Bulgaria

TRAVEL INSURANCE

The Department of Foreign Affairs strongly recommends that comprehensive travel insurance, including medical insurance, is obtained before travelling to Bulgaria. This is particularly important for travellers to Bulgaria interested in adventure sports and outdoor activities, of which there are many.

Travellers should note that the Irish government does not provide funds for emergency medical repatriation or for repatriation of remains.

It is advisable to take a number of photocopies of your passport with you. During your stay you should carry a photocopy of your passport at all times.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Irish citizens do not require a visa to enter Bulgaria.  However, children require an individual passport for entry into the country.  For any stay longer than 90 days there is a need to register with the local police. 

For holders of a "British Subject" passport,  a visa is required;  queries should be directed towards the nearest Bulgarian Embassy. 

Foreigners may export and import Bulgarian banknotes and coins to the amount of up to BGN 8,000 (or the euro equivalent; 1.96BGN = 1 euro).  Sums exceeding this must be declared to customs, or the money may be confiscated and you could be charged with a currency law violation. 

SAFETY AND SECURITY

Bulgaria is generally a safe and secure country to visit.  Most consular cases concern lost/stolen passports, currency fraud and vehicle theft.  As with all travel abroad, it is strongly recommended that comprehensive travel and health insurance be obtained before you leave.  It should be noted that there have been recent cases of tourists being overcharged in some late night bars and clubs

LANGUAGE

Bulgaria's language is based on the Cyrillic alphabet, and outside of the major cities information signs tend not to be translated into English.  A good guide book will provide some basic language advice and tips. 

CURRENCY

The Bulgarian Lev is the currency used, and cash is still the most widely accepted form of payment.  Credit cards are becoming more widespread but cannot be relied on to work everywhere and are not accepted in some outlets.  Euro can be changed into Lev in most banks and on street bureaus for normal rates.  However, take care to examine the rates offered.  ATMs are also widely available, and Irish cards are accepted by most of those affiliated with the larger Bulgarian Banks.  Caution should be used when approached on the street by anyone offering to exchange money for you as these individuals tend to be con artists intent on scamming tourists.

TRANSPORT

Public transport throughout Bulgaria is generally good, although the standard of buses and trams in the cities is varied.  Travelling by bus or air within the country is cheap and reliable.

Bulgarian driving tends to be aggressive and caution is recommended for anyone intending to drive while visiting Bulgaria.  Road conditions in Bulgaria can be dangerous, with roads (and pavements) often poorly maintained and full of potholes.  Drivers are recommended to avoid driving at night time, especially outside major cities. 

Taxi drivers sometimes overcharge travellers, particularly at airports/ train and bus stations.  It is recommended that travellers use reputable taxi companies with cars that have meters and clearly marked rates displayed on a sticker on the passenger side of the windscreen.  Travellers should check these rates to ensure they represent value for money as there is no regulation preventing excessive charges should they be clearly advertised.

DIPLOMATIC AND CONSULAR MISSIONS IN BULGARIA

Contact details for all Irish Missions (including Honorary Consuls) in Bulgaria, are available here. (Opens in new window)