Travel Essentials › Bulgaria
Travel Essentials
Plugs: Types C and F; 230 V, 50 Hz. Emergency: One number for everything 112, Police 166, Ambulance 150, Fire 160. Tipping: Leaving around 10% in restaurants and rounding up taxi fares is customary. Tap water: Generally safe to drink in cities.
Types C and F; 230 V, 50 Hz
| One number for everything | 112 |
| Police | 166 |
| Ambulance | 150 |
| Fire | 160 |
Leaving around 10% in restaurants and rounding up taxi fares is customary.
Greetings. A firm handshake with eye contact is standard; men and women both shake hands. Friends and relatives, especially women, kiss on the cheek, and men who are close may hug. Greet elders first and use "gospodin" or "gospozha" if unsure.
Head-nod reversal. Traditionally Bulgarians nod for 'no' and shake their head for 'yes' — though this is fading among younger people, it's worth confirming verbally.
Hospitality. Guests are often offered rakia (brandy); accepting is a friendly gesture.
Religious sites. Dress modestly at Orthodox churches and monasteries — some may require a headscarf or skirt for women.
Bulgaria is generally safe with low rates of violent crime.
Taxi overcharging. Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps and confirm the meter is used.
Nightclub/bar bill padding. In Sofia and Sunny Beach, some venues have inflated bills for tourists, occasionally with intimidation; check prices before ordering.
Women travelers. Generally safe, including solo travel; ordinary precautions apply at nightlife venues.
Legal · Use Caution
Legal since 1968, but there is no recognition of same-sex partnerships and limited discrimination protections; social attitudes are more conservative than in Western Europe, especially outside Sofia.
| Coffee (café) | €2.70 | $2.90 |
| Local bus or metro ride (Sofia) | €0.85 | $0.90 |
| Mid-range restaurant meal | €18 | $19 |
| Hostel bed / budget room (night) | €15 | $16 |
| Mid-range hotel (night) | €68 | $74 |
| Daily budget, mid-range traveler | €62 | $67 |
2026-09
May-June and September are best: mild and fewer crowds. July-August suits the Black Sea coast (warm but busy and pricier); December-March is ski season in Bansko and Borovets.
Bulgaria visa requirements by nationality