Bulgaria

Bulgaria: general info for travelers

Bulgaria is a country located in southeastern Europe, known for its rich history, diverse culture, and beautiful nature. It has a population of around 7 million people and its capital and largest city is Sofia. Bulgaria shares borders with Romania, Serbia, North Macedonia, Greece, and Turkey. Some of the top tourist attractions in Bulgaria include its ancient Roman ruins, such as the Amphitheatre in Plovdiv, the Rila Monastery, the beaches of the Black Sea coast, and the stunning natural beauty of the Balkan Mountains. The country is also famous for its delicious cuisine that includes traditional dishes such as banitsa, kebabche, and kyufte. Bulgaria has a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. The official language is Bulgarian and the currency is the Bulgarian lev.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Bulgaria, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Bulgaria: places to visit

Sure, here are some of the top places to visit in Bulgaria along with a brief description: 1. Sofia - The capital city of Bulgaria, Sofia has something for everyone. From historic landmarks like the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and the National Palace of Culture, to modern shopping centers and restaurants, Sofia offers a unique blend of both old and new.
2. Bansko - Located in the Pirin Mountains, Bansko is both a popular ski resort and a charming old town. Visitors can hit the slopes during the winter months, or explore the winding cobblestone streets and historic buildings during the warmer seasons.
3. Plovdiv - Known as the "City of the Seven Hills," Plovdiv is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe. Visitors can explore the ancient Roman amphitheater, stroll through the colorful Old Town, or take in the views from the hilltop Nebet Tepe fortress.
4. Veliko Tarnovo - This picturesque town is often called the "City of Tsars" due to its rich history as the former capital of the Bulgarian Empire. Must-see sights include the medieval fortress of Tsarevets, the historic Samovodska Charshiya street, and the stunning Buzludzha Monument.
5. Rila Monastery - This magnificent 10th-century Orthodox monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Bulgaria's national identity. Visitors can admire the intricate frescoes, marvel at the towering mountain scenery, and learn about the fascinating history of Bulgarian spirituality.
6. Sunny Beach - Bulgaria's most famous beach resort, Sunny Beach boasts miles of fine white sand and clear turquoise water. Visitors can sunbathe, swim, and enjoy water sports during the day, or party the night away at the many clubs and bars lining the beach.
These are just a few of the many amazing places to visit in Bulgaria. Whether you're seeking history, culture, nature, or relaxation, Bulgaria has something for everyone.
There is more to see and do in Bulgaria: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Bulgaria: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Bulgaria, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Bulgaria has a temperate continental climate with four distinct seasons. The weather can vary greatly depending on the time of year and region you plan to visit. In the summer months of June to August, temperatures in Bulgaria can range from 25°C-35°C (77°F-95°F) with plenty of sunshine and occasional afternoon rain showers. This is the peak tourist season, with many visitors hitting the beaches along the Black Sea coast.
Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) offer milder temperatures with cooler evenings, and are a great time to explore the countryside and take part in outdoor activities. Expect temperatures between 10°C-25°C (50°F-77°F) during these months.
Winters are cold and snowy with temperatures ranging from -10°C to 5°C (14°F-41°F) in the lowlands and even lower in the mountainous regions. This is the best time to hit the ski slopes and enjoy winter sports.
Overall, the best time to visit Bulgaria is during the summer months of June to August if you want to enjoy the beaches and warm weather. However, spring and autumn can be great times for outdoor activities and exploring the countryside, while the winter months are perfect for skiing.

Bulgaria: activities and what to do

Bulgaria has a variety of activities and sports to offer for travelers on holiday. Here are some popular options: 1. Hiking: Bulgaria has stunning natural landscapes with mountain ranges to explore. The Rila and Pirin mountains offer picturesque hikes for all levels of fitness.
2. Skiing and Snowboarding: Bulgaria has become a well-known destination for skiers and snowboarders with top-class ski resorts like Bansko, Borovets, and Pamporovo.
3. Beach Activities: Bulgaria has a long stretch of Black Sea Coast with beautiful beaches that offer activities like water sports, boat rides, and even parasailing.
4. Cycling: The Bulgarian landscape is also perfect for cycling, with many picturesque bike trails both on the mountains and along the coastline.
5. Adventure Sports: For thrill-seeking travelers, Bulgaria offers activities such as rafting, bungee jumping, and zip-lining.
6. Golf: There are several world-class golf courses in Bulgaria, such as BlackSeaRama, Thracian Cliffs, and Lighthouse Golf Resort, which are perfect for golf enthusiasts.
These are just a few options that Bulgaria has to offer. No matter what your interests are, you can find plenty of activities and sports to enjoy on your holiday.

