Cheap flights to Bulgaria

Flights, routes and travel tips



Find cheap flights to Bulgaria

From To Flight type Departure date Departure time Flight time Price Route availability
Bristol BRS Sofia SOF One way Tue 24 Nov Departure time: 15:50 Flight time: 3h 10m £14.99 Route availability: M T W T F S S
Manchester MAN Plovdiv PDV One way Mon 30 Nov Departure time: 14:45 Flight time: 3h 30m £16.99 Route availability: M T W T F S S
London STN Plovdiv PDV One way Sat 21 Nov Departure time: 06:00 Flight time: 3h 10m £16.99 Route availability: M T W T F S S
Birmingham BHX Sofia SOF One way Sun 08 Nov Departure time: 15:00 Flight time: 3h 10m £16.99 Route availability: M T W T F S S
Bristol BRS Sofia SOF One way Fri 30 Oct Departure time: 16:25 Flight time: 3h 10m £16.99 Route availability: M T W T F S S

What is the cheapest time of year to visit Bulgaria?
There is no single cheapest period for all of Bulgaria because prices vary by destination and season. Travellers looking for lower costs should compare dates outside peak Black Sea beach and mountain-ski periods, using current accommodation and transport prices for their chosen itinerary.
What are the most popular places to visit in Bulgaria?
Popular places to visit include Sofia, Plovdiv, the Black Sea destinations of Burgas, Varna and Nessebar, and major cultural and natural attractions such as the Rila Monastery and Bulgaria's UNESCO-listed sites. These destinations combine historic city centres, coastal tourism, cultural heritage and mountain landscapes.
How do tourists get around in Bulgaria?
Tourists generally use intercity buses, trains, taxis, rental cars and local public transport. Walking and city public transport are practical in major urban destinations, while a rental car can provide greater flexibility for rural areas, mountain attractions and dispersed coastal destinations. Sofia has public buses, trams and a metro system.
What travel documents do I need to fly to Bulgaria?
You need valid travel documentation accepted for your journey, but the exact requirements depend on your nationality, residency, document type, intended stay and current border rules. Check the Bulgarian authorities, your airline and official travel-document guidance for the applicable passport, identity-document or visa requirements. Check the latest official guidance before you travel.
Do I need a car when visiting Bulgaria?
You do not generally need a car for a city break in Sofia or another major city with local public transport. A car can be useful for combining coastal towns, mountain areas, rural attractions or destinations not conveniently connected by public transport. Choose based on your itinerary rather than treating a car as essential for the whole country.
How long does it take to get from the airport to the main tourist areas of Bulgaria?
Transfer times depend on the destination, traffic and transport option, and there is no single country-wide journey time. From Burgas Airport (BOJ), allow variable time to reach Burgas and Black Sea destinations such as Nessebar; from Plovdiv Airport (PDV), allow variable time to reach Plovdiv and nearby cultural destinations; from Sofia Airport (SOF), Sofia's public transport network includes a metro connection and taxis, but the time to other areas such as Plovdiv, the Rila Monastery or mountain resorts varies by route; from Varna Airport (VAR), allow variable time to reach Varna and northern Black Sea destinations. Check the relevant airport and local transport information for current routes, schedules and journey times before travelling.

Travel Tips

  • When is the best time to visit Bulgaria?

    When is the best time to visit Bulgaria?

    The best time to visit Bulgaria is May to June and September to October for sightseeing, hiking, and city travel. July and August are best for the Black Sea coast, while December to March is ideal for skiing. Spring and autumn offer mild weather and fewer crowds than peak summer.

  • What is Bulgaria  known for?

    What is Bulgaria known for?

    Bulgaria is known for its Orthodox monasteries, mountain scenery, Black Sea beaches, and long history. It is especially recognised for Sofia, Plovdiv, Rila Monastery, and traditional rose products. The country is also known for affordable travel and a rich mix of Thracian, Slavic, and Byzantine heritage.

  • What are the must-see places in Bulgaria?

    What are the must-see places in Bulgaria?

    Must-see places in Bulgaria include Sofia, Plovdiv, Rila Monastery, Veliko Tarnovo, and the Black Sea coast. Nature lovers should consider the Rila Mountains, Seven Rila Lakes, Pirin National Park, and Bansko. Nessebar is a standout for coastal heritage and historic architecture.

  • How many days do you need in Bulgaria?

    How many days do you need in Bulgaria?

    Most travellers need 5 to 7 days in Bulgaria to see Sofia, Plovdiv, and one major natural or coastal area. A trip of 8 to 10 days allows for a fuller route including monasteries, mountains, and the Black Sea. If you want hiking or skiing, 10 to 14 days works better.

  • Is Bulgaria  expensive to visit?

    Is Bulgaria expensive to visit?

    Bulgaria is one of the more budget-friendly destinations in Europe. Budget travellers can often manage on around €35 to €55 per day, while mid-range travellers usually spend €75 to €130 per day. Ski resorts and peak summer beach areas can be more expensive, but overall costs remain relatively low.

  • What is the weather like in Bulgaria?

    What is the weather like in Bulgaria?

    Bulgaria has a mix of continental, mountain, and Black Sea climates. Summers are warm to hot, especially inland, while winters can be cold with snow in many areas. Coastal regions are milder, and mountain areas stay cooler year-round.

  • What are the top things to do in Bulgaria?

    What are the top things to do in Bulgaria?

    Top things to do in Bulgaria include visiting Rila Monastery, exploring the old town of Plovdiv, and sightseeing in Sofia. Many travellers also hike in the mountains, ski in Bansko, relax on the Black Sea coast, and visit historic towns such as Veliko Tarnovo and Nessebar.

  • What food is the Bulgaria famous for?

    What food is the Bulgaria famous for?

    Bulgaria is famous for banitsa, shopska salad, kavarma, and grilled meats. Yogurt, white cheese, fresh salads, and hearty stews are central to Bulgarian cuisine. Traditional foods often reflect Balkan, Ottoman, and Slavic culinary influences.


What you need to know when traveling with Ryanair

View all FAQs
Can I bring cabin baggage on a Ryanair flight?

Yes, Ryanair allows one small personal bag included with every fare. Larger cabin bags or priority boarding options can be added for an extra fee.

How do I check in for my Ryanair flight?

You can check in online via the Ryanair app or website. Online check-in typically opens 24 hours before departure, or earlier if you’ve purchased a seat.

Can I change my Ryanair flight after booking?

Yes, Ryanair allows flight changes, but fees may apply depending on the fare type and timing of the change.

What happens if my Ryanair flight is delayed or cancelled?

If your flight is disrupted, Ryanair may offer options such as rebooking, refunds, or assistance, depending on the circumstances and applicable regulations.

Can I book airport transfers or car hire with Ryanair?

Yes, when booking with Ryanair, you can add extras such as car hire and airport transfers through partner services like Carhire, making it easier to travel from the aiport to the city or surrounding areas.

What is Priority Boarding and how does it work with Ryanair?

Ryanair Priority Boarding lets you board using the Priority queue and bring two cabin bags on board: one small personal bag and one 10kg cabin bag, subject to availability and fees.


Where does Ryanair fly to in Bulgaria?