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10 Best Places to Visit in Bulgaria

By Mike Kaplan · Last updated on March 4, 2024

The small Balkan country of Bulgaria, is one of Eastern Europe’s diamonds in the rough. It is home to iconic mountain ranges: The Balkan, Rila, Pirin, and Rhodope mountains which make a perfect backdrop for Bulgaria’s traditional towns.

These towns are rich in cultural heritage, and the mountain ranges are a naturalist, and hiker’s paradise. While along the Black Sea Coast pristine sandy beaches flank the country, and cosmopolitan seaside resorts entertain foreign and domestic tourists.

However, history is woven into the fiber of Bulgaria. It has been occupied for millenniums, and the countless ruins, ancient churches, and imposing fortresses that remain throughout the country, are a constant reminder of Bulgaria’s unique narrative. From the ancient Romans, to the Ottoman Empire, to the democratic state it is today. Here’s a look at the best places to visit in Bulgaria:

Burgas is a beautiful seaside town flanked by the sea and several lakes. Unlike its neighboring seaside towns, Burgas did not start to really actively develop until the 20th century. It was then that it was discovered that the bay was a great protector for trade industries and the navy. As such, there is a large industrial center in the heart of the city.

However, the main promenade along the coast is very well kept, and the beaches remain quiet. There are number of reasonably good restaurants, and accommodation in this same area, and days away from the sea can be spent exploring the lakes.

9. Koprivshtitsa

This peaceful town of colorful houses, traditional Bulgarian architecture, and folk festivals is steeped in rich history and was once the heart of the fierce April uprisings against the Ottoman Empire.

The origin of the town is ultimately unknown, however there are many legends surrounding it. It can be confirmed that it was destroyed by fire many times, before it became the romantic hideaway it is today. The town’s rich history has not been forgotten, as there are over 350 historic, architectural, ethnographic, and artistic monuments dotted throughout it.

The most memorable attractions in Koprivshtitsa are Oslekov House, the former home of a wealthy merchant built in 1856, and Topalova House, built and lived in by a prominent tax collector in 1854. Both showcase items unique to the time period of the homes, and demonstrate what life would have looked like in the 1900’s. Otherwise, the picturesque town is tucked between mountains ranges of lush green.

The charming seaside town of Sozopol is Bulgaria’s oldest town. It was established in 610 BC by the Greeks, where it became a center for the arts and a place of salvation. Today, there is still archeological evidence of their time spent in Sozopol.

However, over the years other empires and rulers came to occupy the land. As such there are remains of a medieval Christian complex, and ancient walls, and fortresses lining the peninsula.

These days most people visit the area for the gorgeous seaside resorts that dominate the coastline, fabulous beaches, and romantic cobblestoned streets. The town regularly hosts cultural events, and has great dining and nightlife options. For those that prefer something more exciting than sunbathing, a variety of sports are on-offer at the beaches during the day. These include surfing, jet-skiing, sailing, wakeboarding, and volleyball.

7. Veliko Tarnovo

This small city in central Bulgaria is most well-known as the home of Tsarevets Fortress. Since, it was once the home to the Tsars, the city is sometimes dubbed the “City of Tsars”. The Fort is enclosed by 1000 meters (3000 feet) of stone walls. Many areas of the wall offer 360-degree views of the surrounding picturesque hills, and the charming city below.

The old part of the city was built on hills so it offers rolling cobblestone streets, traditional homes, and ancient churches. Close-by is the famous Monastery of the Holy Transfiguration of God, which features beautiful architecture, and breathtaking works of art from antiquity.

Centuries ago the city boasted over 30 monasteries but this one remains the best remaining example. Meanwhile, the new part of the city has become an integral economic, and administrative center for Northern Bulgaria. It has modern dining, and accommodation options.

The town of Bansko is renowned as Bulgaria’s number one skiing mecca. The town of Bankso, in Southern Bulgaria, is nestled at the foot of the Pirin Mountains whose peak reaches 2914 meters. It is conveniently located only 160kms from the capital of Sofia.

Bansko Ski Resort is also credited with having the longest ski season in Bulgaria. It regularly competes with resorts in France, and Switzerland for its high-quality skiing, at lower than Alps prices. The resort, and town itself has countless après-ski restaurants, and nightlife options, and there are world-class spas to indulge in when visitors are not hitting the slopes.

Each year the town holds the annual Bansko Jazz Festival, which draws international attendees and famous Bulgarian performers.

