Solo Female Travel in Bulgaria

Bulgaria, a captivating country nestled in southeastern Europe, is a fascinating blend of culture and natural beauty that remains relatively untapped by mainstream tourism. Known for its diverse landscape that encompasses the sun-kissed Black Sea coastline, striking mountains, vast plains, and charming villages, Bulgaria boasts a plethora of landmarks like the ancient architectural wonders in Nesebar, UNESCO-listed Rila Monastery nestled amidst pine-clad mountains, and the historic capital city of Sofia with its onion-domed churches and gold-domed Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. With a rich history stretching from ancient Thracian tombs to remnants of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires, decadent wineries, vibrant folklore, traditional crafts, and a burgeoning art scene, Bulgaria is an enchanting blend of Eastern and Western influences waiting to be explored.

Travel rating

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Travel index

Safety:Safe

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.

Transport:Moderate

Navigating Bulgaria independently can involve a bit of a challenge in some areas, especially the smaller towns and villages. These are less tourist-friendly and may not have English signs or even local people conversing in English. Cities like Sofia and Plovdiv, however, have fairly accessible public transportation systems. A local SIM card can help to use online maps for self-navigation.

Things to do:Interesting

Bulgaria is filled with unique and diverse activities to do that cater to a wide range of interests. Its ancient cities feature unique architecture and captivating history. For nature lovers, the country offers several national parks with stunning landscapes, mountains for hiking, and scenic routes for biking. The Black Sea coast is perfect for relaxation with its beautiful beaches. Bulgaria also has numerous thermal springs and wellness spas for those seeking rest and relaxation. Moreover, the local cuisine is distinctive and delicious with options for food adventures as well.

Food:Above average

The food in Bulgaria is incredibly diverse and offers a unique blend of flavors that reflect its history and geography. Expect a lot of fresh vegetables, dairy, and meat in traditional dishes. Vegetarians and vegans can easily find dishes to enjoy too. The only reason it does not get a perfect score is because the variety and quality can be inconsistent depending on where you are. Cities offer a wider selection than smaller towns or rural areas.

Budget:Very affordable

Bulgaria is a hidden gem in the heart of Europe that offers great value for the money. Everything from accommodation, food, transportation, and entertainment is reasonably priced. Hostels are available from €6 per night while budget hotels range from €15-€20. Eating out is cheap, and public transportation is reliable and cost-effective. Cultural sites, museums, and attractions also have affordable entrance fees, making Bulgaria an excellent choice for solo female travelers on a budget.

Is Bulgaria worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.1 /5

based on 6 experiences

Rating summary

Things to do

4.1/5

Safety

4.2/5

Food

4.1/5

Budget-friendly

3.6/5

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
Things to do: 3/5Food: 3/5Budget-friendly: 4/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

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
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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
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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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
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 3/5Safety: 5/5
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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
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 3/5Safety: 5/5
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Meet locals in Bulgaria

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.
Gamze

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.

Speaking

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Ekaterina

Ekaterina

About Me

I'm Ekaterina.I'm 47 year old, i love travelling and meeting new people

Speaking

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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

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

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.

Speaking

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Joanna

Joanna

Kazanlak

Can host for:

4 days

About me

Hey, I'm Joanna and I'm interested in writing, swimming, live music, nature, food & cuisine, languages, digital nomad, culture, cycling, books, art, architecture, animals, cinema, camping and shoestring

Speaking

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Alexandra

Alexandra

Sofia

Can host for:

3 days

About me

I love meeting new people and I'm interested in different cultures and languages. I know english, french, russian and bulgarian. I study bulgarian philology at the Sofia university. I hate writing about myself, so that's the end hahah

Speaking

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Alexandra

Alexandra

Sofia

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Portuguese girl living in Sofia. Love to travel and get to meet more people from around the world

Speaking

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Hrisi

Hrisi

Plovdiv

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hi, my name is Hrisi. 🫶 Currently I am switching between Plovdiv (Bulgaria) for studying and Frankfurt (Germany) for family. ☀️ I love to do all kind of sport, but my passion is volleyball. Besides this I travel, do art, read and enjoy time with my loved one. 🌼

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Alexandra

Alexandra

Sofia

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hello I'm a student and I'm a very adventurous person that is an Ambivert. I love reality shows. Im constantly moving around and I'm easy going

Speaking

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Hristiyana

Hristiyana

Plovdiv

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hi, I am an Art Galerist in Plovdiv and love to travel. I am interested in arts, travelling, theatre and meeting new people.

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Ralitsa

Ralitsa

Plovdiv

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hi!, My name is Ralitsa and I live in Plovdiv

Speaking

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SylverGirl

SylverGirl

Varna

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hi!, My name is SylverGirl and I'm interested in cycling, running, technology, nightlife and art

Speaking

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Upcoming visitors to Bulgaria

Connect with upcoming visitors to Bulgaria who are looking for travel buddies or meet ups.
Monica

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

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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Explore Bulgaria