Food and Shopping in Bulgaria
Bulgarian food and shopping experiences reflect the country’s crossroads location between Europe and the East, shaped by centuries of trade, Ottoman influence, and strong regional traditions. In the kitchen, this means meals that are both rustic and full of flavor, drawing on fresh vegetables, dairy, and meats from fertile valleys and mountain villages. A typical table often starts with shopska salad, the national dish invented in the 20th century but now inseparable from Bulgarian identity. It pairs beautifully with rakia, the grape or plum brandy that Bulgarians consider essential for hospitality. Yogurt, known locally as kiselo mlyako, has been made here for millennia and is celebrated for its probiotic qualities—something locals proudly claim as a gift to the world.
In the colder months, hearty stews and oven-baked dishes dominate. One standout is kapama from Bansko, which layers sauerkraut, sausages, and pork for a slow-cooked dish meant to be shared. Pastries like banitsa, often eaten at breakfast or prepared with charms tucked inside at New Year’s, show how food and folklore intertwine. Sweet flavors carry hints of Bulgaria’s famed rose industry, especially in jams and desserts flavored with rose petal syrup.
Shopping reveals just as much about the country’s character. Sofia’s Central Market Hall is a sensory feast of spices, cheeses, and honey, while mountain towns like Tryavna and Gabrovo showcase woodcarving and folk crafts. Embroidered textiles from Koprivshtitsa or clay pottery from Troyan are prized souvenirs, carrying centuries of craftsmanship. On the Black Sea, seaside markets bustle with stalls selling handmade jewelry, rugs, and herbs. And while modern malls in Plovdiv and Sofia bring global brands, the most authentic finds remain in local markets, where bargaining is part of the experience. From a bottle of Mavrud wine to a handwoven carpet, shopping in Bulgaria offers lasting mementos of a culture rooted in both tradition and creativity.
Recommended Tours in Bulgaria
Opening Hours in Bulgaria
Shops in cities like Sofia and Plovdiv usually open between 9:00 and 10:00 a.m. and close around 7:00 p.m. Smaller towns may close earlier. Many markets open early in the morning and finish by midday. On Sundays, some shops are closed or have shorter hours, although larger stores and malls tend to stay open throughout the week.
Dining Hours in Bulgaria
Lunch in Bulgaria is commonly served between 12:30 and 2:30 p.m. Dinner tends to start later, with restaurants in cities like Sofia or Plovdiv filling up around 7:00 or 8:00 p.m. In rural towns, dining may begin earlier. Some traditional restaurants open only for dinner or close between lunch and evening service, especially outside of high travel months.
Paying in Bulgaria
Most restaurants, shops, and hotels in larger cities accept credit cards. In smaller towns or rural areas, cash is often preferred. The local currency is the Bulgarian Lev (BGN). It is useful to carry small notes and coins, especially for markets, bakeries, or local taxis. ATMs are widely available in cities and near main tourist sites.
Tax Free Shopping in Bulgaria
Non-EU visitors can claim tax refunds on certain purchases made in Bulgaria. To qualify, you must spend over a minimum amount in one store and request a tax-free form at the time of purchase. These forms must be stamped by customs when leaving the country. Refunds can be processed at the airport or through a designated service provider.
What to Buy in Bulgaria
Bulgaria offers a wide range of locally made goods that reflect its cultural traditions and regional skills. In areas like Tryavna, you will often find carved wooden icons, boxes, and household items shaped using techniques passed down over generations. Textile weaving is common in mountain towns such as Apriltsi and Smolyan. Rugs, table runners, and woolen garments are made using natural dyes and traditional patterns.
In Plovdiv and Sofia, modern boutique shops often sell linen clothing, handmade leather accessories, and natural cosmetics made with ingredients such as rose oil or lavender. Bulgaria is one of the world’s leading producers of rose oil. Products such as soap, essential oils, and face creams are available in most cities and tourist towns.
Wine is another popular purchase.
The region around Melnik produces red wines with deep colour and a smooth finish. Many wineries are family-run, and bottles can often be bought directly at the source. For those interested in food products, jars of lutenitsa (a vegetable spread), local honey, dried herbs, and spice blends are widely sold in markets. These items are practical, easy to pack, and offer a way to continue enjoying Bulgarian flavours once home.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are typical meal times in Bulgaria?
Lunch is usually served between 12:30 and 2:30 p.m., while dinner starts after 7:00 p.m. In many towns and cities, restaurants stay open late, especially during summer. Meals tend to be relaxed and social, often made with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.
Can I use credit cards when shopping in Bulgaria?
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in larger shops, restaurants, and hotels, especially in cities like Sofia and Plovdiv. Smaller towns, markets, and family-run businesses may prefer cash, so it’s helpful to carry Bulgarian leva in small denominations.
What kinds of souvenirs should I look for in Bulgaria?
Look for locally made items such as handwoven textiles, rose oil products, woodcarvings, pottery, and traditional embroidery. Markets in Veliko Tarnovo and craft-focused towns like Tryavna are known for their high-quality, handmade goods.
Are there vegetarian food options in Bulgaria?
Yes. Many traditional Bulgarian dishes are vegetable-based, such as shopska salad, banitsa, and bean stews. Most restaurants also offer vegetarian options, particularly in larger cities and tourist areas.
Can I claim VAT refunds for purchases in Bulgaria?
Non-EU visitors can claim VAT refunds on eligible purchases made in registered stores. Look for shops with “Tax-Free Shopping” signage and keep your receipts. Minimum purchase requirements apply, and forms must be stamped at customs on departure.
Our local expert in Bulgaria
How Finest Journeys Enhances Your Food and Shopping Experience in Bulgaria
Finest Journeys connects travelers to authentic food and shopping experiences across Bulgaria. With private guides who know local producers and seasonal specialties, you gain access to markets, small restaurants, and independent shops often missed by visitors. Whether tasting regional dishes in Plovdiv or browsing handmade goods in Tryavna, each experience is shaped with care and knowledge to add meaning to your journey.