Bulgaria enjoys a reputation for internet freedom. There are no widespread reports of government monitoring, disruptions, or censorship. But that doesn’t discount the need for a VPN for Bulgaria.
Browsing the web may be largely unrestricted, but the tool is indispensable for those who prioritize complete online privacy and security — especially considering how cybercrime rates are rising worldwide, including in Bulgaria. Plus, whether you’re home or abroad on a trip, it’s your gate pass to exclusive libraries and content.
That said, you won’t get the same results from every provider, with some promising more than they’re capable of. To help you decide on the one for you, this article highlights and discusses the best VPN providers for Bulgaria. Before we get down to it, here’s a brief overview.
Why You Need a VPN in Bulgaria
Hackers and other cybercriminals are always hunting for sensitive information to steal. Unfortunately, many users unknowingly expose themselves by using unsecured Wi-Fi networks and neglecting to encrypt their online traffic. It’s a prevalent issue in Bulgaria, as in most other places.
That’s where a VPN comes in handy. They act as a secure tunnel, channeling your internet traffic through a remote server operated by the provider. In the process, it’s encrypted, your actual IP address is masked, and you’re assigned a new IP address.
How does that help? Your now encrypted traffic is utterly unreadable by prying eyes, including your ISP, hackers, and snoops. In addition, your new IP address anonymizes your online activities and websites or third parties can no longer track your browsing habits or pinpoint your location.
There’s more. A VPN also enables you to bypass geo-restrictions by virtually changing your location. So, if that’s Bulgaria, you can watch your favorite content on foreign platforms. And when you travel abroad, it lets you recover your access to home-based content.
The 5 Absolute Best VPN Services for Bulgaria
Choosing the right provider isn’t a walk in the park, considering how many are out there. So, we set out to assess dozens of VPNs to streamline your choice.
Here’s a detailed analysis of each of our top VPNs for Bulgaria:
1. NordVPN
- Jurisdiction: Panama.
- Server count: 6,300+ servers in 111 countries, including 20+ in Bulgaria.
- Standout feature: Custom NordLynx protocol built around WireGuard.
- Compatibility: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, ChromeOS, routers, gaming consoles, and more.
- Simultaneous connections: Up to 10 devices.
- Money-back guarantee: 30 days.
The best VPN for Bulgaria is NordVPN, one of the biggest names in the industry. It offers more than 6,300 servers to choose from in 111 countries. With such an extensive spread, it’s no surprise you can get a Bulgarian IP address by connecting to any of its 20+ options there.
After testing NordVPN, we can say that there is no faster VPN (even ExpressVPN which is impressively efficient). You needn’t worry about slow connections or buffering, even if you’re connected to distant servers or watching videos in the highest-quality resolutions. In addition, it unblocks in-demand streaming services both in Bulgaria and globally, so you can catch up from anywhere.
But safeguarding your online presence is where NordVPN really shines, what with its deep toolkit and reliability. The VPN implements industry-standard AES 256-bit encryption along with a customizable kill switch and DNS leak protection to ensure nothing gets out. You also get several advanced features, like Onion over VPN, which all but guarantees your anonymity.
NordVPN’s no-logs policy has been independently audited and shows the provider’s commitment to your complete privacy.
A 10-device simultaneous connection limit indicates that it’s ideal for large households. Still, if you’re unimpressed by your experience, you have a 30-day window to cancel your subscription and request a full refund.
2. ExpressVPN
- Jurisdiction: British Virgin Islands.
- Server count: 3,000+ in 105 countries, including Bulgaria.
- Standout feature: TrustedServer technology.
- Compatibility: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, ChromeOS, routers, browsers, gaming consoles, and more.
- Simultaneous connections: Up to 8 devices.
- Money-back guarantee: 30 days.
According to our tests with ExpressVPN, it is the second best VPN in Bulgaria in 2024. It offers an extensive network comprising more than 3,000 servers across 105 countries, including Bulgaria.
Its blazing-fast connection speeds mean seamless gaming and fast downloads. You can expect smooth experiences while you stream, even if you’re watching in UHD quality. Plus, all ExpressVPN servers work with torrenting, so you can download and seed files securely.
ExpressVPN easily unblocks geo-restrictions on local and international platforms alike, so you can enjoy your favorite content on Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, BNT 1, bTV, and more.
As for safeguarding your online presence and data, the VPN pulls out all the stops. It implements AES 256-bit encryption, the cipher trusted by security agencies in the US. ExpressVPN also offers a kill switch, leak protection, obfuscation, and several other advanced features. There’s no chance your user logs fall into the wrong hands, as the VPN doesn’t store them in the first place.