Varna is Bulgaria’s third largest city, and its most sophisticated seaside city. Like Bulgaria’s other coastal towns, Varna is also steeped in history. The Varna Archaeological Museum has impressive gold exhibits featuring the world’s oldest gold, which was sourced from the area. Otherwise, the Roman Baths are an impressive attraction, which are the largest in Bulgaria.

Other striking landmarks, dotted around the city give life to Varnas long history. These include the Baroque Opera House and the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin. There are three main beaches which are frequented in the area. These offer all the joys of beach living, such as seaside restaurants and bars, adventure sports, and loungers.

Shopping, accommodation, and spa treatments are world class in the area, and English is widely spoken outside of the local language.

Nesebar is known for its beautiful ruins, and superb beaches. The ancient part of the town is situated on a island connected to the mainland by a narrow man-made causeway, and it bears evidence of occupation by a variety of different civilizations over the course of its existence.

The many churches that remain are mostly in ruins, but still a joy to explore. The most famous churches within the city include St.Stefan Church which dates back to the 11th century and The Church of Christ Pantocrator, which was created in the 13th century. The last being a great example of medieval architecture, as it is very well preserved.

History aside, visitors frequent the area for its beaches along the Black Sea Coast. It is often called, “The Pearl of the Black Sea”. As such, it is a popular seaside resort destination. It’s most impressive beach is Sunny Beach, but can get quite crowded in the high season.

3. Rila Monastery

Tucked in the Rila Mountains, Rila Monastery is simply stunning. It was initially founded in the 10th century by St. John of Rila, a hermit. Hundreds of pilgrims, and tourists come to the visit the site every year, and for centuries it has been a site of extreme spiritual significance.

The monastery even holds a few secrets of its own. It is said that revolutionary leaders took refuge here at times including the infamous Vassil Levski, and Peyo Yavorov. It has played an important role in preserving Bulgarian literary culture since the onsite library holds approximately 250 manuscripts from the 11th century onwards to the 19th century.

Aesthetically, the monastery is arresting. The architecture is dominated by black and white arches, wooden staircases, and huge iron gates. Multi-colored tiles color the floor, and irreplaceable paintings decorate the walls.

Here visitors can find the oldest continuously occupied city in Europe. Not surprisingly then, the city has countless historical landmarks to boast including a Roman Amphitheater which regularly runs programs, the Ruins of Eumolpias, and several churches.

However, Plovdiv has recently put itself on the map for its emerging food and wine scene. Traditional wineries are popping up all over the city and the surrounding area. Bulgarians are very proud of their wine making capabilities.

The city itself was built on seven hills, and the surrounding area is draped in the Balkan Mountains and the Rhodope mountain range, which have become a favorite place for visitors and locals alike to hike and explore.

Sofia is outstanding. It has a rich history, but remains young at heart. The capital pleasantly intermixes the new with the old. The city center is jam-packed with ruins, and historical landmarks that remind visitors and citizens of the countries long history. But also has emerged as a mecca for contemporary art, and innovative hospitality options.

You should ensure a visit to one of the city’s many galleries or museums during your stay, otherwise, there are countless well-maintained parks within the city, and pristine hiking areas just outside of it. This includes Mt.Vitosh, which at 2000 meters above sea level offers incredible views of the surrounding lakes, and greenery. If your visiting Bulgaria, you must-see Sofia.

Map of Places to Visit in Bulgaria

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Home » Travel Guides » Bulgaria » 15 Best Places to Visit in Bulgaria

15 Best Places to Visit in Bulgaria

Rolling down from the pine-clad massifs of the Balkan Mountains and the Rhodope ranges to meet the sparkling blues of the Black Sea, Bulgaria offers everything from sun-kissed beaches to enthralling historical narratives, buzzing party towns to snow-shrouded ski resorts between its borders.

In this guide to the 15 best places to visit in the country, we take a look at all the major hotspots that should be on anyone’s Bulgarian bucket list this year.

The sun-splashed favourite of local Bulgarians heading out of Sofia and Plovdiv for the summer, Varna is much more than just your run-of-the-mill resort town on the edge of the Black Sea. Yes sir, with a long and enthralling history, oodles of crumbling Roman bathhouses and elaborate Orthodox architecture (like the almost unpronounceable Dormition of the Mother of God Cathedral), the city appeals to history buffs and culture vultures as well as sun seekers.

