What you need to know when vacationing in Bulgaria. Bulgaria. National characteristics and traditions
- Check your flight information on the information board and go to the check-in counters whose numbers are indicated on the board. When checking in, present your passport and ticket.
- Get boarding pass. Pay attention to the gate number and time for boarding the plane (on the boarding pass the gate is indicated by the word GATE, the time - TIME).
- After checking in and boarding being announced, you must proceed to the appropriate areas for international flights.
Passengers on international flights go through customs, passport control, as well as security control, after which they await the departure of the flight in the sterile area of the gallery of international airlines. When going through security, you must present your passport and boarding pass.
When transporting animals or plants, it is necessary to undergo phytocontrol / veterinary control.
Rules for pre-flight and post-flight inspections
In accordance with Appendix No. 1 of the Rules for pre-flight and post-flight inspections, approved by order of the Ministry of Transport Russian Federation dated July 25, 2007 No. 104 prohibited from transporting on board the aircraft by passengers in checked baggage and in things carried by passengers, the following dangerous substances and objects:
Allowed to transport on board the aircraft by crew members and passengers, subject to the required conditions, the following items and substances:
- in checked baggage in cargo and luggage compartments of an aircraft with isolated passenger access to luggage during the flight:
- crossbows, spearguns, checkers, sabers, cutlasses, scimitars, broadswords, swords, rapiers, bayonets, daggers, knives: hunting knives, knives with ejectable blades, with locking locks, simulators of any type of weapon;
- household knives (scissors) with a blade length over 60 mm; alcoholic drinks containing more than 24%, but not more than 70% alcohol by volume in containers with a capacity of no more than 5 liters, in containers intended for retail trade - no more than 5 liters per passenger;
- liquids and alcoholic beverages with an alcohol content by volume of no more than 24%;
- aerosols intended for use for sports or household purposes, the release valves of the cans are protected by caps from spontaneous release of the contents in containers with a capacity of no more than 0.5 kg or 500 ml - no more than 2 kg or 2 liters per passenger;
- in things carried by passengers:
- medical thermometer - one per passenger;
- mercury tonometer in a standard case - one per passenger;
- a mercury barometer or manometer, packed in a sealed container and sealed with the sender's seal;
- disposable lighters - one per passenger;
- dry ice for cooling perishable foods - no more than 2 kg per passenger;
- 3% hydrogen peroxide - no more than 100 ml per passenger;
- liquids, gels and aerosols classified as non-hazardous: in containers with a capacity of no more than 100 ml (or equivalent capacity in other units of volume measurement), packed in a securely closed transparent plastic bag with a volume of no more than 1 liter - one bag per passenger.
Liquids in containers with a capacity of more than 100 ml are not accepted for transportation, even if the container is only partially filled. Exceptions to transportation include medications, baby food, and special dietary needs.
Liquids purchased from duty-free shops at the airport or on board an aircraft must be packaged in a securely sealed plastic bag that allows the contents of the bag to be identified during the flight and has reliable confirmation that the purchase was made at airport duty-free shops. or on board the aircraft on the day(s) of travel. Keep your receipt as proof of purchase. Do not open the package either before boarding or during the flight.
The administration of the airport, airline, operator has the right to decide on the introduction of additional measures to ensure aviation security on high-risk flights, as a result of which it is prohibited to carry the following items in the aircraft cabin:
- corkscrews;
- hypodermic needles (unless medical justification is provided);
- knitting needles;
- scissors with a blade length of less than 60 mm;
- folding (without lock) travel, pocket knives with a blade length of less than 60 mm.
Flight time
The flight to Bulgaria is about 2.5 hours.
Upon arrival at the airport
- Go through passport control (a foreign passport with a visa is presented, sometimes a return air ticket and voucher are requested).
- Receive your luggage. The monitors above the baggage belts indicate the flight from which baggage will be issued at this belt.
- On leaving customs zone A TEZ TOUR representative will meet you in the arrival hall. After presenting your voucher, he will provide your transfer bus number.
- Go to the parking lot to board the bus. The bus departs after all tourists have collected.
- Listen carefully to the information your escort will give you along the way to the hotel. He will also inform you about the time of the information meeting with the TEZ TOUR guide.
Airport codes:
VAR - Varna
BOJ – Burgas
PDV - Plovdiv
In a hotel
The check-in procedure varies depending on the hotel, but generally looks like this:
- Present your foreign passport and voucher (1 copy) at the reception desk. After this, the hotel employee can:
- ask you to fill out a registration form in English;
- ask for your passport to make a photocopy of it (check at the reception when you can pick up your passport).
- Check-in at most hotels is from 14:00 - 15:00. If you want to check into a room earlier than the specified time, you must pre-book a room for a day before date your arrival. In case of problems with placement, please contact a company representative.
- After checking into your room, review the information provided by the hotel. Pay attention to which services are paid and how much they cost (as a rule, the information is in a folder and lies on the table or bedside table).
Meeting with the hotel guide
The time of the information meeting with the hotel guide will be communicated to you by your attendant on the way to the hotel. At the appointed time, we invite you to come to a meeting with the hotel guide of the TEZ TOUR company, who will be waiting for you in the hotel lobby. To the meeting, take with you your passport, voucher, and return flight ticket.
For any questions or concerns, please contact hotel guide or at the hotel reception. The guide’s coordinates (photo, name, mobile phone) and the hours when the guide is directly at the hotel are indicated on the TEZ TOUR information stand in the hotel lobby.
The day before your flight home
- Go to the reception and check if you have any outstanding bills for Additional services(use of minibar, telephone, etc.). If you have any debts, pay them.
- In the evening, go to the TEZ TOUR information stand and check the time of departure and check-out from the hotel, you can also find this information on last page in the TEZ TOUR branded folder at the hotel reception. To do this, you need to know the number of the return flight you are departing on.
