Bulgaria is famous. Bulgaria. Rules for import and export in Bulgaria

I think that for me, like most middle-aged people born during the Soviet era, the name of this country invariably gives rise to nostalgic associations, including the heady smell familiar from childhood in a bottle of rose oil, kept in my mother’s closet, wooden boxes of fruit and vegetables kindly grown on plantations union state and languishing in fruit and vegetable depots, and, of course, the word “abroad”, enchanting the ear of the Soviet average person, which, by the standards of that time, was so highly valued in the circles of ordinary Crimean and Sochi holidaymakers.

By the way, my first memories of this Balkan country began with the large encyclopedia book “My Bulgaria,” which a curious child found on a shelf at the age of nine.

Then the history textbook told me that with the end of the landmark Soviet period in the history of Bulgaria, the times of active economic growth had passed, perestroika and democracy had safely passed the Bulgarian community. The Iron Curtain fell, opening up vast expanses to people globe, parallels and meridians accessible to every suffering traveler, beckoning exotic resorts. Does this mean that sunny Bulgaria has sunk into oblivion and been completely forgotten by the Russians? No. On the contrary, our compatriots seemed to be captured by a wave of nostalgia for “those” times when simple resort joys made a person happy.

Five years ago, when I went to Bulgaria for the first time, I did not see the former deserted shores, only here and there I came across old socialist-looking boarding houses, like the skeletons of an extinct mammoth, unexpectedly peeking out from under the permafrost. Modern Bulgaria is a hospitable country Balkan Peninsula, attracting tourists from all over Europe with an optimal combination of service, price level and a large number of attractions.

Summer resorts in Bulgaria are considered large and small towns southeast coast, overlooking the Black Sea: Pomorie, Albena, Varna. But don’t think that life in Bulgaria stops in winter, this small country It is also proud of its winter ski resorts, such as Pamporovo. Fans of active recreation can easily visit Bulgarian mountain regions and in the winter vacation, combining active recreation with tranquility and enjoying beautiful scenery. Bulgaria also occupies the prestigious third place in the world in terms of the number of mineral springs after Japan and Iceland.

It seems to me that the main charm of Bulgarian resorts, both winter and summer, is that they are able to satisfy the needs of any vacationer: a young student-adventurer, a respectable family man, an experienced wild traveler and even a prudent pensioner. You can vacation in this country at any time and on any budget, you just need to correctly calculate your financial strategy.

Visa and border crossing

Russians planning to visit Bulgaria are primarily concerned with the question: do they need a visa to enter its territory? visiting tourists, is there an agreement on state level O visa-free entry for Russians. The situation is fueled by discussions that pop up on the Internet every now and then, containing statements from top officials of the Bulgarian government that visas for Russians are about to be cancelled. But, as they say, things are still there.

Officially, since 2007, Bulgaria has been a member of the European Union, therefore, if you are not a citizen of an EU country, you can only enter Bulgaria with a visa issued in advance (not at the border). Therefore, the answer to the sacramental question is still disappointing: Russians will have to obtain tourist visas to Bulgaria in the same way as before. The only relief is that you can now enter the country via Schengen, which, however, should also be taken care of in advance.

Apply for a visa yourself or through an agency

So, the future Bulgarian tourist has two options: apply for a visa on his own or entrust this matter to an intermediary - a travel agency or travel agency. I want to make a reservation right away: I am entirely a supporter of the second option.

Before my first visit to Bulgaria, out of ignorance, I encountered independent receipt permission to visit the country, this automatically added bureaucratic difficulties for me, as a tourist: it turned out that documents are accepted only through the consulate and only for several hours a day, all the necessary papers must be collected in a certain sequence, it is possible that you will have to stand for many hours queue, and end up submitting an application the third time. Please note: if you are not booking the entire trip, but plan to go “savage”, that is, rent accommodation on the spot, in order to obtain a visa you will be asked to provide a certificate from the bank stating that you have at least 500 € in cash (for a short visit to the country ) or a minimum of 50 € per day for one person (for a trip over 30 days).

Documents for a visa to Bulgaria

When applying for a visa, Russians submit a completed application and two photographs measuring 3.5 x 4.5 cm. Since 2016, registration is mandatory when traveling abroad health insurance.

Now about the price of the issue. If you apply for a visa yourself, you will need to pay a consular fee of 35 € (about 1,540 rubles) and a service fee of 836 rubles. Thus, the entire visa will cost 54 € (about 2370 rubles).

The situation is much more optimistic with obtaining a visa through an intermediary company. You submit the necessary documents, pay the required amount and... that's it! If you find an inexpensive company, it will cost 50 € (approximately 3,200 rubles).
Compare both options, weigh your financial capabilities and the reserve of your nervous system and - go ahead! Don’t forget to take your children with you, because if they are under 6 years old, the visa is issued free of charge! Personally, I always take the path of least resistance, entrusting the paperwork to competent persons.

Rules for import and export in Bulgaria

The rules for the import/export of goods and currency from abroad are quite democratic: only amounts over €2,500 need to be declared at the border. In my memory, tourists have never been checked, the declared amount has not been checked with what you are actually carrying. Among those prohibited for import into the country is a short list of drugs, chemical weapons, ammunition and products that destroy the ozone layer. If you don't have any of these, green corridor open for you!

How to get there

Bulgaria's convenient location in southeastern Europe makes it extremely attractive for Russian tourists. Today, Muscovites and residents of St. Petersburg are offered a choice of several ways to get to their Bulgarian brothers: plane, train or car (plus ferry). Residents of other cities will no longer be able to get to Bulgaria directly, so their flight and train options necessarily include a transfer.

By plane

The easiest way to travel to Bulgaria is by plane. For the last three years, this is exactly how I get to my summer dacha. This country has four international airport:

• in the country's capital Sofia,
• in the central city of Plovdiv,
• in Varna,
• in Burgas.

Therefore, regardless of the time of year and the resort, you can get to your destination from the airport. You can choose if you wish regular flight, operated by Aeroflot and Bulgaria Air, or charter flight companies "Yamal" and "iFly". Moreover, in addition to direct flight there is a route with a transfer in one of the European cities (in this case, the ticket price may be 30–50 € lower). There are direct flights from Moscow and St. Petersburg to Sofia, Burgas and Varna. Tourists from other cities will have to take a flight with a transfer in one of the capitals or in Moscow/St. Petersburg to get to Bulgaria.

How to save money on a flight

After joining the European Union, Bulgaria turned into an international holiday center for European youth, and therefore such European low-cost airlines as WizzAir, Aer Lingus, Smart Wings, Condor and EasyJet fly there. Airfare varies greatly:

• Depending on the time of year: during the season, ticket prices increase greatly (from 40–50 € in May or October to 350–400 € in July–August).
• From the date of booking the ticket (again, you can save about 200–300 € by booking tickets at least six months in advance).

If you are planning a summer holiday in Bulgaria and want to stay here for the Velvet season, check with the travel company in advance which city you will have to fly from, because starting from October, flights from Burgas to Moscow and due to the closure of the season are stopped. In any case, the flight to Bulgaria does not last long (about 2-3 hours), and therefore it is very comfortable, almost like going to the country, only by plane.

You can view prices and flight schedules to Bulgaria.

By train

Until 2014, you could get to Bulgaria by train by purchasing a ticket for the Moscow-Sofia route (No. 59/60) that ran all year round. From May to October, a carriage was attached to the train, traveling to Burgas.

For the first two years, I came to Bulgaria in exactly this eccentric way. I felt like a nobleman who had gone “to the waters”: you were shaking in the compartment, looking out the window, boredom, in a word. For example, in this old-fashioned way you could get to the summer resort of Sunny Beach for about 150 €, spending three days in a compartment. After the events that took place in Ukraine, this train was canceled, so today lovers of leisurely travel by rail can only get from Russia to Bulgaria with a transfer in Budapest. I can’t say that this fact upsets me much: I’m not a fan of trains, and you must admit that three days in a compartment is too specific a pleasure.

