Bulgaria Weather by Month

Bulgaria, located in Southeast Europe on the Balkan Peninsula, is a country with diverse geography that ranges from mountains and plains to coastlines and valleys. It is bordered by Romania to the north, Serbia and North Macedonia to the west, Greece and Turkey to the south, and the Black Sea to the east. Bulgaria’s terrain is a blend of alpine regions, fertile plains, and a picturesque coastline along the Black Sea. The country is divided by the Balkan Mountains, which run horizontally through the middle, and the Rhodope Mountains to the south.

Bulgaria’s climate is temperate, with four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. The climate is influenced by both continental and Mediterranean factors, meaning the northern regions experience colder winters and hotter summers, while the southern and coastal areas benefit from milder winters and warm summers. Bulgaria is also home to several mountain ranges, which create microclimates that offer cooler temperatures and more precipitation. This geographical diversity provides a variety of weather patterns throughout the year.

Bulgaria Weather by Month

January

General Overview

• Average temperature: -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F)
• Rainfall/Snowfall: Heavy snowfall in mountainous areas, moderate rain or snow in lowlands

January is the coldest month in Bulgaria, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, especially in the northern and mountainous regions. Snowfall is common, particularly in the mountains, where ski resorts like Bansko, Borovets, and Pamporovo thrive during this month. In the lowlands and cities, there is a mix of snow and rain, though the coastal regions along the Black Sea are milder.

Regional Differences

• Northern Bulgaria: Very cold, with frequent snowfall and temperatures around -5°C to 0°C (23°F to 32°F)
• Southern Bulgaria: Slightly milder, with temperatures between 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F)
• Black Sea Coast: Milder winter, with temperatures around 2°C to 6°C (36°F to 43°F), but frequent winds and some rain
• Mountain regions: Cold and snowy, with temperatures often dropping below -10°C (14°F)

January is an ideal month for winter sports enthusiasts, as the snow conditions in the mountains are excellent for skiing and snowboarding.

February

General Overview

• Average temperature: -3°C to 7°C (27°F to 45°F)
• Rainfall/Snowfall: Snow continues in the mountains, rain or snow in lowlands

February is still part of Bulgaria’s winter season, but temperatures begin to rise slightly compared to January. Snowfall is still common, especially in the mountainous regions, while lower areas may experience a mix of rain and snow. The cold weather persists, but there are often clearer, sunny days, particularly in the southern regions.

Regional Differences

• Northern Bulgaria: Cold with regular snow, temperatures ranging from -3°C to 2°C (27°F to 36°F)
• Southern Bulgaria: Slightly warmer, with temperatures between 2°C to 7°C (36°F to 45°F)
• Black Sea Coast: Milder, with temperatures around 3°C to 7°C (37°F to 45°F), and more rain than snow
• Mountain regions: Cold with heavy snow, temperatures between -10°C to -3°C (14°F to 27°F)

February remains a popular time for winter sports, with excellent snow conditions in the mountains and a gradual increase in daylight hours.

March

General Overview

• Average temperature: 2°C to 12°C (36°F to 54°F)
• Rainfall/Snowfall: Snow in the mountains, rain in the lowlands

March signals the transition from winter to spring in Bulgaria. While snow is still common in the mountains, the lowlands and cities begin to experience milder temperatures and occasional rain showers. The weather is unpredictable during this month, with cold days still possible, especially in the northern regions, while southern areas begin to warm up.

Regional Differences

• Northern Bulgaria: Cool with occasional snow or rain, temperatures between 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F)
• Southern Bulgaria: Warmer, with temperatures between 6°C to 12°C (43°F to 54°F), and more frequent rain
• Black Sea Coast: Milder, with temperatures around 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F), some rain and cool winds
• Mountain regions: Cold with lingering snow, temperatures around -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F)

March is a transitional month, making it suitable for those interested in both winter sports in the mountains and exploring the cities as spring approaches.

April

General Overview

• Average temperature: 7°C to 17°C (45°F to 63°F)
• Rainfall: More frequent rainfall, with milder temperatures

April marks the beginning of spring in Bulgaria, with temperatures rising significantly across the country. Rain becomes more frequent, particularly in the lowlands and along the Black Sea coast. The mountains still have snow at higher altitudes, but most of the lower regions are thawing, and greenery begins to return to the landscape.

