The Intrepid Guide

120 Most-Used Bulgarian Travel Phrases You Need to Know [Plus Audio]

Useful Bulgarian Travel Phrases - Bolata Bay

Going to Bulgaria? Then you’ll need to learn how to order a meal, ask for directions and say ‘hello’ (zdravei) and ‘thank you’ (blagodarya) with ease. This language guide arms you with useful Bulgarian phrases, a pronunciation guide, and audio recordings from a native speaker.

This Bulgarian travel phrase guide gives you a well-rounded set of practical phrases and vocabulary which will help you have meaningful conversations and interactions with the locals. To help me create this new addition to my collection of  free travel phrase guides , I asked my friend and native Bulgarian speaker, Pavel from Curious Pavel   to provide accurate Bulgarian translations and pronunciation tips. He’s even provided audio clips for each phrase to make things even easier for you!

Want to have fun whilst learning Bulgarian? Struggling to find decent Bulgarian language resources? I recommend getting uTalk . Available as a desktop site and app, uTalk is awesome for learning key words and phrases in Bulgarian, especially if you want to use it for travel purposes.  It’s great for beginners getting started in a language and invaluable for intermediates looking to fill in gaps in their vocabulary and pronunciation. 

What I love most about uTalk is that you can jump around their extensive library of topics and choose what you want to learn, when you want, and at your own pace.  Because I believe in uTalk so much, I reached out to them and we’ve teamed up to offer you an exclusive 30% OFF reader discount across all of uTalk’s 140 languages! This offer isn’t available anywhere else! Click here to claim your exclusive 30% discount.

Let’s take a closer look at the Bulgarian language. Here’s what we’ll cover:

Table of Contents

Where is bulgarian spoken, bulgarian alphabet, bulgarian pronunciation, bulgarian vocabulary.

  • Getting Around
  • Emergencies

Useful Bulgarian Phrases for Travellers [Infographic]

Bulgarian is the official language of Bulgaria with about 12 million speakers mainly in Bulgaria. It is also spoken by minority groups located in Ukraine, Moldova, Romania, Serbia, Hungary, Greece, Macedonia, Turkey, Canada, USA, Australia, Germany, and Spain.

As a Southern Slavic language, Bulgarian is mutually intelligible with Macedonian and is closely related to Serbian, Croatian, Bosnian and Slovenian. This means speakers of either language can readily understand each other without much effort.

Useful Bulgarian Travel Phrases - Rila Monastery

Rila Monastery, Bulgaria

The Bulgarian alphabet is very similar to the Russian Cyrillic alphabet. This is thanks to Saints Cyril and Methodius who invented the Glagolitic alphabet in AD863 and used it to translate Greek texts in Old Church Slavonic. Using the Greek and Glagolitic alphabet, their disciples developed the Cyrillic alphabet that is still in use today. Bulgarians celebrate Saints Cyril and Methodius on the 24trh of May which is a national holiday in Bulgaria.

For ease of use, I’ve included the transliteration for each phrase which means you can read as if you were reading English, but you’ll be magically speaking Bulgarian!

Here are the letters of the Bulgarian alphabet and their pronunciation.

You don’t have to learn the Cyrillic alphabet to realise that Bulgarian is actually very easy to read. Unlike languages such as French, Bulgarian is almost entirely phonetic, meaning that you pronounce it the same way it’s written. Of course, there are a couple of exceptions, but you don’t need to worry about these as the pronunciation guide will reflect these variations.

Another bonus feature of the language is that there are no nasty or complicated sounds to learn as they are similar to English.

Useful Bulgarian Travel Phrases - Inside Rila Monastery

Inside Rila Monastery, Bulgaria

Numerous Turkish words entered into during the five centuries of Ottoman rule. In the 19th century, many of these Turkish loanwords were removed from the language and were mostly replaced with Russian words.

Other words have adopted into Bulgarian from Latin, Greek , French , Italian , German , and English .

Useful Bulgarian Phrases for Travellers

Bulgarian Travel Phrase Guide and Pronunciation

Want the infographic to take with you? Scroll to the bottom of the page and save it.

P.S. If you’re reading this on your phone and can’t see the pronunciation column, turn it to landscape mode. For some reason, tables aren’t mobile friendly. Sorry!

Like it? Pin it for later!

120 Most-Used Bulgarian Travel Phrase with Pronunciation

Sources |  Curious Pavel  | Lonely Planet Phrasebook

Want to know more about learning languages? Start here!

  • Language learning tips: 11 Polyglots Reveal The Secrets of Their Success
  • Top Language Learning Resources You Should Use
  • 11 Life-Changing Reasons Why You Should Learn a Language
  • 42 beautiful Inspirational Quotes for Language Learners
  • Top 10 Best Ways to Learn a Language Better and Faster

Over to you!

Which of these Bulgarian phrases did you find the most useful? Let me know using the comments section below or join me on social media to start a conversation. Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed this post. Like what you see? Subscribe using the form below to have all of my posts delivered directly to your email.

bulgarian language for tourist

Michele creates language learning guides and courses for travel. What separates her from other instructors is her ability to explain complex grammar in a no-nonsense, straightforward manner using her unique 80/20 method. Get her free guide 9 reasons you’re not fluent…YET & how to fix it! Planning a trip? Learn the local language with her 80/20 method for less than the cost of eating at a tourist trap restaurant Start learning today!

15 Romantic Italian Films That’ll Make You Love Italy Even More

10 pro tips: how to learn a language with a full-time job, leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

bulgarian language for tourist

If you don't know where you are , how do you know where you're going?   Find out how well you know Italian grammar today!

facebook pixel

  • 12 Phrases You Need To...

Phrases You Need to Know Before Visiting Bulgaria

Bulgarian flag

Bulgarians are warm and friendly to foreigners but sometimes they find it hard to express their amiability in English. Furthermore, most of the middle-aged and older people speak better Russian than English, so if you learn a few words in Bulgarian , you’ll break the ice and bring a smile to their face. Here’s a list of 12 useful phrases to learn before you visit Bulgaria .

Did you know you can now travel with Culture Trip? Book now and join one of our premium small-group tours to discover the world like never before.

Become a Culture Tripper!

Sign up to our newsletter to save up to $1,200 on our unique trips..

See privacy policy .

Verb system

The verb system is perhaps the most complicated feature in modern Bulgarian, especially compared to other Slavic languages.

There are many rules to remember and since it's too complex of a subject, the most basic ideas are listed below.

This may attract the typical language lover, and if you want to become proficient in Bulgarian, you have been officially warned about how difficult its verb system is.

Common diphthongs

Note that 'ю' and 'я' denote diphthongs [yoo] and [yah] after a vowel and at the beginning of a word, and tend to be pronounced 'ia' or 'io' in the middle or end of the word. The soft sign will not be included here as it is very rarely used since 1945.

Transportation

Bus and train.

In Bulgaria, the customer is not always right. At a taxi stand, you must first ask the driver if he/she will take you where you want to go. If the window is closed, open the front passenger door to ask. You also do not need to take the first taxi in the stand. If there is a company you prefer, walk to that taxi or check the prices on the windows. If there is no one in any of the taxis but you see people standing (talking, waiting, smoking) nearby, you can ask them to be taken the same way (second phrase) and one will accept.

Note that Bulgarian traffic signs are based on the Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals, and this means that traffic signs use abstract symbols rather than text. Except for the international octagonal red STOP sign and a handful of other examples, the only words one usually sees on traffic signs are the place names on direction signs. Text-only signs exist, but they are used only when there's no other way to convey that information (e.g. parking fees and/or restrictions, or truly abnormal road conditions), which is outside the scope of this phrasebook. Note also that speed limits are in kilometers per hour; distances are in kilometers unless otherwise indicated; distances and sizes in meters are indicated with an M (e.g. "500 m" to a level crossing, or a bridge height of "2.5 m"); weights are in metric tons and indicated with a T (e.g. a bridge limit of "30 t").