By train to Bulgaria from neighboring countries

In addition to Russia, Bulgaria has railway connections with nearby countries: Turkey, Romania, Hungary, Yugoslavia. Personally, I have not yet used such a means of transportation, but I have seen the offices of the Rila agency at railway ticket offices and at all major stations selling international tickets from Bulgaria. In addition, Bulgaria is a member of major European railway alliances: City Star, InterRail, Balkan Flexipass, Rail Plus, within which you can buy a ticket and travel throughout Europe at uniform discounted rates. You can find out about the programs on the Bulgarian website railways.

By bus

Until 2014, a comfortable bus “Moscow - Burgas” ran weekly from Moscow (from the Yugo-Zapadnaya metro station) throughout the year; the ticket price was 124 € one way and 198 € and 218 € round trip (up to 30 days and over 30 days of stay, respectively). However, I clarified that today, due to the situation in Ukraine, the route has been canceled for an indefinite period. I admit, I wouldn’t dare go to Bulgaria this way: it’s a long road, I’ll still get seasick, so what? And there are virtually no savings in terms of money.

It is more difficult to get from St. Petersburg by bus: due to the distance (about 56 hours of travel), there is no regular route; this service is offered only by tour operators making organized trips to Bulgaria.

Bus service in Bulgaria itself is developed at a fairly high level. In addition to Romania, the bus will take you to any of the nearby countries: Yugoslavia, Greece, Turkey, Macedonia, as well as to more distant European countries - Hungary, Albania, Austria, Germany and France. Each city has a bus station where you can buy a ticket, the price of which varies from 20 to 150 € depending on the direction and distance.

By car

Car tourism is popular among families traveling, so Bulgaria can be reached by car; the distance from Sofia to Moscow is 2360 km. Sofia and Istanbul are separated by 563 km, with Bucharest – 379 km, with Belgrade – 387 km, and with Greek Thessaloniki this distance will be 318 km. When getting to Bulgaria via Romania, do not forget to issue transit visa through this country. If you want to avoid this, you should take the ferry from Ilyichevsk to Varna, which I will write about below.

In addition, if, while in Bulgaria, you want to travel, this can be done, since the country has the following automobile border crossings with neighboring countries: Turkey, Romania, Macedonia, Yugoslavia.

IN last years Due to the political situation in some neighboring countries, the details of your road trip should be planned in advance, driving around the territory of Ukraine. For example, this option of travel through Belarus, Poland and Romania is possible:

• the approximate travel time will be 36 hours (2800 kilometers);
• the journey begins from the A107 highway (on and);
• Due to the lack of personal experience, I recommend reading further details (gasoline costs, border crossing, communication with customs officers) in the reports of amateur motorists, which can be found on the Internet.

By ferry

For Russians who want to get to Bulgaria by water, it works ferry line Varna - Ilyichevsk, transporting those interested every week, the cost of a one-way ticket includes accommodation in a cabin with three meals a day and is about $70. More complete information about the schedule and prices for ferries can be found on the website of the company engaged in regular transportation.

Large ferry crossings There is a connection with Romania across the Danube. The most popular among tourists is the bridge connecting Bulgarian city Vidin and Romanian Calafat.

The ticket cost is 3€, and if a car is transported, the cost is already 23€. In addition, a port tax of 2€ is paid separately. This method of arrival, in my opinion, is suitable for motorists traveling the distance to Bulgaria by personal transport.

Tourist regions

Bulgaria is a country with a rich history. Almost every city has attractions and highlights of various kinds (see the chapter “Top Attractions”), while visiting which you can combine active, useful, and passive, relaxing types of recreation.

Conventionally, I would divide the country’s space into three regions:

You can find out the prices for tours to the winter and summer regions of Bulgaria at.

As an amateur independent travel, I book hotels on , and check if there are better offers somewhere. You can find your way around private rental offers for apartments and apartments.

Top cities

Top attractions

Bulgaria has an ancient history, so there is something to see here. It all depends on your preferences. I’ll try to divide the top attractions in Bulgaria into large blocks, which are called “by interests”.

Ruin

Despite the ironic word, these are my favorite attractions! Wandering through places where thousands of years ago there were cities and settlements is such a pleasure! But not for everyone.

So, there were many ancient cities on the territory of Bulgaria; I suggest you feel the spirit of antiquity in the following places:

Natural attractions

What nature creates often amazes the imagination. Picturesque valleys, dense forests, stone sculptures, winding caves, centuries-old sand dunes- all these natural monuments have retained their unique appearance, which is definitely worth seeing:

Cities of Russian military glory

Military history Bulgaria is closely connected with Russia. It makes me happy to think that the Russians more than once helped their Slavic brothers cope with the invaders. The pages of Bulgarian textbooks tell about the valiant warriors who set foot on this land.

Religion

Bulgaria, like Russia, professes Orthodoxy; on its territory you can see many churches and monasteries worthy of attention. I was surprised that the attitude towards religion among the locals is still rather formal: they are allowed into the temple without a headscarf, they are allowed not to bother with their appearance. The subtext seems to be: “Religion is in decline, so someone come in.” It is sad to see that in half-empty churches and monasteries the only visitors are Russian tourists who came here especially. Nevertheless, religious architectural monuments look very decent.

To summarize

In addition to iconic, famous attractions, Bulgaria has tens of hundreds of others, no less interesting places echek. Museums, churches, lakes, seaside parks, caves - no matter what region you travel to, you will certainly find something interesting for yourself.

Weather

The climate in Bulgaria varies from temperate continental (close to central Russia) to Mediterranean. Because of this, Russians, as a rule, do not have serious acclimatization in Bulgaria.

In general, the relationship of seasons in the country is familiar to us.
Summer tourist season opens in April and lasts until September. But the most comfortable months for sunbathing and swimming are June, July, August and September. The air temperature at this time averages +27–30 °C, and the water temperature remains at +24–26 °C.

It should be remembered that the weather in June and September is still changeable: sunny, hot and rainy, cloudy days alternate. But there are still a lot of tourists at this time.

Fans of winter holidays are welcome to Bulgaria from December to April.
In addition, a number of hotels in the country provide year-round holiday and an indoor heated seawater pool. There are two truly off-season months in Bulgaria: October and November. For summer holiday At this time it is already cool, but for winter, on the contrary, it is too early. Average temperature Months in Bulgaria can be viewed on the Internet.

Moving around the country

Bulgaria is a small country, but with a developed infrastructure. Roads, railway lines, sea ​​routes- once a strong connection with the countries of the socialist camp made it possible to build everything necessary for comfortable travel.

The main modes of transportation are bus, car and train.

Bus

In my opinion, one of the most comfortable ways to travel around the country is by bus. Central Bus Station(in Bulgarian, autogara) is found in every city. One of the major carriers in this direction is the M-bus company, which operates flights to all parts of the country, as well as beyond its borders; the company’s schedule and directions can be found.

Travel by bus in effect small size country is convenient and allows you to see passing cities from the window. By the way, this is the most popular look transport in the country: it accounts for about a third of all traffic.

Automobile

Independent tourists they can rent cars (from 25 € per day and above) and travel around the country in just a couple of days. Again, the compact size of Bulgaria allows you to travel to a neighboring country in one day and return home in the evening.

There are a lot of companies offering car rentals; just use a search engine on the Internet, compare prices and choose the best option. For example, you can look at the cost of car rental.

Train

For lovers of rails and sleepers, I suggest that you familiarize yourself with detailed information about the railways in Bulgaria, choose the appropriate route, check the schedule on the website of the Bulgarian railways and enjoy the journey! The only disadvantage of such movement can be considered the possible lack of comfort of trains left over from socialist times.

Otherwise, everything is extremely convenient!

Metro

Tourists vacationing in Sofia should appreciate the capital's metro.

Of course, it cannot be compared with Moscow, but it is quite possible to ride along the only line connecting the city center with its western part.

