As a rule, Bulgaria boasts excellent public transportation. Buses are the fastest and least expensive option, but are not as comfortable as the trains, which also tend to be less expensive. Taking the train is a great option if you’re traveling along one of the major routes, from Sofia to Bourgas or Varna. Otherwise, you’re probably better off with the bus.

Taxis are available in major cities, but a taxi driver who speaks English is a rare find. Also, there’s little regulation of taxi fares in Bulgaria, so tourists who aren’t careful stand to be ripped off.

If you choose to do your own driving, it’s a good idea to brush up on your Cyrillic. While many road signs have both Cyrillic and Latin lettering, some of them do not. Roads in Bulgaria can be dodgy, but car rental is easy here, and the rates are some of the lowest in Europe.

By far, the nicest way to get from place to place along the coast is by ferry. Regular boat services link all of Bulgaria’s major seaside areas.