Check out from the hotel
On the day of departure, you must vacate your room before 12.00, hand in your keys and towel cards.
You can leave your luggage in the hotel storage room.
To avoid various complications, please do not be late and arrive at the transfer at the specified time.
Arrival at the airport of Burgas, Varna, Plovdiv, Sofia for departure
- Go to the check-in counter where your flight number is listed (the counter numbers will be indicated on the flight board).
- Check in for your flight (present your passport and ticket).
- Drop your luggage at the front desk.
- Get your boarding pass. Pay attention to the gate number (GATE) and boarding time (TIME) on board the aircraft
- Go through passport control (present your passport and boarding pass).
- Proceed to the departure hall, where you will wait for the boarding announcement.
Helpful information
Medical service
All medical care in Bulgaria is paid, but if you have an insurance policy, the service is provided free of charge or with subsequent reimbursement of expenses according to the insurance policy (see the leaflet attached to the insurance policy). If an insured event occurs, you must contact the insurance company by phone number specified in the insurance policy. Only if you directly inform the insurance company and coordinate your actions with it, will free (or with subsequent reimbursement of expenses) service be provided.
First aid kit
Before your trip, prepare and take with you a first aid kit, which will help you with minor ailments, save your time searching for medicines and eliminate the problems of communicating in a foreign language; in addition, many medicines can different countries have different names.
Money
The monetary unit of Bulgaria is the Bulgarian lev. The euro - Bulgarian lev exchange rate is fixed (1 euro = 1.95583 BGN at the rate of the Bulgarian Central Bank). The dollar exchange rate is unstable. You can exchange currency at exchange offices and banks. Bank branches are usually open on weekdays from 8.30 to 17:00. Exchange offices may have a very unfavorable exchange rate; it is worth consulting with a guide.
Never change money in person! At resorts, as in cities, near exchange offices you can meet people who will offer you a more favorable exchange rate; most likely they will give you counterfeit or no longer valid bills.
International credit cards are accepted in almost all banks, as well as in most hotels, restaurants and shopping centers.
The shops
There are no hourly opening hours in stores, tourist season many shops are open until late at night.
It is possible to bargain in small shops and markets.
Souvenirs
The most popular souvenir in Bulgaria is rose oil in a wooden bottle. The world famous Bulgarian oilseed rose, carefully grown in the Valley of Roses, is one of national symbols countries. In general, tourists can buy everything related to roses: cosmetics, perfumes, jam, etc.
Bulgaria produces wines of remarkable quality. Another popular drink is Bulgarian vodka “rakia”. It is quite inexpensive and comes in a large assortment. Also very popular: ceramics, silver self made and sea souvenirs, magnets with views of Bulgaria.
It is impossible to imagine the cuisine of this country without spices. Especially for tourists, beautifully decorated small transparent jars with “sharena salt” are sold - salt mixed with all kinds of seasonings. Knowledgeable tourists They bring kimion seasoning from Bulgaria. This spice goes great with meat, fish and vegetables.
Bulgarian cuisine
Bulgarian National cuisine distinctive and diverse, it is famous for its abundance of vegetables, delicious meat, hearty snacks and aromatic soups, and is famous for its dairy and fermented milk products. IN different time to the Bulgarian kitchen big influence Greek and Turkish cuisines were provided.
Many Bulgarian dishes are cooked on a skara (metal grill), such as kebapcheta (fried minced meat sausages), kuftet (cutlets) and shish (shish kebab). Famous dishes - kebab (meat on a skewer), gyuvech (stew of meat with potatoes and vegetables), kavarma (meat dish with mushrooms, onions and potatoes), kashkaval pane (breaded soft homemade cheese), chushka byurek (sweet pepper fried in egg , stuffed with cheese and tomatoes), Shopska salad (tomatoes, cucumbers, sweet peppers, onions, seasoned with grated cheese, vegetable oil, vinegar, seasonings).
Bulgarian cooks successfully combine vegetables with fish, meat, flour, egg and dairy products. Tomatoes, cucumbers, sweet and hot peppers, zucchini, eggplants, beans - this is not a complete list of vegetables that are grown and cooked in Bulgaria and which largely characterize the national cuisine. Vegetables are stewed in pots with cheese, stuffed, baked and, of course, vegetable salads are prepared.
The cold Bulgarian soup "tarator" is also very unusual (finely chopped cucumbers, dill, garlic and walnuts are doused with diluted Bulgarian "sour milk"). And you can have a snack with banitsa - a puff pastry pie with feta cheese. Banitsa is usually eaten with the famous Bulgarian sour milk And, of course, in a country where many different varieties of grapes are grown, there is always excellent wine on the table.
Transport
The bus is the most popular means of transportation within Bulgaria. The average ticket price in the city is 1 Bulgarian lev (0.5 euro), long route costs more, up to 3-4 leva.
Traffic patterns and bus schedules on Yuzhny Black Sea coast(Elenite - Sunny Beach - Nessebar), you can.
Car rental. You can rent a car only if you have a driver's license. All cars have comprehensive insurance. The minimum rental period is one day, the mileage is not limited. Make sure the car is fully insured, including headlights and glass. Gasoline is purchased independently. In the event of an accident, the car must not be moved until the police arrive. It is necessary to urgently report the incident to the representative of TEZ TOUR and the company where the car was taken, since the police may not speak Russian or English languages, and you will not have the opportunity to explain your version of the incident.
Don't forget to have your license, passport and car rental documents with you, as police checks are possible.
Visa
To travel to Bulgaria, you must obtain a Bulgarian visa in advance.
Russian citizens can visit Bulgaria for the same period with a valid Schengen visa, only if it is double or multiple entry. Entry into Bulgaria with a single-entry Schengen visa is no longer permitted.
