Bulgaria is a fun country that's famous for its beauty, culture, food, and exciting activities. We've got the ultimate travel cost guide to make sure your adventure is incredible and affordable. Dive into average costs for hotels, food, activities, sightseeing, and transportation. We'll cover all the essentials for a wallet-friendly trip.
How much does it cost to travel to Bulgaria?
You should plan to spend around $79 (ư145) per day on your vacation in Bulgaria. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $27 (ư50) on meals
- $14 (ư25) on local transportation
- $74 (ư136) on hotels
A one week trip to Bulgaria for two people costs, on average, $1,113 (ư2,030). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$556
ư1,015
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$1,113
ư2,030
-
One Month
Per person
$2,385
ư4,350
-
One Week
For a couple
$1,113
ư2,030
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$2,226
ư4,060
-
One Month
For a couple
$4,769
ư8,700
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Bulgaria cost?
A one week trip to Bulgaria usually costs around $556 (ư1,015) for one person and $1,113 (ư2,030) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Bulgaria on average costs around $1,113 (ư2,030) for one person and $2,226 (ư4,060) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Bulgaria will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Bulgaria on average costs around $2,385 (ư4,350) for one person and $4,769 (ư8,700) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Independent Travel
Traveling Independently has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.
All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.
Is Bulgaria expensive to visit?
Bulgaria is a reasonably affordable destination to visit. It is in the top 25% of countries in the world for its affordability. If you're traveling on a budget, then this is a good destination with affordable accommodation, food, and transportation.
Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Bulgaria is reasonably affordable compared to the other countries. It is in the top 25% of countries in Europe for its affordability. You can find more affordable countries such as Ukraine, but there are also more expensive countries, such as Svalbard and Jan Mayen Islands.
Bulgaria offers a great mix of sights and accommodations, making it a destination that works for travelers of all budgets and preferences. In Sofia, Varna, and Plovdiv, budget options like hostels are available, but if you're after something more luxurious, there are plenty of high-end hotels, as well as mid-range spots for families and couples.
It's true that Bulgaria can be expensive, but eating at less expensive restaurants and enjoying free activities can help you make the most of your money.
On average, budget travelers spend $33 (ư59) per person per day, mid-range travelers spend $81 (ư145) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $192 (ư346) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Bulgaria.
For more details, see Is Bulgaria Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Bulgaria?
The average Bulgaria trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Bulgaria travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Bulgaria cost?
Bulgaria on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$16
(ư29)
|
$37
(ư68)
|
$76
(ư139)
|
|
Local Transportation 1
|
$5.58
(ư10)
|
$14
(ư25)
|
$34
(ư63)
|
|
Food 2
|
$10
(ư19)
|
$27
(ư50)
|
$75
(ư138)
|
|
Entertainment 1
|
$4.34
(ư7.92)
|
$11
(ư19)
|
$24
(ư44)
|
|
Alcohol 2
|
$2-5
(ư3-9)
|
$4-12
(ư7-21)
|
$9-27
(ư17-50)
|
Sofia, Bulgaria
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
Having a realistic perspective on your travel budget is very important. While many like to think of themselves as "budget" travelers, most people are not prepared for the discomfort and lack of amenities that come with traveling on a shoestring budget. Consider what you really love about travel and thinkg about your previous travel experiences. Are you more inclined to stay in hostels, or do you prefer more comfortable hotels, resorts, or vacation rentals? Is dining out a priority for you? Do you want to visit the major sights and attractions? Your answers to these questions will shape your overall travel budget significantly.
What Does It Mean to Be a Budget Traveler?
Many travelers hear that exploring Bulgaria can be done for $33 a day, but if you want to keep some comforts, expect to pay a lot more.
Backpackers might find a way to travel around on that tight budget, but that usually means dorm stays in hostels, eating at budget-friendly restaurants or fast food places, using public transport or walking, and focusing on free attractions.
Fortunately, Bulgaria has a significant number of hostels, especially in Sofia, Varna, and Plovdiv.
