Accommodation
Hotels
Advance booking is advisable. Grading: Hotels are classified according to the European star-grading system, but standards are comparatively low. Special care has been taken in some hotels to conform to international standards.
Guest Houses
Accommodation is available in small villas with private rooms, particularly near the coast, but also in small towns and villages inland.
Camping/Caravanning
Campsites are classified from I to III, and the top two categories have hot and cold water, showers, electricity, grocery stores, restaurants, telephones and sports grounds. The camping areas are located in main tourist areas.
Youth Hostels
These are situated in over 30 main towns.
Accommodation Information
Bulgarian Hotel and Restaurant AssociationTriaditsa 5b, 1000 Sofia, Bulgaria Tel: (2) 987 6586.Website: www.bhra-bg.orgUSIT Colours (Affiliated to the International Youth Hostel Federation)35 Vassil Levski Boulevard, Sofia 1000, Bulgaria Tel: (2) 981 1900.Website: www.usitcolours.bg
Business
• GDP: US$23.74 billion (2004). • Main exports: Food stuffs, tobacco, wine, attar (oil) of roses, metals, chemicals, petrochemicals, electronics and machinery. • Main imports: Foodstuffs, fuel products, chemicals, machinery and textiles. • Main trade partners: Russian Federation, Germany, Italy and Greece.
Economy
In general, Bulgaria has suffered the usual problems experienced by centrally planned economies adjusting to market conditions. Successive governments have followed the path taken by other former Communist governments, under which most of industry and agriculture was privatised, trade liberalised and reforms of the fiscal and banking systems instituted. However, some key privatisations (tobacco, telecoms, banking) have already - or are - experiencing difficulties, possibly threatening the stability of the government. The value of the Bulgarian Lev was fixed to the Deutschmark by the currency control board created in 1997; it is now linked to the Euro. The economy grew at a healthy 4.3 per cent in 2004; inflation has been brought down to single figures. In 1990, Bulgaria joined the IMF, which has had a major influence on the country’s economic policy, along with the World Bank and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development. Bulgaria has applied to become a full member of the EU and expects to join in 2007.
Business Etiquette
Suits and prior appointments are necessary. Interpreters can be organised through tourist agencies. If arranged in advance through foreign trading organisations, services are free. It is common for the visiting business person to offer hospitality to the contact in Bulgaria. Office hours: Mon-Fri 0900-1730.
Commercial Information
Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry42 Parchevich Street, 1058 Sofia, Bulgaria Tel: (2) 987 2631.Website: www.bcci.bgBritish-Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce in the UKPO Box 123, Bromley, BR1 4ZX, UKTel: (020) 8464 5007.North American-Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce in the USA851 Irwin Street, Suite 200, San Rafael, CA, 94901, USATel: (415) 454 8001.Website: www.nabcc.org
Climate
Climate
Varies according to altitude. Summers are warmest with some rainfall, with the south feeling the influence of the Mediterranean. Winters are cold with snow. It rains frequently during spring and autumn.
Required clothing
Mediumweights most of the year; warmer outdoor wear necessary in winter.
Communications
Telephone
Telephone: IDD is available to main cities. Country code: 359. Calls from some parts of the country must be placed through the international operator. There are many public telephones in the main towns.
Mobile telephone
Roaming agreements exist with most international mobile phone companies. Coverage is good to patchy in most of the country.
Internet
There are Internet cafes and centres in Sofia and Plovdiv.
Post
Airmail to Western Europe takes from four days to two weeks. The General Post Office in Sofia, at 4 Gurko Street, is open 24 hours. Post office hours: usually Mon-Fri 0830-1730.
MEDIA
Bulgaria passed a broadcasting law in 1996, one of the last European countries to do so. National radio and TV were given the status of public services and granted independence. bTV, Bulgaria's first national commercial channel, was launched in May 2000 by Balkan News Corporation (part of Rupert Murdoch's News Corporation). Nova TV won the bid for a second national commercial TV licence in 2003. Several privately-owned regional television stations are also on the air.Press: The weekly newspaper, Sofia Echo, is available in English, as is the daily business publication Pari (Money). Both of these are available in print or online versions. The most popular dailies include 24 Chasa (24 Hours) and Trud (Labour). TV: BNT (Bulgarian National Television) is publicly owned and operates Kanal 1 and satellite channel TV Bulgaria; bTV and Nova TV are national, commercial networks; 7 Dni is private.Radio: Publicly owned BNR (Bulgarian National Radio) operates Horizont, cultural network Hristo Botev and external service Radio Bulgaria. Darik Radio is a national, commercial station.
Duty Free
The following goods may be taken into Bulgaria by all persons irrespective of age without incurring customs duty: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco; 1l of spirits and 2l of wine; 50g of perfume and 100g eau de toilette; reasonable amount of gifts.
Prohibited items
Any foodstuffs for personal consumption originating from cloven-footed animals, due to the outbreak of Foot & Mouth disease in the UK in 2001.
Entertainment
Food & Drink
The main meal is eaten in the middle of the day. Dinner is a social occasion, with dancing in many restaurants. Food is spicy, hearty and good. A lot of meals include meat, potatoes and cheese. Fruit is particularly good and cheap throughout the year. There is a wide variety of national dishes, as well as Western European standard dishes, which can be chosen on the spot at any restaurant. All good hotels have restaurants and there are many attractive folk-style restaurants and cafes throughout the country.National specialities:• Tarator (cold soup made from cucumber, walnuts and yoghurt.).• Kavarma (individual casseroles of pork or veal, onions and mushrooms).• Shishkebab (stuffed vine or cabbage leaves and moussaka).• Kebapcheta (small, strongly spiced, minced meat rolls).• Banitsa (pastry stuffed with fruit or cheese).National drinks: • Coffee, heavily sweetened, is particularly popular. • Drinks made from infusions of mountain herbs and dried leaves, particularly lime. • White wines include Evksinograde, Karlouski Misket and Tamianka. • Heavy red wines include Mavroud and Trakia. • Liquors include mastika and rakia. Tipping: Until recently not applicable but some restaurants now include a 10 to 12 per cent service charge.
Nightlife
Some restaurants have folk dancing and music. Opera is performed at the State Opera House in Sofia; other classical concerts include the National Folk Ensemble. There are nightclubs with floor shows and dancing in Sofia and in Bourgas, Plovdiv, Stara Zagora and Varna, etc; other classical concerts include the National Folk Ensemble. There are nightclubs with floor shows and dancing in Sofia, as well as in most major towns and all the resorts.
Shopping
The main shopping area of Sofia is the Vitosha Boulevard. Bulgarian products, handicrafts, wines, spirits and confectionery can all be purchased. Shopping hours: Shops and stores are generally open Mon-Fri 1000-2000, Sat 1000-1400.
General Information
Area
110,994 sq km (42,855 sq miles).
Population
7.8 million (official estimate 2005).
Population Density
70.7 per sq km (2005).
Capital
Sofia. Population: 1.2 million (2005).
Geography
Bulgaria is situated in Eastern Europe and bordered to the north by the River Danube and Romania, to the east by the Black Sea, to the south by Turkey and Greece and to the west by Serbia & Montenegro and the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia. The Balkan Mountains cross the country reaching to the edge of the Black Sea and its golden beaches. The land is heavily cultivated, covered with forests and crossed by rivers. Although Bulgaria lies in the very southeast corner of Europe, the climate is never extreme in summer, even on the red-earthed plains of Southern Thrace. The Black Sea resorts have some of the largest beaches in Europe and offer sunbathing from May until October, while in winter heavy falls of snow are virtually guaranteed in the mountain skiing resorts.