Liner

Fans of leisurely cruises should appreciate sea transportation. You can travel within the country only on small ships, and go by big liner V neighboring country The company Ukrferry, already mentioned in the chapter “How to get there,” will help, offering ferry flights from Russia, Ukraine and Romania.

Connection

IN major cities and well-known resorts there are no problems with communication: in all public places, restaurants, cafes, shopping centers, city squares and even taxi salons have free Wi-Fi. Just find out the password (if you have one) and connect to the network. The quality of the Internet is average, there are no high speeds, but it is quite possible to view mail and Viber. The Internet is usually better on hotel premises; there is a more powerful router there, so most likely you will even be able to make a Skype call with your home.

If you want to communicate with Russia, be sure to purchase a local SIM card. Perhaps one of the largest cellular operators is Vivacom. According to the latest information I received from a representative of this company in the office, the most profitable package is worth 5 € or 10 levs (let me remind you that this is approximately 400 rubles), which includes a SIM card with a Bulgarian number, 25 minutes of conversation with Russia and 1 GB Internet. With further replenishment of the account, a minute of conversation with your homeland will cost 0.4 €, or 30 stotinki (about 14 rubles). SMS is not included in this tariff.

Language and communication

Bulgaria is a South Slavic country, so the official language of the country is Bulgarian, which is somewhat close to Russian. The same Cyrillic letters, the same pronunciation with minor nuances (for example, the Bulgarian letter Ш is read as [ШТ]). At the very least, there should not be a sharp language barrier, in which, in principle, you can understand what the interlocutor is talking about upon arrival in the country.

In addition, at large resorts, receiving guests from all over Europe, Bulgarians have learned to speak all languages, including English, so if you can’t find a common language in Russian, feel free to switch to English, then everything will be clear.

However, a few phrases in Bulgarian are probably worth remembering, because everyone is pleased when you respect native language the place where we arrived. So, an improvised Bulgarian mini-phrase book for all holiday occasions:

• It’s very easy to say hello or goodbye to locals: just say “hello!” and “ciao!”
• Ask about the price of the desired Kolko Struva product?
• You can admit the absence of something using the very sweet word “yama”, in particular, if you have no money, lower your eyes sadly, throw up your hands and say “yama pari”. If you sigh a lot at the same time, perhaps they will feed you a bun - Bulgarians are sympathetic and kind people.
• By the way, agreement and disagreement with the interlocutor is expressed by the familiar words “yes” and “no”.
• After having dinner at a restaurant, ask for the bill by saying “Smetkata, pray.”
• Do you want to appear polite? Give thanks for everything, even for the most insignificant service, with the words “thanks” or “mercy”.
• If it comes to getting to know the locals, you can find out about the name of the interlocutor like this: “Kak se kazwate?” For an even closer acquaintance, use the phrases “Zhenen si ste?” (Are you married?) and “Are you married?” (Are you married?).
• When looking for the place you need (post office, bus stop, museum), you can clarify “where is...?” For example, when searching for a stop, ask the question “Where is the spirka?”
• If you need to ask about the availability of something, ask: “Do you have...?”
• When approving what is shown/told to you, say “Hareswa mi” (I like it), but if you are not happy with something, tell your interlocutor “Ne mi khareswa” (I don’t like it).
• At the end of my mini-phrasebook, I would like to remind you that Bulgarians are very optimistic, they do not like to be discouraged, so with the most common phrase in the Bulgarian language “vsichko dobre” (everything is fine) you will cheer up yourself and your interlocutor.

As for communication, there are no differences from Russian-language conversation with the exception of one, but very significant one: affirmation and negation are directly opposite to what we are used to. It is customary for Bulgarians to nod if they want to say “no” and shake their heads from side to side if they want to say “yes”. When I went to Bulgaria for the first time, I thought it was a joke. But after talking with local residents, I was convinced that this was the case. Believe me, the cheerful nod of the interlocutor in response to the question “Is there a toilet here?” will confuse you, because it means that it is not there!

The situation has become even more complicated in recent years, when, due to many tourists, real Bulgarian morals and mentality have shifted slightly towards European standards. Therefore, in response to the nodding and shaking of the head of the Bulgarian interlocutor, it is better to ask again: “Is there a toilet?”, “Is there a bank here?” Let him speak in words.
And the last piece of advice: it’s better to ask questions to Bulgarians over 40–50 years old: the generation of people who were born in socialist Bulgaria were required to study Russian at school. Therefore, it is usually easier to come to an agreement with them.

Features of mentality

Originally, Bulgarians are simple-hearted and kind people. Predominantly rural life made them conscientious and sympathetic workers, and living in warm latitudes added leisurely and slow nature. True, the low level of development of the economic situation in the country and the annual abundance of tourists have made Bulgarians more prudent and selfish. It’s sad to see how in a place filled with tourists, at every turn they offer the services of taxis, electricians, plumbers, and workers. Seeing that you are a tourist and need something, they will immediately name the price for which they will agree to help, although they could do something for free without leaving a loss.

Egregious in this sense for me was the case of visiting the Burgas Mall Gallery shopping and entertainment center, located about 40 km away. from the popular summer resort Sunny Beach. Having missed the free bus that goes there and back once a day, we were left without a ticket and asked the driver of such a bus to take us with him so that at least we could get back safely. And the driver free bus, who had several (!) free seats in the salon, looking at our frankly naive tourist faces, he said: “Okay, but it will cost 5 levs,” and then looked around again and added: “That’s for one person. From two there will be 10 levs.” Well what can I say? Just imagine that in Moscow you pay the driver of a free bus to allow you to get on and go to Auchan! At that moment I remembered the hero of Gaidaev’s film, saying the catchphrase: “Three hundred and thirty. To each!"

I repeat once again, at heart Bulgarians are very responsive, they are simply spoiled by the thirst for easy money and a large number of tourists who are ready to pay for everything. And one more feature that I don’t like about Bulgarians is their lack of obligation. Of course, not everyone. But delays in everything are the norm for them. A bus that was half an hour late, a taxi that didn’t pick you up on time, the forgetfulness of a plumber who promised to fix the faucet—such little things sometimes add up to a not very attractive portrait. But, again, this is not everywhere. I personally communicated with local residents who were distinguished by their conscientiousness and punctuality. So it depends on your luck.

Food and drink

In my opinion, traditional Bulgarian cuisine is a kind of hybrid of Russian and Mediterranean.

Food

The common Slavic love for potatoes, side dishes, and first courses is also present in Bulgarian cuisine. Thus, soup lovers will enjoy both hot Bulgarian stews with meat broth and a cold version of Russian okroshka - tarator (soup made from kefir and cucumbers with herbs).

Hot dishes are traditional Russian potatoes, rice, beans, served with meat or fish. Bulgarian cuisine is quite spicy and contains mainly grilled dishes, so if you are on a diet, choose stewed dishes on the menu. For example, when you see the inscription “strangled greens” on the menu, do not rush to get scared, these are just stewed vegetables, which means that not a single carrot was seriously damaged in the making of this dish. By the way, local residents They really like bell peppers fried on the grill and seasoned with cheese – it’s worth a try!

The Mediterranean flavor of Bulgarian cuisine is due to the presence of a large amount of fish and fish dishes, olive oil, and vegetable salads. The classic Bulgarian version of the appetizer is Shopski salad (cucumbers, tomatoes, cheese, onions, butter). A special feature of Bulgarian cuisine is feta cheese (sirene).

It is made from all types of milk (cow, sheep, goat and even buffalo) and absolutely all dishes are seasoned with it. Brynza differs from the traditional yellow cheese in our understanding - kashkaval. If the menu says the word “sirene”, be prepared, the dish will contain cheese. You can approach this in different ways. I know both ardent lovers and people who are indifferent and even hate cheese. But remember, feta cheese is the pride of Bulgarian cuisine, so be prepared to eat every last crumb of it on your plate. Once I asked not to add feta cheese to a Greek salad (since Bulgarians put feta cheese there instead of feta cheese), so the waiter was seriously offended by me.

