Sofia - Post Report Question and Answers
Is this a good city for LGBT expatriates? Why or why not?
It's complicated. Bulgaria isn't like some countries where it is very dangerous for LGBTQ folks but it is a place I'd be more careful about disclosing. There are pockets of safe spaces like The Steps which is a community space that turns into a gay club on the weekends. There is a lesbian bar here, and an underground drag scene with drag bingo but generally I think the tides are changing. Bulgarians are becoming more accepting but safety is important and it's important to watch out for. They do have Pride yearly and the crowd size seems to get bigger and bigger each year which gives me hope but again, be careful. - Jun 2023
This city isn’t the best for anyone who considers themselves LGBT. While you can probably get around undetected, there have been previous physical attacks on the LGBT community. - Mar 2019
Never heard of any problems and I know several openly gay people here. - Dec 2014
I think it is. - Aug 2014
Most people here are hostile towards gays. Bulgaria is still a conservative society overall. In the time I've been here I've never seen a gay couple walking in the streets or in the malls. - Jun 2011
Yes, I would think so. - Oct 2009
Bulgarians tend to view gays with suspicion but the overall climate is tolerant. One of the main chalga stars is a Gay Roma known as Asis. - Feb 2008