Government
Democratic Republic since 1990. Head of State: President Georgi Purvanov. Head of Government: Prime Minister Sergei Stanishev since 2005. Recent history: Legislative power is held by the 240-seat National Assembly, whose members are directly elected for maximum four-year terms by proportional representation. The Assembly elects a Council of Ministers, headed by the Prime Minister. The Council of Ministers assists the President of the Republic, who as head of state wields supreme executive power and is directly elected for a five-year term. Presidential elections are due in 2006. The Socialist Party, led by Sergei Stanishev, won the latest election in summer 2005, but did not win enough seats to form a government on its own. The liberal Movement for Simeon II (NMS), which led the former coalition, came second and the mostly ethnic Turkish Movement for Rights and Freedoms (MRF) third. Mr Stanishev has said that EU membership is his government's top priority. He has also promised to intensify the campaign against corruption and organised crime.
Language
Bulgarian is the official language and the Cyrillic alphabet is used. Turkish and Macedonian are amongst the minority languages. English, German, French and Russian are spoken in major tourist resorts and hotels.
Religion
The majority of the population are Christian, the main denomination being Bulgarian Orthodox Church with a membership of 83 per cent of the population. Eastern Orthodox Chrisitianity is considered to be the traditional religion in Bulgaria. There is also a significant Muslim minority (13 per cent) and a small Jewish community.
Electricity
220 volts AC, 50Hz. Plugs are two-pin.
SOCIAL CONVENTIONS
Normal courtesies should be observed and handshaking is the normal form of greeting. Dress should be conservative but casual. If invited to the home, a small souvenir from one’s homeland is an acceptable gift. Do not give money. Remember that a nod of the head means ‘No’ and a shake means ‘Yes’. Smoking: Since 1 January 2005, Bulgarian restaurants, cafes, nightclubs etc have zones for smokers and non-smokers. There is no smoking in public places.
Health
Health
1
It is sometimes advised to get immunisation against typhoid and poliomyelitis.
Food & drink
Mains water is normally chlorinated and, whilst relatively safe, can cause mild abdominal upsets. Some travellers may prefer to drink bottled water for the first few weeks of their stay. Milk is pasteurised and dairy products are safe for consumption. It is sometimes recommended to avoid local fruit and vegetables unless they have been peeled and cooked. Some types of fish (including barracuda, red snapper, grouper, amber jack and sea bass) may contain poisonous biotoxins even when cooked.
Other risks
Hepatitis B is endemic. Hepatitis C may occur. Tick-borne encephalitis exists. Immunisation against hepatitis A is recommended for all travellers. Immunisation against diphtheria and tuberculosis is also sometimes recommended. Up-to-date immunisations of tetanus and measles-mumps-rubella are advised. Bacillary dysentery and typhoid fever are common, especially in summer and influenza is especially common from November until April. Rabies is present. For those at high risk, vaccination before arrival should be considered. If you are bitten, seek medical advice without delay. For further information, consult the Health appendix.
Health care
There is a reciprocal health agreement with the UK. On production of a UK passport and an NHS medical card, hospital and other medical and dental care will normally be provided free of charge; prescribed medicines must be paid for and can be supplied by public pharmacies. Basic medical supplies are widely available but specialised treatments may not be.
History and Government
History
Despite a turbulent history, Bulgaria is the oldest surviving state in Europe to have kept its original name (since AD681) and most of the population are descendants of the Bulgar invasion of the south Danube around that time. On two occasions during the Medieval period, the Bulgarians managed to establish empires, which existed in a state of armed conflict with Byzantium. The First Empire is reckoned to have lasted from the time of Kurt (584–642) until John Vladislav’s defeat by the Byzantines in 1018; the second was the result of an opportunist revolt in 1185, led by John and Peter Asen, who managed to take advantage of an internal weakness at Constantinople (this collapsed in 1280). Bulgaria’s territory in Macedonia was then overrun by the Serbs – then the rising power in the Balkans. Their dominance was short-lived, however, as the Ottoman Turks arrived in the 1350s. Within 40 years, the country had been completely absorbed into the Ottoman Empire. Bulgaria was a stable province of the Empire, until the rise of Russia as a major player on the European scene under Catherine the Great in the 18th century; Russian strategy hinged upon its self-proclaimed role as protector of the Orthodox Christian communities within the Ottoman Empire.In the 19th century, Bulgarian nationalists began to organise, noting the decline of the Ottoman Empire and in expectation of eventual independence. Following an uprising in 1876, Bulgarian volunteer forces, with strong Russian support, defeated the Turks and were able to establish an independent state under the terms of the Treaty of San Stefano in 1878. The remaining years of the century were fairly chaotic, as the restored monarchy and newly-formed political parties jostled for position. The most important developments were the emergence of a strong socialist movement and the politicisation of the rural population, organised around the Bulgarian Agrarian Union. King Ferdinand was the dominant figure in Bulgarian politics up to World War I, although was discredited thereafter, due to his support for the Germans.The popular Agrarian leader, Aleksandur Stambolyiski, imprisoned by Ferdinand, formed a reformist government that lasted until 1923, when it was overthrown in a right-wing coup. The government of Alexander Tsankov, which replaced Stambolyiski’s administration, established a royalist-militarist government with King Boris as head of state. The Communists had launched several unsuccessful uprisings but their chance came towards the end of World War II, when – having been relatively unaffected by the fighting – Soviet forces entered the country in 1944. King Boris conveniently died and the Soviet-backed Fatherland Front seized power. The monarchy was abolished and a republic declared. The Front, dominated by the Bulgarian Communist Party, took 70 per cent of the vote in a national plebiscite.By the end of 1947, the Communist Party had completed its takeover of the country, instituting a Soviet-style constitution and abolishing all opposition parties. Subsequently, Bulgaria’s dominant political figure was Todor Zhivkov, under whose leadership Bulgaria became the staunchest of Moscow’s allies. In 1989, under intense domestic and international pressure, Zhivkov resigned. The first multi-party elections for 44 years were held in June 1990; the ruling Communists had restyled themselves the Bulgarian Socialist Party (BSP), and won an absolute majority in the 400-seat National Assembly. Throughout the first half of the 1990s, Bulgaria was wracked by political instability and labour unrest, as the country was plunged into economic crisis. Five governments held office during the next six years.The main opposition to the BSP was presented by the Union of Democratic Forces (UDF), whose leader, Zhelyu Zhelev, held the presidency between 1990 and his fall as UDF leader in early 1996. His successor, Petar Stoyanov, went on to win the presidency in October 1996; the following April, the UDF also secured control of the National Assembly. A welcome period of political stability followed. But in 2001, Bulgarian politics were turned upside down by the former King Simeon II, who had not only returned to his former realm (to a rapturous welcome after 50 years in exile, in 1996) but set up a political party modestly entitled Simeon The Second National Movement. The ex-monarch evidently struck a chord with the Bulgarian people and, in June 2001, the Movement won a resounding victory at the National Assembly elections. The Movement for Simeon II (NMS) governed in alliance with the mainly ethnic Turkish Movement for Rights and Freedoms (MRF). The old two-party mould that dominated Bulgarian politics throughout the 1990s has been fractured but not completely broken - the BSP's Georgi Parvanov won the presidential election in 2001. The priorities of the government were much the same as those of their predecessors. Having successfully avoided significant involvement in the post-Yugoslavian imbroglio – a major worry for successive Bulgarian governments – the government concentrated upon a ‘national strategy’ of securing EU and NATO membership. The country became a NATO member in 2004. In April 2005, Bulgaria signed the Accession Treaty with the perspective to enter the EU in 2007. However, a substantial number of reforms were neccessary in order to meet the conditions. The Socialist Party, led by Sergei Stanishev, won the latest election in summer 2005, but did not win enough seats to form a government on their own. The liberal NMS, which led the former coalition came second and the mostly ethnic Turkish Movement for Rights and Freedoms (MRF) third. Mr Stanishev has said that EU membership is his government's top priority. He has also promised to intensify the campaign against corruption and organized crime.
