Bulgaria Info

Local Time
Bulgarian Local time is GMT +2 HOURS

Language
The official language in Bulgaria is Bulgarian. The Bulgarian language belongs to the group of the Slavic languages and it is very close to Russian, Macedonia and Serbo-Croatian languages. The majority of people speak Russian, basic English, German and French.

Voltage
Attention! All electrical appliances work on ~ 220V.

Money & Currency Exchange
Many local and international banks and currency exchange offices function in the capital and around the country.  Currency exchange is also available also at the airport on arrival and departure, and in the big hotels.

Transportation
Public transport in the big cities are tram, trolley bus and bus. Local and long distance bus services cover 90% of Bulgaria's settlements. Tickets can be purchased from travel and tourist agencies or at the bus stations. Taxi service is available at Sofia Airport and every larger city.

Customs
Common Customs declarations and restrictions are applied for import and export of currency, food, alcohol and goods. There is a special custom regime for antiquarian objects, historic and cultural treasures, medicines, narcotics, weapons, ammunition.

Religion
90% of Bulgarian people are Orthodox Christians and celebrate the  traditional Christian holidays - Christmas, Easter and the name days of Bulgarians named after Archangels, Saints, and Martyrs. About 8% are Muslims and a few are gypsies. As a whole Bulgarian people are very obliging and hospitable.

Food & Drinks
Bulgarian food is close to the traditional European cuisine Traditional Bulgarian menu includes bread, yogurt and fresh milk, cheese, tomatoes, paprika, potatoes, onions, beans and fruits, grapple and red or white wine. Wide variety of cuisines is offered. Along with traditional  Bulgarian dishes, many restaurants offer Italian, French, Greek, Chinese, German, Arabian, Hungarian, Latin American, Indian and Russian food.

Phone, Internet & Postal Services
Local and international telephone services are covered through automatic street telephones operating with tokens and calling cards. Postal services don't differ particularly from the ones in Europe or North America. Internet services are offered in Internet clubs and cafes in most of the cities.

Passport & Visa
Tourists to Bulgaria from many countries do not need visa - a valid passport is required only. All visitors are themselves responsible to go through a visa application if a visa is required.