I have always believed that a holiday is not a real holiday if my best furry friend cannot come along. You know that feeling. The sad eyes at the door? The heavy sigh as you pack your bags? It is heartbreaking. Therefore, I decided to stop leaving my dog behind. I started looking for dog friendly holidays in Europe, and my search led me to a place I did not expect. Bulgaria. Is Bulgaria pet friendly? This was the first question I asked myself. I can now tell you from my own experience that the answer is a big yes. Bulgaria is a land of massive mountains, golden beaches, and a history that goes back thousands of years. It is also a place where your dog is more than just a pet. Your dog is a travel buddy.
In this guide, I will share everything I learned about dog friendly holidays in Bulgaria. I will talk about how to get there, where to stay, and the best spots to explore with your pup. Whether you are used to dog friendly uk holiday destinations or you are new to travel, this post is for you.
First of all: The Paperwork You Need
You cannot just hop on a plane or drive across a border without a plan. Preparation is the most important part of a smooth trip. Bulgaria is part of the European Union. Because of this, it follows the European Pet Travel Scheme, or PETS.
First of all, your dog must have a microchip. This is a tiny transponder that a vet puts under the skin. It must follow ISO 11784 or 11785 standards and have 15 digits. Here is a very important tip: the microchip must go in before the rabies vaccine. If you do it the other way around, the vaccine does not count in the eyes of the law.
Later, your dog needs a rabies vaccination. This must happen at least 21 days before you travel. If your dog is getting a “primary” vaccine for the first time, it is only valid for one year in the EU, even if the box says three years. You must also have an EU Pet Passport if you live in Europe. If you are coming from the United States, you will need a USDA-endorsed health certificate.
A quick list of the basics you need:
- A microchip (15 digits).
- A rabies vaccine (given after the chip).
- A Pet Passport or Health Certificate.
- A veterinary certificate for train travel.
Additionally, if you drive from a country like Serbia or Turkey, you might need a rabies titre test. This test proves the vaccine is working. It takes three months to get the results, so do not wait until the last minute.
The Journey: How to Move Around Bulgaria with Dog
I chose to drive because it gave me the most freedom. However, you must remember one thing. You need a Vignette for your car to use the toll roads. You can buy this online, and it is very easy.
What if you do not have a car? You can use the train. The state railway is called BDZ. They have clear rules for pets. Small dogs can travel as “hand luggage” in second-class coaches. They must stay in a waterproof container on your lap or on the floor. If other passengers do not like the animal, you must move to the entry lobby of the coach.
On top of that, large dogs can travel too. They must stay in the entry lobby of the last coach. They must wear a muzzle and be on a lead. You must also buy a half-price second-class ticket for them. “The dogs, who accompany visually impaired passengers, should have a muzzle, veterinary certificate, ID card and non-flexible leash,” says the official policy. These guide dogs can sit in any second-class coach.
In the city of Sofia, the rules are similar for the metro and buses. Small dogs in bags are free. Large dogs need a single ride ticket. You should also carry their registration papers.
Where to Rest: Dog Allowed Hotels and Campsites
Finding a place to sleep is easier than you think. Dog friendly hotels Sofia are popping up everywhere because the city is becoming more modern.
If you want luxury, the Sense Hotel Sofia is a great choice. It is in the center and welcomes both dogs and cats with prior notice. They even provide pet beds and bowls. Another fancy option is the Grand Hotel Sofia. This place is perfect because it has no size restrictions on dogs. It overlooks the City Garden, which is a great spot for a walk.
Plus, there are more affordable options like the Best Western Plus City Hotel. The staff there are real pet lovers and can tell you all the best local dog parks.
On the contrary, maybe you prefer the great outdoors? Bulgaria has some amazing campsites. I found that many of them are very welcoming to dogs. Here are a few I checked out:
- Sakar Hills Camping: This site is in the countryside. They allow pets as long as they are on a lead. A traveler named Tam gave it a 10 out of 10 for security and said the owners are very friendly.
- Camping Kromidovo: Pets are welcome throughout the whole campsite.
- Camping Veliko Tarnovo: This is a very clean and peaceful site. A visitor named Lisa called it a “little piece of heaven”. They even have a kitchen and a laundry service.
- Eco Camping Batak: This site is in the mountains by a lake. It is perfect for dogs who love to swim. A family from the UK said it is one of the best-maintained sites in the country.
Gradually, you will see that Bulgarians really do like animals. Most guest houses I stayed in did not even charge an extra fee for my dog. This is much cheaper than many places in the UK or the rest of Europe.
Dining Out: Can Your Dog Join You?
I was a bit worried about restaurants. In the UK, many pubs allow dogs inside. In Bulgaria, it is a bit different. I found that most people do not take dogs inside restaurants. However, almost every place has an outdoor terrace. During the summer, this is where everyone sits anyway.
I enjoyed many meals with my dog by my side on these terraces. One time in Nessebar, we had a beautiful seafood platter while my dog watched the world go by. Just be careful about stray cats. Bulgaria has a lot of them. They like to hang around restaurant tables. You must keep your dog on a lead so they do not try to chase a cat in the middle of your dinner.
In Sofia, there are also some very cool pet friendly cafes. Altruist, Coffee Syndicate, and all Starbucks locations allow dogs inside. There is also a vintage style place called 65 Fireflies that is very happy to see furry guests.
