10 Best Places To Visit In Bulgaria
Located in Southeast Europe, between the Black Sea and the Balkan Mountains, Bulgaria is a hidden gem established in 681. It offers a unique blend of beach and ski resorts, making it a perfect dual-season destination. You can visit places with rich history, go hiking in the mountains, relax in one of its many thermal spas, enjoy walking on the beach on the Black Sea, or sit in one of its many restaurants, enjoying good food and local wine or rakia.
Living outside Bulgaria made me appreciate the delicious traditional local cuisine – banitza, Shepard Salad, chushki burek, sarmi, kapama, or tarator even more.
In this article, I’ll share some of the best locations in Bulgaria. Bulgaria offers the ultimate balance—the beach or the mountain—and you can have both if you visit Bulgaria within a short distance.
If you are ready to start this wonderful experience, pack your bags and take your camera—Bulgaria awaits you to create wonderful memories there.
Nessebar
Nessebar is a beautiful, historic resort town on Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast. In the past, it was called Messambria. It is a major seaside resort on the Bulgarian Black Sea Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, often called the “Pearl of the Black Sea.”
Here’s why you should visit:
Rich History
Founded over 3,200 years ago, Nessebar boasts influences from the Thracians, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and Bulgarians. Explore the remains of churches, museums, an amphitheater, and old-town architecture.
Charming Atmosphere
Nessebar is a peninsula with a narrow man-made land bridge. The old town features cobbled streets, traditional houses, shops, spectacular terraces, and many cafes and restaurants.
Relaxing Beaches
Nessebar offers beautiful beaches with fine sand and shallow waters, perfect for families. Sunny Beach, the longest beach in Bulgaria, is nearby.
Fun time for the children
Enjoy a day in the local aquapark, where every step is joyful.
Cultural Events:
Every year on August 15th, Nessebar celebrates its Day with concerts, theatrical performances, and a stunning fireworks display.
Day Trips
Take a ferry to Sozopol, another historic town, and enjoy the views of nearby coastal areas.
Sozopol
It is an ancient seaside town located on the southern Bulgarian Black Sea Coast, dating back to the 7th century BC. Today, it’s known for the Apollonia art and film festival.
The town has been influenced by many different cultures over the centuries, including the Romans, Byzantines, Bulgarians, and Ottomans.
Here are some of the reasons why Sozopol is a popular tourist destination:
Charming Old Town
The Old Town of Sozopol is a maze of narrow cobbled streets lined with traditional Bulgarian houses made of wood and whitewashed stone. There are many art galleries, souvenir shops, restaurants, and cafes where you can try Bulgarian cuisine and have spectacular views from the terraces of the restaurants on the coastline.
Rich history
There are many historical sites in the town to explore. Some of the most popular include the Archaeological Museum, the Southern Fortification Wall, and the Church of the Holy Virgin Mary, which is the oldest church in Sozopol, dating back to the 5th century.
Apollonia Art and Film Festival
Sozopol hosts the Apollonia Art and Film Festival every year in early September. It features a variety of art exhibits, film screenings, and live performances.
Fun time for the children
Enjoy a day in the local aquapark, where every step is full of joy. Then, visit the nearby Castle of Ravadinovo, a beautiful park with several thousand exotic plants, deep-water lakes, a wishing fountain, and a magical gazebo.
Day Trips
Take a ferry to Nessebar, another historic town, and enjoy the views of nearby coastal areas.
Beautiful beaches
Sozopol has several beautiful beaches with fine sand and shallow waters.
Belogradchik Rocks
The Belogradchik Rocks are a group of strangely shaped sandstone and conglomerate rock formations located on the western slopes of the Balkan Mountains (Stara Planina), formed 230 million years ago. The rocks vary in color—red to yellow—and some reach up to 200 meters in height. Many of the rocks have fantastic shapes, and each is associated with interesting legends.