Government
Legislative power is held by the 240-seat National Assembly, whose members are directly elected for maximum four-year terms by proportional representation. The Assembly elects a Council of Ministers, headed by the Prime Minister. The Council of Ministers assists the President of the Republic, who as head of state wields supreme executive power and who is also directly elected for a five-year term.
Money
Currency
Lev (BGN) = 100 stotinki. Notes are in denominations of BGN50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1. Coins are in denominations of 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 stotinki.
Note
(a) The Lev is tied to the Euro at a fixed rate; &Euro;1 = BGN1.955. (b) Notes dated 1997 and earlier are now out of circulation.
Currency exchange
A bordereaux receipt indicating the amount of currency exchanged will be given, and must be kept until departure. Visitors are advised to exchange money at banks and at large hotels. Travellers should not change currency on the black market , and they should exercise caution when exchanging money in bureaux de change since some have been known to dupe customers with misleading rates of exchange. No store, bank or change bureau will accept mutilated, torn or excessively dirty foreign currency. ATMs are widespread, although it is best to check with the relevant bank/card provider prior to travel.
Credit & debit cards
American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa are accepted in large cities, in larger hotels and car hire offices, and in some restaurants and shops, mainly in Sofia. Check with your credit or debit card company for details of merchant acceptability and other services that may be available. However, Bulgaria is still a country that operates mainly on cash, rather than credit cards.
Traveller's cheques
Accepted in major hotels and restaurants. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travellers are advised to take traveller's cheques in US Dollars or Pounds Sterling.
Currency restrictions
The import and export of local currency is prohibited. The import of foreign currency is unlimited, provided declared on arrival. The export of foreign currency is limited to the amount declared on arrival. Local currency can be exchanged at the airport on production of a bordereaux.
Note
Travellers should check the currency regulations just prior to departure, as they may change.
Exchange rate indicators
DateAt time of publishing£1.00=BGN2.86$1.00=BGN1.63
Banking hours
Mon-Fri 0900-1600.
Overview
Bulgaria in Eastern Europe is bounded to the north by Romania, to the east by the Black Sea, to the south by Turkey and Greece, and to the west by Serbia and Montenegro and the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia. The Balkan Mountains cross the country reaching to the edge of the Black Sea. The land is covered with forests and rivers. The Black Sea resorts have some of the largest beaches in Europe, and heavy falls of snow in winter are virtually guaranteed in the mountain ski resorts, considered to be some of the finest in Europe. Dating back to the fourth century BC, the capital Sofia has buildings in many architectural traditions including Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Bulgarian and Turkish. The city boasts notable theatres and museums, opera houses and art galleries. The Bulgarian Black Sea Riviera resorts, with their wide bays and golden beaches, are ideal for family holidays. National dishes include cold yoghurt soup with cucumbers and peppers or aubergines stuffed with meat. Some restaurants offer folk dancing, and opera is performed at the State Opera House in Sofia. There are several nightclubs in Sofia and other major towns and all resorts.
OverviewII
Despite a turbulent history, Bulgaria is the oldest surviving state in Europe to have kept its original name (since AD681) and most of the population are descendants of the Bulgar invasion of the south Danube around that time. Part of the Ottoman empire for around 500 years and a former satellite of the Soviet Union for nearly half a century, Bulgaria succeeded in integrating into western alliances when it became a NATO member in March 2004. The 10 November 1989 marked the beginning of the democratic changes in Bulgaria. In 1990 Zhelyu Zhelev became the first democratically elected President of Bulgaria. A new constitution was adopted (1991), the political parties were restored, and privatisation and restitution of the land started. After joining NATO, the key priority in Bulgaria's foreign policy is to join the European Union. Depending on the pace of reforms, it should be on course for membership in 2007. A Balkan country with spectacular mountains and a coastline on the Black Sea, Bulgaria has a lot to offer to visitors. With mountains occupying half the country's territory, Bulgaria is emerging as a new bargain ski destination. Visitors can stay in towns and villages that have aimed to preserve the authentic Bulgarian spirit and hospitality. Bulgaria is especially proud of its rich folklore traditions. Folk dances, music, national costumes and traditional rituals play an important part in the life of Bulgarians. In addition, the Black Sea Coast has over 370km (232 miles) of coastlines with sandy beaches and numerous attractive resorts which are ideal for both traditional seaside family holidays or more active stays.
Passport/Visa
Passport/Visa
Passports
Passport with at least one blank page valid for at least three months beyond departure required by all.
Visas
Required by all except the following: (a) 1. nationals of EU countries for stays of up to 90 days within each six-month period (except nationals of Ireland and the UK, who may stay for up to 30 days within a six-month period); Note: UK nationals living overseas do need a visa. (b) nationals of Croatia, Chile, Japan, Korea (Rep), Liechtenstein, Malaysia, Norway, San Marino and Switzerland for stays of up to 90 days within a six-month period;(c) 2. nationals of Andorra, Australia, Canada, Israel, Macedonia (Former Yugoslav Republic of), Monaco, New Zealand, Romania, Serbia and Montenegro, USA and Vatican City for stays of up to 30 days within each six-month period; (d) nationals of Tunisia and Yugoslavia, provided they hold a valid passport.
Types of visa and cost
Single-entry: £34. Multiple-entry: £41 (three months); £61 (six months); £81 (12 months). Urgent single-entry: £44. Transit: £28 (single-entry); £41 (double-entry); from £54 (multiple entry).
Note
Nationals of Afghanistan, Angola, Bangladesh, Congo (Dem Rep), Eritrea, Ethiopia, Ghana, Iran, Iraq, Liberia, Nigeria, Pakistan, Somalia, Sri Lanka and Sudan must apply for an airport transit visa and may not leave the airport transit lounge. They need to present a valid flight reservation to get the visa.
Validity
Single-entry visas for tourist visits are normally valid for three months from date of issue for a maximum stay of 30 days. Multiple-entry visas are for business visits and are normally valid for three months from date of issue. Transit: Up to 24 hours. Enquire at the Embassy for further details.
Application to
Consulate (or Consular section at Embassy); see Passport/Visa Information. Applications should be made in person or by courier, not by post.
Application requirements
(a) Valid passport. (b) Application form. (c) One passport-size photo. (d) Return ticket or documentation for next destination. (e) Fee, payable in cash or by postal order only. (f) UK Resident visa (if applicable). (g) Prepaid tourist vouchers from the travel agency. (h) Proof of sufficient funds (at least &Euro;50 for each entry). Transit: (a)-(h) and, (i) Visa issued by country of final destination. (j) Proof of paid fare for onward destination. (k) For motor vehicle transit, proof of an extra &Euro;200 for each entry. (l) Proof of a secured return trip. Business: (a)-(h) and, (i) Letters from the applicant’s company and from the Bulgarian business partner, endorsed by the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce. Private: (a)-(h) and, (i) A letter of invitation by a Bulgarian citizen endorsed by the local authorities.
Working days required
Visas take up to 10 days to be processed (with the exception of long-term visas which take up to 30 days) and should be applied for in person if resident in the UK.
Temporary residence
Enquire at the Bulgarian Embassy (see Passport/Visa Information).