Navigation menu

Inspiration & Information for Self-Improvement

Most Common Phrases in Bulgarian (English Translations)

Most Common Phrases in Bulgarian (English Translations)

The Bulgarian language is known for its unique charm and rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re planning a trip to Bulgaria or simply interested in learning a new language, familiarizing yourself with the most common Bulgarian phrases can greatly enhance your experience and allow you to connect with locals on a deeper level.

From greetings and expressions of gratitude to basic conversation and ordering at a restaurant, understanding these phrases will enable you to navigate through daily interactions with ease. In this article, we will explore some of the frequently used Bulgarian phrases and their English translations, providing you with a valuable tool to engage with the Bulgarian people and immerse yourself in their vibrant culture.

Key Takeaways

  • Familiarize yourself with common Bulgarian phrases to enhance your cultural experience in Bulgaria.
  • Learn greetings and expressions of gratitude to connect with locals on a deeper level.
  • Master basic conversation phrases to navigate through everyday interactions.
  • Know how to ask for directions and order at a restaurant to make your travels more convenient.
  • Parting phrases can help you bid farewell in a polite and respectful manner.

Table of Contents

Greetings and Introductions

When visiting Bulgaria, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with common greetings and introductions . Being able to properly greet people and confidently introduce yourself can help you establish connections and make a positive impression. Here are some key Bulgarian phrases for greetings and introductions :

  • Zdravei – Hello
  • Dobur den – Good day
  • Dobro utro – Good morning
  • Dobro vecher – Good evening
  • Zdraveite – Greetings (formal)

Introductions

  • Kak se kazvash? – What is your name?
  • Kazvam se [your name] – My name is [your name]
  • Rad(a) sym da te sretna – Nice to meet you
  • Kude jiveesh? – Where do you live?
  • Az jiveya v [your city] – I live in [your city]
“Zdravei” is a common greeting in Bulgaria which can be used at any time of the day. It’s polite and versatile, making it a great phrase to know when meeting new people.”

Remember, the Bulgarians appreciate when foreigners make an effort to speak their language. Even if your pronunciation isn’t perfect, locals will appreciate your attempts and be more inclined to help you. Enhance your cultural experience in Bulgaria by learning these important phrases for greetings and introductions .

Basic Conversation

When visiting Bulgaria, it’s helpful to know some basic phrases for everyday conversation. These simple Bulgarian phrases will allow you to engage with locals and navigate through daily interactions with ease.

Greeting Someone: Zdravey(te) – Hello Dovizhdane – Goodbye Kak si? – How are you? Dobre – Good Blagodarya – Thank you
Introducing Yourself: Kazvam se (name) – My name is (name) Mnogo se radvam – Nice to meet you
Asking for Help: Moje li da mi pomognesh? – Can you help me? Gubya se – I am lost

Whether you’re a tourist or on a business trip, familiarizing yourself with these essential Bulgarian phrases for basic conversation will enhance your experience in Bulgaria. So start practicing and enjoy your time engaging with the locals!

Apologies and Excuses

In Bulgarian culture, apologizing and making excuses is an important aspect of communication. Whether you’ve made a mistake or need to explain a situation, knowing how to apologize and make sincere excuses can help maintain relationships and show respect. Here are some common phrases you can use when you need to apologize or make excuses in Bulgaria:

Asking for Directions

When exploring Bulgaria, knowing how to ask for directions can save you time and help you find your way more easily. Here are some common Bulgarian phrases you can use:

Kak da stigna do… – “How do I get to…” Kade e… – “Where is…” Predizvikvatelstva li e da stigna do… – “Is it challenging to get to…” Ima li avtobus, koyto otyavlyava tuk? – “Is there a bus that departs from here?” Kak da se vurna do moiya hotel? – “How do I get back to my hotel?” Kak da stigna do turisticheska atraktsiya? – “How do I get to the tourist attraction?” Bihte li mogli da mi pokazhete na kartata? – “Could you show me on the map?”

Remember to be polite when asking for directions and thank the person who helps you.

Tips for Asking Directions

Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when asking for directions in Bulgaria:

  • Learn some basic Bulgarian phrases in case the person you ask doesn’t speak English.
  • Carry a map or have a navigation app handy to help you understand the directions given.
  • If possible, try to ask for directions in more populated areas where you are more likely to find someone who can assist you.
  • Be patient and understanding, as some locals may not be familiar with the specific location you are asking about.

Ordering at a Restaurant or Bar

When dining out or enjoying a drink in Bulgaria, it is useful to know how to order in a restaurant or bar. Here are some common Bulgarian phrases for ordering food and drinks :

Ordering Food

When it’s time to order food, you can use the following phrases:

Ordering Drinks

For ordering drinks, you can use these Bulgarian phrases:

Using these phrases will help you effectively communicate your preferences and have a pleasant dining experience in Bulgarian restaurants and bars.

What are the most common phrases in Bulgarian with English translations?

The most common phrases in Bulgarian with English translations include greetings and introductions, expressions of gratitude, basic conversation phrases, apologies and excuses, asking for directions, ordering at a restaurant or bar, and expressions of farewell.

Are these phrases useful for visitors to Bulgaria?

Yes, learning these common phrases in Bulgarian can greatly enhance your experience when visiting Bulgaria. They will help you engage with locals and navigate through daily interactions.

Related Posts

Therapy Activities for Teens

27+ Therapy Activities for Teens (Helpful Ideas)

bulgarian language for tourist

65+ Common Text Abbreviations

  • Royal Villas
  • Green Life Villas
  • Villa Sanaan
  • Villa Gardenia
  • Villa Magnolia
  • Villa Amber
  • Sunny Hills Villas (6 guests)
  • Sunny Hills Villas (12 guests)
  • Batak Studio
  • Lazur Studio
  • Central Studio #1
  • Central Studio #2
  • Central Studio #3
  • Availability search

bulgarian language for tourist

A password will be e-mailed to you

Reset Password

logo

Some useful key phrases in Bulgarian

bulgarian language for tourist

Short dictionary English – Bulgarian

Knowing some key phrases really will make your holiday in bulgaria a whole lot better.

Here you will find some useful key phrases in Bulgarian and the basics in the Bulgarian language and alphabet.

Visiting a foreign country can be really tricky: different customs, different traditions and of course an entirely different language. Bulgarians are famous for being really friendly and warm people, and indeed they are, but some of them are not fluent in any other language then Bulgarian, so maybe you should consider learning a few significant phrases that will really help you communicate better.

You may need those lines everywhere, in the shop, on the beach, in the bar. Even if you are staying in a private villa with a swimming pool or an apartment you are definitely going outside and meeting people who will probably not speak English. And it is easier to come prepared with a few simple but important phrases, then to rush for your translator every time you need to order a beer or pay the check.

First is the Bulgarian alphabet

Book your holiday villa in bulgaria.

no thumb

Key phrases in Bulgarian

We have put together a list of the most important phrases that you are likely going to need and you can use the tables for reference as to pronunciation and further information.

Some of the most common phrases and their meanings

1. da – yes.

One of the most important things is to learn how to agree. The word for yes in Bulgarian is “da” it is pronounced the same way it is written, which is not such a surprise since it has only 2 letters. But this is one of the most crucial things you need to learn

No is just as important as yes. If you need to refuse something just say “ne” and your message will be delivered.

3. Zdraveite – Hello, Greetings

If you want to introduce yourself to someone, start a conversation or even grab someone’s attention “zdraveite” is the word you need to use. It is pronounced Zdraveĭte.