Do You Identify as an Average Traveler?
Couples or families on vacation will probably choose mid-range hotels, popular dining spots, and visits to major museums and attractions that charge entry fees. Most visitors to Bulgaria will want to visit the major attractions, sights, and landmarks. Since most activities have a cost, you should realisticly plan for your budget to be closer to $81 per person, per day.
Bulgaria has tons of hotels and vacation rentals available. If you're traveling with a group or family, sharing accommodations with a partner, friend, or your family will cut back on the daily per-person budget. Popular family-friendly destinations like Bansko, Hisarya, and Sozopol offer hotels and restaurants that cater specifically to kids. For a family-friendly stay, consider Rahoff hotel in Bansko or Villa Paris Hisarya in Hisarya. If you're a couple visiting Smolyan, consider staying at Hotel Uzunski for a romantic getaway. You can discover more family and couples options in our hotel guide for Bulgaria here.
Seeking a Stylish Getaway from the Daily Routine?
If you're planning a vacation with all the finer things in life, prepare for a budget that can reach $192 per day. If you want upscale hotels, world-class dining, premium excursions, and private drivers, this will put you firmly in the "luxury" category. Some of the more high-priced destinations include Varna and Plovdiv. Another option would be to splurge on a multi-day high-end tour that takes care of everything for you, such as 15 Days trips in Romania, Moldavia, Bulgaria - offered by Nicolas Experience Tours.
Accommodation Budget in Bulgaria
The variety of accommodation prices in Bulgaria can be surprising. Some areas and hotels are much more expensive than others, and prices soar during peak season. You'll save more if you visit in the off-season or book in advance.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Bulgaria for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $74 (ư136). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $37 (ư68) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Bulgaria? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
Local Transportation Budget in Bulgaria
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $14 (ư25) per person, per day, on local transportation in Bulgaria. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Bulgaria is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Local Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$14
ư25
Bulgaria has an excellent train system that will connect you to almost everywhere in the country. The prices are reasonable and the rides are comfortable and fast. Long distance and regional buses can fill in when the rail lines don't reach your destination.
Planning to explore the countryside? You'll likely want to rent a car. Keep in mind that the average car in Europe has a manual transmission, and an automatic will come at a higher price. It's best to make your reservation early, as the cheaper options often sell out fast.
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If you're bringing a car to a larger city, be sure to inquire about parking at your hotel beforehand. You may need to pay for parking either at the hotel or at a nearby garage. Finding a spot further from the city could save you some money.
Food Budget in Bulgaria
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in Bulgaria can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Bulgaria is $27 (ư50) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$27
ư50
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Bulgaria is around $28 (ư50) per person, with previous travelers spending from $11 to $76. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Bulgaria are as follows:
- Breakfast: $5 to $8
- Lunch: $4 to $14
- Dinner: $10 to $22
- Coffee: $3
- Fast Food or Street Food: $4
Shopska Salads: Bulgarian salads are incredibly fresh. They include cucumbers, tomatoes, feta cheese, and a variety of other vegetables, but rarely have lettuce. The dressing is usually made from either sunflower or olive oil and flavored slightly with vinegar. Although somewhat comparable to Greek salads, Shopska salads typically have a subtly different flavor.
Bob Chorba: This is a mint and herb soup that is usually served warm. It's considered a Bulgarian national dish although it comes in a variety of different styles throughout the country. Most often it is made with beans and onions.
Tarator: This is a cucumber and yogurt soup often served cold. It often combines walnuts, dill, garlic and vegetable oil and is most frequently served during the warmer summer months.
When traveling with children, look for restaurants with a kids menu. This can save you plenty of money as these options tend to be much lower in price. Some restaurants don't list the kids' options on their menu, so ask the waiter before you order.
While numerous hotels include breakfast in the overall cost, some might add it as an additional fee. The quality and pricing of breakfast can fluctuate based on the hotel. Knowing this information in advance can guide your decision on whether to indulge in a hotel buffet or opt for a cheaper bakery or café nearby.
