Bulgaria is overall a safe destination for solo female travelers. Crime rates are relatively low, locals are typically helpful and respectful, and local law enforcement are usually able to assist foreigners. Public transport and taxis are reliable and common sense precautions against petty thefts should be taken, especially in crowded and tourist places. However, as with every destination, a vigilant approach is recommended at night or when visiting isolated areas.
Bulgaria is currently ranked #81 safest country for solo female travellers. Check the full ranking.
Bulgaria is relatively safe at night, especially in areas frequented by tourists. However, like anywhere, measures should be taken to ensure personal safety when alone. It's advisable to avoid dimly lit streets and walking alone in unfamiliar areas. Trust your instincts, stay in populated areas and always keep your belongings close to you.
Public transportation:Moderate
The public transportation in Bulgaria is generally safe to use and includes buses, trams, taxis, and the metro, especially in the capital, Sofia. However, there can be occasional incidents of pickpocketing or petty crimes, and some women have reported instances of unwanted attention. Also, the service often lacks in the coherence of time schedules. But fear not, the majority of public transportation users have no issues. As always, stay alert and cautious as you would in any foreign place.
Street harassment:Low
Bulgaria is generally considered safe, and reports of street harassment are relatively low. Always be alert, and practice common safety measures, such as avoiding deserted areas at night. The social norms and culture tend to be respectful towards women, but isolated incidents of harassment can still occur, as is the case with any other country.
Petty crimes:Low
Bulgaria maintains a moderate level of petty crimes such as pickpocketing, purse snatching, and theft from parked cars. These are particularly more frequent in crowded places such as markets, bus or train stations, and tourist spots. Therefore, it's always recommended to stay vigilant, secure your belongings, and avoid showing off valuable items. Evening or night travel in isolated areas should also be avoided.
Tap water:Safe
Tap water safety in Bulgaria varies from region to region. In major cities like Sofia, the tap water is typically safe to drink. However, in rural areas, it is advisable to stick to bottled water. Always consider the source and if in doubt, choose bottled water.
Is Bulgaria safe to travel?
4.2/5
Based on 6 experiences
Solo travel experience
Spent 4 days in Bulgaria, 2 in Sofia and 2 in Plovdiv. Stayed at a hostel as a solo female traveller
Felt extremely safe in both places, no street harrassment or attempts at scamming.
There are enough cool activities you can book on GYG. Highly recommend going to the Rila Monastery and definitely don’t stick to just Sofia, Plovdid is magnificent. The country is pretty inexpensive, just check prices before wandering in somewhere.
Bulgarians are nice people, if you stop them for help they’ll try to help you even if they dont speak English well
Posted: January 17, 2024
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Solo travel experience
I went to Bulgaria last May. I stayed in Plovdiv, which is a very nice city. From there I rented a car and drove to Sofia in one day. I felt very safe.
Posted: December 1, 2022
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Solo travel experience
Travel Plan:
Day 1: Sofia
Day 2: hike in Rila National Park
Day 3: hike in Pirin National Park
Day 4: Sofia
Safety:
Bulgaria is a very safe country if you follow common-sense rules.
Recommendations:
Bulgaria is beautiful and really inexpensive.
Posted: September 25, 2022
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Solo travel experience
Travel Itinerary:
- Iskar Gorge
- Seven Rila Lakes
- Vitosha Mountain
- Rila Monastery
- Plovdiv
- Bansko
- Zlata Panega
Food:
I really enjoyed tarator (soup) and shopska salad
Safety:
Bulgaria is a very safe country, and most of the people I met were incredibly friendly and helpful
Budget:
Bulgaria is a very cheap country.
Recommendations:
Bring cash with you. In smaller towns, only cash is accepted.
Posted: July 20, 2022
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Is Bulgaria safe for women?
No local experience found
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Is Bulgaria safe right now?
Before your visit to Bulgaria, it's essential to check travel advisories for Bulgaria, including your home country's official travel advisory. These advisories can provide up-to-date information on safety, health, and any specific considerations for travelers.
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United States Travel AdvisoryTake normal security precautions
Had a great time with my son visiting home city in Bulgaria this summer of 2023
We were visiting a few places and experiencing delicious foods
Planning to visit my family in Bulgaria every year , beautiful country and culture
Posted: December 21, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience
I went to Bulgaria last summer (Sofia for 3 nights) and it was so nice! I only paid for accommodation, they have free tours every day, I chose a few different ones! I think there was one about communism theme, one about food and drink, and one general! Also, I climbed a mountain there, which was also free and there was a guide! Overall it's a charming place and friendly people.
Posted: February 14, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
Meet local women in Bulgaria who are open to meet up for a coffee or a drink, show you around, give local advice or practice a language with.
Ekaterina
About Me
I'm Ekaterina.I'm 47 year old, i love travelling and meeting new people
Speaking
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Gamze
About Me
Gamze Perçin I am 27 years old and I live in Bulgaria. i am originally Turkish. I am a volunteer teacher in Bulgaria. I love traveling the world and meeting new people.
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Stay with locals in Bulgaria
Stay with local women in Bulgaria who offer free accommodation as part of cultural exchange. Couch surfing is a great way to meet new people, learn more about new cultures and experience destinations like a local.
Ekaterina
Plovdiv
Can host for:
7 days
About me
I'm Ekaterina.I'm 47 year old, i love travelling and meeting new people
Speaking
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Gamze
Bulgaria
Can host for:
3 days
About me
Gamze Perçin I am 27 years old and I live in Bulgaria. i am originally Turkish. I am a volunteer teacher in Bulgaria. I love traveling the world and meeting new people.
Connect with upcoming visitors to Bulgaria who are looking for travel buddies or meet ups.
Monica
About Me
Hi I am Mónica Sofía González Aragón, love to travel and help other travelers. I know about the Toltec Culture in México. I can give you advice if you want to travel to Mexico City
Speaking
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Monica
About Me
Hi I am Mónica Sofía González Aragón, love to travel and help other travelers. I know about the Toltec Culture in México. I can give you advice if you want to travel to Mexico City