Money-Saving Tips

Bulgaria is already affordable — but with a few tricks, it gets even cheaper:

• Travel in the off-season: May/June and September/October offer pleasant weather and up to 50% cheaper hotels than in July/August. The difference is greatest on the coast and in ski resorts.
• Long-distance buses instead of trains: Bulgaria's buses (Union Ivkoni, Biomet, Etap) are modern, punctual, and affordable. Trains are even cheaper but often slow and less comfortable. Sofia–Plovdiv by bus: €7 in 2 hours (train: €5 in 3–4 hours).
• Use supermarkets: Lidl, Billa, and Kaufland have the best prices. Local markets (Пазар/Pazar) are ideal for fresh fruit, vegetables, and cheese — often directly from the farmer and dirt cheap.
• Tap water: In Sofia and most larger cities, tap water is drinkable. In Sofia, the water comes from the Vitosha Mountains and tastes excellent.
• Currency exchange: Never exchange money at the airport or in street exchange offices — the rates are predatory. Best option: withdraw cash from an ATM. The rate is always the fixed rate (1€ = 1.9558 BGN).
• Free entry: Many churches and monasteries are accessible for free. Parks and nature reserves as well. The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Sofia, the Rila Monastery (courtyard), and countless churches charge no admission.
• Rakia from the farmer: In rural areas, farmers sell homemade Rakia by the roadside — a liter for €3–5. Quality varies, but the experience is priceless.
• Sofia Card: For 25 BGN (~€13), you get free entry to 9 museums, discounts in restaurants, and free city tours. Worth it from 2 museum visits.