Passport/Visa Information:
Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in the UK186-188 Queen’s Gate, London SW7 5HL, UK Tel: (0870) 060 2350 or 2351 or (09065) 508 950 (visa section; recorded information; calls cost £1 per minute) or (020) 7589 3763 (visa section; individual enquiries; from Mon-Fri 1300-1500 only). Website: www.bulgarianembassy.org.ukOpening hours: Mon-Fri 0900-1800 (general enquiries) or 0930-1150 (visa applications; closed Wednesday and weekends). Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in the USA1621 22nd Street, NW, Washington, DC 20008, USA Tel: (202) 387 0174 or 387 7969 (consular office). Website: www.bulgaria-embassy.orgBulgarian Consulate General in the USA121 East 62 Street, New York, NY 10021, USATel: (212) 935 4646.Website: www.consulbulgaria-ny.org
Public Holidays
Public Holidays
Below are listed Public Holidays for the January 2006-June 2007 period. Jan 1 2006 New Year’s Day. Mar 3 National Day (Day of Liberation). Apr 23-24 Easter. May 1 Labour Day. May 6 St George’s Day (Day of Bulgarian Army). May 24 St Cyril and Methodius Day (Day of Culture and Literacy). Sep 6 The Unification of Bulgaria. Sep 22 Independence Day. Nov 1 Day of the Bulgarian Revival Leaders. Dec 24-26 Christmas. Dec 31 New Year's Eve. Jan 1 2007 New Year’s Day. Mar 3 National Day (Day of Liberation). Apr 8-9 Easter. May 1 Labour Day. May 6 St George's Day (Day of Bulgarian Army). May 24 St Cyril and Methodius Day (Day of Culture and Literacy).
Resorts & Excursions
Sofia & the West
Sofia
Dating back to the fourth century BC, the ancient capital of Sofia has a wealth of different architectural styles including Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Bulgarian and Turkish. The city boasts many theatres and museums (including those of archaeology and ethnography), opera houses and art galleries (including the National Art Gallery housed in the former Royal Palace), as well as universities, open-air markets, parks (over 300 of them, including the Borisova Park) and sports stadiums. Visitors should see the extraordinary Alexander Nevski Memorial Church (which dominates the city with its gold-leaf dome), built to celebrate Bulgaria’s liberation from the Turks in the Russo-Turkish war at the end of the last century. The crypt hosts an exhibition of beautiful icons and the choir is excellent and well worth hearing. Other churches in Sofia include St Sophia, which is Byzantine and dates from the sixth century; Rotunda of St George, which dates back to the fifth century and contains 14th-century frescoes; St Petka Samardziiska, which is 14th century, and St Nedelya. There is an archaeological museum housed in the nine cupolas of the Bouyouk Mosque (the largest in Sofia). The Banya Bashi Mosque is also worth a visit. An example of modern architecture is the Alexander Batenberg Square, which contains the Government Buildings and some Roman remains nearby (discovered when an underpass was being constructed), together with a reconstruction of the city as it was in Roman times. Other attractions include the Turkish baths and the markets at Hali (covered market), Georgi Kirkov and Kristal Square (flea market and antique shops).
Rila
Rila Monastery is 121km (75 miles) from Sofia, perched high up on the side of a mountain in the middle of thick pine forests. Rila has a fascinating collection of murals, woodcarvings, old weapons and coins; and manuals and Bibles written on parchment. The monastery itself is notable for its delicate and unusual architectural features. Originally founded in the 10th century by the hermit and holy man, Ivan Rilski, the monastery acted as a repository and sanctuary for Bulgarian culture during the 500-year Turkish occupation from 1396. Fire has destroyed most of the early architecture and the present buildings date from the 19th century, with the exception of the 14th-century Khrelio’s Tower. There is good accommodation in the monastery and a nearby hotel. Rila is an excellent starting place for climbs and hikes in the surrounding countryside.
Elsewhere
The mountain of Vitosha on the outskirts of Sofia is a National Park with chairlifts and cable cars to help with the ascent as it is approximately 1800m (6000ft) high. Here, the medieval church of Boyana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, can be seen, with its beautiful and ancient frescoes painted around the year 1200 and thought to be some of the oldest in Bulgaria. South of Sofia is Blagoevgrad, home of the Pirin State Ensemble (the world-renowned folkloric group), and Sandanski, an ancient spa town and birthplace of the Roman gladiator, Spartacus. Further south still, travellers can visit two of Bulgaria’s museum towns: Melnik is known for its wine cellars, 18th to 19th century architecture and its proximity to Rozhen Monastery with its beautifully carved altar, stained-glass windows, murals and icons; and the museum town of Bansko, at the foot of Pirin Mountain, contains the Holy Trinity Church with its carved ceilings and murals, and its monastery-like houses with high stone walls.
Central Bulgaria
Plovdiv
Founded in 432 BC and the country’s second-largest city, the museum town of Plovdiv is divided by the Maritsa River and contains both an old quarter and a new commercial section. The old part contains many buildings dating from the 18th and 19th centuries (and earlier) in typical National Revival style. It is possible to wander along the narrow cobbled streets and see Roman ruins (including an amphitheatre), picturesque medieval houses and 17th-century buildings with their upper sections hanging out into the street and almost touching those opposite. The Archaeological Museum has collections of gold Thracian artefacts, including cooking utensils, and the Ethnographic Museum is also worth seeing, as are the churches of St Marina and St Constantine & Helen.
Elsewhere
8 km (5 miles) from Plovdiv is Batchkovo Monastery, founded in the 11th century, with some rare frescoes, icons, manuscripts and coins. Batchkovo lies within the area known in ancient times as Thrace (partly occupied by the Rhodope Mountains) and many items of archaeological interest have been discovered, including wonderful gold Thracian objects. The town of Kazanluk has a Museum of Rose Production and is the centre of Bulgaria’s major export: attar of roses. The valley of Kazanluk itself has countless archaeological and historic treasures – Greek, Roman, Thracian and Ottoman. Veliko Turnovo, ancient capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire (1187-1393), is another museum town, situated on three hills circled by the River Yantra. It contains extraordinary collections of historic works of art, including church relics. Turnova has many fine examples of houses built in the National Revival style (18th to 19th century), many of which were designed by master builder Kolyo Phicheto and typically seem to grow out of the steep slopes flanking the river. The Preobrazhenski Monastery is quite close, as is the open-air folk museum at Etar, near the town of Gobrovo. The picturesque village of Arbanassi, a museum town located 4km (2.5 miles) from Veliko Turnovo, was a wealthy merchants’ town between the 16th and 18th centuries and is noted for its unique stone-built houses, its two monasteries, St Nikola and Holy Virgin and, in particular, the beautiful murals of the St Elija Chapel. 8 km (5 miles) northwest of Plovdiv, the museum town of Koprivshtitsa is one of Bulgaria’s best-preserved towns, with primary coloured examples of National Revival architecture apparent everywhere. The town is perhaps best known for its Great Koprivshtitsa Folklore Festival, held every four years. Further museum towns to the east of Plovdiv include Tryavna, again with many examples of houses in the National Revival style; Kotel, which is located in a small valley in the Balkan mountain range, and is famous as a centre for carpet making; and the village of Zheravna, in the Eastern Balkan range, containing beautiful 17th-century wooden houses.
The Black Sea Coast
The Bulgarian Black Sea Riviera resorts are ideal for the traditional seaside family holiday. Swimming is generally safe, as even at 150m (500ft) away from the shore, the water is only shoulder-high. Areas where currents are a problem are clearly marked. The Black Sea has half the salt content of the Mediterranean. Some of the sand is pulled by currents from as far away as the Mediterranean, flowing through the Bosphorus and Dardenelles. Special children’s pools have been installed on many of the beaches; swings, slides, playdomes and donkey rides are also available and most resorts offer a wide range of watersports.
