A first-time guide to Bulgaria

13.07.2024 - 01:45 / lonelyplanet.com

Jul 2, 2024 • 7 min read

Often an underrated destination, Bulgaria is one of the most affordable places to visit in Europe with stunning views and endless adventure opportunities. 

Just a flight, train or bus away from most European capitals, Bulgaria truly has so much to offer. Proud of their rich heritage and long and challenging history, Bulgarians may appear grumpy at first glance, but don’t be fooled. The genuine hospitality and diversity of experiences is what makes the country worth a visit. 

Whether you’re going for a long weekend or you want to spend a week or two hiking, sightseeing and enjoying the seaside, it’s a no-brainer: Bulgaria offers great value for money and will surprise you with its diverse array of experience

With its four distinct seasons, each one offering something different, Bulgaria is a year-round playground. The winter months from December to mid-April are ideal for ski or snowboarding enthusiasts in one of the winter resorts – Bansko is a famous ski destination, Borovets offers a local experience just an hour and a half from Sofia and Pamporovo is known for its family-friendly slopes and hotels.

Spring is usually quieter, being a shoulder season, and it’s perfect for peaceful sightseeing and backpacking. Summer, though hot with temperatures reaching 40°C (100°F), is great for exploring hidden beaches and water-based activities on the Bulgarian seaside, with July and August being the busiest months. 

Autumn, particularly in September and October, offers pleasant weather and fewer crowds, making it a good time for budget travelers to find affordable accommodation. These are also some of the best months for hiking in one of the many Bulgarian mountains. 

For a first-time visit, between a long weekend and a week is enough time to cover the most iconic spots and get a glimpse of the country’s rich culture. Start with a day or two in Sofia to soak in the capital's vibe, then head to the charming town of Plovdiv, one of Europe's oldest cities and only 2 hours from Sofia by car (or just under 2.5 hours by train). Finish your trip with a visit to the seaside towns of Burgas or Varna to enjoy the beautiful coast (a 4- to 6-hour drive from the capital, or an 8-hour train journey).

Bulgaria is well-connected by air with major European countries through three big airports: Sofia, Burgas, and Varna. 

By land, you can reach Bulgaria from many major European destinations by Flixbus, or by train –  the sleeper train from Istanbul to Sofia is popular with budget travelers. 

The train and bus systems in Bulgaria are well-maintained, although finding updated information online, especially in English, can be challenging. The national railway company – BDZ, has an English website. For intercity buses,