Bulgaria is a beautiful country in the Balkans. The country is full of history, culture, and natural wonders. You can explore the stunning mountains like the Rila Mountains and sunny beaches along the Black Sea coast. Bulgaria has a long history, and you can see its influence in the buildings, traditions, and people’s lives. The Bulgarians are friendly and proud of their heritage and happy to show it to tourists. In this guide, we will provide complete details about Bulgaria country.
Quick Headlines
About the county
Officially known as the Republic of Bulgaria or the Bulgarian Republic, Bulgaria is a beautiful mountainous country lying in the Balkan Peninsula in Southern Europe bordering the Black Sea to the east, Serbia and the Republic of Macedonia to the west, Romania to the north, Greece, and Turkey to the south. Bulgaria also borders Turkey, Romania, Ukraine, Russia, and Georgia along the sea. The largest and the capital city is Sofia. The country may be very small in area, but it is rich in ancient culture, picturesque locales, earth, and friendly people who provide the warmth and hospitality of the old days.
Bulgaria is known as the “Land of Roses” due to the largest production of roses here. Although Bulgaria is known mostly for its sea resorts, much of the country can be explored in great mountain regions, with many ski resorts a perfect destination for skiers. With unique customs, spectacular crafts, colourful festivals, folklore, and so on, Bulgaria has it all to take the imagination of visitors by surprise and excitement.
Population & Languages
The population of Bulgaria is roughly 7.4 million, and the official language being spoken is Bulgarian. A considerable percentage also speaks Turkish and Roma of the population.
Electricity
The voltage is 230 V, and the frequency is 50 Hz. The types of plugs used are Round pin attachment plugs and “Schuko” plugs and receptacles with side grounding contacts.
Geographic Location
It lies in the Balkan Peninsula in Southern Europe, bordering the Black Sea to the east, Serbia and the Republic of Macedonia to the west, Romania to the north, and Greece and Turkey to the south. Bulgaria also borders Turkey, Romania, Ukraine, Russia, and Georgia along the sea. Bulgaria is strategically located near the Turkish Straits, making it the control point of key land routes connecting Europe to the Middle East and Asia.
Climate
The climate of Bulgaria can be termed as temperate, with hot and dry summers and cold and damp winters. Summer temperatures average around 75°F (24°C) and winter temperatures average about 32°F (0°C). The ideal time to visit Bulgaria is summer.
Local Customs
Like any other country, Bulgaria has its own customs, too, and normal courtesies should be followed. Handshaking is customary. The dress should be conservative but can be casual. Souvenirs from the home country are appreciated if invited to the home. Here in Bulgaria, a nod of the head means ‘no’, and a shake of the head means ‘yes.’ Tipping up to 10 to 12 per cent is customary for all services, including restaurants, bars, clubs, taxis, etc.
Attractions
Sofia
- St. Sofia Church
- St. George Rotunda
- Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
- National Ethnographic Museum
Mountains
- Village of Momchilovtsi
- Pirin National Park
- Rila Monastery
Travel
By Air – The national airline of Bulgaria is Bulgaria Air. Other international airlines operating from Bulgaria include Aeroflot, Air France, Alitalia, Austrian Airlines, British Airways, El Al Israel Airlines, KLM, LOT Polish Airlines, Lufthansa, MALEV Hungarian Airlines, Olympic Airlines, and Swiss Air. Sofia International Airport EAD (SOF) is the biggest airport, which is like six miles east of Sofia. Another international airport is Varna International Airport (VAR) located on the western outskirts of the city, about five miles from Varna.
Sea – The important international ports are Bourgas and Varna along the Black Sea.
River – Ferries can cross into Romania from Vidin to Calafat.
By Rail – Sofia is connected to Budapest, Belgrade, Bucharest, Thessaloniki, Paris, Vienna, Munich, and Berlin through frequent services of trains.
Duty Free Items
200 cigarettes or 50 cigars, or 250g of tobacco
1: A liter of spirits and
2 liter of wine, 50g of perfume, and 100g of eau de toilette
3: Gifts and personal use items.
Prohibited Items
Un-canned goods, meat or dairy products, Narcotics, pornography, firearms, ammunition, weapons, eggs, plants, endangered species, fireworks, and alcoholic beverages that contain more than sixty percent alcohol.
Conclusion
Bulgaria is a beautiful country for travelers. It has a mix of old traditions and modern life, so it’s great for all kinds of explorers. You can walk around the historic streets of Plovdiv, relax on the sunny beaches of Varna, or enjoy the rich culture of Sofia. As you explore its landscapes, try its food, and meet its people, you’ll realize that Bulgaria is not just a place to see; it’s a place to make lifelong memories, meet new friends, and experience the magic of a country that welcomes all who come to visit.
