Winter Travel in Bulgaria

Even though Bulgaria is situated in Southeastern Europe, its winters are still cold and snow still falls in regularly, especially in mountain villages. Public transportation in larger cities can be stalled for a day or so, but remote towns can find themselves effectively snowed in when the winds and precipitation become especially harsh.

Bulgaria's winter festivals and holidays focus on centuries-old folk traditions. Folk songs and dancing, along with rituals and superstitions, accompany holidays that may combine both Orthodox and pagan rites.

Rila Monastery in Winter Photo Credit: Angela Davis © 2003