It’s easy to install and use, and one subscription covers up to eight devices at the same time. The only significant downside is its rather expensive pricing. That said, you can test the VPN to see if it’s worth the extra bucks, as it has a 30-day money-back guarantee. Hint: it is.
3. CyberGhost
- Jurisdiction: Romania.
- Server count: 12,000+ servers in 100 countries, including 29 in Bulgaria.
- Standout feature: In-house managed NoSpy servers.
- Compatibility: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, routers, browsers, and more.
- Simultaneous connections: Up to 7 devices.
- Money-back guarantee: Up to 45 days.
Twenty-nine VPN servers in Sofia make up CyberGhost’s impressive haul in Bulgaria. They’re part of its vast network of over 12,000 servers across 100 countries.
They are 10 Gbps servers, so expect fast speeds, especially when you use any of the VPN’s specially optimized options for tasks like torrenting, gaming, and streaming. With protocols like WireGuard, you’re more likely than not to experience smooth connections. And when you run into congestion, that vast collection of servers comes in handy.
CyberGhost VPN is an excellent choice if you’re heavy on streaming. The VPN’s specialized servers work with most popular services, such as Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, and Disney Plus. We found that the regular servers can unblock local Bulgarian platforms well enough from outside the country.
The provider employs bank-level encryption to scramble your data, keeping hackers and your ISP hands-off. It also comes with a kill switch and DNS leak protection to prevent potentially harmful exposure. Like most high-level VPNs, CyberGhost operates a stringent zero-logs policy, which ensures no third party has any idea what you’re doing online.
You can use one CyberGhost account on up to seven devices simultaneously. If you’re willing to give it a go, a 45-day money-back guarantee offers ample time to make up your mind.
4. Surfshark
- Jurisdiction: The Netherlands.
- Server count: 3,200+ in 100 countries, including Bulgaria.
- Standout feature: Nexus with SDN technology for multiple server connections.
- Compatibility: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, routers, browsers, and more.
- Simultaneous connections: Unlimited devices.
- Money-back guarantee: 30 days.
Surfshark is the budget VPN for Bulgaria, thanks to pocket-friendly pricing and excellent service. It comes with over 3,200 servers globally, including options in Bulgaria.
Your connection speeds won’t be as fast as without a VPN, but Surfshark is far from slow. To optimize your results, you can connect to a nearby server and use WireGuard, one of the protocols offered.
Surfshark shies away from marketing it, but it’s pretty good at bypassing geo-restrictions on local Bulgarian and international streaming services. As a result, you can stream Netflix US, Disney Plus, Hulu, and more.
The VPN’s cheap pricing has no bearing on its security functionality. Surfshark offers several standard, advanced, and extra features, including AES 256-bit encryption, a kill switch, DNS leak protection, and obfuscated servers. It operates a strict logless policy, ensuring that no digital trails are ever going to lead third parties back to you.
No matter how many devices are in your household, you’ll only ever need one Surfshark account — the provider has no simultaneous device connection cap. Thanks to a 30-day money-back guarantee, you can request a refund if you’re not happy.
5. Private Internet Access
- Jurisdiction: The United States.
- Server count: Servers in 91 countries, including Bulgaria.
- Standout feature: Choice between AES 128-bit and AES 256-bit encryption.
- Compatibility: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux, routers, gaming consoles, and more.
- Simultaneous connections: Unlimited devices.
- Money-back guarantee: 30 days.
Private Internet Access appears America-centric in its server distribution, which makes sense as its headquarters are in the United States. That said, given its absolutely massive network, there’s more than enough left for 99 other countries, including Bulgaria.
The VPN isn’t quite on the same level as the others on this list when it comes to performance or geo-unblocking. Expect decent, not lightning-fast, speeds, but they are good enough for smooth connections with little to no buffering.
As for streaming, it unblocks Netflix US but may struggle against some tough geo-restrictions. That said, there’s no cause for concern if you’re a Bulgarian resident abroad, as it effortlessly unblocks local platforms. Consequently, you can follow up on your favorite content on your trip.
PIA’s base in a 5 Eyes member nation may raise eyebrows, but the VPN has proven in court that it won’t keep tabs on you. RAM-based servers aside, all its apps are open-source, so you can check to see what’s under the hood. Private Internet Access implements military-grade encryption, a customizable kill switch, DNS leak protection, and other top-notch features.
The VPN’s device allowance is generous — it lets you connect all your devices simultaneously on one subscription. You have up to 30 days to see whether or not the service fits your expectations.