Regional Differences

• Northern Bulgaria: Mild, with temperatures between 7°C to 15°C (45°F to 59°F), and regular rainfall
• Southern Bulgaria: Warmer, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 17°C (50°F to 63°F)
• Black Sea Coast: Mild and rainy, with temperatures around 8°C to 15°C (46°F to 59°F)
• Mountain regions: Snow melts at lower altitudes, but remains higher up, temperatures around 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F)

April is an excellent time for nature lovers, as the country’s parks and countryside bloom with fresh greenery and flowers, though visitors should be prepared for occasional rain.

May

General Overview

• Average temperature: 12°C to 22°C (54°F to 72°F)
• Rainfall: Frequent showers, especially in the mountains and lowlands

May brings warmer temperatures and lush landscapes across Bulgaria, with frequent rainfall helping the flora flourish. The weather is generally pleasant, though showers are common, particularly in the mountainous and northern regions. The Black Sea coast starts to warm up, making it a more attractive destination for early beachgoers.

Regional Differences

• Northern Bulgaria: Warm but rainy, with temperatures around 12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F)
• Southern Bulgaria: Warmer, with temperatures between 15°C to 22°C (59°F to 72°F)
• Black Sea Coast: Mild, with temperatures around 12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F), and some rain
• Mountain regions: Cool and rainy, with temperatures around 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F)

May is a great month for hiking and exploring Bulgaria’s natural beauty, though it’s advisable to carry rain gear due to frequent showers.

June

General Overview

• Average temperature: 17°C to 27°C (63°F to 81°F)
• Rainfall: Warmer with occasional thunderstorms

June marks the start of summer in Bulgaria, with temperatures climbing across the country. It’s also one of the wettest months of the year, with afternoon thunderstorms becoming more frequent, particularly in the mountains and inland regions. Despite the rain, the weather is warm and pleasant, and the countryside is lush and green.

Regional Differences

• Northern Bulgaria: Warm with occasional storms, temperatures around 17°C to 25°C (63°F to 77°F)
• Southern Bulgaria: Warmer, with temperatures between 20°C to 27°C (68°F to 81°F)
• Black Sea Coast: Pleasant, with temperatures around 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F), occasional rain
• Mountain regions: Cooler, with temperatures around 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), frequent thunderstorms

June is a good month for exploring Bulgaria’s cities and historical sites, as the weather is warm but not too hot. However, those heading to the mountains should be prepared for thunderstorms.

July

General Overview

• Average temperature: 20°C to 32°C (68°F to 90°F)
• Rainfall: Occasional thunderstorms, especially in the mountains

July is the peak of summer in Bulgaria, with hot temperatures across the country. The coastal regions along the Black Sea are particularly popular during this month, as the warm temperatures and minimal rain make it ideal for beach holidays. Inland areas are hot, though thunderstorms still occur, especially in the afternoons in the mountainous regions.

Regional Differences

• Northern Bulgaria: Hot, with temperatures around 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F)
• Southern Bulgaria: Hotter, with temperatures between 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F)
• Black Sea Coast: Warm and sunny, with temperatures around 22°C to 30°C (72°F to 86°F)
• Mountain regions: Warm with afternoon thunderstorms, temperatures between 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)

July is the best month for a beach holiday on the Black Sea coast, with long sunny days and warm sea temperatures. Inland, it’s hot but manageable for city sightseeing and outdoor activities.

August

General Overview

• Average temperature: 20°C to 32°C (68°F to 90°F)
• Rainfall: Warm with occasional rain, especially in the mountains

August continues Bulgaria’s summer heat, with temperatures peaking in many regions. The coastal areas remain popular for beach vacations, while the mountains offer a cooler escape from the heat. Occasional rain showers or thunderstorms occur, particularly in the mountains and northern regions.

Regional Differences

• Northern Bulgaria: Hot, with temperatures around 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F)
• Southern Bulgaria: Hot, with temperatures between 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F)
• Black Sea Coast: Warm and sunny, with temperatures around 22°C to 30°C (72°F to 86°F)
• Mountain regions: Warm with occasional storms, temperatures between 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)

August is another prime month for beach vacations and outdoor activities, though visitors should be aware of the afternoon thunderstorms in the mountains.

September

General Overview

• Average temperature: 15°C to 27°C (59°F to 81°F)
• Rainfall: Less frequent rain, cooler temperatures as autumn begins

September is the beginning of autumn in Bulgaria, with cooler temperatures and less frequent rain. The weather remains warm, particularly in the first half of the month, making it an excellent time for travel before the cooler temperatures of autumn set in. The Black Sea remains warm enough for swimming, while inland areas enjoy pleasant conditions for outdoor activities.

