Currency: lev (BGL). Banknote denominations include 1,00, 2,00, 5,00, 10,00, 20,00, 50,00 and 100,00 leva, as well as coins of 1,00 smaller denominations. Weekday opening hours in banks are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Exchange offices are open daily; selected exchange offices are open 24 hours a day. Cash can be exchanged on the basis of the buy/sell rate of exchange. It is recommended that money exchange is done in banks (the billboards offering “0 % commission” in exchange offices in most cases are not observed). Prior to changing money in the exchange office, it is advisable to ask about the final amount you will receive. We recommend you carefully check the trading terms or consult the counter operator! We strongly warn you against changing money with unauthorized persons in the streets! In big towns a network of bank machines is available. Big shops, restaurants, gas stations and hotels accept credit cards.
Electricity: 220V, European standard sockets
Weights and Measures: Metric and kilo system
Important telephone numbers:
Ambulance – 150
Police – 166
Fire brigade – 160
Breakdown road service - 146
Telephone services – 144
Medical service: Free first aid and consultation in emergencies.
National and public holidays:
1 January – New Year Celebration
Easter – 2 days: Sunday and Monday (different for each year)
3 March – Bulgarian Liberation Day
1 May – Labour Day
6 May – Day of Bulgarian Army
24 May – Day of Bulgarian Culture and Slavic Script
6 September – Day of Bulgarian Unification
22 September – Bulgarian Independence Day
1 November – Day of National Leaders
24 December – Christmas Eve
25 è 26 December – Christmas
Bulgarian cuisine: The variety in Bulgarian cuisine is based on the long history of the country, as well as on the long-lasting migrations of the tribes that founded Bulgaria more than 1300 years ago. Bulgaria is famous for the many food and drinks, that can't be eaten in any other country - click here for more information.