Citizens of the Russian Federation can enter the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria with a valid visa from Cyprus, Romania and Croatia for a period of stay that is limited to the period specified in the visa, within the period of its validity and a certain number of entries, but not more than 90 days within 180 days. Holders of Bulgarian visas can enter the territory of Cyprus and Romania under the same conditions. You can only enter Croatia with a double or multiple entry visa.
Time
Time lags behind Moscow by 2 hours in winter and 1 hour in summer.
Safe
Tourists must use a safe to store valuables and documents. The administration is not responsible for valuables and documents left unattended in the room or on the hotel premises.
Tips
The tipping system applies to waiters in bars and restaurants, maids in hotels, porters, and guides. Paying a tip is not mandatory, but if the client is satisfied with the service, a tip is a sign of good manners. The average tip is almost always 10% of the bill. In hotels and taxis they do not give tips, but the meter readings are rounded up.
Cot
Baby cat - upon request, available free of charge in most hotels. There are hotels where baby cats come at an additional cost. Payment - 1-8 euros per day.
Most hotels provide one extra bed (folding bed, pull-out sofa or armchair) for DBL+EXB occupancy.
Beach
In Bulgaria, all beaches are public. Umbrellas and sun loungers are available for a fee. Some hotels offer free use of umbrellas and sun loungers on the beach. Keep in mind that their quantities are limited!
Mains voltage
Mains voltage 220 V.
Religion
90% of the local population are Orthodox Christians, about 9% profess Islam, approximately 1% are Protestants, Catholics and Jews.
Customs
You can export from Russia without obtaining a bank certificate until 3000$ per person. If you export up to 10,000 euros per person, the amount must be declared and passage is carried out through the red corridor; if over 10,000 euros per person, then you must have bank documents with you.
At the airport in Bulgaria, be sure to include all electronic equipment, antiques and jewelry in the declaration (their presence can be checked upon departure).
Allowed duty free import: 200 cigarettes, or 50 cigars, or 250 grams of tobacco, 1 liter of strong alcohol, 2 liters of wine, perfume - 50 ml in uncorked bottles, food within the limits of personal needs.
The import of drugs, medicines containing large doses of narcotic substances and weapons is prohibited.
- It is recommended to drink mineral water purchased in the hotel shops and bars;
- It is recommended to store jewelry, money and documents in the safe, which is located in the room or at the reception;
- It is recommended to hand over your room key at the hotel reception. If you lose your key, please notify the hotel immediately.
Phones
Telephone connections in Bulgaria are very good and relatively inexpensive. You can call from a hotel, but it is more expensive than from the post office. Post offices are open from 8.30 to 17.00, telephone call centers - until midnight. Postal identification marks - black on yellow POST.
Cell phones work great in Bulgaria. There are 3 mobile operators in Bulgaria (M-Tel, Globul, Vivacom). It makes sense to buy a local SIM card for a few euros. Price for calls to Russia M-tel (Prima card) - 2.50 euro/min, Globul (B-connect, Frog) - 0.60 euro/min, Viva Com (Viva International) - 0.10 euro/min.
You can contact Russia using code 007 + city code + subscriber's phone number.
To call Bulgaria, dial 00 - 359 - city code or 8 - 10 - 359 - city code.
Useful phones
For any questions you may have during your stay in Bulgaria, please contact your guide, whose mobile phone number is located on the information stand (folder).
TEZ TOUR tourist support phone numbers in BulgariaFor any questions regarding your holiday in Bulgaria, you can contact Russian-speaking representatives of TEZ TOUR. If any emergency situations contact support by phone: +359 2 492 3611 (call center) Region Varna (Obzor, St. Constantine and Helena, Sunny Day, Golden Sands, Kranevo, Albena, Balchik): Region Burgas (Sozopol, Sarafovo, Pomorie, Ravda, Nessebar, Sunny Beach, St. Vlas, Elenite): Ski resorts Bansko and Borovets: |
24/7 telephone in RussiaIf you have trouble dialing the support number, please report it to our 24-hour phone number 8-800-700-7878 (calls from any region of Russia are free). |
When to go
Beach season begins in the country at the end of May and lasts until the end of September. The high season at seaside resorts is July-August.
From the end of December to the end of March it is worth going to Bulgaria ski tours. Moreover, the infrastructure of such resorts is now actively developing and in terms of service is already close to European standards. But the prices are still much cheaper. In Bulgaria you can not only relax, but also receive medical treatment. And at any time of the year. More than 550 places with 1600 mineral springs, in which weakly mineralized minerals predominate mineral water. Now there are officially 102 balneological resorts operating there, of which 34 are of national importance.
From mid-May to mid-July it is worth visiting the Valley of Roses - at this time it blooms with all its colors. April and May, like September and October - best time for the excursion program. First of all - to the monasteries of Bulgaria.
Need to know
Customs
. The import and export of foreign currency is not limited. The national one is prohibited. You can import 200 cigarettes, or 50 cigars, or 250 grams of tobacco duty free; 1 liter of alcoholic beverages or 2 liters of wine; 50 ml. perfume or 250 ml. eau de toilette.
Visa
. The country's visa policy towards Russians is soft, and the refusal rate is negligible. The cost of a visa is 30 dollars. ABOUT necessary documents ask the managers of "1001 Tour".
Visas for children under 16 years of age are issued free of charge. And children under 18 years of age do not need a notarized permission from the second parent to obtain a visa and traveling with one parent.
Currency
. The local currency is called Lev. When exchanging money, be careful - the exchange office can offer a good rate with a commission of 1% of the amount, which will be indicated by the inscription in this “exchanger”. However, a nearby inscription (usually small and illegible) may indicate that at this rate money can be changed starting only from a certain amount (usually quite large), and smaller amounts are changed at a different rate with a charge of 15% - 20% of the amount exchange.