Resorts
There are dozens of attractive resorts on the Black Sea Riviera. St Constantine and Elena Resort is Bulgaria’s oldest Black Sea spa, centred on the Grand Hotel Varna, the largest and one of the most luxurious hotel on the Riviera. Albena, named after a famous local beauty, is situated on the edge of a lovely forest, and is Bulgaria’s newest resort (a showcase and vivid monument to contemporary Bulgarian design), with good food and lively nightlife. Golden Sands, is the largest resort on the Northern Black Sea coast. It has good facilities and probably the best nightlife on the Black Sea Riviera. Sunny Day offers a wide range of beauty and health treatments in two of its four hotels. In a forested setting overlooking the sea, it is only 10km (6 miles) from Varna, the Black Sea capital founded in the sixth century BC, which contains many Roman and Byzantine remains. Sunny Beach is a large purpose-built family resort with beautiful and safe beaches. Close to Sunny Beach is the seventh-century fishing village of Old Nessebur with its wooden fishermen’s houses and its famed four dozen Byzantine churches. The Black Sea port town of Burgas has a Maritime Park and an extensive beach.
Winter resorts
Borovets is a World Cup venue. It is only 72km (45 miles) from Sofia, at 1350m (4300ft) in the Rila Mountains and is the oldest and largest mountain resort in Bulgaria. There, the 2400m (8000ft) Yastrebets (Hawk’s Nest) is a steep, twisting red trail for the advanced skier, in operation from November until April. Seven comfortable, friendly and well-run hotels provide most of the accommodation and there is a village of timber-framed houses (each sleeping six) nearby. In Bulgarian resorts, hotels usually provide most of the nightlife. There is a disco in the Mousalla. There is also a wine bar and some folk taverns (mehana); sleigh rides through the snow are also available. At Pamporovo, in the Rhodopi Mountains, 85km (53 miles) from Plovdiv, there is one of the finest ski schools in Europe. Pamporovo is also the most southerly ski resort in Europe. The major ski runs start from the top of the 1926m (6318ft) Snejanka Peak. Vitosha, 1800m (6000ft) high and home of the National Ski School based on the FIS methods, overlooks Sofia. Two of the six ski runs have been approved for international competitions. All the resorts have been purpose-built to blend in with the magnificent natural scenery of mountains and forest. Equipment on hire is modern and well maintained. The most recent resort is Bansko, a small town in southwest Bulgaria at the foothills of the Pirin Mountain. There are slalom and giant slalom runs available, as well as a 5km- (3.1 mile-) cross-country track.
National Parks
Bulgaria has a number of national parks which abound in rare flora and fauna, bird species (including vultures, eagles and falcons), as well as endangered animal species such as bears, wolves and red deer. Facilities for nature and outdoor enthusiasts have improved in recent years, with different types of accommodation, including small hotels, lodges, private chalets and camping becoming increasingly available. Guided tours or private visits are possible; for some areas, a permit is required. For details, contact the Ministry of Economy (Website: www.mi.government.bg ).The Pirin National Park is situated on the highest part of the Pirin mountain range. The landscape varies from the ancient Baikusheva pine forests to crystalline lakes and limestone rocks. Many rare plant species, such as the near extinct Edelweiss, are preserved within the park, which also contains nearly 180 glacier lakes. In the southwest, the Rila National Park covers nearly half of the Rila mountain range and is renowned for its seven lakes and its 10th-century monastery. Vitosha National Park, just outside Sofia, is home to many species of butterflies and offers shelter to wolves, bears and wild cats. The Vratchansky Balkan National Park, in the northwest, has spectacular rock formations, waterfalls and ancient caves. It incorporates the Vratchansky Karst Nature Reserve, whose caves provide a habitat for many species of bats. The Central Balkan National Park, located to the northeast of Sofia and reached via the Troyan Pass, is noted for the Raiskoto Praskalo waterfall – the highest in Bulgaria - and its 50 protected plant species, many of them native to these mountains. The small Sinite Kamani National Park has spectacular rock formations and is home to the royal eagle, long-legged buzzard and the peregrin falcon. The Shoumen Plateau National Park near the town of Shoumen has a varied landscape of thick forests and steep rock formations and is home to the Shumenska Krepost archaeological reserve. Situated near the River Danube close to the town of Rousse, the Roussenski Lom National Park is known for its rich wildlife and fauna. The Strandzha National Park in the southeast is Bulgaria’s largest. It borders the Black Sea and is famous for its oak and beech forests. The nearby Ropotamo Reserve on the banks of the River Ropotamo has a diverse landscape ranging from cliffs and forests to sandy beaches, dunes and swamps; the Arkutino swamp is a shelter for many rare bird species.
World Heritage Sites
Bulgaria has nine UNESCO-listed World Heritage Sites. The Thracian Kazanluk Tomb, located in the Valley of Roses near the town of Kazanluk, has perfectly preserved murals dating from the fourth century BC. The Sveshtari Tomb is situated in an archaeological reserve near the town of Razgrad; it was built 2300 years ago for a Thracian king. The Madara Horseman, an image carved into a rock of a horseman piercing a lion with his spear dates from the early Middle Ages (eighth century); it is located on the Madara Plateau in the Danube plain. The 13th-century Boyana Church is located at the foot of the Vitosha mountain in the Sofia suburb of Boyana and is famous for its murals, which include replicas of icons from Constantinople. The Ivanovo Rock Monasteries near the city of Rousse stretch for more than 5km (3.1 miles) and consist of cells, churches and chapels dug into the rocks by hermit monks who settled there between the 11th and 14th centuries. Old Nessebur is one of Europe’s oldest towns (for details, see The Black Sea Coast section). The 11th-century Rila Monastery is set on Rila Mountain, 121km (75 miles) from Sofia (for details, see Sofia & The West section). The Sreburna Lake nature reserve is located near the Danube river, 16km (10 miles) west of the town of Silistra. It stretches over an area of 600 hectares (1482 acres) and is listed for its unique fauna and wildlife, including the rare Dalmatian pelican, the cormorant and the ibis. Thanks to swift preventative measures, the park seems to have escaped unscathed from the recent Danube cyanide spill. The Pirin National Park (for details, see National Parks section) is a protected area of 27,400 hectares (67,678 acres).
Sport & Activities
Special interest tours
Most towns and cities have a national history and ethnographic museum. Visits to the old museum towns and ancient monasteries provide an excellent opportunity to experience Bulgaria’s rich historical and cultural traditions; some museum towns, such as Koprivshtitsa and Plovdiv, offer painting and photography courses.
Wintersports
Bulgaria is a fast-growing skiing destination and the country’s three major ski resorts have been improved in recent years. Snowfall is consistently heavy from December until April. The ski areas may not be as extensive as the Alps, but for novice and intermediate skiing, Bulgaria offers excellent conditions. Off-piste skiing is good and cross-country skiing is becoming increasingly popular, with many trails leading through pine forests. (For details of the main ski resorts and facilities, see Winter Resorts in the Resorts & Excursions section.)
Watersports
The Black Sea coast has over 370km (232 miles) of coastline with sandy beaches. Owing to its low salt content, it is ideal for swimming. A wide range of watersports, including water-skiing, sailing and surfing are available. Whitewater rafting, canoeing and kayaking are possible on the Rivers Arda, Ossam, Stackevska and Struma during springtime. The quieter waters of the Danube are particularly suitable for canoeing and kayaking.
