According to forum posts, Bulgarian Railways is the primary service for train travel within Bulgaria, with schedules available on their official website (bdz.bg/en). Key routes mentioned include Sofia to Plovdiv and Plovdiv to Varna. Trains are noted for being more economical and sometimes faster compared to buses.

Travelers have called out several sources for checking bus schedules, such as CheckMyBus and getbybus.com, which list various Bulgarian bus operators. Specific bus routes discussed include Sofia to Skopje, Sofia to Plovdiv, and Plovdiv to Varna. Some users suggest that buses might offer more frequent services than trains on certain routes.

For those interested in traveling to the Bulgarian Black Sea coast, it's suggested to focus on the area around Burgas. Direct buses and trains are available to major coastal destinations like Varna, with trains being preferable for direct routes from Plovdiv to Varna due to speed and cost efficiency.

Some travelers have recommended a variety of cities and attractions for those planning to visit Bulgaria. Popular suggestions include exploring Sofia, the capital, for its rich history and cultural sites. Plovdiv, known for its old town and Roman ruins, is another must-see. The historic city of Veliko Tarnovo, with its Tsarevets Fortress, and the spiritual Rila Monastery are also highly recommended.

According to forum posts, for an 8-day trip, renting a car and visiting towns like Bansko and sites such as the Rila Monastery, Veliko Tarnovo, and Plovdiv is advisable. Another suggested itinerary includes spending a few days in Sofia, followed by a trip to Plovdiv, and then exploring more historical sites like Veliko Tarnovo or the coastal towns of Burgas or Sozopol.

Travelers have called out several lesser-known but interesting places such as Koprivshtitsa, a town known for its historical significance and well-preserved Bulgarian National Revival architecture. For nature and spa enthusiasts, the towns of Sapareva Banya, Velingrad, and Hisarya are recommended for their hot springs and beautiful scenery.

According to forum posts, popular beach destinations in Bulgaria include Sveti Vlas, Sozopol, and Nessebar. These locations are appreciated for their quieter environments compared to more bustling areas like Sunny Beach or Golden Sands. Sveti Vlas, for instance, is noted for its nice beach, harbor, and proximity to other resorts.

Some travelers have highlighted lesser-known beaches as hidden gems along the Bulgarian coast. Beaches like Irakli, Kara Dere, and Shkorpilovtsi are mostly visited by locals and offer scenic views with fewer tourists. Other small, attractive resorts mentioned are Tyulenova and Bolata, which provide a more tranquil experience.

In discussions about the quality of beaches, most beaches in Bulgaria are described as sandy. However, services like beach chairs typically require a daily fee, unless included in a hotel package. For example, resorts like Elenite include beach chair services in their all-inclusive packages.

Some travelers have inquired about inflatable water parks in Bulgaria, indicating interest in water-based activities along the coast. Additionally, the coastal walks, as mentioned by users, can be an engaging activity combining both hiking and beach experiences.

According to forum posts, Bulgaria offers extensive hiking and walking opportunities, notably along the Bulgarian coast and near cities like Plovdiv. Travelers have discussed various trails in the Rhodopes and Pirin mountains, accessible from Plovdiv, which are ideal for multi-day hikes.

Travelers have called out the opportunity to explore historical towns and engage in cultural tourism. Places like Koprivshtitsa offer a blend of history, architecture, and nature, making for a rich outdoor experience.

For many users, the mountain villages of Bulgaria offer a serene environment suitable for relaxation and day hikes. These villages are often highlighted as low-key areas with fewer tourists, ideal for those seeking tranquility amidst nature.

According to forum posts, accessing the Seven Rila Lakes can be done by hiking from the lift area up to the beginning of the lakes trail, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Another route is from Maljovitza to the lakes area, then down to the Pionierska lift. Travelers have mentioned that using 4x4 vehicles is an alternative, although environmental concerns have led to restrictions.

Some travelers said that the chairlift to the lakes undergoes maintenance, typically stopping operations for winter. It is crucial to check the lift's operational status before planning your visit, as this can significantly affect your access to the lakes.

For many users, staying overnight at mountain huts near the lakes is an option. It is advisable to book these in advance during the busy summer months. Travelers have called out that weather conditions can be harsh, recommending preparation for cold temperatures if camping.

Travelers have noted that if the lift is not operational, a possible alternative day could include visiting nearby attractions such as the Rila Monastery or exploring other scenic hiking areas around Rila.

According to forum posts, the local currency in Bulgaria is the Lev. It is pegged to the Euro at a fixed exchange rate of 1 EUR = 1.95583 Lev.

Travelers have called out that while some places might accept Euros, the Lev is widely used and preferred for daily transactions throughout Bulgaria. It is advisable to use Lev, especially for smaller purchases and in areas less frequented by tourists.

Some users noted that Bulgaria is preparing for integration into the Eurozone with plans to adopt the Euro as its official currency, indicating a significant future shift in currency use.