It is best to use exchange offices with the inscription “no commission”, but even then it is worth clarifying which transaction is carried out without a commission: selling or buying currency. The easiest way is to ask the cashier in advance how much in local currency you will receive upon exchange.
IN major cities Bulgaria and developed tourist centers Russian rubles are accepted for exchange. At a very reasonable rate. So if you are going to a famous resort, you can take rubles with you. Unspent leva can be exchanged when leaving the country: only for this you need a certificate of the initial exchange from the exchange office. So don't throw away your receipts.
Foreign tourists have the right to a VAT refund (20%) according to the system tax free upon purchase of at least 1000 leva in one store. Refunds are made at a special point at the airport when leaving the country.
Necessary telephone numbers. Russian Embassy in Sofia - 2-963-1663, in Varna - 52-60-27-21. Ambulance - 150, fire service - 160, police - 166, road assistance - 146, inquiry Office - 144.
Transport
Most comfortable view to travel around the country - railway. For 10 dollars you can buy a ticket from one end of Bulgaria to the other.
For train trips, for example from Sofia to resort places It is better to book tickets in advance. Otherwise, if you buy on the very last day, you may be left without a ticket. The cost of a single ticket in cities for one day is approximately 0.35 leva, for five days - 5.5 leva. Between seaside resorts well established bus service. In addition, it is inexpensive: a bus from to, for example, costs about 3 levs.
Taxi in Bulgarian resorts the cost is slightly more expensive than a bus ticket. If you have to make a short trip, feel free to use it - compared to Moscow, the prices are purely symbolic. For example, the road from to will cost a dollar or two.
If you rented a car in Bulgaria and drove it deep into the country, then be careful - there are often livestock on the highway, and there are a lot of horse-drawn vehicles. Also, road works are often not protected by signs.
Nuances
Can it be like in Turkey? Is there anything to see there? Do you need a visa? We answer the most popular questions about holidays in Bulgaria.
There are three main reactions of tourists that a travel agent has to deal with when working with a Bulgarian destination:
Full acceptance: “yes, we decided to start with Bulgaria,” “let’s repeat Bulgaria,” “we love Bulgaria, we are planning to vacation there for the 3rd, 5th, 10th time.” Usually, oriented tourists start a conversation with such phrases. Easy, fast and relaxed.
Complete denial: “not Bulgaria.” You should not sell a vacation in a country to which a potential tourist has formed a strong and categorical “no,” negative, or denial. Or you need to spend time breaking the stereotype with ironclad arguments.
Gradual acceptance of the destination as a good alternative: “let's look at Greece, Turkey and Bulgaria.” This is the kind of request that we most often have to work with and gradually lead the tourist to the fact that Bulgaria is an excellent budget alternative to more expensive summer destinations.
And “budget” in this case does not equal “cheap”. This is equivalent to the good level and quality of recreation that you will receive in other countries, only in Bulgaria it will be more accessible.
Bulgaria - alternative:
- Family holidays on ALL (all inclusive) in Turkey, Greece and Egypt. First of all, by the price segment, secondly by the climatic factor (the very hot and humid summer season in Turkey and the very hot, albeit dry season in Egypt are not suitable for everyone), and Greece is traditionally in a different price segment. Bulgaria is ideal for families traveling with a child for the first time. Especially with a baby (infant). A short flight (1 hour 45 minutes), one time zone, the dry and comfortable climate of the Black Sea, products that we understand and national cuisine in general, a gorgeous sandy strip of a long coastline - all this is ideal for the quick and relatively easy adaptation of children of different ages.
- Prestigious youth holiday. Who doesn’t dream of unreal parties in the clubs of Ibiza or Mykonos, or at least Lloret de Mar? But while dreams are being dreamed, and the soul and body are right now eager to go to a sea party in the techno style or to an “open air-disco-party” or to super-fashionable clubs or to foam parties, then why not - Golden Sands and Sunny Beach are waiting for you at numerous parties where, surprisingly or not, you will encounter a huge number of tourists from different parts of the world who will confirm to you that in Bulgaria a club holiday is just “wow”!
- Health-improving holidays at European resorts, Israeli resorts, and Crimean health resorts. Some balneological resorts with hydrogen sulfide sources and therapeutic mud, the availability of balneo hotels and spa treatments attract fans of this type of recreation to Bulgaria.
TOP 15 QUESTIONS ABOUT VACATION IN BULGARIA
Do you need a visa?
Bulgaria is a visa destination. A national Bulgarian visa is issued in 7-10 working days with a minimum package of documents. The cost of the consular fee is 60 euros for an adult, for children under 12 years old - free. In 2012, Bulgaria allowed entry into the country on Schengen visas, but there is a mandatory condition - the visa must be multiple-entry.
When is the season in Bulgaria?
The summer season in Bulgaria officially lasts from June to October. This is how the flight program of charter flights from Minsk is planned. There is absolutely no need to be afraid of the first dates of June and the last dates of September. Climate change has added a strong + to the temperature. The season is gradually increasing, but prices on these dates drop significantly, as does the flow of tourists. The high season begins at the end of June and lasts until the end of August, characterized by increased demand and rising hotel prices.
What airport are we arriving at?
There are two new and modern arrival airports on the coast - Varna ( Northern part coast) and Burgas ( South part coast). The transfer time depends on where you are arriving. Find the Obzor resort on the coast map - this is exactly the middle, all resorts north of Obzor - fly to Varna, all resorts south - to Burgas. What about the Review? – more often and more conveniently to Burgas. Taking into account the advantage of two airports on the coast, transfers to the main resorts rarely last more than an hour, usually 30-40 minutes.
Is the north coast colder?