Regional Differences

• Northern Bulgaria: Mild with occasional rain, temperatures around 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)
• Southern Bulgaria: Warmer, with temperatures between 18°C to 27°C (64°F to 81°F)
• Black Sea Coast: Warm and pleasant, with temperatures around 18°C to 26°C (64°F to 79°F)
• Mountain regions: Cooler, with temperatures around 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F)

September is a great month for hiking, sightseeing, and enjoying the last of the summer warmth before autumn arrives in full.

October

General Overview

• Average temperature: 10°C to 17°C (50°F to 63°F)
• Rainfall: Cooler with more frequent rainfall

October brings the full onset of autumn in Bulgaria, with temperatures cooling down significantly across the country. Rain becomes more frequent, especially in the northern regions and mountainous areas. The changing colors of the leaves make the countryside especially beautiful during this time, though the weather can be unpredictable.

Regional Differences

• Northern Bulgaria: Cool with frequent rain, temperatures around 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F)
• Southern Bulgaria: Milder, with temperatures between 12°C to 17°C (54°F to 63°F)
• Black Sea Coast: Cool and rainy, with temperatures around 12°C to 16°C (54°F to 61°F)
• Mountain regions: Cold and rainy, with temperatures around 5°C to 12°C (41°F to 54°F)

October is a beautiful month for enjoying Bulgaria’s natural landscapes, especially the autumn foliage, though visitors should be prepared for cooler temperatures and rain.

November

General Overview

• Average temperature: 5°C to 12°C (41°F to 54°F)
• Rainfall: Cold and rainy, with early snow in the mountains

November is the transition into winter, with cold temperatures and frequent rain across much of Bulgaria. Snow may begin to fall in the mountains toward the end of the month, and cities in the northern and inland regions can experience frosty mornings. The weather is mostly gray and wet, making it less ideal for outdoor activities.

Regional Differences

• Northern Bulgaria: Cold and rainy, with temperatures around 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F)
• Southern Bulgaria: Milder, with temperatures between 7°C to 12°C (45°F to 54°F)
• Black Sea Coast: Cool and rainy, with temperatures around 8°C to 12°C (46°F to 54°F)
• Mountain regions: Cold with early snow, temperatures around 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F)

November is a quieter month for tourism, with the cold and wet weather marking the beginning of winter. However, ski resorts start to prepare for the upcoming season.

December

General Overview

• Average temperature: 0°C to 7°C (32°F to 45°F)
• Snowfall: Increasing snowfall, particularly in the mountains

December marks the beginning of winter in Bulgaria, with cold temperatures and the first significant snowfalls, especially in the mountains. Cities in the north and inland regions experience frosty mornings and chilly evenings, while the southern and coastal regions remain milder but cool. The ski resorts start to open, attracting winter sports enthusiasts.

Regional Differences

• Northern Bulgaria: Cold with snow or frost, temperatures around 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F)
• Southern Bulgaria: Milder, with temperatures between 2°C to 7°C (36°F to 45°F)
• Black Sea Coast: Cool and rainy, with temperatures around 3°C to 8°C (37°F to 46°F)
• Mountain regions: Cold with increasing snowfall, temperatures around -5°C to 3°C (23°F to 37°F)

December is the start of the winter sports season, with excellent conditions in the mountain resorts, while cities gear up for festive Christmas and New Year celebrations.

Summary of Bulgaria’s Climate by Region

Northern Bulgaria (Veliko Tarnovo, Ruse)

• Best months: April to October (mild and warm)
• Winter months: December to February (cold with snow)

Southern Bulgaria (Plovdiv, Stara Zagora)

• Best months: May to September (warm and sunny)
• Winter months: December to February (mild with occasional snow)

Black Sea Coast (Varna, Burgas)

• Best months: June to September (warm and ideal for beach activities)
• Winter months: November to March (cool and rainy)

Mountain Regions (Bansko, Borovets, Pamporovo)

• Best months: December to March (ideal for skiing)
• Summer months: June to August (cool and ideal for hiking)

Bulgaria’s weather varies significantly depending on the region and the time of year. The best time to visit depends on the traveler’s interests, with winter ideal for skiing in the mountains, summer perfect for beach vacations along the Black Sea, and spring and autumn offering mild temperatures and scenic beauty across the country.