4. Blagodarya – Thank you

Another common expression you might want to learn is Blagodarya. It is pronounced the same way it is spelled. But most foreigners find it really hard to talk out. So in case you want to express gratitude towards someone and you feel like Blagodarya does not sound right, you may use the French word, Merci. It is a lot easier and will do just the same job perfectly.

5. Govorite li angliiski? – Do you speak English

This is one of the most important questions you could as the locals, no matter how you decide to approach them on the matter you would usually get a clear answer. You may as well try asking them in English first and the fluent ones will have no trouble starting a conversation straight away. In case you want to make sure someone understood you correctly you can you the Bulgarian phrase, which is govorite li angliiski. It is roughly pronounced as {go-vo-ri-te li angliĭski}.

6. Kolko struva? – What is the price of the item?

Shopping in Bulgaria will be a really simple task for you if you learn the following way of asking for the price. Kolko struva {kol-ko stroo-vah} is the easiest and most efficient way to figure out the price on any item. It may seem hard to be pronounced but once you give it a try you will find out it is actually quite simple and even melodic.

7. Kude se namira? – Where is?

If you want to navigate freelythroughh Bulgaria, the phrase Kude se namira will be yourbestt friend. There are no specialties as to pronunciation. And simply asking abypasserr would be enough to find the desired location.

8. Izgubih se – I am lost

Everyone has been into a situation where they have got lost in a foreign country or a city. It is nothing unusual and it can happen to anyone, especially in the small narrows picturesque streets of some of our coastal towns. What you can do in this situation is just find any person and told them you are lost by using the phrase “Izgubih se” and then just ask about the location of a place you are familiar with. It should get you out of the tangled situation quite easily and quickly.

9. Koga? – When

Another key phrase you better become familiar with is “Koga?” it means generally when. It can be used ina different situation as “when does the Bus arrive” – “Koga idva avtobusa”. Or when is the departure time – “Koga trugvame” {Koga trag-vah-me}

10. Kolko e chasa? – What time is it

Kolko e chasa {Kolko e tsha-sa} will generally help you only in situations when your phone is out of battery and you need to keep track of time. But it is a good thing to know, for crisis situations, when your phone is not around.

11. Pomosht! – Help

Pomosht {Poh-mosth} is the easiest way to ask forthe help of any kind. If you need to get in further detail as if you need police or ambulance you can go as far as saying: “Tryabva mi police/lineika ….”. etc. Overall you are guaranteed to get the needed help even by just saying “Pomosht”.

12. Ne razbiram – I don’t understand

We Bulgarians tend to be really vocal and talkative all the time, so if you are trying to pick up what a Bulgarian is trying to say to you, but failing just say “Ne razbiram”. It should be enough for your interlocutor to find a slower and morecomprehensiblee way of talking.

13. Voda – Water

Well since Bulgaria is a popular summer vacation spot, one of the most important words you need to learn is the word for water. No one wants to stay dehydrated in the summer heat so you better master the word “Voda” that is simply pronounced the same way it is spelled.

14. Bira – Beer

A truly important word in Bulgaria is the word for Beer – Bira. It sounds a lot like the English counterpart of the word so you would probably have no trouble finding a cool and refreshing drink no matter where you are.

15. Dovijdane – Goodbye

A significant an a quite hard word to pronounce is the word for Goodbye. It is “Dovijdane” {Do-vizh-da-ne}. If you find this word really hard to use, why don’t give the classic Italian word Ciao a go? People will understand you no matter which one you choose to use.

Towns in Bourgas area

There are many options to write a Bulgarian name in English (in latin letters). You can see for example the village os “Bryastovets” written in various different ways accross the internet. The Bulgarian gourvernnments has started a national program several years ago to uniform the writing of bulgarian namens in English – the so called ‘Transliteration’. This site will help you to write a name correct in English.

Related articles

How to boost immune system naturally

Search site

Top properties for rent in burgas, bulgaria.

no thumb

Posts from our blog

bulgarian language for tourist

Song of Bryastovets

Here you can find the translation of the 50 most important words and expressions into Bulgarian. If you are about to travel to Bulgaria, this is exactly what you are looking for!   We will teach you:

  • How to say Hello ! and Goodbye in Bulgarian!
  • To say please and thank you in Bulgarian!
  • How to say yes and no in Bulgarian!
  • How do you say “ My name is ... ” in Bulgarian?
  • To translate “ I'd like to pay, please. ” into Bulgarian?
  • What does “ I don't speak Bulgarian ” mean?
  • Learn to count to ten in Bulgarian.

Important vocabulary

Introducing yourself, comprehension, “teaches you bulgarian so much faster than with regular learning methods – in only 17 minutes per day”.

learn Bulgarian

Free Bulgarian trial version

Test the Bulgarian course for free

Learn Bulgarian

LingoHut provides a tailored experience for grasping Bulgarian, emphasizing vocabulary and pronunciation without getting bogged down by complex grammar rules. Imagine learning the essential phrases, questions, and dialogue bits that will help you navigate daily life in Bulgaria or engage with the local diaspora elsewhere. The five-minute lessons are designed as interactive experiences—akin to a virtual journey through Bulgaria's fascinating cultural mosaic. Activities and games turn every session into an engaging affair, removing the tedium often associated with language learning. What's more, the platform offers 125 lessons completely free, making it a uniquely accessible resource. You're never encumbered by subscriptions, contracts, or hidden fees. It's like having a private language coach accessible at any time, tailored to fit even the busiest schedules.

Free Bulgarian lessons

Learn to speak bulgarian.

The benefits of mastering Bulgarian through LingoHut extend far beyond the obvious language proficiency. Whether you're an entrepreneur exploring investment opportunities in Sofia, a student aspiring to attend a Bulgarian university, or a traveler looking to immerse yourself in local traditions, a grasp of the language can dramatically improve your experience. The bite-sized, effective lessons are optimized for retention, ensuring that what you learn stays with you long term. This focus on vocabulary and pronunciation equips you to navigate both professional settings and casual conversations with ease. LingoHut, therefore, isn't just a language-learning platform; it's your passport to a deeper, more meaningful engagement with everything Bulgaria has to offer.

Unveiling the intricacies of the Bulgarian language is akin to discovering a hidden gem in the vast landscape of Eastern Europe. As a foundational member of the South Slavic languages, Bulgarian is the key to a realm rich in history, folklore, and burgeoning industries ranging from agriculture and tourism to IT and renewable energy. When you invest in learning Bulgarian, you're not only gaining communication skills but unlocking a world of cultural and professional possibilities.

More Bulgarian lessons

Why learn bulgarian, bulgarian resource for homeschooling.

As homeschooling grows, parents look for good foreign language resources to teach Bulgarian. Your homeschooler deserves the best platform to learn Bulgarian, giving them the tools to communicate and understand Bulgarian. This free homeschool foreign language resource helps build Bulgarian vocabulary and provides a place to practice the proper pronunciation of Bulgarian. Does your child want to learn Bulgarian?

Bulgarian resource for foreign language teachers

It isn't easy for a foreign language teacher to find good foreign language resources to help students improve their new Bulgarian language skills. At LingoHut, we focus on building Bulgarian vocabulary and teaching the proper pronunciation of Bulgarian. It is an entirely free resource that foreign language teachers can confidently recommend. Students do not need an account to learn on the website. Do you teach Bulgarian? Share this free foreign language resource.

Boost your professional development with Bulgarian language skills

Invest in your future and learn Bulgarian to accelerate your career. With the rapid pace of change, you must continually update your skills and knowledge. Stand out from the crowd with Bulgarian language skills.

Learn Bulgarian and get more out of your travel experience

Before a trip, the best preparation you can do is to learn some Bulgarian words. Learning Bulgarian will provide you with a better experience during your travels. Start learning Bulgarian today at LingoHut.com. Click on any of the 125 + free online Bulgarian lessons above to start your journey to communicate in Bulgarian.