The temperature difference is very relative, but at the very beginning and at the end of the season you can pay attention to this; the distance from Varna to Burgas is only 130 km. But the microclimate will be different. North coast- “green and wet” due to forests and national parks, and here South coast– more “steppe and dry”. However, place the main emphasis on choosing a resort that is suitable for you, and not a part of the coast.
Best Family Resorts?
Albena, Sunny Beach, St. Constantine and Helena, Golden Sands, Nessebar, Sozopol – great amount The hotels in these resorts operate on an all-inclusive concept and offer a range of services and infrastructure for this type of vacation. Over the past 10 years, many hoteliers have either moved hotels and adapted concepts or continue to develop in this direction. Most large hotels, chain hotels (for example, RIU, Sol) and gated complexes work exactly like this.
Are there hotels like in Turkey? We want it like in Turkey!
There are three large closed-format resorts: Albena, Elenite and Dunes. The concept of recreation here is virtually all-inclusive in every hotel, and the infrastructure is focused on proper recreation for adults and children at the hotels themselves (complex area, sports grounds, water parks, amphitheaters for shows, disco bars and spa centers).
As for the Dune complex, it is even better than in Turkey. One of the most popular and recommended gated resorts for quality family holidays in the middle and high price segment.
Where to get treatment on the coast?
It is very important to know that there are two types of balneotherapy on the coast, based on medical profile and indications, choose the place that suits you. Resorts with hydrogen sulfide and mineral springs: St. Constantine and Helena, club complex Riviera, resort complex Rusalka and Albena. And here the best resort Pomorie is still considered a place for mud therapy, although you can order mud applications at any of the spa centers on the coast. But there is no other such specialized hotel like anywhere else. Unique hotel with a professional approach to treatment and recovery. Chelsea football players and other sports stars periodically undergo rehabilitation courses here (argument?).
Where are the best parties?
In our club. Everything here is simple and not simple. You will have to be between two fires, or rather between Golden Sands and Sunny Beach. Golden Sands has a higher level of resort positioning and rating in Europe, which means prices will be higher, but the prestige of some places will also be higher. Whole planes of European tourists fly in for a “disco & bar tour” style vacation. There is not a single person in Golden Sands who has not heard about the Arrogance Music Factory club or the PR club, or the Go-Go girls club.
But Sunny Beach is about to catch up with Golden Sands, because there is a whole paradise here, or rather a beach - Cacao beach and the club of the same name, as well as another legendary club - Bedroom Beach. Armin van Buuren lit up the night at the open air sunny beach. And you? Of course, the choice of clubs is now huge (this includes Orange, Mania and many other clubs in the very center of the largest resort on the coast). And the clubs amaze with their sound technology, style and creative parties.
Where to rent an apartment in Bulgaria?
Apartments in Bulgaria? Yes Yes Yes! This is a separate category of accommodation facilities. As a rule, these are new modern complexes of different levels with “apartment-type” rooms for a family holiday or a large group holiday for any period, even long. And here special attention should be paid to the very modern and truly beautiful resort- St. Vlas. The St. Vlas apartments stand out in terms of quality because the resort is more accessible for a free-form holiday (without being tied to all-inclusive meals) than the neighboring Sunny Beach, is beautifully designed and has a huge number of rave reviews in the “here is like in Europe” style.
Where else to look for apartments on the coast? – in Sunny Beach, Nessebar, Sozopol, Obzor.
How many resorts are there in Bulgaria?
25 main resorts along the entire Bulgarian coast from north to south. A coastline In Bulgaria, from the border with Romania to the border with Turkey is 354 km. Impressive, isn't it?
Is there anything to see there?
On ancient land"golden apple", i.e. in Bulgaria, there are 11 cultural and natural monuments UNESCO. You could end here, but catch the “must see”: the city of Nessebar, the city of Balchik and the palace of the Romanian Queen in the Botanical Garden, monasteries (Aladzha, Rilsky, St. George, etc.), the city of Sozopol, the first capital of Bulgaria - ancient city Veliko Tarnovo, the city of Plovdiv and the modern capital Sofia. If that's not enough, to the south is the border with Turkey, which means you can expect a one or two day trip to Istanbul, and to the north is the border with Romania - and magnificent Bucharest - easily. And don’t forget about the short seasonal “aroma” excursions: the Valley of Roses or lavender fields near Varna. Plus a huge variety of active, entertaining, educational excursions (jeep safari, “Bulgarian village”, wine tasting, fishing).
What is the currency in Bulgaria?
Bulgarian lev (BGN) with a rigid peg to the European currency: 1 euro ~ 1.95 Bulgarian. left Exchange rate stability and national currency exactly what it provides here low level prices within the country. There are ATMs everywhere, and you can pay by card almost everywhere. Exchange offices They have been working officially for a long time; there are no threats of fraud during exchange transactions in official places. Safety in the country is another plus of holidays in Bulgaria.
What to bring from Bulgaria?
Souvenirs: rose oil and cosmetics from the Valley of Roses (can be bought at any resort, in specialized stores or sections in supermarkets); Bulgarian embroidery: tablecloths, clothing items; silver products (we recommend shops and shops in old Nessebar); spices and seasonings - yes, the same Sharena salt or variegated salt, the aroma of which permeates all Bulgarian “mekhanas” - traditional restaurants. And, of course, Bulgarian wines (you can’t return from the country without the legendary “Mavrud”) and rakia. Finally, grab some ceramics - they have very good ones!
What will surprise us?
For example, the cutest national feature of Bulgaria is that Bulgarians nod their heads up and down when in denial, and right and left when agreeing, i.e. “yes” is “no” for them, and “no” is “yes”. So watch your hands.