Of course, the beaches are still a big factor, and one bustling sand-side promenade beckons travelers with oodles of seafood restaurants and cocktail bars, while lively clubs erupt right on the edge of the shore after dark.

2. Veliko Tarnovo

The legendary City of the Tsars stands aloft on the edge of the rising foothills of Bulgaria’s northern mountains. Bisected by the S-shaped meanders of the Yantra River, the town’s setting is nothing short of breathtaking, with terraces of terracotta-coloured roofs looming over the waterways below.

The pretty cobblestone lanes and half-timbered homes of this one’s old town are prime examples of what’s now known as the Tarnovo school, which developed as the Second Bulgarian Empire boomed in the Middle Ages.

That means travelers here experience a mixture of natural beauty – courtesy of the wild coniferous woods that blanket the landscapes all around – and unbridled culture and history, oozing from the Tsarevets capitol and the clutch of gorgeous Byzantine churches.

The sprawling capital of Bulgaria is something of a patchwork of its own past. Around its edges rise the great brutalist monuments to Soviet rule; endless streams of cookie cutting high-rises.

Closer to the centre and the ancient remains of the Serdica Fort and the Roman-Byzantine Church of St George sit in the shadow of Stalinist municipal buildings.

And then there are the iconic Orthodox domes and gilded edifices of the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, which glisten under the snow-packed tops of Vitosha Mountain in the distance.

It’s all very eclectic, and rarely fails to impress travelers that opt to linger here a little while.

4. Zheravna

A showcase in all things Bulgarian National Revival, Zheravna is a rustic and raw picture of one of the country’s most iconic architectural styles of old.

The town itself sits nestled at the base of the mighty Balkan Mountains, between dense thickets of Bosnian pines and white elms, where it seems almost organically formed in its timber-clad, stony appearance.

The cottages that pepper the cobbled streets all come beautifully restored, with more than 150 examples of the typical hardwood facades on display.

Amidst the buildings, sites like the Yordan Yovkov House and the icon-packed St Nicholas Church draw the biggest crowds, while others will head for the August Dobromiritsa Rural Park nearby, where festivals celebrating Bulgarian folk costumes and music erupt throughout the year.

Burgas is one of the favoured gateways to the southern stretches of the Black Sea Coast. A far cry from the ancient and historic centres that pepper the country elsewhere, it’s a largely modern affair of Art Deco rises and manicured parks on the edge of the sea.

It’s also home to some of the most lively music festivals in Bulgaria, like the rollicking Spirit of Burgas that erupts each year in the summer.

North Beach is the most popular stretch of sand in the town, while Burgas also has another trick up its sleeve: the majestically beautiful trio of lakes that range from the bird-spotting paradise of Vaya to the west to the saline waters of Atanasovsko to the north.

6. Rila Monastery

Perhaps the most famous Eastern Orthodox monastery in the world, Rila has risen and risen to become a veritable symbol of the Bulgarian nation.

It entered the UNESCO World Heritage List way back in 1983, hailed for its curious intermingling of Mamluk, arabesque, Byzantine and Romanesque styles, and resplendent iconostases walls, carved meticulously and inlaid with shimmering gold leaf.

An on-site museums helps travelers unravel the more than 1,000 years of history that coalesce at the site, while endless courtyards and peristyles decorated in murals and medieval scenes mean there’s plenty of art and architecture to draw the eye.

Prep the salopettes and wax the skis, because Bansko is Bulgaria’s most prized winter sports resort. With countless expansions and new lift projects at its back, the dual ski fields of the Chalin Valog and Shiligarnika that make their home between the fir forests here have become some of the most lauded in all of Eastern Europe.

And even if you won’t be hitting the 70 kilometers of groomed runs on offer, Bansko’s rugged setting in the Pirin ranges and wealth of luxury hotels, hedonistic bars, jazz joints, cross-country trails and Bulgarian tavernas is sure to hit the spot!

8. Pamporovo

Encompassed by endless seas of pine trees that oscillate between verdant green and ice-caked white with the turning of summer and winter, the popular mountain resort town of Pamporovo makes its home amidst the undulating ridges of the southern Rhodope Mountains, just a short jaunt away from the borderlands with Greece.

And while the warmer months here do mean fantastic hiking opportunities along the trails of Smolyan, it’s the snows that really draw the crowds, when the slopes (all 36 kilometers of them) open and chairlifts creak and rattle to the tips of Rhodope with skiers in tow.