Hiking
There are over 35,000km (21,749 miles) of waymarked paths in Bulgaria. One- or two-week trips through the wild mountains can be arranged. Guides are provided and accommodation is usually in mountain chalets, guest houses or camps. (See also National Parks in the Resorts & Excursions section.)
Outdoor pursuits
Organised mountaineering and climbing trips can be arranged by specialised companies in the areas of Vratsa, Veliko Tarnovo, Trojan, Maliovitza and Roussenski Lom. The steep rocks of the Pirin, Rhodope, Rila and Stara Planina are popular with expert climbers. Bulgaria has twice hosted the orienteering World Championships and a national orienteering cup takes place annually on the Shoumensko Plateau. Numerous companies also offer organised caving trips to the country’s numerous caves and spectacular subterranean rock formations (many of which have ancient cave paintings). Horse riding has traditionally been popular in Bulgaria and there is a choice of one- or two-week tours available; possible itineraries include the Danube Valley, the Balkan, Rila and Stara Planina mountains and the Valley of Roses. It is also possible to travel the country by horse and cart. For mountain biking enthusiasts, the Rhodope mountains provide excellent trails, while cycling along the Black Sea coast is a popular family activity. There are also generally good facilities for tennis and mini-golf in the major resorts.
Cruises
Luxury cruises along the Danube sailing through seven countries in two air-conditioned river liners, each accommodating 236 passengers, is available. This interesting tour includes transit to Passau or Vienna, to begin either a two- or three-week cruise to Rousse in eastern Bulgaria, with excursions at all points of call. Afterwards, there is a choice of touring Bulgaria by coach, or staying on the Black Sea Riviera, or at a mountain resort inland. The return trip home is by air.
Health spas
Bulgaria has many mineral water spas and increasing interest is being shown in spa holidays. There are over 500 springs.
Top Things To Do
Top things to do
•
Swim in the Black Sea, which has half the salt content of the Mediterranean. The Black Sea coast has over 370km (232 miles) of coastline with sandy beaches and there are dozens of attractive resorts on the Black Sea Riviera. St Constantine and Elena Resort is Bulgaria’s oldest Black Sea spa, centred on the Grand Hotel Varna, the largest and one of the most luxurious hotels on the Riviera. Albena, named after a famous local beauty, is situated on the edge of a lovely forest, and is a showcase and vivid monument to contemporary Bulgarian design, with good food and lively nightlife. Golden Sands is the largest resort on the Northern Black Sea coast. It has good facilities and probably the best nightlife on the Black Sea Riviera. Sunny Day offers a wide range of beauty and health treatments in two of its four hotels. In a forested setting overlooking the sea, it is only 10km (6 miles) from Varna, the Black Sea capital founded in the sixth century BC, which contains many Roman and Byzantine remains. Sunny Beach is a large purpose-built family resort with beautiful and safe beaches. The Black Sea port town of Burgas has a Maritime Park and an extensive beach. •
Ski at Borovets, a World Cup venue, in operation from November until April. It is only 72km (45 miles) from Sofia, at 1350m (4300ft) in the Rila Mountains, and is the oldest and largest mountain resort in Bulgaria. The 2400m (8000ft) Yastrebets (Hawk’s Nest) is a steep, twisting red trail for the advanced skier. Seven comfortable, friendly and well-run hotels provide most of the accommodation and there is a village of timber-framed houses (each sleeping six) nearby. In Bulgarian resorts, hotels usually provide most of the nightlife. There is a disco, a wine bar and some folk taverns (mehana); sleigh rides through the snow are also available. • At Pamporovo, in the Rhodopi Mountains, 85km (53 miles) from Plovdiv, there is one of the finest ski schools in Europe. Pamporovo is also the most southerly ski resort in Europe. The major ski runs start from the top of the 1926m (6318ft) Snejanka Peak. Vitosha, 1800m (6000ft) high and home of the National Ski School based on the FIS methods, overlooks Sofia. All the resorts have been purpose-built to blend in with the magnificent natural scenery of mountains and forest. The most recent resort is Bansko, a small town in southwest Bulgaria at the foothills of the Pirin Mountain. There are slalom and giant slalom runs available, as well as a 5km (3.1-mile) cross-country track. •
Hike along Bulgaria’s 35,000km (21,749 miles) of waymarked paths. One- or two-week trips through the wild mountains can be arranged. Guides are provided and accommodation is usually in mountain chalets, guest houses or camps. • Organised mountaineering and climbing trips can be arranged by specialised companies in the areas of Vratsa, Veliko Tarnovo, Trojan, Maliovitza and Roussenski Lom. The steep rocks of the Pirin, Rhodope, Rila and Stara Planina are popular with expert climbers. Bulgaria has twice hosted the orienteering World Championships and a national orienteering cup takes place annually on the Shoumensko Plateau. Many companies also offer organised caving trips to the country’s numerous caves and spectacular subterranean rock formations (many of which have ancient cave paintings). •
Horse riding has traditionally been popular in Bulgaria and there is a choice of one- or two-week tours available; possible itineraries include the Danube Valley, the Balkan, Rila and Stara Planina mountains and the Valley of Roses. It is also possible to travel the country by horse and cart. • For mountain biking enthusiasts, the Rhodope mountains provide excellent trails, while cycling along the Black Sea coast is a popular family activity. •
Cruise along the Danube, sailing through seven countries (website: www.bluedanubeholidays.com/european_cruises_new.htm).• Relax in Bulgaria’s many mineral water spas. The curative properties of the Bulgarian mineral waters have been known and used for centuries. Ancient mineral complexes were built near the mineral springs: Hisaria
– ancient Augusta; Kyustendil
– ancient Pautalia, Bourgas mineral baths
– Aque Kalite, later Thermopiles; Sapareva Banya
– Germaneia; The Sliven Baths
– Tanzos and Sofia
– Ulpia Serdika.
