A Travel Guide for Schengen Countries: Beautiful Bulgaria

Embark upon a mystical journey to discover the Balkan gem, Bulgaria, an exceptional treasure of cultural and historical heritage. Situated strategically between the east and west, it is famous among the tourists for its idyllic beaches and winter resorts.

Embark upon a mystical journey to discover the Balkan gem, Bulgaria, an exceptional treasure of cultural and historical heritage. Situated strategically between the east and west, it is famous among the tourists for its idyllic beaches and winter resorts.

Why Visit Bulgaria

Laid-back appeal, cheap staying options, and remarkable landscapes make Bulgaria a backpacker's paradise. Experience a unique blend of modernism, heritage and tranquility that captivates your imagination.

Visit Bulgaria to revitalize your mind and soul. It welcomes you warmly whether you choose to explore its urbane cities, ski over its snowy mountains, sunbathe in its beaches, or revel in its ancient architecture.

When to Visit

Bulgaria's weather is pleasing all year round. Although temperatures in winter drop below the freezing point, tourists throng the ski resorts after the snowfall. The spring season commemorates the arrival of summer, and with it, another flock of tourists. Visit during April-May to enjoy the sunny warmth of the spring or in the month of September to celebrate autumn's vivid foliage.

Schengen Visa for Bulgaria

Every tourist needs to possess a Schengen Visa to travel to Bulgaria. Considered as a boon for tourists, the Schengen Pact is the result of cooperation between 26 European countries. These countries have eliminated individual visa requirements, thereby minimizing border control. The Pact ensures tourists and citizens enjoy hassle-free movement within the member countries on a common visa. Simply put, a Schengen Visa lets one travel to any member country without applying for multiple visas.

How to Apply for a Schengen Visa

To apply for a Schengen Visa, one needs to download the Visa Application Form, which is easily available online. Submit the duly filled form along with valid documentation to the destination country's embassy in India. Remember, the form needs to be filled carefully stating the reason for your visit. It also needs to be supported with your recent financial statement. Also, availing the right travel insurance plan is mandatory for securing a visa approval for a Schengen country.

How to Travel

Most visitors enter or leave Bulgaria via Sofia, its capital city. The international airports situated in Varna, Bourgas and Plovdiv usually offer domestic flights.

A robust network of railways and bus routes connect Bulgaria with the neighboring countries like Turkey, Romania, Macedonia, and Greece.

Where to Stay

Bulgaria is a dream-come-true for travelers aspiring for luxury at a low budget. Each city and town offer budget hostels, retro-themed inns, and glassy modern hotels catering to multiple budget and comfort expectations.

Some beach resorts stay closed during the winter. However, this gives you an excellent opportunity to enjoy the panoramic vistas of the snow-covered peaks from a winter resort.

Things to Do

• Sofia
  The place-to-be for history and culture lovers, Sofia boasts of some of the most iconic monuments such as the majestic Aleksander Nevski Church. Stroll in the enchanting lanes and explore several onion-domed churches, Ottoman mosques, and museums neatly tucked between the modern cityscape and remnants of the Soviet Era.
• Krakow
  Poland's medieval capital, Krakow scintillates with life. Having escaped any demolitions during the war, the streets and monuments of Krakow are perfectly preserved. Do not miss the Wawel Castle and the main market square in Old Town Krakow that is still the city's cultural hub.
• Varna
  Situated along the Black Sea coast, Varna is a surprisingly vibrant cosmopolitan port city and a naval base. Relax in one of the Roman Baths, bungee jump from the Asparuhov most Bridge, or meditate in the medieval cave monastery Aladzha.
• Nessebar
  Home to the highest number of churches per capita (40, including several medieval reconstructed churches), Nessebar is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its ancient Seaside ruins. Relive the 19th century by visiting one of the wooden houses that dot its landscape.
• Bansko
  This Bulgarian town thrives on its winter and summer tourism. Bansko is internationally acclaimed ski resort that offers affordable quality service. If you happen to be there in August, do not miss the Bansko Jazz Festival (from 8 to 13 August) that attracts artists from everywhere every year.
• Sunny Beach
  Revel in the lively atmosphere of the Sunny Beach famous for its nightlife, party culture, music festivals, and water sports.
• Plovdiv
  Sister city to Sofia, it features intriguing Roman architecture such as the ancient theatre and the Roman aqueduct. Walk down the boulevards lined with museums, synagogues and churches, or view a live performance at the Roman Odeon.
• Other Must-Visits
  • Belogradchik Fortress : Located at the northern slopes of the Balkan Mountains, it is a cultural monument of historical importance.
  • Boyana Church : Medieval Orthodox Church situated on the outskirts of Sofia, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its 11th century frescoes.
  • Albena : Ideal for the outdoors lovers, it features a unique fusion of lush greenery and pristine seashore.
  • Sozopol : One of the oldest towns along the Black Sea coast, Sozopol is famous for its distinct Greek-infused culture.

Do's & Don'ts in Bulgaria

• If you rent a vehicle, do not leave your essential documents such as passport and credit cards in it as they are easy targets for thieves.
• GPS navigation systems do not have detailed routes for the interior villages. While driving around in Bulgaria, keep a map handy.
• Purchase a reliable Cyrillic to English handbook or a mobile app to translate the local street signs, restaurant menus, etc.

Make Bulgaria memorable and worry-free with a travel insurance that secures you against common travel mishaps.

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