Bulgaria: few words on history and culture

Bulgaria has a rich history and culture spanning over many centuries. It has been inhabited since prehistoric times, and was later part of the Byzantine Empire and the Ottoman Empire. In 1878, Bulgaria gained its independence from Ottoman rule and became a kingdom.
Bulgarian culture is influenced by its position at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. It has a unique mix of Slavic, Greek, Ottoman, and other influences. Bulgarian music, dance, and art are distinctive and often feature traditional instruments like the kaval and gadulka.
Bulgarian cuisine is known for its hearty dishes such as banitsa, a savory pastry, and kebapche, a type of sausage. Bulgarian wine is also gaining recognition for its quality.
Historical landmarks in Bulgaria include ancient ruins such as the Roman amphitheater in Plovdiv and the Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak, as well as medieval fortresses like Tsarevets in Veliko Tarnovo and the Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Bulgaria: how to move around on holiday

There are several options to reach and visit Bulgaria: 1. By Plane: The easiest way to reach Bulgaria is by plane. Bulgaria has three major airports: Sofia International Airport, Varna International Airport, and Burgas Airport. Many international airlines operate flights to these airports.
2. By Bus: Bulgaria has good bus connections with many nearby countries such as Romania, Serbia, Turkey, and Greece.
3. By Train: Bulgaria has train connections with several European countries such as Romania, Greece, Serbia, Turkey, and Hungary.
4. By Car: You can also enter Bulgaria by car from neighboring countries. The roads in Bulgaria are generally in good condition.
Once you are in Bulgaria, you can use buses, trams, metros, and taxis to get around the cities. If you want to explore the countryside, you can rent a car or use the train network. To hire a car to visit Bulgaria, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Bulgaria: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Bulgaria with a full stomach:D
Bulgarian cuisine is a diverse and delicious combination of Balkan, Mediterranean, and Eastern European culinary influences. Here are some of the main typical foods of Bulgaria: 1. Banitsa - Banitsa is a savory pastry made from filo dough and filled with eggs, feta or sirene cheese, and often spinach or leeks. It is a popular breakfast dish and can be found in bakeries and restaurants.
2. Kebapche - Kebapche is a type of grilled sausage made from minced pork meat, onions and spices, often served with fries, a side salad and a traditional Bulgarian drink, like ayran or boza.
3. Shopska salad - This popular Bulgarian salad is made with chopped tomatoes, cucumber, onion, green peppers, and topped with freshly grated sirene cheese. It is usually seasoned with a mixture of oil, vinegar, and salt.
4. Tarator - Tarator is a chilled soup made from yogurt, cucumbers, garlic, dill, and walnuts. It is a refreshing summer dish, often served as an appetizer.
5. Lyutenitsa - Lyutenitsa is a thick tomato and red pepper relish, usually made in the autumn with ripe vegetables from the garden. It is delicious on bread, toast, or as a condiment for grilled meat.
6. Mekitsi - Mekitsi are deep-fried dough balls typically served for breakfast with Bulgarian yogurt and honey. They can also be enjoyed with savory toppings like cheese or ham.
7. Bulgarian yogurt - Bulgarian yogurt is a thick and creamy yogurt made from Lactobacillus bulgaricus, a unique strain of bacteria found only in Bulgaria. It is rich in protein, calcium, and probiotics and is often eaten for breakfast or as a snack.
These are just a few of the most typical Bulgarian foods, but there are many more delicious dishes to try in Bulgaria.

Bulgaria: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Bulgaria is relatively affordable for tourists. Prices for accommodation, food, and activities are lower compared to many other destinations in Europe. However, the cost of traveling in Bulgaria can vary depending on your preferred travel style and the areas you plan to visit. Generally speaking, popular tourist destinations and cities tend to be more expensive than less visited places. But overall, Bulgaria is considered a budget-friendly travel destination.