Here are some interesting facts about the Belogradchik Rocks:
- The unusual shapes of the rocks result from millions of years of erosion by wind, rain, and extreme temperatures, and they continue to change.
- The rocks are popular for rock climbing, hiking, and camping.
Panoramic Views
From the terrace of the famous restaurant of “Mislen Kamak,” you can observe the endless panorama of crags, rocks, chasms, meadows, and cool valleys with clear streams, and far away in the blue with the calm outline of Stara Planina.
They are a truly unique and awe-inspiring natural wonder.
Rila Mountain
Seven Rila Lakes
The Seven Rila Lakes are a group of glacial lakes located in the northwestern Rila Mountain in Bulgaria. They are the most visited group of lakes in Bulgaria. The highest one is called Salzata (“The Tear”) due to its clear waters, which allow in-depth visibility. They are located stepwise between 2095 and 2535 m above sea level.
Each lake has a unique name that reflects a characteristic feature:
The first three lakes – the Tear, the Eye, and the Kidney – each drain separately into Bliznaka. Okoto
Tourist accommodations in the lakes’ vicinity include the Rila Lakes chalet near Fish Lake, at an elevation of 2,196 m. The most common time to visit the lakes is summer, in July and August.
Sapareva Banya
It is another option for accommodation and not only. You can combine hiking in the mountains, visiting the seven lakes, and relaxing in the evening at the famous Kotvata Mineral Pools & Spa Center. The mineral water has exceptional healing properties. It was highly valued and used as a medicine by the Thracians and Romans. The Geyser Fountain is the symbol of the city. It is the hottest in Europe. Its water temperature is 103 °C. It treats diseases of the musculoskeletal system, the peripheral nervous system, gynecological diseases, skin diseases, and upper respiratory tract diseases. It erupts with great force a few seconds from a depth of 75 m and immediately disperses into small droplets, like fog.
Fun time for the children
Rila National Park Horse Riding Adventure—Beginner riders: Trust a calm horse, which will give you the confidence to experience a unique way to hike in nature and enjoy the view.
Rila Monastery
It is Bulgaria’s largest and most famous Eastern Orthodox monastery, founded in the 10th century. It is situated in the southwestern Rila Mountains. The monastery is a popular pilgrimage site for many Orthodox Christians. The monastery complex, regarded as one of the foremost masterpieces of Bulgarian National Revival architecture, was declared a national historical monument in 1976 and became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.
Varna
Varna is a port city and seaside resort on Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast, next to the coastal resorts of Golden Sands, St. Konstantin and Albena.
Here’s a summary of what Varna has to offer:
Rich history
The city was first settled in 575 BC and is famous for the “Gold of Varna,” 6,000-year-old Thracian jewelry discovered in a necropolis. It is displayed inside the Archaeological Museum, along with Greek, Roman, and Ottoman artifacts.
Beautiful beaches
It is a popular seaside resort with beautiful beaches, a bar-lined waterfront promenade, and the famous Fichoza Beach, known for its water sports.
Thermal Springs and Mud Treatments
Varna is Bulgaria’s largest seaside spa center.
It boasts 12 natural springs with varying temperatures (28°C to 52°C) and mineral content.
Fun Time for children
There is a large seaside park with various attractions, including a zoo, a planetarium, an aquarium, and a Dolphinarium.
Kazanlak
It is located at the foot of the Balkan mountain range, at the eastern end of the Rose Valley. The town is known for its Thracian tombs and production of rose oil. Here’s a summary of what Kazanlak has to offer:
Thracian Tombs
The tomb is part of a large royal Thracian necropolis in the Valley of the Thracian Rulers near their ancient capital of Seuthopolis in a region where more than a thousand tombs of royalty and members of the Thracian aristocracy can be found. The monument dates back to the fourth century BC. It has been on the UNESCO-protected World Heritage Site list since 1979. The paintings in this small tomb are Bulgaria’s best-preserved artistic masterpieces from the Hellenistic period. The dome mural shows a seated couple grasping each other’s wrists as others approach in a procession with trays and various items. The Tomb of Kazanlak is a must-see for its well-preserved frescoes.
