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Destination Guides

Bulgaria

By Erin Baker, Certified Travel Associate

A full view of the main church at Rila Monastery in the Rila Mountains, Bulgaria. Tourists walk across the wide cobblestone courtyard in front of the eastern Orthodox church, which features distinctive black-and-white striped arches, colorful frescoed porticos, a central dome topped with a cross, and the ancient stone Hrelyo Tower standing beside it under a partly cloudy sky.

Rila Monastery

Bulgaria offers a genuinely underrated combination of Black Sea beaches, mountain monasteries, and Sofia's blend of Roman, Ottoman, and Soviet-era history, all at a noticeably lower cost than Western Europe. Spring and fall bring comfortable weather for touring Sofia and the countryside, while summer draws visitors to the Black Sea coast. A 6-8 day trip allows Sofia plus a monastery excursion (Rila Monastery is a highlight) or a coastal extension. Because Bulgaria is still relatively undiscovered by American travelers despite its genuine appeal, an advisor's guidance on what to prioritize helps make the most of a shorter visit.


Local Etiquette & Cultural Tips

Bulgarian culture is warm, and carries one especially notable quirk for visitors.

  • Friendly greetings: A handshake is standard, close acquaintances may greet more warmly.

  • Dress respectfully: Modest dress for churches and monasteries, casual dress works well elsewhere.

  • Dining times: Lunch 12:00-2:00pm, dinner from 7:00pm onward.

  • Local customs: Bulgarians traditionally shake their head for "yes" and nod for "no," the reverse of most Western customs, similar to Albania and worth watching for in conversation.

  • Transportation and timing: A private driver or organized tour works well for reaching Rila Monastery and other countryside sites.

  • Practical tip: Cash is still preferred in smaller towns and at some monasteries, carry Bulgarian lev beyond what you'd expect to need.


Souvenirs

  • For the Foodies: Bulgarian rose oil products (the country is a major global rose oil producer) or a jar of local honey.

  • For the Fashionistas: A piece of embroidered traditional textile from a local market.

  • For the Home: A hand-painted piece of Bulgarian pottery, particularly from the Troyan region.


Suggested Gratuities

  • Private Tour Guides: €10-15 per person for a half-day tour

  • Shared Group Tour Guides: €5 per person

  • Taxis: Round up the fare

  • Restaurants: 10% for good service

  • Private Drivers: €10-15 per trip

  • Housekeeping: €1-2 per night

  • Porters: €1-2 per bag

  • Spa Staff: 10% of the service cost


Practical Travel Notes

  • Currency: Euro

  • Language: Bulgarian, English common in tourist areas

  • Transportation: A private driver or organized tour works well for reaching countryside sites

  • Weather: Hot summers, cold winters, pleasant spring and fall

  • Walking: Sofia is walkable, monastery sites involve some uneven terrain


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Last Reviewed

9/22/26

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