Banks: 09.00 to 15.00, Monday to Friday
Post Offices: 09.00 to 15.00, Monday to Friday
Government Offices: 09.00 to 18.00, Monday to Friday
Business Centres: 09.00 to 18.00, Monday to Friday
Shops: 10.00 to 20.00, Monday to Friday; 10.00 to 14.00, Saturday
While petty theft can be a problem in some of Bulgaria’s large cities, visitors will find that security and law enforcement is well accounted for in the Varna resort area. It is still a good idea to travel lightly and guard any valuables, securing extra cash in a money belt.
Unfortunately, there are regular reports in Bulgaria of unsavoury characters befriending tourists in bars and clubs, drugging their drinks and robbing them, so be on your guard against scams and overly friendly strangers.
Electricity: 220 Volts, 50 Hertz, round two-pin plugs
Healthcare infrastructure and sanitation are of a high quality around the resort, though as tourists venture into the countryside they can expect variable conditions. Tap water is best avoided since cheap bottled water is available throughout the region.
Local pharmacies are well stocked, and chemists can usually speak English. Medical facilities within the resort area are on a par with international standards. Visitors are advised to take out travel insurance with health cover before travelling.
Emergency services: 150
St Marina Hospital Varna: +359 52 302 875
The national language of Bulgaria is Bulgarian.
Bulgaria currency is called the lev (plural leva), with one lev divided into 100 stotinka.
All visitors to Bulgaria can carry in the following items duty-free: two litres of wine, one litre of spirits, 100 grams of eau de toilette, 50 grams of perfume, 250 grams of tobacco (50 cigars or 200 cigarettes) and a reasonable amount of gifts or personal effects. There are specific restrictions on the import of goods produced from any animal with a cloven hoof.
Bulgarians are reserved and formal, and greetings consist of a solid handshake. Only close friends call each other by their first names, and it is a good idea for tourists to stick to honorary titles and let locals make the first move towards familiarity. Otherwise, conditions are laid back and casual, especially in the resort areas, where virtually everyone is on holiday. Gifts are usually opened on the spot.
Bulgaria recently joined the EU so nationals of other EU countries do not need a visa to visit Varna. Citizens of many other Western nations (including Australia, Canada, the US and New Zealand) qualify for a 30-day tourist visa upon arrival. Customs officials may ask to see proof of sufficient funds and medical insurance. Those planning to stay longer than 30 days may apply for a 90-day visa at a Bulgarian embassy or consulate before visiting.
Visitors will find a tourist information kiosk in the Arrivals hall at Varna Airport. Resorts and most hotels also operate their own information desks and can assist tourists with planning day excursions.