Bulgaria: where to find accodation

There are many websites where you can find and book accommodations in Bulgaria. Some of the popular options include: 1. Booking.com: This is one of the largest booking platforms, with a wide range of options available in Bulgaria.
2. Airbnb: This platform connects travelers with locals who offer private accommodation options in Bulgaria.
3. Hotels.com: This site offers a large selection of hotels, resorts, and apartments in Bulgaria.
4. Expedia: This site offers discounted accommodations in Bulgaria, as well as flight and hotel packages.
5. Hostelworld: This site is specifically for finding budget-friendly hostels in Bulgaria.
It's also worth checking the websites of individual hotels and resorts for deals and promotions.
You can check hotel prices in Bulgaria here:
Booking.com

Bulgaria: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
According to the Bulgarian National Statistical Institute, Bulgaria received around 9.3 million tourists in 2019. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of tourists in 2020 was significantly lower than usual.
Traditionally, the peak season in Bulgaria is during the summer months (June to August), when the beaches and seaside resorts are very crowded and popular. Winter sports destinations also attract a considerable number of tourists, with higher numbers during the Christmas and New Year holidays. Other than these periods, Bulgaria's tourist destinations are usually less crowded, making it a perfect place for travelers looking for quieter vacations.
Overall, Bulgaria is a relatively safe country for tourists. However, like any country, there are a few places that are best avoided, especially at night or if you are alone. Places such as deserted alleys, parks, or neighborhoods with high crime rates may pose a threat to tourists. It is also advisable to be cautious in crowded areas such as markets or tourist spots where pickpocketing and theft can occur. Additionally, it is essential to be aware of scams, especially in tourist areas. Overall, while Bulgaria is generally a safe country, it is essential to exercise caution, stay aware of your surroundings, and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety while traveling.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Bulgaria on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Bulgaria: events for tourists

Bulgaria has a rich cultural and historical heritage, with many interesting events taking place throughout the year. Here are some of the most popular events for tourists in Bulgaria: 1. Kukeri Festival - This is a traditional Bulgarian festival that takes place in various regions of the country. It features elaborately decorated costumes and masks worn by participants, who dance and perform rituals to scare away evil spirits.
2. Rose Festival - Held annually in the town of Kazanlak, this festival celebrates the blooming of the roses in the famous Bulgarian Valley of the Roses. Visitors can enjoy traditional dance performances, concerts, and sample Bulgarian rose products.
3. Varna International Ballet Competition - The Varna International Ballet Competition is one of the most prestigious dance competitions in the world, attracting top dancers from all over the globe. It takes place every other year in the city of Varna.
4. Sofia International Film Festival - This annual film festival features movies from all over the world and attracts filmmakers, industry professionals, and cinephiles from around the globe.
5. Sand Festivals - Bulgaria is known for its sandy beaches and each summer, several cities organize sand festivals where artists create giant sand sculptures that are breathtaking to see.
These are just a few examples of the many interesting events for tourists in Bulgaria.

Bulgaria: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Bulgaria, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Here's a sample two week itinerary for a tourist in Bulgaria: Day 1-3: Sofia - Explore the capital city of Sofia, including the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the National Palace of Culture, and the Vitosha Boulevard for shopping and dining.
Day 4-5: Plovdiv - Visit the charming city of Plovdiv, known for its well-preserved Old Town and Roman ruins.
Day 6-7: Koprivshtitsa - Explore the historic town of Koprivshtitsa, which is famous for its traditional Bulgarian architecture and folklore.
Day 8-9: Veliko Tarnovo - Visit the picturesque town of Veliko Tarnovo, known for its medieval fortress and scenic hillside setting.
Day 10-11: Kazanlak and the Valley of the Roses - Discover the beautiful Valley of the Roses, where Bulgaria's famous rose oil is produced, and visit the Thracian tomb at Kazanlak.
Day 12-13: Rila Monastery and Seven Rila Lakes - Explore the stunning Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and hike in the surrounding Seven Rila Lakes.
Day 14: Black Sea Coast - End your trip with some relaxation on the beaches of Bulgaria's Black Sea coast, such as in Varna or Sunny Beach. Of course, there are many other destinations and sights that could be included in a two week trip to Bulgaria, depending on your interests and preferences. Enjoy your travels!