Learn Bulgarian with the "drip-feed" approach

Imagine a dripping faucet, each drop collecting to form a puddle that continues to expand with each drip. Similarly, this approach focuses on understanding Bulgarian in small increments. Think of each Bulgarian word as a drop and each Bulgarian phrase/sentence as a small puddle, which finally becomes the large pool of your new language mastery and success. Bit by bit, step by step, drop by drop, Bulgarian is integrated successfully into your knowledge base!

Email

  • +44 0330 027 0207
  • +1 (818) 532-6908
  • [email protected]
  • e-Learning Courses Online

Commisceo Global Consulting Ltd.

  • You are here:  
  • Resources /
  • Country Guides /
  • Bulgaria Guide

Bulgaria - Culture, Etiquette and Business Practices

What will you learn.

You will gain an understanding of a number of key areas including:

  • Religion and beliefs
  • Culture and society
  • Social etiquette and customs
  • Business culture and etiquette

church in sofia

The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Sofia by Ivan Nedelchev on Unsplash

Stereotyping

Remember this is only a very basic level introduction to Bulgarian culture and the people; it cannot account for the diversity within Bulgarian society and is not meant in any way to stereotype all Bulgarian people you may meet!

Facts and Statistics

  • Location: Southeastern Europe, bordering the Black Sea, between Romania and Turkey
  • Capital: Sofia
  • Population: 7 million (2019 est.)
  • Ethnic Groups: Bulgarian 83.9%, Turk 9.4%, Roma 4.7%, other 2% (including Macedonian, Armenian, Tatar, Circassian)
  • Religions: Bulgarian Orthodox 82.6%, Muslim 12.2%, other Christian 1.2%, other 4%

Language in Bulgaria

  • Bulgarian is a Southern Slavic language with about 12 million speakers in Bulgaria and also in Ukraine, Macedonia, Serbia, Turkey, Greece and Romania.
  • Bulgarian is mutually intelligible with Macedonian, and fairly closely related to Serbian, Croatian, Bosnian and Slovene.
  • Bulgarian was the first Slavic language to be written. It first appeared in writing during the 9th century using the Glagolitic alphabet, which was gradually replaced by an early version of the Cyrillic alphabet over the following centuries.
  • At the end of the 18th century the Russian version of Cyrillic or the "civil script" of Peter the Great was adapated.
  • During the 19th century a number of versions of this alphabet containing between 28 and 44 letters were used. In the 1870s a version of the alphabet with 32 letters proposed by Marin Drinov became widely used. This version remained in use until the orthographic reform of 1945 when certain letters were removed from the alphabet.
  • A modern literary language based on vernacular spoken Bulgarian was standardised after Bulgaria became independent in 1878.
  • Many Turkish words were adopted into Bulgarian during the long period of Ottoman rule. Words have also been borrowed from Latin, Greek, Russian, French, Italian, German and increasingly from English.

lakes bulgaria

Seven Rila Lakes by George Ivanov on Unsplash

Bulgarian Society and Culture

  • Most Bulgarians are born into the Bulgarian Orthodox church.
  • The Church has long played a role in retaining a sense of being "Bulgarian", acting as the default support system under Ottoman and Communist rule.
  • Despite Communist attempts the Church held firm and upon the fall of the Soviet Union and the Communist Party in Bulgaria the church experienced a revival  - religious holidays were celebrated again, baptisms and church weddings gained in popularity.

The Role of the Family

  • The family is the fundamental social unit and much of society is based around it.
  • Families still tend to be extended rather than nucleur.
  • Several generations may still all be found under the same roof.
  • The family is generally very close and forms large networks of mutual assistance and support.

Hierarchical Society

  • A common characteristic of strong family orientated societies is that they tend to also have hierarchical structures with corresponding rules of behaviours that enforce people's roles.
  • In Bulgaria respect and honour is given to people with age and position.
  • In normal social situations this is manifest where the oldest in the group is greeted first, accorded a title, served first or offered the best food at the table.
  • With such perks also come responsibilities, for example they would be responsible for making decisions for the group.

History and Culture

  • Bulgarians are very proud of their culture and heritage.
  • Stories and folklore still form an important part of life where legends and traditions and are passed between the generations.
  • These are also captured in poetic songs, rituals, music, dance, costumes and jewelry.

Bulgarian Manners and Etiquette

Meeting & greeting.

  • Bulgaria on the face of it is still a fairly formal society - initial greetings are therefore formal and reserved.
  • Greetings consist of a firm handshake, direct eye contact and the appropriate greeting for the time of day.
  • Address people with their titles (if you know them) or with Mr "Gospodin" / Mrs "Gospozha" followed by the surname.
  • Only friends and family address each other with first names and possibly a hug or kiss.
  • One should always wait for their Bulgarian counterparts to determine when it is appropriate to become this informal.

Gift Giving

  • Gifts are generally exchanged at Christmas, birthdays and when invited to someone's house.
  • The general rule for gift giving is that it more about the thought than value - in fact do not give overly expensive gifts as this may cause the recipient embarrassment.
  • When going to a Bulgarian's home for dinner take bring flowers for the hostess and a bottle of good spirits for the host.
  • If taking flowers avoid chrysanthemums, lilies or gladiolas as they are used at funerals. Also ensure there are an odd number of stems.
  • If giving a gift to a newborn only give an odd number of presents.
  • Gifts are generally opened when received.

Dining Etiquette

  • Table manners in Bulgaria could be considered casual, but there are certain rules of etiquette that should be appreciated.
  • When invited to sit at the dining table wait to be shown your seat.
  • Napkins should be left folded next to the plate. If others unfold them and place them on their laps, do the same - you will be at a more formal meal.
  • Wait for the hostess to give the green light before starting to eat.
  • Although you may be the guest of honour it is polite to insist the eldest person at the table starts proceedings.
  • Do not rest your elbows on the table, although your hands should be visible at all times.
  • Eating more food shows appreciation for it, so on the initial serving take little to allow you a second serving.
  • Glasses will always be refilled - leave a mouthful at the bottom of your glass if you don't want more.

table of bulgarian food

A typical Bulgarian spread. Photo taken in Mechi Chal, near Pamporovo in the Rhodope Mountains by Stefan Vladimirov on Unsplash

Business Culture and Etiquette in Bulgaria

If you're looking for expert help and advice on doing business in Bulgaria, then this is what we do!

Click here to learn more about our customized cultural training .

  • Handshakes are used when meeting and departing.
  • Address people with their titles (try and find out if people have one beforehand) - if not then use Mr "Gospodin" / Mrs "Gospozha" followed by the surname.
  • Business cards are exchanged on initial meetings.
  • There is little protocol to follow.
  • If your company/firm has been established a long time (25-50 years) include the founding date on your business card.
  • Add any academic qualifications you may have too.
  • Translating cards into Bulgarian may not always be a necessity but it would certainly impress recipients.

Business Meetings

  • Relationship building is important in Bulgaria. Try to spend time getting to know people before getting down to serious business.
  • Initial meetings should be used as an introduction. The next meetings can then be used for more business focused discussions.
  • If you are aware that your counterparts in Bulgaria, hire an interpreter and fully brief them on your needs.
  • Eye contact is important is relaying trust and sincerity.
  • Any presentations should be factual and backed with statistics. If possible try to present information visually.
  • Bulgarians do not appreciate too much "talk" so avoid over zealous statements.
  • Once meetings have started to get into more serious matters they will start to proceed at a much slower pace as details are digested, scrutinized and discussed.
  • Bulgarians are not deadline oriented. They prefer to ensure they have comprehensively covered a topic before bringing proceedings to a close.
  • Be patient and do not rush meetings - successful ventures in Bulgaria will never happen overnight.
  • Meetings often last much longer than anticipated. Do not rush the process.
  • It is important to retain a sense of formality and professionalism. Any slip into casual behaviour may not be appreciated.
  • Bulgarians have a tendency to talk in a roundabout way when concerned about not saying anything that could be used against them later. If you are asking questions and not getting direct answers try asking the question in different ways
  • Check out our Bulgaria Management Guide for more on this topic.

