Hand-picked deals by our pirate team
Inspire me!
Hand-picked deals by our pirate team
Hand-picked deals by our pirate team
Inspire me!
Hand-picked deals by our pirate team
- Home
- Destinations Bulgaria
Bulgaria holidays: Discover beaches, mountains and hidden gems
Whether you're after charming historic towns, majestic mountains and golden beaches, Bulgaria is an underrated gem. Soak up the sun on the Black Sea Coast as you explore the lively resorts and hidden coves. If you're a mountain lover or looking for hiking adventures, Bulgaria is an adventurous European getaway with stunning ranges and mountains. Head to the Rila or Pirin Mountains for ski holidays, hiking and exploring the beauty of Bulgarian landscapes. And if history is your thing, wander through Sofia, Plovdiv or Veliko Tarnovo, where ancient ruins meet vibrant city life.
Bulgaria holidays are fun and adventurous, and you can have a memorable experience for less with our deals on flights to Bulgaria.
Bulgaria at a glance
Flight duration (from London): 3 hours 10 minutes
Main airport: Sofia International Airport (SOF)
Population: 6.5 million
Language: Bulgarian
Currency: Bulgarian Lev
Time zone: Eastern European Standard Time (GMT+2)
Getting from the UK to Bulgaria
Are you planning your trip from the UK to Bulgaria? Get ready for an easy and convenient experience. You can find flights from London, Manchester and Birmingham to Sofia, Varna and Burgas, making travel to Bulgaria stress-free. Major airlines like British Airways and budget airlines like Ryanair and Wizz Air offer plenty of flight options, including cheap deals to Bulgaria if you book in advance.
What you need to know when travelling to Bulgaria
When planning a holiday in Bulgaria, here are a few things to keep in mind:
It is common to pay in cash, so make sure you have some on you.
Prices of items are fixed, and it's not okay to bargain in Bulgaria.
Locals shake their heads for 'yes' and nod for 'no'.
Most signs are in Bulgarian, so learn a few phrases to help you out.
Smoking in closed areas is not allowed.
The best time to visit Bulgaria
You can visit Bulgaria any time of the year, depending on the type of holiday you want. If you are looking for the best time to enjoy a quiet holiday, fewer crowds and great weather, visit Bulgaria in spring or autumn. You can hike the mountain ranges, explore Sofia's historic sites and go on wine tours.
Summer (June - September) is the beach season in Bulgaria and also the peak season. Head to Varna, Burgas or Sunny Beach for the warm waters, golden sands and buzzing nightlife. You can search for the Black Sea's hidden gems like Nessebar for a quiet escape and seaside adventures. Beware that summers can be crowded, and the hotels are pricey.
If you are after a Bulgaria ski trip, winter is the best time for ski holidays. Hit the slopes in Bansko, Borovets or Pamporovo, where you'll find affordable ski passes, stunning mountain views and apres-ski fun. With plenty of snowfall and budget-friendly resorts, it's an ideal winter getaway.
Fun things to do in Bulgaria
Water sports in Sunny Beach
Sunny Beach isn't just about sunbathing; it's a water sports paradise. Go jet skiing, parasailing or wakeboarding on the crystal-clear Black Sea. You should also try banana boat rides with your mates for a wild and bumpy ride full of laughs. For the ultimate thrill, go scuba diving and explore underwater shipwrecks.
Ski in Pamporovo
Pamporovo in the Rhodope Mountain offers a fun winter getaway. The ski resorts offer powdery slopes, ideal for beginners and pros alike. Glide down the groomed runs, try night skiing or take on the black diamond slopes if you're feeling daring. After a day on the snow, warm up with a glass of mulled wine by a cosy fire or hit the lively apres-ski scene.
Caving in Devil's Throat Cave
If you want some underground adventures, descend into the Devil's Throat Cave, located in the Rhodope Mountains. This cavern isn't just a cave but a portal to legends and myths. With its eerie rock formations and dramatic tunnels, Devil's Throat Cave is an absolute must for thrill-seekers. You will even feel the thunderous roar of Europe's largest underground waterfall as it crashes into the abyss.
Hiking in Rila National Park
Hiking in Rila National Park is a must-do for nature lovers. Located just 90 minutes from Sofia, this stunning park is home to Bulgaria's highest peak, Musala. The Seven Rila Lakes hike is a fan-favourite, offering jaw-dropping views of crystal-clear glacial lakes. Those up for a challenge can hike to Musala's summit for panoramic views across the Balkans.
FAQs about Bulgaria holidays
Q: Is Bulgaria expensive to eat out?
A: No. Eating out in Bulgaria is very affordable compared to most European destinations. You can enjoy a meal at a local mehana (traditional tavern) for less than £10 per person. From hearty kebapche (grilled minced meat) to fresh shopska salad, portions are generous, and prices won't break the bank. Even fancy restaurants are budget-friendly.
Q: Is it worth going all-inclusive in Bulgaria?
A: Going all-inclusive in Bulgaria can be worth it, especially if you're staying in Sunny Beach or Golden Sands and want unlimited food, drinks and entertainment. However, if you love exploring local restaurants, you might find better value by eating out. In most restaurants, meals are rather cheap and traditional Bulgarian cuisine is amazing.
Q: Can you spend English money in Bulgaria?
A: No. You can't spend English money in Bulgaria, as the official currency is the Bulgarian Lev (BGN). While some tourist spots might accept euros or pounds, exchange rates won't be in your favour. It's best to exchange your pounds for lev at banks, exchange bureaus or ATMs. Most places accept credit cards, but carry some cash to use in markets, taxis and small shops.
Q: Is it rude to tip in Bulgaria?
A: No, it's not rude to tip in Bulgaria – in fact, it's expected. While service charges aren't usually included in bills, leaving a 10% tip at restaurants is standard if the service is good. In cafes, rounding up the bill or adding a few extra lev is appreciated. While it's not mandatory, a little extra goes a long way.
- Packing list for every type of breakPacking list for a city breakPacking list for a beach holidayPacking list for a winter holidayPacking list for a hiking trip
We value your privacy
We use cookies to enhance your browsing experience, serve personalised content, and analyse our traffic. By clicking "Accept All" you accept this and consent that we share this information with third parties and that your data may be processed in the USA. For more information, please read our .
You can adjust your preferences at any time. If you deny, we will use only the essential cookies and unfortunately, you will not receive any personalised content. To deny, .