The best time for a holiday in Bulgaria is between August and September. This is when you'll find the best of the summer weather, with long sunny days, warm temperatures and much less rainfall than in early summer. It's an ideal time for enjoying the Black Sea coast and exploring the country's cities.
Bulgaria in spring: 7-15°C, fresh and bright with increasing sunshine
Spring in Bulgaria sees the country emerge from the chill of winter. Temperatures climb steadily from a cool 7°C to a pleasant 15°C, and the days get longer and sunnier. While you can expect some spring showers, it's a great time for sightseeing in cities like Sofia before the main summer crowds arrive. The coastal areas, such as around Bourgas, will feel milder than the inland capital.
Bulgaria in summer: 17-27°C, hot and sunny, perfect for the coast
Summer's peak season, with average temperatures ranging from a pleasant 17°C to a hot 27°C, though July can see highs of 28°C. It's the perfect time for a beach holiday on the Black Sea coast. Be aware that June is the wettest month of the year, so for the driest and sunniest weather, plan your trip for July or especially August, which is the driest month with over 10 hours of sunshine a day.
Bulgaria in autumn: 11-18°C, mild and colourful with fewer crowds
Autumn brings a welcome change, with comfortable temperatures between 11°C and 18°C. September continues the fine summer weather, making it an ideal month for visiting, with warm days and much quieter resorts. As you move into October and November, the weather becomes cooler and wetter, but the autumnal colours in the countryside are beautiful, and it's a peaceful time for city breaks.
Bulgaria in winter: 0-7°C, cold and crisp across the country
Winter's cold in Bulgaria, with temperatures hovering between 0°C and 7°C. January's the coldest month, with average highs of just 5°C. While you'll need to wrap up warm, the cities are quiet and you can enjoy museums and galleries without the crowds. The coastal areas remain slightly milder than inland cities like Sofia, which is the country's coolest region on average.
Average weather in Bulgaria by month
July's the warmest month on average, while January is the coolest, and June sees the most rainfall. Remember, these figures are averages taken from across the country - including the capital, Sofia, and coastal areas like Bourgas and Varna - so local weather can vary.
| Month | Temp (°C) | Rainfall (mm/month) | Sunshine (avg hrs/day) |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | -1-5°C | 63mm | 4.7 |
| February | 1-8°C | 47mm | 4.8 |
| March | 3-11°C | 54mm | 5.1 |
| April | 6-15°C | 56mm | 6.4 |
| May | 11-20°C | 65mm | 7.1 |
| June | 16-25°C | 86mm | 7.7 |
| July | 18-28°C | 54mm | 9.3 |
| August | 19-28°C | 26mm | 10.3 |
| September | 15-24°C | 42mm | 8.7 |
| October | 10-18°C | 69mm | 7.3 |
| November | 6-13°C | 50mm | 6.5 |
| December | 1-8°C | 60mm | 5.7 |
Best time to visit Bulgaria for beach holidays
For a classic beach holiday on the Black Sea coast, the best months to visit are July and August. During this time, you'll enjoy average high temperatures of 28°C, over nine hours of sunshine a day, and the lowest rainfall of the year. The sea's warm and perfect for swimming.
Best time to visit Bulgaria for sightseeing
If you're planning to explore cities like Sofia and Plovdiv, the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn are ideal. Visit in April, May, or September for mild and pleasant temperatures that are perfect for walking around and discovering historical sites without the intense summer heat or winter chill.
Best time to visit Bulgaria for hiking
To enjoy Bulgaria's natural landscapes, plan your visit for late spring or early autumn. May and September offer a great balance of warm-but-not-hot weather and plenty of sunshine, making them perfect for outdoor activities. You'll also avoid the heavy rain of June and the peak heat of July and August.