Bulgarian ice cream will surprise, beaches will surprise, prices will surprise, tsa-tsa will surprise - Bulgarian National dish from small sea fish- the Bulgarian lavender will surprise, the golf riviera in Kaliakria will surprise, the Dunes will surprise, the people who were able to create resorts of such a scale with the European mark of quality will surprise.
Another undoubted advantage of a holiday in Bulgaria is short flight(fly only 2 hours 30 minutes). From Moscow to Bulgaria there are flights to Varna, Sofia and Burgas. Prices for one-way tickets start from 10,000 rubles.
Visa
Yes, you need a visa to Bulgaria, but there are several options - you can get a Schengen visa (you can travel to all EU countries) or a national Bulgarian visa (gives you the right to visit Cyprus, Romania and Croatia). This also works in reverse side, if you already have a visa from these countries, you can safely go to Bulgaria). Visa fees will be 35 € (≈ 2500 rubles). Detailed information you can always get it at visa center.
The resort town of Albena.
Sunny Beach
- How to get there: from Varna airport There are buses to Sunny Beach. The fare is 12 levs (≈ 440 rubles). A taxi will cost about 54 levs (≈ 2000 rubles).
This is the largest and most famous Bulgarian resort on the shores of the Black Sea.Sunny Beach received the Blue Flag - an international award for the cleanest and safest beaches, and no wonder: a ten-kilometer beach Sunny Beach It pleases not only with golden sand and a smooth entry into the water (ideal for children), but also with the absence of fees - the beach is free.
Children will really like itAction water park : there are all types of slides - wide with circles, tubes and twisting ones. A day ticket (full access from 10:00 to 18:00) for an adult will cost 40 Bulgarian levs (≈ 1,500 rubles), for a child - half the price - 20 levs (≈ 750 rubles).
Not only children, but also adults need to rest! Half an hour walk from the beaches of Sunny Beach is located historical city (one of the oldest European cities). Here you can see historical sights, including ruins Church of Hagia Sophia (5th century built) and ancientamphitheater , where free concerts are held in the evenings.
Sunny Beach.
Where to stay
4* - the hotel is located on the first line, within walking distance from the beach - ideal for lazy rest. The rooms are equipped with balconies beautiful view to the beach, and there is also a swimming pool and all inclusive - so eat as much as you like. All the fun for 174 Bulgarian levs (≈ 6,400 rubles) per night for two.
A more economical option, only 44 leva (≈ 1600 rubles) per night for two. For this price you get a central location (five minutes walk tobus station to go to Nessebar).
Review
- How to get there:There are buses from Varna to Obzor, 12 levs (≈ 440 rubles). Travel time is 1.5 hours.
Resort - an alternative to Sunny Beach. This is a developing resort, so prices here are slightly lower. At the same time, there are significantly fewer tourists - not everyone has managed to find out about this place yet!
Obzor is also perfect for families with children - coastline resort town it stretches for 9 km, and it’s quite free here, so you don’t have to fight for a place in the sun. The descent into the water here is very smooth almost everywhere, but there are also steeper places.
Close to local stadium there is a park for children. You can ride the carousel, racetrack and other attractions for 3-5 leva (≈ 110,150 rubles) each.
Obzor beaches.
Where to stay
Hotel located between the beach and all important city points, so everything will be at your fingertips. There are several swimming pools, a bar and a tennis court for those who take care of themselves and like to play sports. Cost - 119 levs (≈ 4300 rubles) per night for two.
Hotel - quiet place 50 meters from the beach. The windows offer views of green Park, and the cost is only 68 leva (≈ 2500 rubles) per night for two.
Golden Sands
- How to get there: bus 409 from Varna airport will take you to your destination in 25 minutes and 6 levs (≈ 200 rubles).
Here you will have a vacation like an adult - there are not only ordinary beaches (and there are quite a lot of them - beaches loved by young peopleMojito , Riviera with a smooth entry into the water andCentral - there are the most people here), but also nudist ones - just go to the most remote ones.
All beaches are free - you can find a secluded place to lie down on a towel. If you want comfort, you will have to pay 5-10 levs (≈ 125-350 rubles) per day for a sun lounger.
During the day you can lie around and play sports (most beaches are equipped with volleyball courts), and at night you can stroll through nightclubs and casinos. We recommend clubsArrogance Music Factory - there are several halls with different music for every taste - there is R’n’B, techno, pop music. Entrance - 10 levs (≈ 360 rubles).
Golden Sands Resort.
Where to stay
Located right on the beach. There is a casino here, so if you want to try your luck, this is the place for you. Refreshments for players (even from other hotels) are free. Cost - from 232 leva (≈ 8500 rubles) per night for two.
Aparthotel located five minutes walk from the beach and close to all the city's entertainment. There is a gym, mini golf course, table tennis tables and a sauna. The cost per night for two is 138 leva (≈ 5,000 rubles).
Sozopol
- How to get there:local carrier Bulgar Bus for 18 leva (≈ 660 rubles) and will take you from Varna to Sozopol in two hours.
This ancient resort town will appeal to those who want to take a break from the bustle of the metropolis and look at ancient buildings (this is the oldest Bulgarian city on the Black Sea coast) and lovely Bulgarian landscapes.
Must visit Old city- here you will see typical Bulgarian architecture. And although the town is very small (only three streets), you will definitely like the wooden houses and other buildings of past centuries.
Beaches Central And Harmanite They will happily (and freely) take you into their arms when you get tired of wandering the cobbled streets. If you find it too crowded, go to another beach -Kavatsite . It is located a little further from the city center, but it is more peaceful. You can get to it from the center by tourist train (25 minutes journey and 2 levs / ≈ 73 rubles) or by taxi (10 levs / ≈ 350 rubles). All beaches are free, but if you want to relax on a sunbed, prepare 5 leva (≈ 235 rubles).
Sozopol.