Bulgaria: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Bulgaria described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Arbanasi is a small picturesque village located near Veliko Tarnovo, in north central Bulgaria. The village is known for its preserved heritage of Bulgarian Revival architecture, with many houses buil... CONTINUE here for a trip to Arbanasi
- Asenovgrad is a town located in Southern Bulgaria, in the foothills of the Rhodope Mountains. It is known for its rich history and cultural heritage, which includes ancient Roman ruins, medieval fortr... CONTINUE here for a trip to Asenovgrad
- Balchik is a small seaside town located on the northern coast of Bulgaria, in the Dobrich province. It has a population of around 12,000 people and is known for its historical and natural attractions.... CONTINUE here for a trip to Balchik
- Bansko is a small town located in southwestern Bulgaria, nestled in the Pirin Mountains. It's known for its beautiful landscape, rich cultural heritage, and thriving winter tourism industry. The town ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bansko
- Belene is a town in northern Bulgaria, located on the right bank of the Danube River. It is part of the Pleven Province and is situated about 50 km north of the city of Pleven. Belene has a rich histo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Belene
- Belogradchik is a town in northern Bulgaria, located in the historic region of Vidin. The town is famous for its unique rock formations, known as the Belogradchik Rocks, which are a series of red sand... CONTINUE here for a trip to Belogradchik
- Blagoevgrad is a city located in southwestern Bulgaria, near the borders with Greece and North Macedonia. It is the administrative center of Blagoevgrad Province and is situated in the Pirin Mountains... CONTINUE here for a trip to Blagoevgrad
- Burgas is a popular tourist destination located on the Black Sea coast of Bulgaria. It is the fourth-largest city in the country and has a population of around 200,000 people. The city is known for it... CONTINUE here for a trip to Burgas
- Devin is a small town nestled in the Rhodope Mountains of Bulgaria. It is known for its mineral springs, which make it a popular destination for spa and wellness tourism. Devin is also surrounded by b... CONTINUE here for a trip to Devin
- Dobrich is a town in northeastern Bulgaria, located approximately 30 kilometers west of the Bulgarian Black Sea coast. It is the administrative center of the Dobrich region and is the eighth most popu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Dobrich
- Elena is a town located in the central part of Bulgaria, about 40 km southeast of Veliko Tarnovo. It is situated in the picturesque valley of the Elena River, at the foot of the Balkan Mountains. Know... CONTINUE here for a trip to Elena
- Gabrovo is a town located in central Bulgaria, at the foot of the Balkan Mountains. It is known as the "Bulgarian humour capital" and is famous for its sense of humor, satire and wit. Gabrovo is also ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Gabrovo
- Golden Sands is a popular seaside resort located in northeastern Bulgaria, just 17 km away from Varna, the third largest city in the country. The area is known for its beautiful sandy beaches, crystal... CONTINUE here for a trip to Golden Sands
- Kardzhali is a city in southern Bulgaria, located in the eastern part of the Rhodope Mountains. It is situated on the banks of the Kardzhali Reservoir, which was built on the Arda River. Kardzhali has... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kardzhali
- Karlovo is a town located in central Bulgaria, in the valley of the river Stryama. It is situated at the foot of the Balkan Mountains and is known for its beautiful scenery, mild climate, and rich cul... CONTINUE here for a trip to Karlovo
- Kavarna is a small town located in northeastern Bulgaria, on the Black Sea coast. It is situated about 64 kilometers northeast of Varna (Bulgaria's third-largest city), and has a population of around ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kavarna
- Kazanlak is a town in central Bulgaria, located in the Valley of Roses, famous for its rose oil production. It is the capital of the Kazanlak Municipality and one of the prominent towns of the histori... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kazanlak
- Koprivshtitsa is a historic town in Bulgaria, located in the Sredna Gora mountain range. It is known for its large number of preserved 19th-century houses and as the birthplace of many prominent figur... CONTINUE here for a trip to Koprivshtitsa
- Kyustendil is a town located in southwestern Bulgaria, situated in the picturesque valley of the same name. It is renowned for its mineral springs and the healing properties of its spa waters, which m... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kyustendil
- Lovech is a small city located in Northern Bulgaria, about 150 km northeast of the capital city of Sofia. It is situated on the banks of the Osam River and is known for its picturesque scenery, histor... CONTINUE here for a trip to Lovech
- Melnik is a small town located in southwestern Bulgaria, near the Greek border. It is situated in the picturesque Sandanski municipality, within the Blagoevgrad province. Melnik is famous for its uniq... CONTINUE here for a trip to Melnik
- Montana is a town in northwestern Bulgaria, located in the valley of the Ogosta River. It is the administrative center of the Montana province and has a population of around 47,000 people. The town is... CONTINUE here for a trip to Montana
- Nessebar is a historic town located on the Black Sea coast of Bulgaria. It is situated on a small peninsula and is known for its beautiful beaches, ancient ruins, and well-preserved old town. Nessebar... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nessebar