Pamporovo is expanding rapidly too, which means it’s certainly one to watch on Eastern Europe’s line-up of budding mountain resorts!

9. Pirin National Park

UNESCO-tagged and rising like a great Balkan bulwark against the borders of Macedonia and Greece , the Pirin National Park is a hinterland like no other in Europe.

Up on high, its snow-spotted summits gather caps of mist, while alpine valleys below are dashed with avalanches of forest-green pine and fir trees, and speckled with the occasional bed of edelweiss.

Meanwhile, deer and bears stalk the woodlands to this day, and wild goats clamber atop the craggy precipices to find shelter in the rocky crevices and caves.

It’s hardly a wonder that this one is hailed as a paradise for hikers and outdoorsy types, with trails soaring to the top of Vihren (the highest peak) and weaving around the whopping 186 mountain lakes!

10. Belogradchik

The otherworldly geological wonders that lurk on the edge of Belogradchik town rarely fail to impress travelers who make their way to this far-flung corner of Bulgaria on the northward slopes of the Balkan Mountains.

Known simply as the Belogradchik Rocks, they offer a sprawling display of hoodoos and anthropomorphic monoliths that’s inspired folk legends and local myths aplenty.

But Belogradchik’s draws don’t end there. No sir, not with that colossal Belogradchik Fortress complex dating back to Roman times on the menu, the citadel of nearby Baba Vida and the mysterious pre-historic wall art of the Magura Cave to boot!

11. Plovdiv

Draped over seven hills along the courses of the beautiful Maritsa River, Plovdiv runs the gamut of historical sights, encompassing Roman amphitheatres, Thracian fortresses, honorific monuments to Bulgaria’s own Krum the Fearsome, National Revival churches and even the occasional Soviet tenement between city limits.

The piece de resistance has to be the old world historic centre though; a Game of Thrones-esque pallet of stone-clad keeps and winding alleyways, Byzantine arches and hidden squares.

Oh, and Plovdiv’s nightlife beckons partiers after hours, as the coffee culture haunts turn hedonist, fuelling nights with indie, jazz and oodles of Balkan beers!

12. Sunny Beach

Throw off the inhibitions and delve into the sun-splashed party town that is Sunny Beach . Bulgaria’s answer to Malia, Ayia Napa and Ibiza, it’s packed with thumping clubs and pubs, chatty promoters offering buckets (literally) of booze for next to nothing, flashing neon, funky ravers, booze cruises and tanned, bikini-clad, Hawaiian-shirt-wearing partiers.

As well as its sleepless edge, Sunny Beach is also home to one gorgeous stretch of sand, which sits lapped over by the Black Sea and backed by the lively Boulevard, where English all-day breakfasts meet Italian pizzas in the international eateries and hotels rise in bursts of brilliant white.

13. Koprivshtitsa

Perfectly-preserved Koprivshtitsa pops up from between the spruces and pines that cover the valleys of the Sredna Gora Mountains like a beautifully adorned gingerbread carving of a town.

In fact, the whole settlement is a protected national monument, supposed to reflect and define the achievements of the Bulgarian National Revival movement in its wealth of painted facades, realist stone sculptures and shuttered homes.

Visitors who head to the spot today can spy out honorific memorial exhibitions dedicated to heroes of the April Uprising of 1876, while other institutions chronicle the life and works of iconic revivalist writers and artists alike.

14. Perperikon

With traces of human settlement dating back more than seven millennia and what’s been hailed as the most awesome monolithic structure in the entire Balkan Peninsula crowning its hilltops, Perperikon is a real must for any history buffs and culture vultures making their way through Bulgaria.

Before it was built up and fortified by the Thracian tribespeople, it’s thought that Copper Age priests used the hill for rituals and soothsaying, which legend has it foretold the rise of both Alexander the Great and Imperial Rome under Augustus.

Today, visitors can come and wander the off-the-beaten-track dig site, while relics and findings are best viewed at the local archaeology museum in Kardzhali.

15. Nessebar

Jutting out and sparkling like a Medieval Byzantine pearl between the rollers of the Black Sea, Nessebar is certainly one of the most enchanting and unforgettable cities on Bulgaria’s coast.

It’s famed for an enthralling UNESCO centre where layers of Thracian ruins mix with eye-watering churches built between the 5th and 10th centuries.