Everyone who comes to Bulgaria tastes not only wonderful feta cheese, but also incredibly tasty tomatoes. In Bulgaria, so-called “pink” tomatoes grow well.

They are not so attractive in appearance, they may seem green and unripe, but their taste is divine! Juicy, sweet, aromatic - they are definitely worth trying!

Almost all types of fruits and berries we love are grown in Bulgaria. In July you will find the season of sweet raspberries, pears and apricots (caisia), in August you will taste ripe grapes, melons, and peaches. Figs and kiwis also grow safely in these latitudes. But what you shouldn’t try in Bulgaria are typically northern berries: blueberries, blueberries, blackberries. I was surprised to discover that most Bulgarians do not know what cranberries are. Therefore, if you see them on the counter, they will be imported berries, sold at exorbitant prices. Quite exotic fruits such as pitahayas, pomelo, grapefruits, pineapples, bananas, coconuts do not grow in Bulgaria, the climate is not the same, but in large supermarkets you will certainly find foreign fruits brought from abroad.

Beverages

As for drinks, Bulgaria is famous for its winemaking; it is a country of huge vineyards; local residents distinguish wines from different regions by the richness of their taste and aroma. True, most of them are dry and dry, so they seem sour to some. Fans of sweet dessert drinks should not despair; you can find the type of liqueur wine by looking at the coveted inscription semi-sweet on the bottle, which means semi-sweet. The sweetest thing I tried in Bulgaria was Cahors. Also a good option for those who are disgusted by the sour taste of grapes.

Those who like something stronger should definitely try Bulgarian vodka - rakia.

In Bulgaria they insist on plums, apples, apricots and grapes. In addition to being strong, it has a pleasant fruity taste. Bulgarian varieties of cognac have also been known since Soviet times - Pliska and Sunny Beach brandy.

These drinks have been produced for almost half a century and are distinguished by their consistent quality of taste. I recommend trying them too.

Especially for non-drinkers, I can recommend my own option: add brandy to strong black tea. Believe me, it's very relaxing.

To summarize

In general, food and drinks in Bulgaria are available in large quantities and for every taste. You just have to understand that when you become popular country and having European-class resorts, Bulgaria, in addition to the traditional, diversifies its table with pan-European dishes: on any menu you will find sandwiches, pizza, French fries, spaghetti. Of course, this is just a tribute to the pan-European brotherhood that Bulgaria was lucky enough to join almost ten years ago. And for tourists, this is also a backup option: didn’t like the cheese or lamb? You can eat it with Quattro Formaggi pizza and wash it down with cola!

5 dishes worth trying

The hit parade of Bulgarian deliciousness from me looks like this:

What you need to know about shopping in this country

As in any large country, goods in Bulgaria are divided into three main categories:

• Expensive, branded items (most often, clothing and interior items imported from Italy). It’s hard to say that the prices are clearly favorable, but if you want, you can find products at the price of Italian outlets (for example, in one of the Burgas stores I saw cute leather belts from the Italian brand Cocinelli for 40–50 euros)
• National goods are usually produced in Bulgaria or Turkey. They have an average price segment, optimal quality.
• Cheap Chinese goods: toys, beach accessories.

As a rule, they are inexpensive and do not last long, one season at best.

My advice is this: it’s better to go to a shopping center for clothes and cosmetics. But look for food and alcohol in large supermarkets. Of course, Bulgarian shopping cannot be compared with Italian (connoisseurs and lovers of Italy will understand me), but, you see, buying things of European quality with a decent discount of 50 or even 70% is always pleasant.

Best cities for shopping
In my opinion, the main thing you should know about cities for shopping in Bulgaria, is the principle of choosing “Cities” with a capital C. In the sense that small towns and resort villages Very rarely suitable for shopping. Everything that is worth bringing from Bulgaria, in my opinion, is produced in large plants and factories, which means it is supplied primarily to large stores and supermarkets, and only then brought to small shops and shops. Therefore, buying the same thing, overpaying double or even triple the price, is simply ridiculous. The best cities

Where you can get some interesting and inexpensive souvenirs are, I think, Sofia and:

What to bring from this country

Despite the relatively small territory of the country, the proximity to the Slavic mentality and the rather modest level of economic development, you can bring a lot of pleasant, aromatic, tasty and even intoxicating things from hospitable Bulgaria:

Nuances When choosing gifts, remember: as much as possible permissible weight luggage and hand luggage at the airport is 23 and 10 kilograms, respectively. By personal experience

I can say that you can easily take 3-4 bottles of alcohol. And, of course, in any large store they will issue you tax-free return

. This is usually indicated by signs at the entrance. It's a small thing, but nice. You can get a tax-free refund at Burgas airport, at the tourist information point (not far from entrance No. 2).

Vacation with children

The temperate mild climate of Bulgaria is very comfortable for both adults and children to stay in this country. When choosing a resort, you can take into account the health characteristics of your child in order to choose the most optimal option for your vacation.

Suitable resorts

Resorts in the northeast and southeast of the country, known since Soviet times, are ideal for a family holiday: In these cities to this day there are many children's health camps, boarding houses, and campsites. Moreover, in almost every(4 stars and more) there is an animator hired to organize an entertainment program for visiting young tourists.

Advantages

There are many advantages of holidaying with children in Bulgaria:

• Comfortable two-hour flight. Even if you are flying with small children, this travel time is reasonable.
• The temperate climate ensures that the warm season and high season in Bulgaria coincides with the summer months, when most children have holidays. There will most likely not be any difficult acclimatization in this country. It is better to vacation in Bulgaria with children in July - August. The air temperature at this time of year reaches +29–34 °C, the water temperature +24–26 °C. Starting from August 20, the weather begins to change: more cloudy days appear, and rains begin.
• Most of these cities have sandy, comfortable beaches, equipped with umbrellas and sunbeds, as well as free areas for vacationers. In addition, there are booths for lifeguards on duty every 50–100 meters. Wild beaches There are few in these places, so your holiday will be as safe as possible.
• Warm gentle sea. There are no sharp cliffs, rocky bottoms or dangerous whirlpools on Bulgarian beaches. Entering the water is extremely convenient for those who are just learning to swim. The sea is clean, jellyfish and algae swim only during high tides (about a couple of days a month).
• Healthy organic food. Most Bulgarian fruits, vegetables, meat and cereals can be safely eaten by children, as they are grown in a clean, non-industrial region.
• Bulgarian summer resorts meet modern security requirements, hotels are equipped with year-round security and round-the-clock duty.
• No language barrier: the staff of the vast majority of hotels speak Russian well, so they will always be able to help, and in extreme cases they will call someone who does it great (such people always turn out to be somewhere nearby), and then the problem will be solved 100%.
• And finally, entertainment. In an effort to attract tourists, Bulgaria has invested in all sorts of swings and carousels. There will definitely be plenty of places to go with your child: little robbers will love the pirate water park with steep slides, active kids will be able to jump on a trampoline, take pictures with their favorite cartoon characters, curious explorers will be able to travel with their parents on a jeep safari, and little fashionistas will have a photo shoot in beautiful dresses. So there can only be one piece of advice to parents: prepare your wallet, because there are a lot of temptations on the coast, and they are located so temptingly that no one can resist them.

Flaws

I can name only one of these: there is a possibility of contracting a so-called rotavirus infection. It is quite difficult, especially in children, so I recommend taking medications for this disease with you in your first aid kit.

Safety

Bulgaria is a fairly safe country. Order and compliance with laws on the streets of cities and resorts is ensured by the police: gendarmes in uniform patrol public places from time to time, so you don’t have to fear for your life; I wouldn’t call this country criminal.

The only trouble that tourists who come to Bulgaria may encounter is a meeting with the so-called ethnic gypsies. This is a special social class in Bulgaria, living by its own rules.

For the most part, they do not work and make a living by begging for money from everyone they come across. In such a situation, it is better to simply ignore the beggars (these can be children, adult women and disabled men) and move on without paying any attention to them. The gypsies themselves understand the powerlessness of their position in society, so they definitely won’t pester you too much.

