tourism body for Bulgaria does not at present exist, nor a tourism-oriented ethos. There are however a number of websites p... Continue reading »
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Fast facts
Addresses -- Note that streets in Bulgaria are called "ulitsa"; squares are "ploshtad"; "bulevard" is of course a boulevard. "Sveta," usually prefacing a church, means Saint. Area Code -- The area code is +359. Banks -- You'll find bank... Continue reading »
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Getting there
By Plane -- Bulgaria has three international airports: Sofia, Varna, and Burgas, but most visitors arrive at Sofia, currently served by 17 airlines from 47 European and Middle Eastern cities, with a brand-new airport terminal that opened in 2... Continue reading »
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Getting around
By Car -- This is one destination where it is worth getting off the beaten track, and this means -- given that most signposts are written in Cyrillic -- hiring a car and driver. If you have the time to get lost, there are numerous car-rental... Continue reading »
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Regions in brief
To the west lies the capital Sofia, with some 1.2 million citizens, by far the most populous area in the country. But within 90 minutes you are in the southern mountain ranges where the country really starts to strut its stuff. Dominating the... Continue reading »
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Tips on shopping
Bulgarians are gifted artisans; low prices only add to the temptation, so make sure you arrive with plenty of space in your suitcase. Crafts worth looking out for include the uniquely painted earthenware table- and cookware; wooden carvings;... Continue reading »
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Tips on accommodations
Unless you're staying in one of the handful of Bulgaria's five-star hotels, do not expect Western standards of service. In small towns you will probably be better off dealing with a family proprietor, but here you'll often struggle to find so... Continue reading »
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Tips on dining
Perhaps it is because their food is so good, but Bulgarians are not very adventurous and restaurants, be they upmarket, traditional mehanas (taverns), informal diners, or sidewalk cafes, tend to serve the same menu, with small regional differ... Continue reading »
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Suggested itineraries
In One Week The following tour covers the best of Bulgaria, but at a cracking pace. If you want to relax along the way, extend it by 3 days, with 2 nights in Sofia, Plovdiv, and Veliko Tarnovo. If you're really pushed for time, 4 days will... Continue reading »