Carrying a water bottle instead of buying drinks can help you save money while also being good for the environment.
If a tour is on your agenda, be sure to confirm which meals are covered beforehand. Paying for some food out of pocket can really add to your travel expenses.
If you're looking to experience the culinary culture in Bulgaria, taking a food tour or cooking class is a terrific way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. Some of the best food-related activities here include:
- Sofia by Night: Panoramic City Tour and Folklore Dinner for $104 details
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Bulgaria
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Bulgaria typically cost an average of $11 (ư19) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$11
ư19
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Bulgaria. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Rila Monastery Day Tour from Sofia for $21 details
- From Sofia: The Seven Rila Lakes Full-Day Self-Guided Tour for $32 details
- Sofia: Night Electric Scooter Guided Tour for $36 details
- Day Tour to Rila Monastery and Boyana Church for $37 details
Nightlife Budget in Bulgaria
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $7.67 (ư14) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Bulgaria per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$7.67
ư14
Nightlife is often a highlight, but cutting back on alcohol can help you stay within your travel budget.
Tasting tours and nightlife activities are very popular in Bulgaria. A few of the favorites from previous visitors include:
- Varna Gourmet Tour including Wine Tasting for $115 details
- From Sofia: Plovdiv and Perushtitsa Tour With Wine Tasting for $132 details
- Melnik Wine Tour for $147 details
- Rila Monastery Wine Tasting Tour for $178 details
Traveling in Bulgaria
Varna, Bulgaria
Bulgaria is a Balkan country along the Black Sea. It is one of the more frequently overlooked countries in Europe, but it actually has a lot to offer. Bulgaria is a surprisingly diverse country with winter sports, nice beaches, as well as churches and culture that you can immerse yourself in. Because it is less popular than most European countries, you truly feel like you've found an untouched, undiscovered, exotic destination when you travel here. Although the winter can be quite cold, the summer is very pleasant. The area's countryside can also be quite beautiful. There are mountains sprinkled with villages, beaches lined with resorts, and an old world rural setting you won't find elsewhere in Europe.
Bulgaria is divided into five different geographic regions. You're most likely to visit the northwest area, as this is where you will find the country's capital of Sofia. Southwest Bulgaria is very mountainous in nature and is also the country's haven for winter sports. The Northern Thrace is in the plains and has many ancient cities including the most popular, Plovdiv. The Bulgarian Black Sea Coast has many resort towns that see only a few tourists. There are also some larger port cities including Varna and Burgas. In Central Northern Bulgaria you will find many villages and forests lining the Danube River.
It's easiest to travel around the country by bus. This is the most common means of transportation and also the fastest. Trains are slightly less expensive than buses, but they are also slower and not as far reaching. Some destinations in the countryside or further into the mountains require access to a private vehicle. This can be arranged in most of the larger cities such as Sofia, but it can be somewhat expensive.
In general, costs in Bulgaria are quite low. Restaurants are generally cheap and pizza is available almost everywhere as an affordable option. Hotels are more affordable than they are in many Eastern European countries and most of the larger cities have at least a handful of hostels for those who are on a particularly tight budget.
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Find a Contiki tour to Europe.
Top Tourist Attractions
Nessebar: This is a 2500 year old city and World Heritage Site. Located in the Burgas Province, it is a major seaside resort along the Bulgarian Black Sea Coast.
Plovdiv: This is the second largest city in Bulgaria and often referred to as the "heart of Bulgaria" do to its central location and historical importance. The old town of Plovdiv is fun to wander around and get lost in.
Rila Monastery: The Rila Monastery is the largest and most famous Eastern Orthodox monastery in Bulgaria. It is located in the southwestern Rila Mountains and is considered one of the most important religious, cultural and architectural sights in Bulgaria. It was built during the tenth century and was named after its found, the hermit Ivan of Rila.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.