Regarding thefts at resorts, I have heard several times from other tourists about cases of theft of valuables and money on the beaches. Pah-pah, but personally I have never encountered this, although I often go swimming, leaving things unattended. True, I don’t take money, documents or expensive electronics there, which is what I advise you to do.

Popular types of scams

I have not seen any sophisticated methods of fraud in Bulgaria. Rather, small tricks that take advantage of the inattention and gullibility of tourists, for example:

5 things you definitely shouldn't do

I can’t name any cardinal prohibitions, but the things I definitely don’t recommend doing are:

5 things you must do in this country

I hope that with my article I have convinced you that vacationing in Bulgaria is healthy, interesting, tasty and also not very expensive. Once again I will repeat the thought said in the introduction: regardless of age, marital status, taste and cultural preferences, you will have a good time in Bulgaria. It’s comfortable, because a lot of things here are like we have in Russia (and some things are even like in the USSR), but still, this is the European Union. Your holiday in Bulgaria will definitely not be in vain if you manage to do five extremely important things:

To summarize

In conclusion, I would like to say: while vacationing in Bulgaria, do whatever your heart asks. Even if it is very immoral, local authorities treat tourists humanely, on whom the country’s economy depends. At best, no one will pay attention to this, and at worst, they will give you a warning and let you go in peace. This is how a modern resident of the Balkan Peninsula, Bulgaria, lives: with one foot in the glorious past with a historical heritage and rich traditions, and the other so eager to get into modern Europe with a decent level of economy, service and tourism.

Nearby countries

Now a little more about where you can go from Bulgaria.

Balkan brotherhood

I call this collection of countries the “Balkan brotherhood”: ancient history, arid, hot climate, historically developed passion for agriculture. Even the attitude to life of these peoples is somewhat similar: slowness, unhurriedness in business, a completely different sense of the passage of time. But at the same time, remember the films of the real Balkan - Yugoslav Emir Kusturica (who hasn’t seen it, I highly recommend it for acquaintance, for example, his film “Black Cat, White Cat”)! This is a real tangle of incredible events, a fireworks display of emotions and a fountain of passions! And all this in an ordinary village among silent sunflowers under the blue cloudless sky of the Balkans!

Where to go

While vacationing in Bulgaria, I always find time to get out to one of the neighboring countries: sometimes joining an organized excursion group, and sometimes going on an exciting voyage to one of the Balkan neighbors on my own. When going on a visit, do not forget to get yourself a double-entry visa (or multiple entry visa) in advance so that at the end of the trip you will be allowed back into the country. So, where exactly is it worth getting from Bulgaria:

1. . See with your own eyes the ancient ruins of the old city, admire the architectural monuments and feed the black swans with bread in the Herastrau National Park - all this, or the city of joy, as the Romanians themselves call it.
   But the most popular attraction in this extremely poor country is Bran Castle, located 30 kilometers from the city of Brasov. Remember the chilling story of the vampire Dracula? So, according to legend, it was in this castle that a demonic creature lived, hunting people at night.
   The cost of a two-day trip to Romania will cost tourists 100 € (200 levs). By the way, due to the distance of the road and high entrance fees to museums, this is the most expensive excursion program offered in Bulgaria.
2. . Among tourists living in the Bulgarian Sofia, the option of spending a weekend in brotherly Serbia is extremely popular. Only 12€ (24 leva), four hours of travel, and you're in quiet town or Pirot (depending on where you decide to go). Admire ancient fortresses, wander through the native streets of the Roman Emperor Constantine the Great, and when you get hungry, appreciate the quality and low prices of Serbian food.
   The cuisine is similar to Bulgarian: mainly grilled fish and meat with vegetables. Unpretentious and very tasty! Another plus: Russians do not need a visa to stay in this country. Unmarried women should remember that the demographic situation in Serbia is extremely favorable for dating with a serious relationship: according to statistics, there are more men than women, and all of them are eager to find family happiness. Russian girls are very loved and appreciated, by the way. And they are Orthodox, just like us.
3. . “I have never been to the Bosphorus,” wrote Sergei Yesenin, and Russians have a great opportunity to visit Istanbul - one of the most beautiful cities of this Muslim neighbor of Bulgaria. When vacationing in the south-eastern part of the country, be sure to find time to go here: the journey will only take five to six hours, but you will have a lot of impressions. I still remember this magical city located on the Bosphorus Strait!
   Mosques soaring upward, the cry of the muezzin flying over the waves, delicious dondurma ice cream - so fabulous eastern city I haven't seen it anywhere else! A bus ticket here will cost about 80 € (160 levs), and a trip organized by an agency for two days will cost about twice as much. In light of recent political events, Russians are temporarily blocked from traveling to Turkey, but I really hope that the situation will be resolved in the near future, because losing the opportunity to see a beautiful city standing on the border of two countries of the world, Europe and Asia, is very, very sad.
4. . The main places for tourist voyages to Greece from Bulgaria are the city in the northern mainland of the country, the bustling port of Kavala, from where you can take a ferry to the green island of Thassos, lost in the Aegean Sea.
   You can get to this wonderful country both from the capital Sofia and from the southeast coast. All you need is to check the train schedule on the Bulgarian railways and... go towards ancient Hellas! Ticket for comfortable train will cost from 10€ (from the coast) to 15€ (from Sofia). Monitoring hotels in Kavala, I brought out average price per night, it is about 72 € (5000 rubles). Choosing organized trip to Greece, which, in my opinion, is more economical, be prepared to pay an average of 105 € (210 levs) for a two-day stay. Do not forget to take care of your Schengen visa in advance, since this is an EU country.

To summarize

Although a trip to a neighboring country is often quite an expensive expense, I advise you not to waste money and go to at least one place. These are such vivid impressions! It's like several small trips inside one!

Money

Despite joining the European Union, Bulgaria, in addition to the universal euro, retained its own national currency. It is considered the Bulgarian lev (BGN or lev. in the designation).

The standard exchange rate of the Bulgarian lev to the euro is 1.95. This means that for 100 € you get 195 BGN. The ratio of the leva to the euro is thus, relatively speaking, 2:1.

The lev to ruble exchange rate is approximately 0.256–0.268, depending on the time of year and the resort where you change. This means that for 1000 rubles they will give you 25.6 or 26.8 leva, or 1 leva is a little less than 40 rubles.

To mentally translate Bulgarian prices into euros, you just need to divide the price by two, and to get the same amount in rubles, multiply by 40. This method is very helpful, because psychologically, seeing prices of 2,3, 4 levs, people think that everything is cheap , but having multiplied and compared this with prices in the homeland, as a rule, they stop rejoicing.

Where to exchange money in Bulgaria

You can change money in Bulgaria:

In such places they exchange not only rubles and euros, but also all major European currencies; in some points you can buy Israeli shekels.

However, tourist popularity, as well as the thirst for simple economic profit, has led to the fact that in the summer, during the so-called “high season” (July - August), the real exchange rate of the lev fluctuates from 1.90 to 1.95. This means that on famous resort you will be offered to exchange 100 euros for 190 levs, and in a large city (especially if it is unpopular among tourists) for 195. The average optimal option is offered by banks: from 1.92 to 1.94, depending on the location.

Payment by cards

All major stores and restaurants accept both cash and international cards Visa, Maestro, Mastercard for payment. In this case, there will be no large commissions or double overpayments; the price will remain the same based on the exchange rate of 40 rubles per 1 lev. In some stores, in the absence of Bulgarian levs, they are ready to accept euros out of the kindness of their hearts. But, as far as I saw, the Bulgarian brothers do not accept rubles anywhere.

Therefore, advice with currency to tourists can only be this: if you are traveling to Bulgaria for the first time, especially to a large resort, and you do not have Bulgarian leva in stock, prepare in advance small bills in denominations of 5, 10, 20 €, then when exchanging at the first place you come across point by point (believe me, this is unlikely to be a profitable exchange rate) your losses will be minimal. Once you reach your destination, find a bank with the optimal exchange rate and change the principal amount there. And you will be happy!

