Marked by four distinct seasons, Bulgaria enjoys a generally favorable climate that is one of the country's best features. Although located at the same latitude as southern New England, Bulgaria's climate is much more temperate. Summers are hot and dry, moderately humid. Winters are not that cold. In the south and Black Sea coastal regions, Mediterranean influences temper the harsher continental climate of the interior. The seven mountain ranges also play a significant role in determining regional variances.



In the capital, Sofia, daytime high temperatures average 82F/28C in July-August; 37F/3C in January, and reflect the ameliorating effects of nearby Vitosha Mountains. The wettest months are April-May and November inland, and June, October and December along the coast. In mid-summer, the coast enjoys prodigious sunshine with daytime high air temperatures averaging 83F/28C and water temps ranging around 73-74F/23-25C.