The tomb is not open to the public to preserve the delicate paintings. However, a full-size and exact replica was built nearby for public access.
Rose Valley
Kazanlak is located in the Rose Valley, a region famous for its rose oil production.
It is considered that the first roses in Bulgarian lands were brought to Thrace by Alexander the Great’s returning soldiers. Written sources date back to the 1st century A.C.
Each year in June, the Rose Festival is held in Kazanlak to celebrate the rose harvest.
The Rose Valley of Kazanlak spreads for 10-12 kilometers with an area of 1895 square kilometers.
The valley is famous for its rose-growing industry, cultivated for centuries and producing nearly half (1.7 tonnes) of the world’s rose oil. The picking season starts from May to June. During this period, the area gives off a pleasant scent in the valley and is covered with multi-colored flowers.
Unique experience
- Rose Festival—it is during the first week of June. It includes Rose-picking rituals, a Rose Festival Parade (Carnaval), and a Rose Coronation.
- Picking Roses Workshop & Extracting Rose Oil in the Rose Valley – One of Bulgaria’s most authentic, old, and most respected customs and crafts – picking roses and producing rose oil!
- Wine tours and wine tastings -The soil and climatic conditions in the Rose Valley are ideal for the cultivation of high-quality grapes. The grapes grown in this region are primarily white grapes. A grape to highlight in this region is the Red Misket. Despite the name, this is a white grape varietal with pink skin. Another representative of a local variety in the Rose Valley wine region is Pamid – an old grape variety cultivated in Bulgaria since Thracian times that used to be the most widespread Bulgarian variety in the past.
Veliko Tarnovo
Veliko Tarnovo (Great Tarnovo) is a city in north-central Bulgaria. It is often referred to as the “City of the Tsars” and was the capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire. The old part of the town is situated on three hills: Tsarevets, Trapezitsa, and Sveta Gora.
Here are some reasons why Veliko Tarnovo is a popular tourist destination:
Rich History
Veliko Tarnovo is one of the oldest settlements in Bulgaria, with a history of more than five millennia. The first traces of human presence, dating from the 3rd millennium BC, were discovered on Trapezitsa Hill.
Tsarevets Fortress
It was the political and religious center of the Second Bulgarian Empire. The fortress is located on a hilltop overlooking the city and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. On Tsarevets are the palaces of the Bulgarian emperors and the Patriarchate, the Patriarchal Cathedral, and also several administrative and residential edifices surrounded by thick walls.
Baldwin’s Tower
It is a defensive tower located in the Bulgarian town of Veliko Tarnovo, southeast of the Tsarevets Fortress. Latin Emperor Baldwin I died there after Tsar Kaloyan of the Second Bulgarian Empire captured him, so the modern tower is named Baldwin’s Tower.
Monument Asenevtsi
Built in 1985, the sword pointing upwards symbolizes the power of Medieval Bulgaria. The monument of impressive dimensions is located in the picturesque place next to the Stambolovi Bridge, at the foot of Sveta Gora, by the Yantra River.
Tsarevgrad Turnov – Sound and Light show
Dramatic music, multicolor lights, lasers, and chiming bells are synchronized in a unique way to depict Bulgaria’s tumultuous history. Created in 1985 by a Czech-Bulgarian team, the show operates all year round and can be watched for free on public holidays or may be booked for a fee. An observation hall with a panoramic terrace is located behind the Cathedral Church “Rozhdestvo Bogorodichno.”
Garga Bair
The Cradle of Love -it is located at the exit of Veliko Tarnovo, in the direction of Arbanasi. It offers beautiful panoramic views of the old capital, the Stara Planina, and the meanders of the Yantra River
Arbanasi
It is 10 kilometers from Veliko Tarnovo. Enjoy local cruising in one of the many restaurants there overlooking Tsarevets and Trapezitsa hills. Arbanasi is one of the most picturesque old settlements in the country from the 16th-17th centuries; over time, they managed to preserve 144 houses, 5 churches, and 2 monasteries. One of the attractions in Arbanasi is the Kaloyan Fortress, which is a medieval castle with battlements and towers.