Prices in Bulgaria

Finally, I wanted to say how the current crisis has affected prices in Bulgaria. A few years ago, before the fall of some currencies, the ratio of the lev to the ruble was different: 1 lev cost about 20 rubles. In this situation, the vast majority of prices for goods and services seemed cheap. And so it was. Let's say, a bottle of good champagne for 1 €, or 2.5 leva in our money, cost only 50 rubles! It was a time of cheap alcohol, fruits, cheeses, clothes, services, etc.

However, after the fall of the ruble and other disturbances in the European economy, prices have increased noticeably. And today, most products and services are no cheaper, or even more expensive, than we are used to. Smokers will obviously not like the fact that a pack of cigarettes, which costs 2 €, or 150 rubles in Moscow, will cost you about 5.7 €, or 400 rubles, in Bulgaria. Alas, for now the times of super cheap prices are over, but perhaps the situation will change, and we will once again rush to our fellow Bulgarians for warm sea and cheap products.

, .

Bulgaria: feel at home!

​Perhaps it is difficult to imagine a more welcoming and hospitable country than Bulgaria. Here they will always support the conversation, smile at the child, and tell you where to go. The almost complete absence of a language barrier helps you quickly establish contact and enjoy your vacation, day after day discovering new facets of this amazing country. By the way, Bulgaria suits any season: it is beautiful both on a July day, when the sea sparkles in the sun, and on a January morning, when the snow glistens on the peaks... All that remains is to find out which Bulgaria is right for you.

Beach

The main summer advantage of the country is its golden sandy beaches. At all resorts they are free and public, and you have to pay to rent sun loungers and umbrellas (with the exception of some hotels). The length of the beaches is 130 km, with a division into north coast(resorts Varna, Albena, Golden Sands, St. Constantine and Helena) and hotter southern ones (Sunny Beach, Burgas, Sozopol, Nessebar).

Holidays with children in Bulgaria are ideal - there is a convenient shallow entrance to the sea almost everywhere. The large resorts of Sunny Beach and Golden Sands are suitable for both families and youth groups - there are plenty of opportunities for active pastime and nightlife. Those who are looking forward to a relaxing holiday in Bulgaria will certainly enjoy Sozopol, democratic Obzor, romantic Nessebar, cozy Tsarevo, as well as All Inclusive hotels in Albena.

Thanks to the unique mineral springs on Black Sea resorts There are opportunities for balneological treatment. Wellness baths, relaxation treatments, mud therapy, SPA treatments await you in first-class hotels in Pomorie, Burgas, Golden Sands, and the resort of St. Constantine and Helena.

Climate

The main territory of Bulgaria has a continental climate with cold winters and hot summers. Closer to the Black Sea it becomes Mediterranean, so it is always warmer here. In summer seaside resorts Bulgaria will enjoy sunny days and temperatures around 25-30°C. Swimming season begins in June and ends in September, the water temperature at this time is 22-28°C.

What the weather is like in Bulgaria in winter depends on the region. If at this time the coast is damp and there are frequent storms, then in the mountainous areas there is snow and many sunny days. Air temperatures from December to February in the mountains range from 0 to -10°C, although fluctuations in one direction or another are possible.

Ski slopes

Winter resorts in Bulgaria are suitable family tourists and skiers with different levels of skiing, and affordable prices and the hospitality of local residents make them one of best options for active recreation. Ski season lasts from early December to April.

There are three main skiing regions in the country - Borovets, Bansko, Pamporovo. Borovets is located at the highest peak in the Balkans, Musala, and its pistes (58 km) are located at an altitude of 1350-2560 m. This Bulgarian resort is distinguished by its attention to snowboarders: there is a snowboard park and 18 km of pistes for board skiing.

In Bansko, the total length of the tracks is 75 km, they are located at an altitude of 990-2600 m. Ski competitions are often held here alpine skiing and snowboarding, and this puts Bansko on a par with the best European resorts. Pamporovo, in turn, boasts a large number of sunny days. There are 37 km of slopes here, as well as the best fan park in Bulgaria, which is maintained at the state level.

Each resort offers skiing and snowboarding classes, and the ski school in Pamporovo is recognized as one of the best in Europe. Mineral springs near resorts allow you to supplement winter holidays in Bulgaria with SPA treatments and wellness holidays and make it truly unforgettable.

Currency

Bulgarian Lev. If you are planning a holiday in Bulgaria, take euros with you - this currency is more convenient to exchange for levs. It is better to do this in banks, since exchange offices may charge additional fees, so check the final amount in advance. There are ATMs at the resorts, and many establishments accept bank cards for payment. But you can’t do it without cash: you will need cash, for example, to leave a tip in a cafe (10% of the bill) or to thank the hotel staff for their services (1-2 leva).

The shops

Bulgarian resorts offer traditional tourist assortment - accessories for beach holiday, bright ceramic bowls and plates, local wine and Kashkaval cheese, as well as leather goods. Cosmetics based on rose oil are very popular - from soap self made to creams and oil perfumes. Also, jam is also made from the petals of the Bulgarian rose, and this delicacy can also be an excellent gift. Have free time: shops at resorts and large shopping centers are usually open from 9.00 to 22.00.

Kitchen

When you come to Bulgaria on vacation, you should try the famous Shopska salad with fresh vegetables and feta cheese, hot bean soup and cold “tarator” soup, layer cake “banitsa” with various fillings, meat stew “gyuvech”, dolma, stuffed peppers with rice, traditional raw smoked sausage and, of course, fermented milk products. Restaurants that serve Bulgarian cuisine in an authentic setting are called “mekhana”.

Among the popular alcoholic drinks in Bulgaria are different variations of rakia, liqueur with a refreshing taste “Menta Cave”, anise “mastic” and local wines. Among the sweets, Turkish delight, sweets made in Plovdiv, ice cream and frozen yogurt with local honey or jam are especially good.

Transport

In Bulgaria, you can get from one city to another by train or, cheaper, by bus. You can buy tickets at the bus station and on the bus itself. Timetables are usually available at stops. To avoid being scammed in a taxi, it is better to use official services (as a rule, they have yellow cars) and monitor the meter from the moment you board. In large cities and resorts there are also domestic bus routes. The fare is 0.6-1 Bulgarian lev.

To rent a car, you need an international driving license. The driver must be over 21 years of age. Drunk driving carries serious penalties.

Lifehacks

• A side to side nod means “yes” in Bulgaria, and an up and down nod means “no”. Indigenous people have been communicating with each other this way for 5 centuries.
• Many restaurants and small supermarkets do not accept bank cards, so change your rubles to Bulgarian levs in advance.
• You can buy a SIM card with 3 GB of Internet for 1 month in the baggage claim area at Burgas Airport. In the city, a SIM card will cost more.

Bulgaria is European country with a rich cultural heritage, warm sea, sandy beaches and picturesque mountain peaks. The mild climate makes it pleasant to relax here at almost any time of the year. And although sandy beaches are not so attractive in winter, ski resorts are able to give complete relaxation to both lovers of active pastime and connoisseurs of natural beauty. Increasingly, our compatriots associate Bulgaria with inexpensive but high-quality holidays.

We should also talk about Bulgarian cuisine. Traditional cooking recipes here have their own unique national flavor. The presence of a large number of vegetables, aromatic spices and seasonings, fruits and grains - without all this it is impossible to imagine traditional dishes of Bulgarian cuisine. In addition to sweet desserts, sheep's cheese and a glass of red wine are served as an appetizer.

There are many small private wineries in Bulgaria. Today there is even such a concept as wine tourism. Depending on the region you choose, you will be able to try one or another type of wine. For example, on the coast good conditions for the growth of white grapes, and in the south of Bulgaria the Mavrud variety takes root better. Developed infrastructure, high level of service, and the presence of a large number of architectural monuments attract everyone to this country every year. more tourists. Most vacationers want to combine business with pleasure: boat trips and swimming in the sea with visits to interesting places. Bulgaria is simply an ideal option in this regard.