THANKS FOR READING OUR GUIDE TO BULGARIA - SHARE IT IF YOU LIKED IT!

Do you need to cite this page for school or university research?

Please see below examples.

Simply change the country name depending on which guide you are referencing.

MLA Format:

Commisceo Global Consulting Ltd. Afghanistan - Language, Culture, Customs and Etiquette. www.commisceo-global.com. 1 Jan. 2020 https://commisceo-global.com/resources/country-guides/ afghanistan -guide

APA Format:

Commisceo Global Consulting Ltd. (2020, January 1) Afghanistan - Language, Culture, Customs and Etiquette. Retrieved from https://commisceo-global.com/resources/country-guides/ afghanistan -guide

Harvard Format:

Commisceo Global Consulting Ltd. (2020). Afghanistan - Language, Culture, Customs and Etiquette. [online] Available at: https://commisceo-global.com/resources/country-guides/ afghanistan -guide [Accessed ENTER DATE].

Can You Help Improve This Page?

License our culture guides, did you know that you can upload all our country culture guides onto your company intranet, connect your expatriate and international business staff with customised country information at the touch of a button., click here for more information..

34 New House, 67-68 Hatton Garden, London EC1N 8JY, UK. 1950 W. Corporate Way PMB 25615, Anaheim, CA 92801, USA. +44 0330 027 0207 or +1 (818) 532-6908

34 New House, 67-68 Hatton Garden, London EC1N 8JY, UK. 1950 W. Corporate Way PMB 25615, Anaheim, CA 92801, USA. +44 0330 027 0207 +1 (818) 532-6908

Search for something

What is the language in Bulgaria

When preparing to travel to another country, most tourists worry about what language they will need to communicate in, whether they will have problems understanding the locals or whether they will have to speak "on their fingers". In this article we will tell you what language is spoken in Bulgaria, whether Russian and English are understood, and much more useful information.

National language of Bulgaria

The national language here is Bulgarian . It belongs to the Slavic language group, so it is quite easy to understand.

What is the language in Bulgaria

How Bulgarians write

Writing in Bulgaria in Cyrillic script is all, quite, understandable to us.

Sometimes you can see English inscriptions in supermarkets and stores, as well as on street signs. The same situation with the names of places of interest - they are often in English.

But still, if you come across inscriptions in Bulgarian, you can easily understand what is written in it.

English in Bulgaria

You can communicate in English with the young residents of Bulgaria - thanks to travelers from Europe and America, Bulgarians are quite good in English.

What is the language in Bulgaria

Tourist's phrasebook

The Bulgarians are a very hospitable people. To be liked, they just need to smile more and be friendly. This country is so cozy that you feel at home. You don't want to leave at all.

To make it even more pleasant to communicate with the locals, here is a small English-Bulgarian dictionary of the most basic phrases:

Zdravlo - zdravlei.

Good afternoon - dobro den.

Please - molya.

Pardon me - apologize molya.

Thank you - thanks / much thanks.

Tasty - beché a lot of delicious.

Helpful Travel Tips

Install a translator. Before leaving for the country, you can install Google translator on your phone and download Russian and Bulgarian to it. This way you can do basic translation offline.

Learn a couple of basic phrases in Bulgarian. The locals will be pleased to hear a tourist speaking their native language.

Rule of Gestures . In Bulgaria, nodding means "no" and shaking your head from one shoulder to the other means "yes". Keep this in mind when communicating with Bulgarians to avoid awkward situations.

bulgarian language for tourist

bulgarian language for tourist

Create a Free Lifetime Account to Access Audio Lesson Archives

Create a free lifetime account to access video lesson archives, create a free lifetime account to download this audio lesson, create a free lifetime account to download this video lesson, create a free lifetime account to create your dashboard, create a free lifetime account to try the basic lesson check list, create a free lifetime account to try the premium lesson check list, create a free lifetime account to try the review track, create a free lifetime account to try the dialogue track, create a free lifetime account to access this lesson’s grammar guide, create a free lifetime account to personalize your learning, create a free lifetime account to try the kanji close up, create a free lifetime account to try the pdf lesson notes, create a free lifetime account to try the pdf lesson transcript, create a free lifetime account to try this premium feature, create a free lifetime account to try my notes, create a free lifetime account to try my flashcards, high definition bulgarian video lessons, create a free lifetime account to access assessments, audio lesson archives, video lesson archives, download audio and video lessons, add lesson to dashboard, basic lesson checklist, premium lesson checklist, the review track, dialogue only track, grammar guide, mark this lesson complete, mark this lesson as favorite, kanji close up, pdf lesson notes, pdf lesson transcript, pop out audio player, control audio speed, glorious fullscreen video, read along with video lesson captions, complete assessments.

Our team of Bulgarian language specialists have been releasing new audio and video lessons weekly. That's a lot of Bulgarian language learning! All new lessons are FREE for the first 3 weeks before going into our Basic and Premium Archive.

Sign up for your Free Lifetime Account and unlock our entire lesson archive today!

Our team of Bulgarian language specialists have been releasing new audio and video lessons weekly. That's a lot of Bulgarian language learning! All lessons are free for the first 2 weeks before going into our Basic and Premium Archive.

Want to learn offline or on-the-go? All our Audio and Video lessons can be easily downloaded with the click of a button. Load them onto your mobile device or simply listen offline from your computer. The choice is yours!

Sign up for your Free Lifetime Account and start listening today!

Customize your learning with your very own Dashboard. Get lesson recommendations suited for your level, track your progress and store your favorite lessons and series all in one convenient place.

Sign up for your Free Lifetime Account and create your personalized Dashboard today!

Having trouble staying on track? The Basic Lesson Checklist will help you stay organized and committed to your Bulgarian language goals!

Sign up for your Free Lifetime Account and stay on the fast track to fluency with the Basic Lesson Checklist today!

Having trouble staying on track? The Premium Lesson Checklist will help you stay organized and committed to your Bulgarian language goals!

Sign up for your Free Lifetime Account and stay on the fast track to fluency with the Premium Lesson Checklist today!

Listen and repeat with the Review Track. Hear the lesson vocabulary and main phrases and repeat after the native speaker – it's the best way to perfect your pronunciation!

Sign up for your Free Lifetime Account and start perfecting your pronunciation today!

Don't have enough time for an entire lesson today? Listen to the Dialogue Only Track to hear the native Dialogue. Listening to a little bit of Bulgarian everyday, no matter how much, will greatly improve your listening comprehension. Guaranteed!

Sign up for your Free Lifetime Account and unlock the power of the Dialogue Only Track today!

Access this Lesson’s Grammar Guide and unlock in-depth explanations, answers, examples, and a BONUS audio track.

Sign up for your Free Lifetime Account and get 7 Days of Premium Access including this feature.

Track your learning progress one lesson at a time! As you work your way through our lesson archives, we'll track your progress so you can see just how fast you're learning.

Sign up for your Free Lifetime Account and to start your progress today!

Like this lesson? Want to listen again later? Mark this lesson as a favorite and create a handy shortcut in your Favorite Lesson list!

Sign up for your Free Lifetime Account and start your learning today!

Take a closer look at the kanji characters used in the lesson Dialogue with the Kanji Close Up Practice Sheets! You'll learn the meaning, readings, and stroke order of each character. Plus, improve your writing with kanji stroke order practice sheets!