There are formidable fortifications too, famed for fighting off both Ottoman Turk and Crusading counts alike, not to mention rows of pretty seaside villas that cascade down neatly to meet the shore, shimmering in whitewash and red-tile as they go. Put simply – this one’s not to be missed!

15 Best Places to Visit in Bulgaria:

• Veliko Tarnovo
• Rila Monastery
• Pirin National Park
• Belogradchik
• Sunny Beach
• Koprivshtitsa

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With several dramatic mountain ranges, superb beaches, numerous historic towns and a web of working villages with traditions straight out of the nineteenth century, Bulgaria has a wealth of attractions crammed into a relatively compact country. More than anything else, this is a land of adventures: once you step off the beaten track, road signs and bus timetables often disappear (or are only in Cyrillic), and few people speak a foreign language, but almost everyone you meet will be determined to help you on your way.

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World Heritage in Romania and Bulgaria

Discover the most important UNESCO heritage sites in Romania and Bulgaria as well as some lesser-known attractions. From the capital Sofia to Plovdiv and Nessebar, as well as Veliko Tarnovo in Bulgaria to Romania's capital Bucharest to Sibiu, Cluj and Dracula's castle in Brasov.

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Perfect for foodies with little time - spend 5 days in Romania between Bucharest and Brasov, home to the famous Dracula castle. On the way, you will pass by vineyards and wineries, with tasting arrangements available for you. A private guide will be with you all throughout the trip.

Bulgaria's image has altered dramatically in recent years, thanks largely to the modernization of the country's tourist infrastructure coupled with soaring foreign interest in inexpensive rural and coastal properties. Independent travel is common: costs are relatively low, and for the committed there is much to take in. Romantic National Revival era architecture is a particular draw, with Koprivshtitsa, Bansko and Plovdiv foremost amongst examples of the genre. The monasteries are stunning too – the finest, Rila, should be on every itinerary, while for city life aim for Sofia, Plovdiv, and the cosmopolitan coastal resorts of Varna and Burgas.

Top image: Orthodox Rila Monastery © Dennis van de Water/Shutterstock

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Population 7.3 million

Area 110,910 sq km

Language Bulgarian

Currency Lev (Lv)

Capital Sofia (population: 1.35 million)

International phone code t 359

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From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for visiting Bulgaria

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The Perfect Bulgaria Itinerary: 5 to 10 Days (or More!)

Last Updated on February 14, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

The Balkan country of Bulgaria has long been overlooked on standard European travel routes, where traditional tourists rarely travel farther east than Hungary or Croatia. However, for those more intrepid visitors keen to see the delights that southeastern Europe has to offer, planning a 5 to 10 days in Bulgaria itinerary is a fantastic idea.

Though relatively small in size, Bulgaria has a lot to offer visitors and really can appeal to almost every personality. Bulgaria boasts cosmopolitan cities and ancient metropolises, rugged mountains and pristine beaches, world-class skiing and incredible wine country — it can seem that wherever your interests may lie, Bulgaria will have it.

Table of Contents

When to Visit Bulgaria

You are likely going to want to know when is the best time of year to visit this European nation. Well, luckily for travellers, Bulgaria has its merits no matter what time of year you choose to visit so it all depends on what you’re after on your trip.

While it is located in southeastern Europe, don’t expect Bulgaria to have the same kind of climate as other southern European countries like Croatia , Portugal, Italy or Spain. Contrary to these countries, Bulgaria experiences a much more continental climate with very cold and snowy winters and hot, muggy summers. With this kind of climate, you can best bet to enjoy all of the seasonal activities that come throughout the year.

Winter in Bulgaria sees high temperatures averaging around freezing throughout most of the country, though it can certainly be colder high in the mountains or warmer in the coastal areas along the Black Sea.

With the winter freezes come a lot of skiing opportunities at some of the most affordable prices in all of Europe. Destinations like Bansko are incredibly popular in the wintertime, however, you can also easily combine a skiing holiday with a cosmopolitan city break without leaving Sofia by visiting Vitosha Mountain.

Summers, on the other hand, can get incredibly hot, with average temperatures soaring to well over 30°C (86°F) and humidity can be quite high, as well. The inland cities in the summer can be sweltering, however, the coast becomes a bustling mecca for sun worshippers and party seekers alike.

The mountains can also be a pleasant escape with ample hiking opportunities and mild temperatures in the high altitude. Summer is also, not surprisingly, when tourist crowds are at their peak, as are accommodation prices.