Where to stay
We recommend the hotel - it’s clean, cozy, and the walls of the hotel can’t be seen under the lush greenery of ivy. The hotel was a 2016 Tripadvisor Traveler's Choice. Price - 37 levs (≈ 1300 rubles) per night for two.
Another hotel that is rated by many travelers is . This place is praised for its excellent staff, fitness room and great location - just a few minutes walk to the beach and center. Price - 56 levs (≈ 2100 rubles) per night for two.
Saint Constantine and Helen
- How to get there: from Varna airport There is bus 490, which will take you to the resort for just 1 lev (≈ 36 rubles).
The unique combination of green forests and sea breezes make the air of this resort truly healing. But it’s not just the air that heals here - Saints Constantine and Helena are famous for their thermal springs. We especially recommend the bathsAquahouse . On weekdays, a stay in the thermal area will cost 20 levs (≈ 730 rubles) for a full day. There are several thermal pools (temperature from 38 to 35 degrees), a Finnish sauna, hammam, and infrared sauna. In general, a huge selection of wellness treatments.
You can (and should) swim not only in thermal pools, but also in the sea. We recommend the beach"Sahara" - it’s free, you only have to pay for the sunbed (if you want to use it). Price - 4 leva (≈ 146 rubles).
Saint Constantine and Helena - quiet and calm resort Bulgaria.
Where to stay
A pleasant and well-kept place with its own beach, swimming pool (indoor and outdoor) and sports club. Those who have already vacationed here note the local food. Cost - 232 leva (≈ 8300 rub.) per night for two.
The hotel is praised for its staff, wonderful garden and swimming pool. This place is perfect for families with children. There is a children's playground and a separate children's pool. And they say that breakfast is what you need here. The cost per night for two is 53 leva (≈ 2000 rubles).
Hotel - most famous hotel at the resort, so if you still want to communicate and meet new people, it’s better to come here. It features a swimming pool, billiards and the beach is a seven-minute walk away. Price per night - 160 levs (≈ 5800 rubles) for two.
As you can see, a peaceful and inexpensive holiday. For a very small price you can find calm beaches, good spas, and entertainment for lovers nightlife. If you want to have an economical and relaxing holiday this year, you know where to go.
Only one in four corresponds to reality in any way. Most are either very outdated or look more like handicrafts promoting the interests of travel agencies. At least this is the impression we got after our trip to Bulgaria.
A similar breakfast awaited us every day at the Vanini Hotel. In the reviews of other tourists it was said that it was not possible to have breakfast, and if you were a little late, there wouldn’t be any decent tea left. Maybe because we were never late, but we were always offered a choice of not only tea, but also coffee and hot chocolate.
Bulgaria is a country of contrasts
For luxurious and expensive hotels Sunny Beach, literally a few hundred meters from a huge water park, hides an abandoned wasteland. Even in reality expensive resort There are many places in the outskirts of Bulgaria that, to put it mildly, don’t look very good. As, by the way, in any city in the world.
The level of service in Bulgaria is better than we expected
Reading on the Internet about the level of service in Bulgaria, one gets the impression that everything here is very, very bad.
In fact, even in the cheapest hotel the level of service was quite sufficient and exceeded that in Montenegro.
Of course, if you choose cheap option accommodation, you should not count on the service of a 5 star hotel. But minimum required(bed, shower, toilet, air conditioning, refrigerator) is present in the simplest room.
There are no good 5* and All Inclusive hotels in Bulgaria - not true
This year, many travel companies plan to sell to Bulgaria instead of Turkey and Egypt.
In terms of service level, the Golden Sands resorts are in no way inferior to the five-star hotels in Sharm El Sheikh and other cities beloved by Russian-speaking tourists.
At the same time, prices for holidays in Bulgaria are still lower, and the consumer attitude towards vacationers is not yet so felt.
Don't believe me? Compare and check for yourself (by default it searches for upcoming dates).
Cheapness in Bulgaria is no longer entirely true
On the Internet you can read about surprisingly low ones. Unfortunately, due to sharp jumps in the exchange rate of the ruble and hryvnia, these prices have almost nothing in common with reality.
You don’t have to wait for the group leader - just waste your time
What money should I take to Bulgaria?
This is the appearance of levs, the currency of Bulgaria. In Bulgaria they go left BULGARIAN LEV RATE:
1 lev = 0.52 euros;
1 lev = 0.61 dollars;
1 lev = 40 rubles;
1 lev = 15 hryvnia;
1 lev = 0.83 Belarusian rubles.
(their course can be found by clicking on the inscription anywhere on our website). But importing and exporting Bulgarian currency from the country is prohibited by law.
At exchange offices or banks, you can easily exchange dollars, euros, rubles, hryvnias and many other currencies into levs.
How much money should you take on holiday to Bulgaria?
By and large, it is impossible to name a fixed amount - it all depends on your appetites and habits.
For example, we once spent only $200 in 14 days. This is taking into account a large number self-guided tours and tickets to museums.
If we were strictly saving, we could even fit in $100, but it would only be enough for food.
But we must understand that this is the very, very minimum. Suitable for poor students who at that time could not afford full-fledged travel. Now, in the same 14 days, I would spend at least $1000, and maybe more, taking into account and.
You can take an umbrella to Bulgaria, or you can buy it here
I want to walk along the ancient medieval streets - Nessebar
It is very interesting and romantic to walk along the streets of old Nessebar in the evening. In Bulgaria we lived exactly in Nessebar. The city is very beautiful and romantic, albeit quite expensive. Old Nessebar is especially impressive with its stone-paved streets, dozens of small churches and ancient Bulgarian buildings.
There are the following articles about Nessebar on our website:
I want to relax cheaply, but with high quality - Pomorie
If we ever come to Bulgaria again, we will definitely live in Pomorie. We remember this city not only for its indescribable resort atmosphere, fantastic landscapes and interesting sights, but also for its low prices.