Sign up for your Free Lifetime Account and master lesson kanji with the Kanji Close Up Practice Sheets today!

Follow along to our award winning lessons with detailed PDF Lesson Notes! These easy to print notes take a closer look at the grammar point and vocabulary words presented in the audio lesson. Plus, read more about Bulgarian cultural topics related to the lesson.

Sign up for your Free Lifetime Account and get even MORE Bulgarian language help with the PDF Lesson Notes today!

Want to understand every single word and phrase you’ll hear in this lesson?

Here’s how: just access the complete PDF transcript and you’ll never miss a word. Get your FREE Lifetime Account and unlock this powerful study tool.

Like to multitask while you study? Pop out the Audio Player to play in the background while you work, play or follow along with our Premium Tools.

My Notes allows you to take notes while listening to our lessons. Come across an important verb conjugation breakthrough? Learn a handy mnemonic device? Make a note of it on the lessons pages and refer back to My Notes for quick reference!

Sign up for your Free Lifetime Account and start taking notes with My Notes.

Add this wordlist to your Premium Smart Flashcard Study Decks for faster memorization.

Didn't catch that last word? Want to slow down the audio so you catch every single syllable? You can! All our audio files can be slowed down and sped up to match your speaking and listening needs.

Sit back and enjoy the BulgarianPod101 video learning experience in all its fullscreen glory. Our Bulgarian specialists are consistently producing and releasing new video series, with all lessons free for the first 2 weeks before going into our Basic and Premium Archive.

Want to read along and FULLY understand the Bulgarian in this lesson? Just turn on the Video Captions. You'll be able to read along as you watch – in Japanese or with English translations!

Improves reading, listening and comprehension skills – guaranteed!

Unlock our high definition video lessons that get you speaking, reading, writing and understanding Bulgarian in minutes. Clearer picture, clearer sound – all so you learn Bulgarian without missing a beat.

Sign up for your Free Lifetime Account and learn Bulgarian with our fast, fun and easy video lessons.

How good is your Bulgarian? Let’s find out! Test your language skills with assessments. Unlock interactive assessments that test you on all of the Bulgarian you've learned so far.

Sign up for your Free Lifetime Account and access your Assessments today!

Learn Bulgarian in the fastest, easiest and most fun way

Create Your Free Lifetime Account

Or sign up using Facebook

Already a Member? Sign in Here

Your domain is active and is using Hostinger nameservers. Take the recommended steps below to continue your journey with Hostinger.

Extremely fast, secure and user-friendly website hosting for your successful online projects.

Add your website to any of your hosting plans. Follow the article below to add your domain at Hostinger.

Manage your domain nameservers in the domain management page of your Hostinger account.

Frommers logo default 2015

Travel Guide

  • Things to Do
  • Planning a Trip
  • Suggested Itineraries

Powered booking

Language in Bulgaria

The biggest challenge for new visitors is not just an unfamiliar language but also a new alphabet. When trying to find your way around the cities, make sure you have a good map and a Cyrillic decoder. If you get lost, seek advice or directions from the youngest, hippest looking person on the street; older citizens tend to speak no English and asking if they do usually affronts. You will find yourself a little more lost outside main centers where English speakers are rare. However, this is more than compensated by sincere friendliness, and rural folk will usually make a real effort to assist in any way they can. Speaking even just a few phrases of Bulgarian can thaw a strained atmosphere or -- outside the city -- have you seated and trying out a bowl of homemade bean soup with your delighted host. Here are a few phrases to help you on your way. Words, when written with Latin alphabet, are done so phonetically to aid pronunciation, but make for variations in spelling, even in place names (for example, Triavna = Tryavna).

When Yes Means No & No Means Yes -- It's worth noting that traditionally Bulgarians shake their heads from side to side when saying yes (da), and nod when saying no (ne). This quirky characteristic is dying out, but definitely worth knowing when asking, or answering, a question in rural areas.

Note : This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

Frommer's EasyGuide to Croatia

  • All Regions
  • Australia & South Pacific
  • Caribbean & Atlantic
  • Central & South America
  • Middle East & Africa
  • North America
  • Washington, D.C.
  • San Francisco
  • New York City
  • Los Angeles
  • Arts & Culture
  • Beach & Water Sports
  • Local Experiences
  • Food & Drink
  • Outdoor & Adventure
  • National Parks
  • Winter Sports
  • Travelers with Disabilities
  • Family & Kids
  • All Slideshows
  • Hotel Deals
  • Car Rentals
  • Flight Alerts
  • Credit Cards & Loyalty Points
  • Cruise News
  • Entry Requirements & Customs
  • Car, Bus, Rail News
  • Money & Fees
  • Health, Insurance, Security
  • Packing & Luggage
  • -Arthur Frommer Online
  • -Passportable
  • Road Trip Guides
  • Alaska Made Easy
  • Great Vacation Ideas in the U.S.A.
  • Best of the Caribbean
  • Best of Mexico
  • Cruise Inspiration
  • Best Places to Go 2024

A first-time guide to Bulgaria

Maria Stoyanova

Jul 2, 2024 • 6 min read

bulgarian language for tourist

Visit in summer to unwind by the Black Sea in a beachside town like Kavarna (pictured), Burgas or Varna © Cemal Mehmedov / 500px / Getty Images

Often an underrated destination, Bulgaria is one of the most affordable places to visit in Europe with stunning views and endless adventure opportunities. 

Just a flight, train or bus away from most European capitals, Bulgaria truly has so much to offer. Proud of their rich heritage and long and challenging history, Bulgarians may appear grumpy at first glance, but don’t be fooled. The genuine hospitality and diversity of experiences is what makes the country worth a visit. 

Whether you’re going for a long weekend or you want to spend a week or two hiking, sightseeing and enjoying the seaside, it’s a no-brainer: Bulgaria offers great value for money and will surprise you with its diverse array of experience

Sveta Nedelya Church in Sofia

When should I go to Bulgaria?

With its four distinct seasons, each one offering something different, Bulgaria is a year-round playground. The winter months from December to mid-April are ideal for ski or snowboarding enthusiasts in one of the winter resorts – Bansko is a famous ski destination, Borovets offers a local experience just an hour and a half from Sofia and Pamporovo is known for its family-friendly slopes and hotels.

Spring is usually quieter, being a shoulder season, and it’s perfect for peaceful sightseeing and backpacking. Summer, though hot with temperatures reaching 40°C (100°F), is great for exploring hidden beaches and water-based activities on the Bulgarian seaside, with July and August being the busiest months. 

Autumn, particularly in September and October, offers pleasant weather and fewer crowds, making it a good time for budget travelers to find affordable accommodation. These are also some of the best months for hiking in one of the many Bulgarian mountains. 

Situated on hill above Balkan Peninsula sits now derelict Buzludzha Monument.

How much time should I spend in Bulgaria?

For a first-time visit, between a long weekend and a week is enough time to cover the most iconic spots and get a glimpse of the country’s rich culture. Start with a day or two in Sofia to soak in the capital's vibe, then head to the charming town of Plovdiv , one of Europe's oldest cities and only 2 hours from Sofia by car (or just under 2.5 hours by train). Finish your trip with a visit to the seaside towns of Burgas or Varna to enjoy the beautiful coast (a 4- to 6-hour drive from the capital, or an 8-hour train journey).

Is it easy to get in and around Bulgaria?

Bulgaria is well-connected by air with major European countries through three big airports: Sofia, Burgas, and Varna. 

By land, you can reach Bulgaria from many major European destinations by Flixbus , or by train –  the sleeper train from Istanbul to Sofia is popular with budget travelers. 

