Mild climate favorable for adults and children, gentle Black Sea and a lot of shady greenery, a large number of attractions - all this is guaranteed by friendly Bulgaria. The resorts of this country offer interesting conditions for large companies and for families with children, as well as for couples. Not only those who want to sunbathe on the beaches, but also lovers of skiing come here to relax.
Cost of vouchers
On average, a vacation in Bulgaria in a 3* all-inclusive hotel will cost about 900 USD for 7 days (based on two people, including insurance, travel and transfer). And the price for a tour to a good 4* hotel on the first line for 10 days will cost for 2 adults and 1 child, with "all uclusive" within 1600 USD.
How much money to take with you
The cost of groceries and prepared meals, as well as the price for entertainment, varies at many resorts. The question of how much money to take with you is determined by the choice of the resort itself, the type of food, which restaurants will be favored. It also depends on whether you're going on a beach vacation or an excursion.
For those who are used to traveling on their own and want to manage their spending, we've prepared a small review of the specifics of a vacation in Bulgaria.
Accommodation
When traveling, it is advisable to book your accommodation in advance, whether it be a hotel room or a private lodging option. The most convenient way is through an online portal, of which there are plenty nowadays. Expect to pay approximately the following rates for accommodation:
a room in a two- or three-star hotel – from 30 USD per night;
a four-star hotel room – from 60 USD;
apartments in an international-level hotel – from 100 USD;
private lodging in a resort area – from 25 EUR per night;
a comfortable cottage with spacious rooms – around 40 USD per night.
Food
Dining in Bulgaria is never a problem – restaurants and cafés are available in various price categories. However, lunches and dinners in prestigious establishments may cost up to five times more. Otherwise, meals for a tourist planning to dine regularly, will cost approximately:
breakfast in a regular café – 8 BGN;
lunch – 10 BGN;
budget dinner – from 20 to 30 BGN;
a three-course meal – from 25 BGN.
In many Bulgarian cities, there are children’s kitchens for kids aged 9 months to 3 years, where tourists can purchase high-quality products for young travelers.
Fast Food
Fans of quick bites and street food will be pleasantly surprised – in Bulgaria these options are of good quality and offered at very reasonable prices:
hamburger – 6 BGN;
Czech-style toast – 5 BGN;
hot dog – 5 BGN;
pancakes with fresh fruit – 6 BGN;
cappuccino, tea, hot chocolate – 2 BGN;
draft beer (500 ml) – 4 BGN.
Groceries in Stores
Those who rent accommodation and can cook for themselves usually buy groceries in supermarkets, markets, and shops. This is very cost-effective, as local products are much cheaper than imported ones. Here are average prices for reference:
meat — 8-10 BGN;
fish – 14 BGN;
sausages and cold cuts – from 6 to 15 BGN;
local cheese “kashkaval” — 12-20 BGN;
vegetables and fruits – up to 2.5 BGN.
Resorts and Beaches
Almost all beaches in Bulgaria are state-owned, so visiting them is completely free. However, those accustomed to comfort will need to pay for renting an umbrella and two sunbeds, approximately 20 BGN.
Approximate cost of beach activities:
sliding down a water slide – 1–3 BGN;
parasailing – 50–60 BGN;
boat ride – 120 BGN;
water skiing – 30–50 BGN;
Ferris wheel – from 4 BGN.
Excursions
Exploring Bulgarian attractions can be done with professional guides – in this case, you should contact travel agencies to purchase the tour you are interested in. The average cost of a organized trip is approximately 60–80 USD. The most common excursions are:
ancient town of Nessebar – from 50 BGN;
botanical garden in Balchik – from 70 BGN;
stone forest – from 50 BGN;
Plovdiv, a city with Roman-era buildings – from 100 BGN.
If you prefer to save money – you can travel independently using public transport across the country. This option is much cheaper, especially since buses in Bulgaria are very comfortable, air-conditioned, and run with good frequency.
Souvenirs
The cost of common souvenirs in Bulgaria is not very high. You can buy a mug, magnet, or t-shirt for a price from 0.5 to 5 EUR. The focus is mainly on rose products, wine, sweets, and cosmetics:
face cream with rose oil – 8 BGN;
face mask – 14 BGN;
rose oil – from 9 BGN;
honey in a clay jar – from 12 BGN;
“Mavrud” wine – from 15 BGN per bottle;
genuine leather wallet – from 50 BGN.
Holidays in Bulgaria can be very diverse – peaceful and relaxing on the beach, active in the mountains, or educational while exploring attractions. Visiting this wonderful country, you are guaranteed to enjoy your vacation to the fullest. The key is to be financially prepared to avoid unexpected surprises during your trip.