Tourist Information
National Tourist Information Centre1 Svete Nedelia Square, 1040 Sofia, BulgariaTel: (2) 987 9778.Website: www.bulgariatravel.org
Top Things To See
Top things to see
• Dating back to the fourth century BC, the ancient capital of Sofia has a wealth of different architectural styles including Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Bulgarian and Turkish. The city boasts many theatres and museums (including those of archaeology and ethnography), opera houses and art galleries (including the National Art Gallery housed in the former Royal Palace), as well as universities, open-air markets, parks (over 300 of them, including the Borisova Park) and sports stadiums. Visitors should see the extraordinary Alexander Nevski Memorial Church (which dominates the city with its gold-leaf dome), built to celebrate Bulgaria’s liberation from the Turks in the Russo-Turkish war at the end of the last century. The crypt hosts an exhibition of beautiful icons and the choir is excellent and well worth hearing. Other churches in Sofia include St Sophia, which is Byzantine and dates from the sixth century; St George, which dates back to the fifth century and contains 14th-century frescoes; St Petka Samardziiska, which is 14th-century, and St Nedelya. There is an archaeological museum housed in the nine cupolas of the Bouyouk Mosque (the largest in Sofia). The Banya Bashi Mosque is also worth a visit. An example of modern architecture is the Alexander Batenberg Square, which contains the Government Buildings and some Roman remains nearby, together with a reconstruction of the city as it was in Roman times. Other attractions include the Turkish baths and the markets at Hali (covered market), Georgi Kirkov and Kristal Square (flea market and antique shops). • Be fascinated by the vast collection of murals, woodcarvings, old weapons, coins, manuals and bibles written on parchment at Rila Monastery, 121km (75 miles) from Sofia. Fire has destroyed most of the early 10th-century architecture and the present buildings date from the 19th century, with the exception of the 14th-century Khrelio’s Tower. There is good accommodation in the monastery and a nearby hotel. • In Blagoevgrad, South of Sofia, watch the Pirin State Ensemble, a world-renowned folkloric group. • Further south still, travellers can visit two of Bulgaria’s museum towns: Melnik is known for its wine cellars, 18th- to 19th-century architecture and its proximity to Rozhen Monastery with its beautifully carved altar, stained-glass windows, murals and icons; and the museum town of Bansko, at the foot of Pirin Mountain, contains the Holy Trinity Church with its carved ceilings and murals, and its monastery-like houses with high stone walls. • Founded in 432 BC and the country’s second-largest city, the museum town of Plovdiv is divided by the Maritsa River and contains both an old quarter and a new commercial section. The old part contains many buildings dating from the 18th and 19th centuries (and earlier) in typical National Revival style. It is possible to wander along the narrow cobbled streets and see Roman ruins (including an amphitheatre), picturesque medieval houses and 17th-century buildings with their upper sections hanging out into the street and almost touching those opposite. The Archaeological Museum has collections of gold Thracian artefacts, including cooking utensils, and the Ethnographic Museum is also worth seeing, as are the churches of St Marina and St Constantine & Helen. • 8 km (5 miles) from Plovdiv is Batchkovo Monastery, founded in the 11th century, with some rare frescoes, icons, manuscripts and coins. Batchkovo lies within the area known in ancient times as Thrace (partly occupied by the Rhodopi Mountains) and many items of archaeological interest have been discovered, including wonderful gold Thracian objects. • For centuries Bulgarians have planted roses, picked their flowers and extracted their heavenly essence –
attar of roses. The Rose Valley is magically transformed with breath-taking blooms in May and early June each year when The Festival of Roses is celebrated in many towns of the region. Rose picking rituals and folklore displays are presented. Visit the Museum of Rose Production in Kazanluk. The valley of Kazanluk itself has countless archaeological and historic treasures – Greek, Roman, Thracian and Ottoman. •
Veliko Turnovo, ancient capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire (1187-1393), is another museum town, situated on three hills circled by the River Yantra. It contains extraordinary collections of historic works of art, including church relics. •
Turnova has many fine examples of houses built in the National Revival style (18th to 19th century), many of which were designed by master builder Kolyo Phicheto and typically seem to grow out of the steep slopes flanking the river. The Preobrazhenski Monastery is quite close, as is the open-air folk museum at Etar, near the town of Gobrovo. • The picturesque village of Arbanassi, a museum town located 4km (2.5 miles) from Veliko, is noted for its unique stone-built houses, its two monasteries, St Nikola and Holy Virgin, and in particular, the beautiful murals of the St Elija Chapel. • Eight km (5 miles) northwest of Plovdiv, the museum town of Koprivshtitsa is one of Bulgaria’s best-preserved towns, with primary coloured examples of National Revival architecture apparent everywhere. The town is perhaps best known for its Great Koprivshtitsa Folklore Festival, held every four years. • Further museum towns to the east of Plovdiv include Tryavna, again with many examples of houses in the National Revival style; Kotel, which is located in a small valley in the Balkan mountain range, and is famous as a centre for carpet making; and the village of Zheravna, in the Eastern Balkan range, containing beautiful 17th-century wooden houses. • Discover rare flora and fauna in Bulgaria’s national parks. Guided tours or private visits are possible; for some areas, a permit is required. For details, contact the Ministry of Economy (website: www.mi.government.bg). The Pirin National Park is situated on the highest part of the Pirin mountain range. The landscape varies from the ancient Baikusheva pine forests to crystalline lakes and limestone rocks. Many rare plant species, such as the near extinct Edelweiss, are preserved within the park, which also contains nearly 180 glacier lakes. In the southwest, the Rila National Park covers nearly half of the Rila mountain range and is renowned for its seven lakes and its 10th-century monastery. Vitosha National Park, just outside Sofia, is home to many species of butterflies and offers shelter to wolves, bears and wild cats. The Vratchansky Balkan National Park, in the northwest, has spectacular rock formations, waterfalls and ancient caves. It incorporates the Vratchansky Karst Nature Reserve, whose caves provide a habitat for many species of bats. The Central Balkan National Park, located to the northeast of Sofia and reached via the Troyan Pass, is noted for the Raiskoto Praskalo waterfall
– the highest in Bulgaria - and its 50 protected plant species, many of them native to these mountains. The small Sinite Kamani National Park has spectacular rock formations and is home to the royal eagle, long-legged buzzard and the peregrine falcon. The Strandzha National Park in the southeast is Bulgaria’s largest. Other national parks include: the Shoumen Plateau National Park near the town of Shoumen, the Roussenski Lom National Park close to the town of Rousse and the Ropotamo Reserve on the banks of the River Ropotamo. • Discover Bulgaria’s nine UNESCO-listed World Heritage Sites. The Thracian Kazanluk Tomb, located in the Valley of Roses near the town of Kazanluk, has perfectly preserved murals dating from the fourth century BC. The Sveshtari Tomb is situated in an archaeological reserve near the town of Razgrad; it was built 2300 years ago for a Thracian king. The Madara Horseman, an image carved into a rock of a horseman piercing a lion with his spear dates from the early Middle Ages (eighth century); it is located on the Madara Plateau in the Danube plain. The 13th-century Boyana Church is located at the foot of the Vitosha mountain in the Sofia suburb of Boyana and is famous for its murals, which include replicas of icons from Constantinople. The Ivanovo Rock Monasteries near the city of Rousse stretch for more than 5km (3.1 miles) and consist of cells, churches and chapels dug into the rocks by hermit monks who settled there between the 11th and 14th centuries. Close to Sunny Beach is the seventh-century fishing village of Old Nessebur with its wooden fishermen’s houses and its famed four dozen Byzantine churches. The 11th-century Rila Monastery is set on Rila Mountain, 121km (75 miles) from Sofia. The Sreburna Lake nature reserve is located near the Danube river, 16km (10 miles) west of the town of Silistra. It stretches over an area of 600 hectares (1482 acres) and is listed for its unique fauna and wildlife, including the rare Dalmatian pelican, the cormorant and the ibis. The Pirin National Park (for details, see National Parks section above) is a protected area of 27,400 hectares (67,678 acres).
Tourist Information
National Tourist Information Centre1 Svete Nedelia Square, 1040 Sofia, BulgariaTel: (2) 987 9778.Website: www.bulgariatravel.org
Travel - Internal
Air
The national airline, Bulgaria Air (tel: (2) 8659 557 or 517 (flight information and reservations); website: www.air.bg), and the national airline Hemus Air (tel: (2) 981 8330 (reservations); website: www.hemusair.bg ) operate domestic services connecting Sofia with the coast and main towns. The journeys from Sofia to Bourgas and Varna can be made in about one hour. Air travel is comparatively cheap, and is only slightly more expensive than rail travel.
River
Regular boat and hydrofoil services along the Bulgarian bank of the Danube link many centres, including Vidin, Lom, Kozloduj, Orjahovo, Nikopol, Svishtov, Tutrakan and Silistra.
Rail
There are over 4200km (2625 miles) of railways in the country. Bulgarian State Railways connects Sofia with main towns. Reservations are essential and first-class travel is advised. For details, contact the State Railway Office (3 Ivan Vasov St, Sofia, 1080; tel: (2) 932 5560; website: www.bdz.bg).Rail passes: The EuroDomino pass enables holders anything from three to eight days’ extensive travel within a one-month period on the entire rail network of their chosen country. It is valid in 26 European countries. To purchase a EuroDomino pass you must have been resident in Europe for at least six months and a passport number is required at time of booking. It is not permitted to purchase a pass for travel within your own country of residence. To qualify for the youth rates, you must be under 26 years on the first date of validity of the pass. Children aged four to11 years inclusive pay half the adult fares rounded up to the nearest pound. Children under four years travel free. Seat reservations, couchette and sleeper charges are not included in the cost of the pass and are payable at the normal rate. Passholder fares are payable on some services. Available from Rail Europe (website: www.raileurope.co.uk/railpasses/eurodomino.htm).