The train and bus systems in Bulgaria are well-maintained, although finding updated information online, especially in English, can be challenging. The national railway company – BDZ , has an English website. For intercity buses, one of the biggest bus providers – Union Ivkoni , is the best bet for online ticket sales.

Big cities like Sofia, Varna, Burgas, and Plovdiv have good public transport with Google Maps often being a reliable source. Sofia's metro is convenient, and you can pay for a single trip with a bank card, including buses and trams. Public transport in other cities is fairly straightforward, too. I also found friendly locals who gladly helped negotiate the bus system.

Entrance gate at the Orthodox Rila Monastery in Bulgaria

Top things to do in Bulgaria

Start your visit to Bulgaria with one of the many free tours in Sofia. Explore street art with Sofia Graffiti Tour , which takes you to the most photogenic places in the city with murals from Arsek & Erase and other local artists. Grab a local bite with a free food tour with Balkan Bites , or explore the history and culture with a walking tour with Free Sofia Tour .

Plovdiv is another absolute must-visit for first-timers in Bulgaria. The charming streets of its Old Town take you on a walk back in time. Grab a coffee or an artisan souvenir in the creative district of Kapana for a perfect local experience. End the day with a panoramic sunset view from one of the hills – like Nebet Tepe.

If you’re feeling adventurous, put on your hiking shoes and head for a day trip to Musala Peak in Rila Mountains, or Vihren Peak in Pirin Mountains – some of the most beautiful hikes in the country. Rila Monastery – a UNESCO World Heritage site – is a visual and architectural masterpiece that attracts many visitors, for a good reason

If you want to get deeper into the country, discover the charm of traditional Bulgarian towns like Koprivshtitsa, Tryavna, or even Veliko Târnovo – the former capital. You can see preserved traditional architecture incorporated into modern life. 

And for a truly unique experience, head to the heart of Bulgaria to witness the UFO-like Buzludzha Monument . A former Communist headquarters, this abandoned, but stunning architectural heritage, impresses with its grandiosity. It’s a subject of ongoing revival projects that has met a lot of resistance from local authorities.

Traveler using a smart phone in mountains sitting near lake in the Prin Mountains Bulgaria

My favorite thing to do in Bulgaria

I absolutely love the mountains, and one of my favorite traditions in Bulgaria is July Morning. It started in the 1980s and it involves staying up the night before and catching the sunrise in the morning of 1st of July, usually from the seaside. Kamen Bryag is the original spot but the movement has spread all over Bulgaria.

Living close to the mountains in the town of Bansko, I celebrate July Morning by hiking to Vihren Peak in the Pirin Mountains. We start the hike at 2am and reach the peak around 5am or 6am. You'll find many other July Morning enthusiasts making their way up as well. The atmosphere at the peak when the sun rises above the mountains and clouds is absolutely amazing – and the views are breathtaking.

How much money do I need for Bulgaria?

Bulgaria is still one of the most affordable destinations in Europe, offering great value for your money. While popular tourist spots like beach towns in summer and ski resorts in winter can have higher prices, in general the country is very budget-friendly.  The Bulgarian lev trades at a fixed exchange rate with the euro: €1 gets you 1.95 Lev. 

  • Hostel room: 20-40 lv
  • Public transport ticket: 1.60 lv for a single bus ride, or 4 lv day pass
  • Coffee: 3-6 lv
  • Sandwich: 6-10 lv
  • Dinner for two: 50-80 lv
  • Beer/pint at the bar: 6-10 lv
  • Taxi ride in Sofia: 15-30 lv

The Ancient Theater of Philippopolis in Plovdiv.

Can you pay by card in Bulgaria?   

Card payments have become more and more accepted in Bulgaria. In most places, especially in big cities, you can pay by card in almost every store. But the general rule of thumb is to always carry cash with you. Many small stores, restaurants, especially in smaller cities, do not accept card payments. The best bet is to always have at least 50 lv (the equivalent of €25) in cash with you. The euro is not accepted as a payment currency in Bulgaria. 

Can I drink tap water in Bulgaria? 

Drinking tap water in Bulgaria is absolutely fine, as the country has many natural springs. 

What is tipping etiquette in Bulgaria?  

The unwritten tipping rule is that you leave 10% of the bill – more if you like the service.  

Do people speak English in Bulgaria?   

While more and more people in Bulgaria, especially the younger generations, are speaking English, there can still be a language barrier for visitors. It’s a good idea to learn a few basic Bulgarian words to help break the ice and bring a smile to someone's face when you need assistance.

What alphabet does Bulgaria use?  

Bulgaria uses the Cyrillic alphabet – which originates from this region. A frequent mistake visitors make is assuming that Bulgaria uses the Russian alphabet. Don’t say that to locals as they are very proud of their linguistic heritage.

Explore related stories

bulgarian language for tourist

Destination Practicalities

Aug 20, 2024 • 7 min read

Discover Sofia, Bulgaria, a delightfully affordable city with a rich history and contemporary urban charm.

Dunav Ultra Cycling route in Bulgaria

Oct 20, 2023 • 7 min read

Elena Nikolova

Jan 21, 2022 • 6 min read

Roman-amphitheatre-plovdiv.jpg

Jan 30, 2020 • 4 min read

schengen-visa.jpg

Dec 11, 2019 • 5 min read

woman-waiting-for-a-plane.jpg

Nov 27, 2019 • 7 min read

bulgarian language for tourist

May 3, 2024 • 5 min read

Night-Jet-Corridor.jpeg

Mar 22, 2024 • 4 min read

Bus to London.jpg

Mar 29, 2023 • 4 min read

Spain, Andalusia, Vejer de la Frontera, two young women looking from balcony on the town

Sep 10, 2021 • 5 min read

Camping Veliko Tarnovo logo green on a grey background

Camping Veliko Tarnovo

Quality – Nature – Tranquility

Your cart is currently empty!

Bulgarian Flag which has a horizontal stripe of white at the top, green in the middle and red at the bottom.

Bulgarian Language For Tourists : Greetings

In this post you will learn the most important Bulgarian language for tourists. The Bulgarian Language is an Indo-European language of the group of South Slavic languages. It is the official language of the Republic of Bulgaria and one of the 24 official languages of the European Union. The Bulgarian language is the earliest written documented Slavic language.

Visiting a foreign country can be really tricky, especially in terms of the language. Bulgarians are known for being extremely nice and warm people, however, some of them do not speak any other language but Bulgarian. You might find it useful to learn a few words and key phrases that will help you interact more effectively with the local people.

Sign Up for Discounts!

We don’t spam! Read our privacy policy for more info.

Check your inbox or spam folder to confirm your subscription.

IMAGES

  1. Everything you need to know before visiting Bulgaria

    bulgarian language for tourist

  2. 120 Most-Used Bulgarian Travel Phrases You Need to Know [Plus Audio

    bulgarian language for tourist

  3. Spoken Languages In Bulgaria: 8 Authentic Examples

    bulgarian language for tourist

  4. Bulgarian Language: Everything You Need to Know (Plus Tips to Learn It

    bulgarian language for tourist

  5. 8 Astonishing Facts About Bulgarian (Language)

    bulgarian language for tourist

  6. Language

    bulgarian language for tourist

VIDEO

  1. Bulgarian language for foreigners (A1), 7th lesson

  2. Places (Bulgarian language) (en-bg)

  3. Bulgarian language for foreigners (A1), 23rd lesson

  4. Урок 16

  5. Bulgarian language for foreigners (A1), 10th lesson

  6. (5к 44у) Отрицательные местоимения и наречия в болгарском языке

COMMENTS

  1. 120 Most-Used Bulgarian Travel Phrases You Need to Know [Plus Audio]

    Bulgarian is the official language of Bulgaria with about 12 million speakers mainly in Bulgaria. It is also spoken by minority groups located in Ukraine, Moldova, Romania, Serbia, Hungary, Greece, Macedonia, Turkey, Canada, USA, Australia, Germany, and Spain.

