Where is the Nearest Pharmacy or Hospital in Bulgaria?

When traveling, health and safety are always top priorities. Whether you’re looking for over-the-counter medication, need a prescription filled, or require urgent medical attention, knowing where to find the nearest pharmacy or hospital in Bulgaria is essential.

Finding the Nearest Pharmacy in Bulgaria

Pharmacies, or “аптека” (apteka) in Bulgarian, are widely available throughout the country, especially in major cities and tourist areas. Here’s what you need to know to find a pharmacy nearby:

How to Locate a Pharmacy

• In Major Cities: In cities like Sofia, Plovdiv, Varna, and Burgas, pharmacies are on almost every major street and near shopping centers. Most pharmacies are open from 8 AM to 8 PM, with some operating 24/7, especially in central areas and near hospitals.
• Ask Locals or Use Maps: If you need to find the nearest pharmacy, ask a local or use a digital map service like Google Maps or Apple Maps. Type “pharmacy” or “аптека” to see a list of nearby options.
• Look for Green Cross Signs: Pharmacies are easily recognizable by the green cross sign displayed outside their premises.

Traveler Tip: In case of emergency or if you need medication outside regular hours, look for a 24-hour pharmacy (“Денонощна аптека“).

What to Expect at Bulgarian Pharmacies

• Medication Availability: Bulgarian pharmacies carry a wide range of over-the-counter (OTC) medications for common ailments like headaches, colds, and allergies. Prescription medications are also available, but you will need a valid prescription from a local or recognized international doctor.
• Language Barrier: While most pharmacists in tourist areas speak English, knowing the generic name of the medication you need is helpful. Carrying a list of your medications, including their active ingredients, can make communication easier.
• Payment Methods: Зharmacies accept cash (Bulgarian lev) and credit cards. Carrying some local currency is a good idea for smaller purchases.

Finding the Nearest Hospital or Medical Clinic in Bulgaria

Hospitals and medical clinics are well-distributed throughout Bulgaria, with major cities hosting multiple facilities that cater to various medical needs. Here’s how to find the nearest hospital or clinic:

How to Locate a Hospital or Clinic

• In Major Cities: Major cities like Sofia, Plovdiv, Varna, and Burgas have several hospitals, including both public and private facilities. Public hospitals are generally more affordable but may have longer wait times, while private clinics and hospitals offer quicker service and more amenities. The list of Hospitals below provides a location link.
• Ask for Help: In an emergency, ask your hotel staff or a local for assistance finding the nearest hospital or clinic. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112 in Bulgaria.
• Use Online Resources: Digital maps and healthcare apps can help you find nearby medical facilities. In the search bar, type “hospital” or “clinic” to see a list of options and directions.

Traveler Tip: If you have travel insurance, check with your provider for a list of recommended hospitals or clinics in the area.

Types of Medical Facilities

• Public Hospitals: These facilities provide various services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialized treatments. They are generally more affordable but may have longer waiting times and fewer English-speaking staff.
• Private Hospitals and Clinics: These facilities offer a higher level of service, shorter wait times, and more comfortable amenities. Many private hospitals and clinics have English-speaking doctors and staff, making them a preferred choice for tourists in case of need.
• Emergency Care: In a medical emergency, head to the nearest hospital with an emergency room (ER). Ambulance services can be reached by dialing 112.

Traveler Tip: For non-emergency issues, such as minor injuries or illnesses, consider visiting a private clinic for faster service.

Emergency and Healthcare Tips for Tourists in Bulgaria

1. Know Your Emergency Numbers: The general emergency number in Bulgaria is 112, which can be dialed for ambulance, police, and fire services.
2. Carry Essential Documents: Always carry a copy of your passport, travel insurance details, and a list of any medications you are taking, including their generic names.
3. Travel Insurance: Ensure comprehensive travel insurance covers medical expenses, including emergency evacuation if necessary.
4. Language Assistance: If you’re concerned about language barriers, consider using a translation app or carrying a basic medical phrasebook.
5. Vaccinations: For travelers planning to visit Bulgaria (inbound), no specific vaccinations are required or advised by outbound countries before entering Bulgaria. However, it’s advisable to check if the Bulgarian authorities have vaccination recommendations for visitors from specific regions or countries. Additionally, ensure you have sufficient protection against common travel-related illnesses.

Nearest Medical Facilities in Major Bulgarian Cities

Sofia

• St. Ana Hospital: A modern state- and governmental-owned hospital in Sofia offering various medical services – world-class cardiology, invasive cardiology, trauma treatment, orthopedics, surgeries, emergencies, etc. English, German, Russian (and more languages) speaking staff is available.
  • Location: Mladost 1, Dimitar Mollov street 1, 1709 Sofia
  • Contact: General: +359 2 975 9141 Emergency: +359 2 975 9262

• Tokuda Hospital Sofia: A modern private hospital offering various medical services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialized treatments. English-speaking staff available.
  • Location: 51B Nikola Vaptsarov Blvd, Sofia
  • Contact: +359 2 403 4000

• Pirogov Emergency Hospital: The largest emergency hospital in Bulgaria, providing 24/7 emergency services.
  • Location: 21 Totleben Blvd, Sofia
  • Contact: +359 2 91 544 11 and +359 2 95 211 61

Plovdiv

• UMBAL Sveti Georgi (St. George University Hospital): A major public hospital offering various services and specialized care.
  • Location: 15A Vasil Aprilov Blvd, Plovdiv
  • Contact: +359 32 60 29 11

• Medline Clinic: A private clinic providing general and specialized medical services with English-speaking staff.
  • Location: 2A Tsarigradsko Shose Blvd, Plovdiv
  • Contact: +359 32 656 600

Pazardjik

• Higia Hospital: The first private hospital in Bulgaria. High standards of medical practice. Cardiology, surgical, urological, orthopedic, pediatric, and other medical units.
  • Location: St. Ivan Rilski Street 3, 4440 Pazardjik
  • Contact: +359 34 445 272 and +359 34 44 32 22

Varna

• UMBAL Sveti Marina: A large public hospital providing comprehensive medical services and emergency care.
  • Location: 1 Hristo Smirnenski Blvd, Varna
  • Contact: +359 30 28 51 / 52 / 53 / 54

• Maichin Dom Varna is a private hospital specializing in maternal and child healthcare and general medical services.
  • Location: 30 Tsar Osvoboditel Blvd, Varna
  • Contact: +359 52 38 38 58 (emergency calls)

Burgas

• MBAL Burgas (Burgas General Hospital): The main public hospital in Burgas, offering a wide range of medical services and emergency care.
  • Location: 2 Stefan Stambolov Blvd, Burgas
  • Contact: +359 56 70 70

Stay Prepared with Access to Medical Facilities in Bulgaria

Whether looking for a pharmacy to buy over-the-counter medication or urgent medical attention at a hospital, knowing where to find the nearest medical facilities is crucial for a safe and worry-free trip to Bulgaria.