If you’re sensitive to either the cold or heat and want to avoid tourists as much as possible, then probably the best time to visit Bulgaria would be in the shoulder seasons.

The months ranging from March-May and September-October see some of the mildest temperatures, though you should be prepared for the occasional cold snap or frequent rains (especially in Spring). However, in the shoulder seasons, you are just as likely to have beautiful warm temperatures and sunny skies that steadfastly cling to summer.

No matter which time of year you choose to embark on your trip to Bulgaria, you are sure to be met with a beautiful country eager to welcome your exploration!

Getting To & Around Bulgaria

Now that you’ve figured out which season to travel to Bulgaria, we need to discuss how you plan to get around once you’re there.

First things first, it is likely that you will begin your Bulgaria itinerary by flying into Sofia airport, which has frequent connections from budget airlines like Ryanair and Wizzair to a number of cities throughout Europe. The affordability of reaching Bulgaria has made it an attractive option for travellers looking to explore a lesser-visited corner of Europe.

There are other international airports in the country besides Sofia, however, and you can just as easily begin your trip from any of these. The highest-trafficked airports after the capital include Burgas and Varna on the Black Sea and Plovdiv airport, which serves a couple of flights per week from destinations like Tel Aviv, Belfast, Manchester and Dublin.

If you’re visiting Bulgaria as part of a longer Balkans itinerary you will be happy to know that a few of the country’s major cities are fairly well connected with neighbouring countries. Travellers can easily reach Sofia from Thessaloniki in Greece, Belgrade or Nis, Serbia and also from Skopje , North Macedonia and Istanbul , Turkey, the latter of which will transit through Plovdiv.

You can also reach Sofia by overnight bus or train from Bucharest , Romania. It is also possible to find a direct connection to the northern city of Veliko Tarnovo to Bucharest as well.

Once you’ve arrived in Bulgaria, you need to know how you plan to get from point A to point B. Like elsewhere in the Balkans, if you’re relying on public transport for your Bulgaria trip, then your best option is going to be the bus.

While there is a train network in Bulgaria, it largely hasn’t been updated since the 1960s and can be incredibly slow, uncomfortable, and inefficient. The only time I would generally recommend using the train network in Bulgaria is if you have an affinity for communist-era railways.

In contrast, the bus system is quite comfortable and well-developed and they also tend to be much faster than the trains.

If you are only travelling between major cities, you will find that connections between transport hubs tend to be frequent and the system is easy enough to navigate, even if you have a language barrier. It can be helpful to know what the city you’re travelling to looks like spelt in the Cyrillic alphabet so you know which booth to buy your tickets from.

Most smaller city centres are easily navigable by foot, including cities like Plovdiv and Veliko Tarnovo, however, in Sofia, it might be necessary to use the public transportation system. The metro in Sofia is efficient and user-friendly, with everything written in both Bulgarian and English.

If you need to take a taxi in Bulgaria, make sure to practice the general precautions you would with taxis throughout the world as, unfortunately, Bulgaria is not immune to taxi scams. However, there are a number of taxi apps in various cities where you can call a reliable cab.

If you do hail one off the street, make sure to do some research on reliable taxi companies beforehand and ensure that the meter is running. Taxi rides are incredibly affordable in Bulgaria, especially when compared to some Western European countries.

5 to 10-Day Bulgaria Itinerary

Bulgaria has a lot to offer visitors and, therefore, travellers can easily spend a number of weeks or even months within the country and always find something new to explore. However, if you only can spend 5 days in Bulgaria, then the first five days of this itinerary is outlined to be a complete trip.

If you have a week, the same concept applies if you have 7 days in Bulgaria. And if you’re fortunate enough to have 10 full days to spend in this Balkan nation, then you can enjoy the entirety of the outlined route.

Days 1-3: Sofia

It is likely that you will begin your Bulgaria itinerary in the capital city of Sofia. Though Sofia may not have to best reputation among Balkan cities (when we first planned to visit, we were told to skip it by numerous people), we’ve found that it has a lot to offer visitors with great energy and many interesting things to do.

Though you could easily spend a week or more exploring Sofia , we recommend spending 3 of those days in the capital. Start off with a free walking tour of the city to get your bearings, a great way to get some context to the incredible history you’re going to see in the Bulgarian capital.