Balchik
Balchik is a Black Sea coastal town and seaside resort in the Southern Dobruja area of northeastern Bulgaria. It is known for the Palace of Balchik, a beautiful seaside palace built by a Romanian queen.
Here’s a quick rundown of what Balchik has to offer:
The Palace of Balchik
Also known as the Queen Maria Complex. Queen Marie of Romania built this summer palace between 1926 and 1937. The palace complex includes several villas, a beautiful botanical garden, and a variety of architectural styles, including Romanian, Bulgarian, and Oriental influences.
The Lighthouse
The Balchik Lighthouse is a beautiful landmark that offers stunning views of the Black Sea.
Thermal Springs and Mud Treatments
Balchik in Bulgaria offers resorts with access to thermal waters known for their slightly mineralized content and potential health benefits. The resorts offer mud treatments.
Plovdiv
Here is what Plovdiv can offer:
Vibrant culture
Plovdiv is a cultural hub in Bulgaria and was the European Capital of Culture in 2019. It offers a vibrant arts scene, historical landmarks, and traditional old houses. It is situated on seven syenite hills, some of which are 250 meters (820 feet) high.
Historical landmarks:
Roman theater of Philippopolis
It is one of the world’s best-preserved ancient Roman theaters. Located in the city center of modern Plovdiv, Bulgaria, it was constructed in the 1st century AD, probably during the reign of Domitian. The theater can host between 5,000 and 7,000 spectators and is currently in use.
Ancient stadium
The Roman Emperor Hadrian built it in the 2nd century. Today, a small part of the northern section with 14 seat rows can be seen. The larger part lies under the main street and several buildings.
The Roman forum
Dates from the reign of Vespasian in the 1st century and was finished in the 2nd century. It has an area of 11 hectares and is surrounded by shops and public buildings. The forum was a focal point of the streets of the ancient city.
Charming Old Town
The Old Town of Plovdiv is a maze of narrow cobbled streets lined with traditional Bulgarian houses made of wood and whitewashed stone. Explore restaurants and cafes where you can try Bulgarian cuisine and enjoy the views from the terraces.
Festivals
Plovdiv hosts various festivals throughout the year, including the International Plovdiv Fair (a major trade fair) and the Apollonia Art and Film Festival in early September.
Sofia
As Bulgaria’s capital and largest city, Sofia is a vibrant hub located at the foot of Vitosha Mountain. With over 2,000 years of history, it offers a mix of ancient and modern attractions. Key landmarks include the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, one of the largest Eastern Orthodox cathedrals globally, and the 4th-century St. George Rotunda, the city’s oldest building. The National Archaeological Museum displays artifacts from Bulgaria’s rich past.
Cultural highlights include the Ivan Vazov National Theater, Sofia Opera and Ballet, and the annual Sofia International Film Festival. Green spaces like Borisova Gradina and Vitosha Nature Park provide opportunities for hiking and skiing. Vitosha Boulevard showcases the city’s vibrant life with its shops, cafes, and restaurants. Sofia’s unique blend of history, culture, and modernity makes it a must-visit destination.
Here is a detailed exploration of Bulgaria’s capital, Sofia.
Final Thoughts
Bulgaria is a country of stunning diversity, where ancient history meets vibrant modernity. Bulgaria offers something for every traveler, from the picturesque Black Sea coast to the majestic mountains and historic cities. Whether you’re exploring the cultural richness of Sofia, the natural wonders of Rila Mountain, or the charming streets of Plovdiv and Nesebar, you’ll be captivated by the country’s unique blend of tradition and innovation. With its warm hospitality and myriad attractions, Bulgaria is a destination that promises unforgettable experiences and lasting memories.