4 Steps to Using the Best VPN for Bulgaria
While VPNs offer impressive technical features, using one doesn’t require a tech degree. Most are designed with user-friendliness in mind, so even beginners can install and use them easily.
Here’s a simple guide to using a VPN in Bulgaria:
- Choose a VPN Provider that works in Bulgaria: We recommend prioritizing a reputable provider with an extensive server network, fast speeds, and the ability to bypass geo-restrictions. Needless to say, rock-solid privacy and security features are crucial.
- Sign Up and Download: Head over to your chosen VPN provider’s official website, choose a subscription plan, and create a new account. Then, download and install the app on your device.
- Launch and Connect: Launch the VPN app and log in with your newly created account credentials.
- Server Selection: If you’re currently in Bulgaria, choose a server location outside the country for optimal performance and content access. However, connecting to a Bulgarian server will grant you access to Bulgarian content if you’re abroad.
How We Chose the Best Bulgarian VPN
Given the saturated VPN market, selecting a provider that fits the bill requires some research. Otherwise, you may be throwing money away or compromising your online safety. These are the factors we considered in order to arrive at the best options for Bulgaria.
- Global Server Network: You need a VPN with an extensive collection of servers to access geo-restricted content or connect to familiar services like your home bank or local news sites while traveling.
- Blazing Speeds: Lag during online gaming or buffering while streaming can be frustrating. The providers on this list deliver top-notch speeds for a smooth and uninterrupted online experience.
- Rock-Solid Security: The sanctity of your identity and data is paramount. We chose VPNs with the highest level of encryption — AES-256 is the industry standard — to safeguard your information from theft and unwanted third-party monitoring. They also come with various helpful security tools.
- Unwavering Data Privacy: We prioritized VPNs with strict no-logs policies that ensure your browsing history and data remain completely private. Other features like DNS/IP leak protection and a kill switch further enhance data security.
- User-Friendly Interface: We picked services that are easy to use across popular devices. The best VPNs offer intuitive apps for desktops, smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, game consoles, and even routers, so you can seamlessly use them on all your gadgets.
- Responsive Customer Support: When technical difficulties arise, your VPN provider’s customer support should be able to assist you quickly and efficiently. Every service on this list has support available 24/7.
- Money-Back Guarantee: Feeling apprehensive about trying a new service? The best Bulgarian VPNs all offer reliable money-back guarantee policies. As a result, you can test a service risk-free to confirm it meets your expectations before fully committing.
Can You Use a Free VPN for Bulgaria?
Free VPNs seem enticing initially, especially if you’re a budget-conscious user in Bulgaria. However, there are significant drawbacks.
To begin with, most free VPNs restrict server access, connection speeds, and data usage. It’s a ploy to get you to upgrade to paid plans and can hinder your ability to access geo-blocked content or enjoy smooth streaming.
Data caps and bandwidth limits are also standard — imagine trying to binge-watch FRIENDS on Netflix with TunnelBear’s 2 GB monthly limit.
But even worse, they may log (and sell) your browsing data and inject intrusive ads to generate revenue. Plus, many free providers have substandard or even obsolete security features and protocols, defeating the purpose of using them in the first place.
The bottom line: you’re much better off using a premium VPN service. Some quality providers, like Surfshark, are relatively affordable.
Conclusion
Bulgaria enjoys online freedom, but it’s always wise to prioritize your privacy and security on the internet regardless. A VPN equips you with an extra layer of security and freedom by shielding your personal information and anonymizing your online activities.
This article makes choosing the best VPN for Bulgaria easy, providing a list of the top options. While they are all quality providers, we recommend NordVPN most of all, thanks to its unrivaled speeds, exceptional unblocking capabilities, and range of advanced security tools.
FAQs
Are VPNs legal in Bulgaria?
Yes, using a VPN in Bulgaria is completely legal, as it is in most other countries. The government respects online freedom and hasn’t initiated any plans to review its stance in the foreseeable future.
That said, it’s important to note that committing criminal activities with a VPN may have legal repercussions.
Which VPN has a Bulgarian IP address?
Every VPN with Bulgarian servers has IP addresses there. This includes all the providers on our list of the best Bulgarian VPNs: NordVPN, ExpressVPN, CyberGhost, Surfshark, and Private Internet Access.
To get a Bulgarian IP address, connect to a VPN server located in the country. You should be able to access local content and services.
Can I use a proxy instead?
We don’t recommend using proxy servers ahead of VPNs. While they may be helpful in a pinch, they are less reliable in terms of safeguarding your traffic and providing access to blocked content.