- Pamporovo is a popular ski resort located in the Rhodope Mountains in Bulgaria. It is known for its beautiful scenery, varied terrain, and excellent skiing conditions. The resort has a long ski season... CONTINUE here for a trip to Pamporovo
- Pernik is a city located in western Bulgaria, about 25 kilometers southwest of the capital city of Sofia. It is the administrative center of Pernik Province and is known for its rich mining history, p... CONTINUE here for a trip to Pernik
- Petrich is a town in the southwestern part of Bulgaria known for its thermal mineral springs and historical landmarks. It is located in the Blagoevgrad Province and is situated near the borders of Gre... CONTINUE here for a trip to Petrich
- Sure, here's some general information about Plovdiv:... CONTINUE here for a trip to Plovdiv
- Pravets is a town located in the northwest part of Bulgaria, about 60 km away from the capital city, Sofia. It is situated at the foot of the Balkan Mountains, which provide a stunning backdrop to the... CONTINUE here for a trip to Pravets
- Primorsko is a beautiful seaside town located in the southeastern part of Bulgaria, on the Black Sea coast. It is known for its picturesque scenery, long sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and well-... CONTINUE here for a trip to Primorsko
- Razlog is a small town located in southwestern Bulgaria, at the foothills of the Pirin Mountains. It's a popular tourist destination due to its proximity to various ski resorts and hiking trails. The ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Razlog
- Rila Monastery is a medieval Eastern Orthodox monastery located in the southwestern Rila Mountains, Bulgaria. It was founded in the 10th century by the hermit Ivan Rilski, and it has since developed i... CONTINUE here for a trip to Rila Monastery
- Ruse is a picturesque city located in northeastern Bulgaria, near the border with Romania. It is situated on the southern bank of the Danube River and is the fifth largest city in the country. Ruse is... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ruse
- Samokov is a picturesque town located in western Bulgaria, near the capital city of Sofia. The town is situated in the Rila Mountain range and is surrounded by beautiful forests, rivers, and lakes. Sa... CONTINUE here for a trip to Samokov
- Sandanski is a town located in the southwestern part of Bulgaria, close to the Greek border. It is famous for its mineral springs and the warm climate, making it a popular destination for spa and well... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sandanski
- Shumen is a city located in northeastern Bulgaria, situated in the foothills of the Balkan Mountains. It is the ninth-largest city in Bulgaria with a population of around 80,000 people. Shumen has a r... CONTINUE here for a trip to Shumen
- Sliven is a city located in the eastern part of Bulgaria. It is the eighth-largest city in the country with a population of around 85,000 people. The city is situated at the foot of the eastern Balkan... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sliven
- Smolyan is a town in the southern part of Bulgaria, situated in the Rhodope Mountains. It is the administrative center of the Smolyan Province and has a population of around 30,000 people. The town is... CONTINUE here for a trip to Smolyan
- Sofia is the capital and largest city of Bulgaria. It is located in the western part of the country, at the foot of the Vitosha mountain. With a population of over 1.2 million people, it is also the c... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sofia
- Sozopol is a charming coastal town located on the Black Sea coast of Bulgaria. It is known for its picturesque old town, quaint cobblestone streets, and beautiful beaches. Sozopol is one of the oldest... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sozopol
- Stara Zagora is a city in central Bulgaria, located in the southern part of the historic region of Thrace. It is the fifth largest city in the country with a population of around 140,000 people. The c... CONTINUE here for a trip to Stara Zagora
- Sveti Vlas is a seaside resort town located on the Black Sea coast of Bulgaria, just north of Sunny Beach. It is a popular vacation destination known for its pristine beaches, clear waters, and beauti... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sveti Vlas
- Tryavna is a small town in central Bulgaria, located in the Balkan Mountains. It is known for its well-preserved 19th-century architecture, traditional crafts, and beautiful natural surroundings. The ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tryavna
- Varna is a city located on the Black Sea coast of Bulgaria. It is the third-largest city in the country with a population of approximately 350,000 people. Varna is a cultural, historical, and economic... CONTINUE here for a trip to Varna
- Veliko Tarnovo is a popular tourist destination located in central Bulgaria. It is known for its beautiful hilltop setting and stunning historic architecture. The city is surrounded by lush green hill... CONTINUE here for a trip to Veliko Tarnovo
- Veliko Turnovo is a city located in central Bulgaria, known for being the old capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire. It is situated on the Yantra River and is surrounded by hills, which provide stunn... CONTINUE here for a trip to Veliko Turnovo
- Vidin is a city in northwestern Bulgaria, located near the Danube River, just across from Romania. It is the administrative center of the Vidin Province and has a population of around 50,000 people. T... CONTINUE here for a trip to Vidin


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