  2. Phrases You Need to Know Before Visiting Bulgaria

    Bulgarians are warm and friendly to foreigners but sometimes they find it hard to express their amiability in English. Furthermore, most of the middle-aged and older people speak better Russian than English, so if you learn a few words in Bulgarian, you'll break the ice and bring a smile to their face.Here's a list of 12 useful phrases to learn before you visit Bulgaria.

  3. Bulgarian phrasebook

    Bulgarian phrasebook. Bulgarian (български) is a South Slavic language, thus closer to Serbo-Croatian and Slovenian than to Russian or Polish but still retaining similarities to all. Its native speakers number over 9.5 million people, as it is the national language of Republic of Bulgaria and it's spoken by the historical Bulgarian ...

  4. BulgarianPod101's Essential Bulgarian Travel Phrase Guide

    Impressing Bulgarian people or your travel partners will be the least of the benefits you reap from learning these helpful phrases. These are greater ones: 1) Eliminate Travel Frustration: First of all, you'll be able to cut out a good chunk of travel frustration and inconvenience due to language barriers.

  5. Most Common Phrases in Bulgarian (English Translations)

    The Bulgarian language offers various ways to express thanks and convey appreciation. Here are some common expressions of gratitude in Bulgarian: "Благодаря" (Blagodarya) - Thank you ... Whether you're a tourist or on a business trip, familiarizing yourself with these essential Bulgarian phrases for basic conversation will ...

  6. English-Bulgarian phrasebook for tourists

    English-Bulgarian phrasebook for tourists Phrases that will surely come in handy when traveling to Bulgaria. Every day you will encounter the residents of the country, interact with them, learn something new about places and customs.

  7. Some important Bulgarian key phrases while on holiday

    Here you will find some useful key phrases in Bulgarian and the basics in the Bulgarian language and alphabet. Visiting a foreign country can be really tricky: different customs, different traditions and of course an entirely different language. ... Category: Travel. Search site. Top properties for rent in Burgas, Bulgaria. featured. € 160 ...

  8. Bulgarian phrasebook

    Bulgarian is a South Slavic language, thus closer to Serbo-Croatian and Slovenian than to Russian or Polish but still retaining similarities to all. Native speakers numbering over 9.5 million people, it is the national language of Republic of Bulgaria and spoken by Bulgarian minorities in Yugoslavia and the Western Balkans, and Moldova, and language still in use by many immigrants of Bulgarian ...

  9. Bulgarian Language: Everything You Need to Know (Plus Tips to Learn It

    Great, Bulgarian is easier to learn than Russian or Polish, but it comes at a cost. The Bulgarian language is only spoken by about 9 million people. It is the official language of Bulgaria. You won't be using the language much unless you are specifically planning to live or travel in Bulgaria, even if it sounds a lot like Macedonian too.

  10. How to Say Hello in Bulgarian: Guide to Bulgarian Greetings

    Bulgarian greetings are different from other languages and probably not what you'd expect. But if learning how to say 'Hello!' in Bulgarian in easy and fun ways is important to you, you've come to the right place at BulgarianPod101. 1. Must-Know Bulgarian Greetings. Start straight away with this greeting lesson.

  11. Get Talking: The Top Bulgarian Phrases for Beginners

    Трябва ми помощ. Tryabva mi pomosht. I need help. Извикайте линейка. Izvikayte lineyka. Call an ambulance. 5. How BulgarianPod101 Can Help You Learn Bulgarian. BulgarianPod101 has prepared this guide of Bulgarian phrases for beginners to help you start having basic conversations with native speakers.

  12. 15 Things to Know Before Visiting Bulgaria

    3. Public Transport in Bulgaria. One of the biggest challenges of travelling in Bulgaria is getting around. The country's mountains tend to get in the way a lot, especially since so many popular things to do in Bulgaria are found in or near them. There are also drawbacks to public transport in Bulgaria.

  13. Learn the most important words in Bulgarian

    Here you can find the translation of the 50 most important words and expressions into Bulgarian. If you are about to travel to Bulgaria, this is exactly what you are looking for! We will teach you: How to say Hello! and Goodbye in Bulgarian! To say please and thank you in Bulgarian!

  14. Learn Bulgarian Online

    Unveiling the intricacies of the Bulgarian language is akin to discovering a hidden gem in the vast landscape of Eastern Europe. As a foundational member of the South Slavic languages, Bulgarian is the key to a realm rich in history, folklore, and burgeoning industries ranging from agriculture and tourism to IT and renewable energy. When you ...

  15. 25 Bulgaria Dos and Don'ts- Common Communication, Culture, And Travel

    The Bulgarian language is complex, but learning even a few phrases helps move you from a tourist or traveler to a part of the local community. Whether ordering food at a restaurant or trying to woo a Bulgarian woman (or Bulgarian man), dropping a few choice words can show you are at least making an effort.

  16. Bulgaria

    Language in Bulgaria. Bulgarian is a Southern Slavic language with about 12 million speakers in Bulgaria and also in Ukraine, Macedonia, Serbia, Turkey, Greece and Romania. Bulgarian is mutually intelligible with Macedonian, and fairly closely related to Serbian, Croatian, Bosnian and Slovene. Bulgarian was the first Slavic language to be written.

  17. Travel words and phrases in Bulgarian

    Description: Travel words and phrases in Bulgarian. 300 essential words and phrases and the 100 most common verbs. The Bulgarian language is spoken by around 8 million people; especially in Bulgaria (about 7.72 million), but also in other countries of Southeastern and Eastern Europe, in Greece, Romania, Macedonia, Moldova, Ukraine, Serbia.

  18. What language in Bulgaria? Some useful tips about language in Bulgaria

    Helpful Travel Tips. Install a translator. Before leaving for the country, you can install Google translator on your phone and download Russian and Bulgarian to it. This way you can do basic translation offline. Learn a couple of basic phrases in Bulgarian. The locals will be pleased to hear a tourist speaking their native language. Rule of ...

  19. Learn Bulgarian with Free Vocabulary Lists

    Essential Vocabulary For Talking About The Language. Learn Bulgarian vocabulary, phrases and words FAST with TONS of FREE lessons! Always Updated. You also get BONUS Audio Lessons here at BulgarianPod101.

  20. Language Spoken in Bulgaria : Spoken Languages of Bulgaria

    Bulgarian language exhibits regional dialectal variations, reflecting the diversity of language usage across different parts of the country. These dialects, shaped by historical, geographical, and social factors, contribute to the linguistic richness of Bulgaria. ... English is widely spoken in Bulgaria, especially in big cities, tourist areas ...

  21. Language in Bulgaria

    Bulgaria Travel Guide. Things to Do; Planning a Trip; In Depth. Cuisine; Language; The People; Suggested Itineraries; Book Hotels. Bulgaria Language in Bulgaria The biggest challenge for new visitors is not just an unfamiliar language but also a new alphabet. When trying to find your way around the cities, make sure you have a good map and a ...

  22. A first timer's guide to Bulgaria

    Bulgaria is still one of the most affordable destinations in Europe, offering great value for your money. While popular tourist spots like beach towns in summer and ski resorts in winter can have higher prices, in general the country is very budget-friendly. The Bulgarian lev trades at a fixed exchange rate with the euro: €1 gets you 1.95 Lev.

  23. Bulgarian Language For Tourists

    In this post you will learn the most important Bulgarian language for tourists. The Bulgarian Language is an Indo-European language of the group of South Slavic languages. It is the official language of the Republic of Bulgaria and one of the 24 official languages of the European Union. The Bulgarian language is the earliest written documented ...