Road
There are over 13,000km (8000 miles) of roads linking the major centres; their quality is variable and some main roads have major potholes, plus driving standards are generally poor. Traffic drives on the right. International road signs are used, although roadworks are often not signposted. Night driving can be dangerous owing to poor lighting. Tolls are charged on motorways and main roads out of town. Prices are &Euro;5 for a one-week vignette and &Euro;12 for one month. Vignettes can be purchased at ports, border points, post offices and DZI bank offices. Additionally, if the vehicle is stolen in Bulgaria, import duty and related taxes must be paid: insurance may be taken to cover this. Speed limits are strictly adhered to: 50kph (30mph) in built-up areas, 90kph (55mph) outside built-up areas and 120kph (75mph) on motorways. In addition, the driver may be banned from driving in Bulgaria for up to three years. The nationwide alcohol limit is 0.05 per cent; on-the-spot fines of BGN50-150 are imposed for offences. Spare parts are easily available and 24-hour road assistance is available (tel: (2) 980 3308). There are numerous petrol stations. It should also be observed that car-theft is on the increase in Bulgaria, and all cars should ideally be fitted with alarms and other visible security measures. Car-jacking is also becoming more frequent, usually occurring at night, and with some criminals even impersonating traffic policemen in the process. It is best to drive in daylight. Bus: There is a good network of buses that are cheap and convenient but with erratic timetabling. Taxi: Available in all towns and also for intercity journeys. Vehicles may not be in top condition. Vehicles are metered, unless they are privately owned. Taxi meters may be rigged so that foreign passengers can be overcharged; foreign visitors should therefore take great caution in determining the correct fare before travel. A 5 to 10 per cent tip is appreciated. Car hire: Available through hotel reception desks. There are no fly-drive arrangements through the airlines. Payment is usually in cash. Documentation: An International Driving Permit is required. A Green Card is compulsory.
Urban
Bus, tramway and trolleybus services operate in Sofia; in addition, a metro has been built in the the city, operating 0530-0000. Trains arrive every six minutes during peak periods and every eight minutes at all other times. Flat fares are charged on all transport and tickets must be pre-purchased. Buses and taxis operate in all the main towns. There are also trolleybuses in Plovdiv and Varna.
Travel times
The following chart gives approximate travel times from Sofia (in hours and minutes) to other major cities/towns in Bulgaria. Air Road Rail Varna 1.00 6:30 8.00 Bourgas 1.00 5:30 7.00 Plovdiv 0.40 2.00 2.00 Pamporovo - 3.00 -
Travel - International
Air
The national airline is Bulgaria Air (website: www.air.bg).
Approximate flight times
From Sofia to London is three hours and to New York is 14 hours.
Main airports
Sofia (SOF) (website: www.sofia-airport.bg) is 10km (6 miles) east of the city (travel time – 20 minutes).To/from the airport: Buses run approximately every 10 minutes to the city centre during the day and every 20 minutes between 2100-0030. The bus station is located close to the Arrivals terminal and services operate 0500-2300. A single ticket costs BGN0.50 and a single ticket must also be bought for large luggage. Coaches are available by arrangement through tour operators. Taxis are also available, although taxi drivers may not use their meters and travellers are advised to agree on the fare beforehand. The airport itself only advises its passengers to use the taxi company OK Supertrains (tel: (2) 973 2121; website: www.oktaxi.net). Facilities: Banks and currency exchange (24 hours), post office, duty-free shop, nursery, restaurant, bar and car hire is located in the public area of the Arrivals Hall. Varna (VAR) (website: www.varna-airport.bg) is 9km (5.5 miles) from the city. To/from the airport: A bus service to Varna city centre departs every 20 minutes. A coach service is available by arrangement with various tour operators. A taxi service is also available. Facilities: Outgoing duty free shop, banking and currency exchange (24 hours), a restaurant, bar and car hire by prior arrangement with travel agents. Bourgas (BOJ) is 13km (8 miles) from the city. To/from the airport: A bus service departs every 20 minutes to the city centre. A coach service is available by prior arrangement with tour operators. A taxi service is also available. Facilities: Outgoing duty-free shop, banking and currency exchange (24 hours), a restaurant, bar and car hire (by prior arrangement).
Departure tax
None except for US nationals who will be charged US$20.
Sea
Main ports: Bourgas (website: www.port-bourgas.com) and Varna (website: www.port-varna.bg) on the Black sea.
River
The official crossing points into Romania are by ferry from Vidin to Calafat and by road bridge from Ruse to Giurgiu.
Rail
There are frequent services between Sofia and Budapest, Belgrade, Bucharest, Thessaloniki and Istanbul. Sofia is also directly connected with Paris, Vienna, Munich and Berlin. Dining car facilities are available on all routes. For details contact the Railway Ticket Agency (RILA) (website: www.bdz-rila.com). Rail passes: The Inter-Rail pass offers unlimited second-class train travel in up to 29 European countries (includes Morocco and Turkey) split into eight zones (A-H). Three different tickets are available: a ticket covering one zone (two to six countries, 16 days’ validity), a ticket covering two zones (six to 10 countries, 22 days’ validity) and an All Zone Pass (29 countries, one month’s validity). Ferry services between Italy and Greece are included. Passengers must be resident in Europe for at least six months before the pass is used. Travel is not allowed in the passenger’s country of residence. Travellers under 26 years receive a reduction of about 30 per cent. Children’s tickets are reduced by about 50 per cent. Supplements are required for some high-speed services, seat reservations and couchettes. Discounts are offered on Eurostar and some ferry routes. Available from Inter Rail (website: www.interrailnet.com).
Road
Main entry points include Koulata and Novo Selo (from Greece); Ruse, Kardom, Durankulak and Silistra (from Romania); Svilengrad and Kapitan Andrikeevo (from Turkey); Kalotina, Zlatarevo and Vrashkachuka (from Serbia & Montenegro) and Guyeshevo (from the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia). Foreign citizens entering Bulgaria in a motor vehicle must have documentation to prove their ownership of the vehicle and evidence that their motor insurance is valid for Bulgaria. They must also state their proposed border crossing and pay suitable road tax. Bus: There are daily bus connections from other cities, including Istanbul, Athens and Thessaloniki to Sofia. Eurolines (52 Grosvenor Gardens, London SW1W 0AU; tel: (08705) 143 219; website: www.eurolines.com) and National Express (Ensign Court, 4 Vicarage Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 3ES; tel: 08705 808 080; website: www.nationalexpress.com) run regular coach services from the UK to Bulgaria. Passes: Travellers can either choose Mini-Pass breaks or book a 15-, 30- or 60-day pass. The six Mini-Passes give travellers the freedom to visit three cities, with prices starting from £55. Travellers can stay as long as they like in each city.
Travel Advice
Travel Advice
Most visits to Bulgaria are trouble-free but you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate international terrorist attacks, which could be against civillian targets, including placed frequented by foreigners. This advice is based on information provided by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in the UK. It is correct at time of publishing. As the situation can change rapidly, visitors are advised to contact the following organisations for the latest travel advice: British Foreign and Commonwealth OfficeTel: (0845) 850 2829. Website: www.fco.gov.ukUS Department of StateWebsite: http://travel.state.gov/travel
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BULGARIA
