Climate Bulgaria
Good news! The climate in Bulgaria, contrary to what one might think by visualizing its geographical position - unless it is because one has never been there (!) -, offers a rather mild climate throughout the year. Bulgaria has a temperate climate, with continental influences from the north and Mediterranean influences from the south. The Black Sea is a bit like the French Riviera for the populations of the former Eastern Bloc countries. No matter what season you visit, you should enjoy sunny days, even in winter. However, temperatures can vary by as much as double depending on whether you are exploring the mountains or being sheltered in a valley. In the morning, in Sofia and near the Danube, it is not uncommon for the sky to be overcast and then to clear up quickly in the late morning. Precipitation is not very abundant, but it snows in the mountains in winter.
The four seasons exist in Bulgaria
Although the country is, as elsewhere, affected by global warming, the seasons are still well marked. Thus, the landscapes change very distinctly during the year and offer a great variety of spectacles. Summers are hot and long (but less than in Greece, with an average of 23°C), winters are quite cold and snowy (but less than in Romania, with an average of - 2°C), all accompanied by marked transition seasons.
The diversity of the different mountainous levels generates microclimates. In addition, the orientation of the mountains divides the country into quite distinct climatic zones. North of the Great Balkan, the Danube plain is subject to continental influences, the climate is the harshest; the Black Sea coast has a fairly low temperature range, with a climate that tends to be hot and humid throughout the year, while the southwest, the warmest region of the country, is drier and sunnier, openly Mediterranean. Obviously, all the mountain ranges, Balkan, Rhodopes, Rila or Pirin, have a mountain climate. The predominant temperance creates favorable soils, especially for the cultivation of vines, but also for a multitude of fruits and vegetables. From May-June to the end of September, Bulgarian summers are ideal for outdoor activities, hiking, mountaineering or seaside holidays on the Black Sea. July and August can be scorching hot and reach 40°C, which is a disadvantage to be reckoned with. Thanks to the diversity of the flora, autumn is full of colors and its mildness still allows a lot of outdoor activities until November. Winters offer beautiful white landscapes and are ideal for skiing and other snow sports, which can be practiced until April in some regions. The best snowfall is in February-March. Spring is the most uncertain season (April can be summery, but can also have snowfalls); it is often rainy, but once again, the richness of the flora offers the landscape its multiple colors, like the Valley of the Roses which reaches its peak in May.
Average rainfall
Not subject to westerly winds, Bulgaria does not experience much rainfall throughout the year. Precipitation averages 635 mm and can reach nearly 2,000 mm in the mountains (in the Rila Mountains). Rainfall occurs in late spring and early summer in most of the country, in autumn as well and in winter in the southern valleys. These periods are conducive to thunderstorms which often occur between May and June in the late afternoon. Be careful if you walk in the forest. From November to April, heavy snowfalls can make traffic difficult. In your suitcase you should therefore pack light clothing if you are going in the summer, but always include a sweater and pants for the cooler moments of the day, or if you are going to the mountains. Don't forget to bring sunglasses and caps to protect yourself from the sun. In the fall and winter, think about a coat, gloves and hat and double up on layers of clothing to keep you comfortable.