The best hotels and inns at affordable prices.

from 500 rubles/day

What to see in Bulgaria?

The most interesting and beautiful places, photographs and brief descriptions.

1. Seven Rila Lakes

The Rila Lakes are located in the northwestern part of the mountain range of the same name. You can get to them by lift. A walking tour will take you much longer. When you reach the end point of your journey, an unforgettable beauty will open before you: glacial lakes with crystal clear water against the backdrop of mountain peaks reaching into the sky.

2. Fortress and rocks of Belogradchik

Both people and nature have worked on this piece of land. The first defensive fortifications began to be built here during the Roman Empire. Nature here has created, perhaps, the most unusual mountain range. Over time, the strangely shaped rocks received their own names and became surrounded by legends.

3. Rozhen Monastery

This monastery is located at the foot of the Pyrian Mountains. Stained glass windows and frescoes, ancient iconostases and the miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary have been preserved to this day, and delight the eye of both believers and tourists. The architectural design of the monastery lacks pretentiousness and pomp. The entire monastery complex fascinates with the simplicity of its lines and the elegance of its architectural composition.

4. Thracian tomb in Kazanlak

Funeral decorations and other burial details have not survived to this day. But the frescoes, amazing in their beauty, have been preserved. Their value is simply enormous, because they date back to the 4th century BC. The Thracian tomb is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, so an exact copy of it was created for tourists.

5. Rotunda of St. George, Sofia

This early Christian church has a very unusual history. From the 16th to the 19th centuries, during Turkish rule, it was converted into a mosque, and only at the end of the 19th century, the Rotunda of St. George again became Christian temple. It was even possible to restore the frescoes on the walls and dome of the building. Today, as before, religious services are held here, and there is also a museum.

6. Shiroka-Lyka village

Beautiful two-story houses with bay windows and wooden stairs, streets lined with paving stones, graceful bridges with wooden railings - all this is reminiscent of a set from an old film. People here are sensitive to their customs and folklore. The village is located on the territory of an architectural reserve. There is also an ethnographic museum and many other places associated with the Bulgarian Renaissance.

7. Rose Valley

Millions of roses. Every woman dreams, if not to receive it as a gift, then at least to see such a sea of ​​flowers right away. If you visit the valley near the Tundzha River, you will have the opportunity to enjoy this unforgettable spectacle, and the exquisite aroma of a thousand flowers will turn your head. You will definitely want to come back here again and again.

8. Vitosha mountain range

A mountain slope covered with coniferous forests is an ideal place for hiking trips summer, autumn and spring. With the arrival of winter, Vitosha is covered with snow and becomes a place of pilgrimage for skiers and lovers winter species sports Ski resorts, reasonable prices and good service attract quite a large number of tourists here.

9. Tsarevets Fortress

It is not for nothing that this fortress was the residence of the Bulgarian kings. All architectural ensemble This building literally “screams” about wealth and grandeur. In addition, this place is literally covered with many legends and fairy tales. You definitely need to see it with your own eyes. No photographs can convey the globality and monumentality of this architectural monument.

10. Baba Vida Fortress

The Baba Vida Fortress Museum stands on the banks of the Danube. Many events in the history of Bulgaria are closely connected with this architectural monument. Today, special theatrical performances are organized for tourists and vacationers on the territory of the fortress. The distant past will come to life before your eyes, you will become more familiar with the life and culture of this country, and you will simply receive aesthetic pleasure from watching the performance.

11. Ruins of ancient Pliska

Today, a historical and archaeological reserve has been created on the territory of the ancient settlement of Pliski. In the distant past, the capital of Danube Bulgaria was located here. To date, some of the buildings have been successfully reconstructed. The best preserved remains of the ancient palace belonging to Khan Omurtag.

12. Summer residence of Queen Mary “Quiet Nest”

The residence of Queen Mary was built specifically for this crowned person. Architecture palace ensemble successfully combines elements of European and Arabic styles. From its terrace you can see beautiful view on the azure surface of the sea, mountain ranges and a botanical garden.

13. Boyana Church

It was not for nothing that the Boyanka Church was included in the list cultural heritage UNESCO. A unique medieval painting dating back to 1259 has been preserved on its walls. The images of saints amaze with their realism and attention to detail. The artistic and historical value of these mural paintings is difficult to overestimate.

14. Old town of Sozopol

This ancient town, in addition to the beauty of nature, pleases the eye with many architectural monuments and ancient temples. The historical center of Sozopol has been declared an architectural reserve. The modern part of the city has a well-developed infrastructure, there are many hotels, cafes and restaurants.

15. Temple-monument to Alexander Nevsky

The Patriarchal Cathedral of St. Alexander Nevsky is the second largest Orthodox church in Bulgaria. Its wall paintings include 273 hand-painted frescoes. In the decoration of the temple you can see unique Orthodox icons made by famous Russian masters.

16. Old Nessebar

This city has something to surprise and experienced travelers, and beginners. Many architectural monuments here date back to the period of prosperity of the Byzantine Empire. In the list of the most famous and visited places in Old Nessebar Archaeological Museum, Ethnographical museum, St. Stephen's Church. Udachnoye geographical location attracts crowds of tourists here.

17. Rila Monastery

It is difficult to convey in words all the beauty and grandeur of this monastery complex. Carved iconostases, murals by famous artists of that time, ancient icons and unique architecture make this monastery a pearl of world architecture. This monastery It still operates today, occupying an area of ​​approximately 8800 sq.m.

18. City-museum Melnik

And this city has everything that Bulgaria can boast of: the sea, beaches, home-produced wine, countless architectural monuments, temples and museums. Many famous artists, writers and cultural figures of the Bulgarian Renaissance lived and worked in Melnik.

19. Perperikon

Most accurately, this archaeological complex from the Middle Ages can be described in one word: “monumentality.” According to legend, this is where the grave of Orpheus is located. There was also a temple dedicated to the god Dionysius. Perperikon is an ancient city. He still keeps many secrets from prying eyes.

20. Dzhumaya Mosque in Plovdiv

The Dzhumaya Mosque is admired by all tourists, regardless of religion. First of all, the artistic design of the external facade and internal walls of the building attracts attention. The decorations on the external façade are not too noticeable, but the inside of the mosque is elegant and the painting stylized with floral patterns makes an unforgettable impression.

Sunny Bulgaria is not only the sea and mountains. We will tell you what else Bulgaria is famous for, what local sites are included in the UNESCO heritage list and.

Rose oil is what Bulgaria is known for far beyond the borders of the state itself. Various types of cosmetics are created using rose oil. Rose petal jam is also popular. Collecting flowers in the Valley of Roses. She spread out between mountain slopes in the area of ​​Kazanlak and Karlovo. 30 kilometers of fragrant blooming roses is an amazing sight of beauty and aroma.

2. Lavender fields

They are not only in France! What Bulgaria is famous for is its landscapes. AND lavender fields with their delicate lilac colors - a wonderful decoration of the local landscape and a good background for photographs. In addition, lavender is used to make excellent cosmetics. Bulgarian lavender can be admired near Plovdiv and Pomorie.

3. Trojan pottery

Troyanska sharka is deservedly included in the list of what Bulgaria is famous for. This technique of painting ceramics is as original and recognizable as Russian Gzhel or Khokhloma. The design is applied in the form of drops, and then the colors are mixed linearly. It is believed that this method of decorating ceramic products was created by craftsmen from the city of Troyan.

Another regional craft that over time has become a national treasure and what Bulgaria is famous for. The historical town of Chiprovtsi is home to amazingly beautiful carpets, woven by hand in a special way. Kilims, as the locals call them, are distinguished by their bright colors. Ancient Bulgarian patterns “bloom” on them. Chiprovo carpets are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

5. Sharena salt

A spice with a unique aroma that attracts tourists as a bright and practical souvenir. Includes several types of spices layered for a colorful look. Typically, sharena salt consists of thyme, paprika, fenugreek and other herbs.