I want to live in a big city with cheap shopping and attractions - Varna or Burgas
It is to the central street of Burgas that tourists who want to buy inexpensively and thoroughly are brought. In our opinion, in this case it is best to go to or Varna. Both of these cities are quite large and very interesting.
Varna has a little more attractions, there is a dolphinarium and a small zoo, a lot beautiful fountains. Nearby is the Golden Sands resort, Aladzha Monastery and.
I really love beautiful nature and parks - Balchik
We didn’t really like Balchik itself - it’s very shabby, especially closer to the bus station and further from the sea. There are no special attractions in the city; going there is a bit expensive.
Other cities and resorts in Bulgaria
In fact, there are a lot of them in Bulgaria. Of the places we were able to visit, I would like to recommend Obzor. Some may like Aheloy, where you can see a wooden house 20 meters from a five-star hotel.
We won’t talk about places we haven’t been, but we will be very grateful if you share your impressions with us.
Food and food in Bulgaria - how to save
A 1.5 liter bottle of water in Bulgaria will cost you on average 0.5 levs. In Bulgaria you can eat both in restaurants and with food from supermarkets.
And if you also take into account that even inexpensive sausage in Bulgaria is made from meat, and the products we know (for example, the President brand) are many times better quality, then there’s no point in taking anything from home at all.
Be sure to try Bulgarian products - they are very tasty
- Tarator- this is something like our okroshka, but without meat and potatoes. Oddly enough, the drink turned out very tasty. It is very refreshing in summer.
- Kaymak- a Bulgarian fermented milk product, which in taste and consistency is very similar to something between sour cottage cheese and thick cream.
- Ayran- Bulgarian milk drink.
- Cheese— both hard and homemade cheeses are very tasty. We also liked the locally produced processed cheeses - they have a very unusual taste.
- Fruits- Most are very tasty and not expensive.
When should you take groceries from home?
Quite small. The choice in supermarkets there is also small. If, for example, your child is accustomed to a specific brand baby food- It’s better to take it from home.
Düner- a local version of shawarma with meat, potatoes and vegetables. Many sites recommend it, but every time we came across a lot of vegetables and a completely ridiculous portion of meat. In general, I didn't like it.
Tsarevitsa is the most popular fast food in Bulgaria
Literally on every corner they sell the princess. This is boiled corn that costs from 1 to 2.5 leva BULGARIAN LEV RATE:
2 lev = 1.05 euro;
2 lev = 1.23 dollars;
2 lev = 80 rubles;
2 lev = 30 hryvnia;
2 lev = 1.66 Belarusian rubles.
Exchange rates and prices may not be accurate.. Locals love it very much, tourists buy it less often.
Souvenirs and shopping in Bulgaria - what and where to buy?
There are very few interesting national ones in Bulgaria. Bringing home something that is both national and useful is difficult.
You can go to Istanbul for shopping
You can easily get from Bulgaria to Istanbul even by bus. They say there's great shopping there - we didn't check it out. But at least the city itself is simply amazing.
Travel by public transport - it's 2 times cheaper
Travel public transport in Bulgaria - profitable. You will be able to visit the same places as on excursions, but 2-3 times cheaper and without a time limit.
The buses are very comfortable, with air conditioning and comfortable seats, and run quite often.
Many attractions can only be visited with a rented car.
Unfortunately, some attractions can only be visited during an excursion or in a rented car.
For example, Cape Kaliakra, Broken Stones, Aladzha Monastery, Ropotamo, Ravadinovo Castle and many, many others.
Visit the botanical garden in Balchik - simply an amazingly beautiful place
When planning a visit, be sure to set aside a whole day for it. There really is something to see there. - one of the most beautiful corners in the coastal part of Bulgaria. come here better evening— the city becomes surprisingly romantic and mysterious. A visit to the Monastery of St. George in Pomorie was interesting and educational for us.
In is located, storing the icon of St. George the Victorious. A place known not only for its holiness and healing powers, but also for its beauty.
Entrance to the monastery and the monastery museum is free. This place is definitely worth a visit.
The Thracian tomb in Pomerania is not worth visiting
But you don’t have to spend either time or money on the Thracian tomb - there’s nothing special there, and the ticket price is high (4-5 leva) BULGARIAN LEV RATE:
5 lev = 2.62 euros;
5 lev = 3.07 dollars;
5 lev = 200 rubles;
5 lev = 75 hryvnia;
5 lev = 4.15 Belarusian rubles.
Exchange rates and prices may not be accurate.. For this money you can easily visit several good museums.
On the way to the tomb you can find a field where kiwis grow. Despite the fact that it looks slightly abandoned, we do not recommend picking the fruits - guard dogs do not sleep.
In Burgas it is worth visiting the Seaside Park and the exhibition of sand figures
We especially remember the Seaside Park and the theme park - we recommend visiting it.
Also come to the main street, next to the monument to Alyosha. In the morning, a foggy curtain of small drops of water is created there.
Varna has a dolphinarium and a zoo
In Varna, you can take your children to the dolphinarium or visit the local small zoo. Of course, the city also has many churches and other interesting places.
It might be useful to read:
- How to get on an excursion to Antarctica?;
- Czech Republic Troy Castle. Troja Castle in Prague. Ancient winery and museum;
- Böcklin and his “island of the dead” A cultural phenomenon of its time;
- Air tickets to Crimea Air tickets to Crimea will become cheaper;
- What you can and cannot take with you;
- Open left menu Heviz How to get from Budapest to Lake Heviz;
- Cable car in Nha Trang (Vinpearl) The longest cable car in the world Vietnam;
- Kamenets-Podolsk fortress - a historical monument of Ukraine Life outside the walls of the Kamenets-Podolsk fortress;