Sun, Sand, and Paws: Dog Friendly Holidays in Bulgaria Beaches
Bulgaria has a stunning coastline along the Black Sea. I found that the seafood there is some of the cheapest and best in Europe. But what about the beaches?
Many popular beaches forbid dogs during the day in the summer. However, if you go to smaller beaches without many facilities, you will usually be fine. You should always keep an eye on what the locals are doing.
Here are the best dog-friendly spots on the coast:
- Vromos Beach: This is a peaceful bay with sand and rocks. It is very quiet and perfect for morning walks.
- Gradina Beach: This is a long sandy beach near Sozopol. The best part? Dogs are allowed here all year round, even in the busy season.
- Drivers Beach: This is a wild beach with clear water. It is a “secret paradise” where your dog can run free.
- Sarafovo Beach: Located just 10 km from Burgas, this is a popular spot for holidaymakers.
- Irakli Beach: This is a protected area with fine sand. It is very quiet, but you must keep your dog on a lead to protect the nature.
Similarly, the Sea Garden in Burgas and Varna are giant parks right by the sea. They have shady trees and water fountains. My dogs loved the cool air under the trees after a long day in the sun.
Mountain Adventures: Unleash the Adventure
If you do not like the heat, head to the mountains. Bulgaria has some of the highest peaks in the Balkans.
First of all, you must visit the Seven Rila Lakes. This is a must-see spot in the summer. You can take a lift up to the lakes, and the terrain is perfect for a dog walk. Just remember that swimming is not allowed in the lakes because it is a National Park.
The Rhodope Mountains are another favorite of mine. We stayed in a village called Smilyan. It is famous for its beans! They even have a bean festival every November. I loved walking by the Arda River. My dog Charlie loved to jump in and swim, while Abigail just watched from the shore because she does not like wet paws.
We also visited Plovdiv, which is one of the oldest cities in the world. It is very dog-friendly. You can walk through the narrow, cobbled streets of the Old Town and see the ancient Roman Theatre. The main pedestrian street is one of the longest in Europe, and it is full of life.
Later, we went to Bansko. This is a ski resort in the winter, but in the summer, it is a hiking paradise. We hiked to Okoto Lake, which was a beautiful spot for a picnic.
A Few Words on Safety and Health
Bulgarian vets are excellent. In cities like Sofia, most vets speak fluent English. In the south, near Asenovgrad, I found clinics that are much cheaper than the ones in the UK.
However, you must be very careful about ticks. There are many of them in Bulgaria, especially in the grass. One expat named JimJ warned that the ticks are worse than in France. He even suggested not wearing shorts when you are in the garden! Make sure your dog has good tick protection before you go.
Also, keep an eye out for stray dogs. Most of them are timid and will stay away from you. But it is always better to be safe and keep your dog on a leash if you see a group of strays.
Statistical Data for Your Trip
To help you plan, here are some numbers you might find useful:
- 21 days: The minimum wait time after a rabies vaccine before you can enter the EU.
- 15 digits: The length of an ISO-compliant microchip.
- 40 BGN: The cost of a veterinary permission for commercial pet import.
- 2,327 meters: The length of the Roman wall in Hisarya, the best-preserved in Europe.
- 3.5 kilometers: The length of the resort coast at Saint Constantine and Elena.
- 10 kilometers: The distance from Sofia to Vitosha Mountain, a great place for hiking.
- 1,500: The number of animals cared for at the Rudozem Street Dog shelter.
FAQ
Is Bulgaria dog friendly?
Bulgaria is definitely a pet-welcoming country that is famous for its great hospitality. It offers many different activities for you and your four-legged friend to enjoy together.
Where is the best place to holiday with a dog?
The Black Sea coast is a top choice if your pet loves the water. You can visit popular spots like Sunny Beach or Primorsko. If you prefer the forest, the Rila National Park or the Pirin Mountains are perfect for long walks.
Can I fly with my dog to Bulgaria?
Yes, you can fly with your pet, but you must check the specific rules of the airline first. You should ask them about the size of the crate they allow and if there are any extra fees.
How are dogs treated in Bulgaria?
Bulgarians are generally very friendly toward animals. You will see that many locals welcome dogs with open arms. There are some stray animals in the streets, but kind people run large shelters to care for them.
Can I leave my dog alone in a hotel room?
You should always check with your specific hotel before you leave your pet alone. Some travelers believe that leaving a dog in a room or a hot vehicle is not a good idea.
What should I be careful of in Bulgaria?
You must watch out for ticks, as they are very common in the grass and can be quite dangerous. The extreme heat during the summer can also be hard for some pets. Additionally, be careful around stray cats if your dog likes to chase them.
Is Sofia, Bulgaria dog friendly?
Yes, the capital city is very welcoming to pets. It has many large parks like Borisova Gradina and several cafes where dogs can go inside.
Concluding words
Bulgaria is a hidden gem for anyone who wants a dog friendly holiday without spending too much money. You can explore ancient Roman ruins, hike through the high Balkan Mountains, or relax on the sandy Black Sea beaches. The country follows the EU pet travel rules, which makes the paperwork simple if you plan ahead.
Whether you stay in a luxury hotel in Sofia or a quiet campsite in the woods, you and your pet will feel right at home. You should pack your bags and get ready for a great adventure with your best friend.