6. Dairy products

When talking about what else Bulgaria is famous for, it’s hard not to mention local yogurt and cheeses. The consistency of sour mlyak is closer to yogurt, and its taste is very subtle and delicate. Among the cheeses, it is worth noting the brine sirene cheese and kashkaval - a semi-hard yellow cheese of medium salinity made from sheep's milk.

A talisman that Bulgarians usually give to each other at the beginning of spring. Weaved from red and white threads, it has a sacred meaning. Martenitsa is also included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

8. Nestinary

Walking barefoot on hot coals is probably the most impressive thing Bulgaria is known for. The closest thing to the art of nestinar is the phenomenon of Indian yogis who know how to lie on nails. At the same time, dancing on coals is one of the oldest Bulgarian traditions.

9. Bulgarian gaida (bagpipes)

Bagpipes are something that Bulgaria is known for, along with Scotland, as it is a national instrument in both states. The Bulgarians call it gaida and involve it in mass performances - on average from 50 to 100 bagpipers. By the way, the Guinness Book records the Bulgarian record for playing 333 bagpipes simultaneously.

10. Julia

One of the relatively new traditions that Bulgaria is known for. On the night of July 1, local youth gather on the country's beaches and party with bonfires, guitar and electronic music until dawn. In recent years, the July holiday has attracted guests from nearby countries.

Famous people of Bulgaria

• Hristo Botev. The country's national hero, as well as one of its most famous poets.
• Elias Canetti. At the time of writing this article, he is the only famous person in Bulgaria to have received the Nobel Prize during the existence of the award. Writer and cultural scientist. Prized in 1981 for the richness of ideas and artistic strength of his works.
• Boris Hristov. Opera singer, considered one of the best basses of the famous stage of La Scala and the greatest of the second half of the 20th century. The audience remembered him in the signature roles of Boris Godunov and Mephistopheles.
• Philip Kirkorov . One of the most popular pop singers in Russia is also included in the list of famous Bulgarian people among our compatriots. Born in Varna, has dual citizenship.
• Dimitar Berbatov. Footballer, top scorer in the history of the Bulgarian national team. Player of the English club Manchester United and the Tottenham Hotspur team, the German team Bayer Leverkusen and the Indian club Kerala Blasters.
• Count Dracula (Prince Vlad the Impaler). The list of famous people of Bulgaria was recently supplemented by Count Vlad Tepes, former prototype Dracula in Bram Stoker's novel. Recent research has shown that he was probably of Bulgarian origin rather than Romanian.

Travel packages and tours

about country

famous for its sunny, hot summers, beautiful resorts with a large number of hotels of various categories, magnificent sea, amazing sandy beaches, a huge variety of wines, delicious and cheap fruits, as well as the hospitality of the local population towards visitors.

Bulgaria is located in the southeastern part of Europe, in the northeastern part of the Balkan Peninsula. In the north along the Danube it borders with Romania, in the south with Turkey and Greece, in the west with Serbia and Macedonia.

There are three geographical areas: Danube Plain, a mountain range consisting of two different systems - the Balkans and Rhodope Mountains and the Southeast Plain.

Mountains occupy 28% of the country's territory, and 41% is hilly. Forests cover approximately 29% of the territory. The largest mountain ranges - Rila, Pirin and Rhodopes - are located in the southwest and south of the country. In Rila there is Musala (2925 m) - the most high peak Bulgaria. The country is cut almost in half by the Stara Planina ridge, which stretches for 420 km and is known for its famous Shipka Pass. These are the Balkan Mountains. Main peak Balkan - Mount Botev (2376m).

Climate of Bulgaria

The climate of Bulgaria is moderate continental, with a pronounced change of seasons - summer is warm, autumn is long and sunny, winter is mild, very snowy in the mountains, spring is stormy and early.

Average monthly air temperature

History of Bulgaria

The history of Bulgaria is very ancient and extremely rich. Almost all the great cultures of antiquity left their mark on it - the Thracians, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and the Ottoman Empire left their mark here.

Slavs settled in the territory modern Bulgaria in the 6th century, in the 7th century, the Turkic tribe of Bulgars arrived here, who assimilated with the Slavs and adopted Christianity by the 9th century. From the 10th to the 12th centuries, Bulgaria was a powerful empire.

In 1396 the country came under the rule Ottoman Empire and remained in its composition for 500 years. The 1876 uprising ended Ottoman rule.

Sights of Bulgaria

Sofia– the capital of Bulgaria and the second oldest city Europe.

Bani Bashi Mosque has survived from the Ottoman era, Muslims of Sofia still pray here.

Church of St. Petki Samardzhiyskaya, built by a workshop of saddlers at the end of the 14th century, at the very beginning of the era of Ottoman rule.

The most famous temple of Sofia is Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. The temple was erected in memory of Russian soldiers who died in the battles for the liberation of Bulgaria from the Ottoman yoke. The cathedral was built from 1882 to 1912. Here you can see a wonderful collection of icons.

Other tourist attractions are the Rotunda of St. George's Temple, Sveta Nedelya Church, Hali Indoor Market and clock tower, Synagogue, National historical Museum, Russian Church, Alexander Batenberg Square.

Plovdiv– the second largest city in Bulgaria. In the Old Town you can see fortifications of the Thracian period, medieval wooden houses, and the ruins of Ottoman mosques. The main attraction is the ancient Roman amphitheater with its majestic marble statues, decorative columns and arcades.

Varna- the third most populous city in the country, an important industrial and cultural center of Bulgaria.

Cathedral St. Assumption of the Virgin Mary (1880-1886) is located in the city center. It has three altars: the central one is dedicated to the Dormition of the Virgin Mary, the southern one - to St. Nicholas of Myriklia, and the northern one - to St. Alexander Nevsky.

The marine park stretches for 8 kilometers and goes straight down to the sea. There are many benches, cozy gazebos, pedestrian paths and alleys. On the territory of the park there is an aquarium, a dolphinarium, a zoo, a terrarium, a Naval Museum, a Bridge of Wishes (a bridge through which you need to walk with your eyes closed and make a wish), a monument to Russian liberating soldiers, a sundial, and an observatory.

In Bulgaria there are 10 national parks (about 73,000 hectares), 97 nature reserves (60,000 hectares), 472 natural attractions (22,000 hectares). The parks “Rila”, “Pirin”, Vracano-Balkansky National Park with nature reserve“Vratsa Karst” (more than 200 karst caves), Central Balkan Park with the highest waterfall in Bulgaria - Praskalo (height - 125 m), Sinite Kamyni Park, Rusensky National Park with the richest fauna and unique medieval architecture.

Bulgarian cuisine and its features

Vegetable dishes are widely represented in Bulgarian cuisine. The most popular Bulgarian salad is called “shopska”: fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, sweet bell peppers, onions and cheese like feta cheese. Local seafood and fish dishes are also noteworthy.

Bulgarian cuisine is characterized by spicy seasonings and piquant taste. One of its main features is the simultaneous heat treatment of products over low heat. This allows you to preserve nutritional properties, achieve a pleasant aroma of dishes, and original flavor combinations.

The cold Bulgarian soup “tarator” (finely chopped cucumbers, dill, garlic and walnuts doused in diluted sour milk) is also very unusual.

Bulgaria is famous for its wines. They make excellent Merlot, Chardonnay, and Cabernet here.

Population, language, religion

The population of Bulgaria is about 9 million people, of which 85% are Bulgarians, 9.7% are Turkish and 5% are Roma.

The official language is Bulgarian.

Most of the population are Orthodox Christians (85%), there are also Sunni Muslims (12%).

Customs regulations, visa, currency, embassies

The import of currency is not limited (amounts over $1000 are included in the customs declaration). The export of currency should not exceed the amount specified in the declaration upon entry. Over 20 thousand BGL (or equivalent in foreign currency) can be exported with the permission of the Bulgarian People's Bank.

 

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