The End of Cheap Holidays to Bulgaria? 2025

Cheap holidays to Bulgaria are set to become a thing of the past. From January 21st 2026, Bulgaria is set to adopt the Euro as the national currency.

Obviously, this will make travel easier for Eurozone tourists – but it will also increase the cost of a Bulgarian holiday.

Cheap Holidays to Bulgaria: How Euro Adoption in 2026 Will Affect Your Budget Break

Bulgaria has long been a superb destination for cost-conscious travellers, thanks to its stunning Black Sea beaches, lively ski resorts, and vibrant cities. But those famously cheap Bulgaria holidays could disappear in a matter of months.

Why Bulgaria Is a Top Choice for Cheap Holidays

Bulgaria’s appeal lies in its unbeatable value. From all-inclusive beach packages in Sunny Beach to budget ski breaks in Bansko, Bulgaria offers a range of holiday options that won’t break the bank. As of 2025, you can find Bulgaria holiday packages from as little as £198, with family and romantic breaks often under £130 for three nights. Even luxury stays are far more affordable here than in most Mediterranean destinations.

What is a cheap holiday to Bulgaria like? Read about our adventures in Sunny Beach to find out!

The country’s low cost of living means everything, from accommodation and meals to transport and activities, comes at a fraction of the price you’d pay elsewhere in Europe. This makes Bulgaria a top destination for those searching for cheap Bulgaria holidays, whether you’re after self-catering apartments, all-inclusive resorts, or last-minute deals.

How Will Euro Adoption Impact Cheap Holidays to Bulgaria?

With Bulgaria joining the eurozone in January 2026, some changes are inevitable. Here’s what travellers looking for chap Bulgaria holidays need to know:

1. Prices will increase

Industry experts and travel operators predict that the cost of holidaying in Bulgaria will rise by around 10–15% after the euro is introduced. This is mainly due to inflation and the potential for businesses to round up prices during the currency conversion.

It’s also worth noting that holidays in Bulgaria are already more expensive in 2025 than they were last year. VAT on hotel accommodation was increased from 9% to 20% in January.

Bulgaria will (hopefully) still offer better value than many Western European countries, but the era of ultra-cheap deals may be coming to a close.

2. Lessons from Other Eurozone Countries

When Croatia adopted the euro, prices for accommodation, dining, and leisure activities rose noticeably. While Bulgaria’s transition is expected to be smoother, you should anticipate some increase in the cost of hotels, restaurant meals, and excursions, especially in tourist hotspots.

3. Exchange Rate Convenience for Eurozone Visitors

For travellers from eurozone countries, the switch will eliminate exchange rate fees and make budgeting easier. However, those coming from outside the eurozone (like the UK) may face less favourable exchange rates, slightly increasing the cost of cheap Bulgaria holidays.

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Bulgaria (may) remain a top choice for budget travellers

While Bulgaria’s euro adoption in 2026 will bring a ~15% increase in holiday prices, the country will continue to offer some of the best cheap holidays in Europe. Maybe.

But you’re going to have to book smart, travel off-peak, and explore beyond the main resorts to find cheap holidays to Bulgaria.

Our advice? If you have ever wanted to visit Bulgaria, you need to go before the end of the year to make sure you get the maximum value from your travel spend.

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