There are a number of things to occupy yourself during these three days in Sofia including visiting the top monuments like the ancient city of Serdika and the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.

You can also take the time to visit some of Sofia’s many museums, enjoy its thriving culinary scene, and learn more about its communist history.

Though it may not be the most beautiful of cities, there is a very cool edge that Sofia holds and it can be worth also learning about its burgeoning street art scene.

If you only have three days, we do recommend that you spend all of them in Sofia as it will allow you to really get to know the city. However, if you want to see more of the countryside, it is possible to go on a day trip.

Rila Monastery – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – is one of the most popular day trips from Sofia, as is the nearby Vitosha Mountain, which you can reach by Sofia’s own public transport.

Where to Stay in Sofia

Art ‘Otel – This hotel is a great option if you’re after some luxury. They are well located within easy reach of all the major city sights and have a range of clean and comfortable rooms available. They also have a great breakfast included in the room rate.

Hostel Mostel – This hostel is your best bet if you’re travelling solo or on a tight budget. As one of the most popular and well-rated hostels in Sofia, they have a range of dorm and private rooms available, a friendly staff, and great common areas for you to meet other travellers.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Sofia hotels!

Days 4-5: Plovdiv

After exploring Sofia, the final step on a 5-day Bulgaria itinerary should be the second-largest city of Plovdiv. As one of the European Capitals of Culture in 2019, Plovdiv is probably the most tourist-friendly city in Bulgaria and it has a lot to offer visitors.

Plovdiv is thought to be the oldest continuously inhabited city in Europe, with a history dating back over 6,000 years. Though Plovdiv is most famous for its incredible ancient amphitheatre. there is a lot more that the city has to offer, which is why we recommend spending two days in Plovdiv to really get to know the city.

Spend your first day in the city exploring its ancient monuments and Roman ruins like the aforementioned amphitheatre and the ancient stadium. Wander through the picturesque old town and enjoy the view of the city from the ruined fortress on Nebet Tepe.

You can also head into the trendy neighbourhood known as Kapana, which means “The Trap” in Bulgarian.

These windy, pedestrian streets have recently been refurbished by a lot of government investment and are now full of great restaurants, cafes, bars, and independent shops and have become a haven for local artists. If you’re interested in hipster culture or street art, this is the neighbourhood to visit.

You can also use Plovdiv as a base to go wine tasting in the Thracian Valley. The nearby town of Brestovitsa is home to several wineries and is only 20 kilometres from the centre of Plovdiv.

Though Bulgaria may not be the first country that comes to mind when it comes to wine tourism, it has one of the oldest viticultures in the world and produces some truly fine vintages.

Where to Stay in Plovdiv

Hotel Evmolpia – Situated in the Old Town, this charming boutique hotel is within easy walking distance of everything to see and do in Plovdiv, including the amphitheatre, Kapana district, and main pedestrian street. They have a number of clean and comfortable rooms available and a good breakfast.

Hostel Old Plovdiv – Located in the heart of the Old Town, this hostel is located in a traditional revival house and is one of the best places to stay in Plovdiv. They have a very welcoming a helpful staff, a range of comfortable dorm and private rooms available, and a great breakfast included in the room rate.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Plovdiv hotels!

Days 6-7: Black Sea Coast

After spending the first five days in Sofia and Plovdiv, it’s time to head to the coast and enjoy the gorgeous Black Sea.

There are a number of great places to visit on the long coastline of Bulgaria and it really depends on what kind of experience you’re after. If you want a smaller, more sleepy seaside town, then head to lovely Sozopol. This town boasts a couple of fine sand beaches, beautiful cobbled streets, and a laid-back atmosphere.

If you want some more western amenities, a party scene, or a high-end beach resort, the head to Sunny Beach or Nessebar which are significantly more touristy and developed than Sozopol.

If you want a big city vibe but still some great beach time, then head to Varna or Burgas, the biggest cities on Bulgaria’s coast. No matter where you choose, you are sure to enjoy a couple of days enjoying the charms of the Black Sea.

Where to Stay on the Black Sea

Hotel Diamanti – If you’re looking for a more subdued seaside holiday on the Black Sea, then the perfect place to stay in Sozopol would be this hotel. They have a number of affordable rooms available, some with sea views, a restaurant on site, and a great breakfast included in the nightly rate. They are also located within walking distance of everything in Sozopol.

Nomado Hostel – As one of Varna’s highest-rated hostels, this is a great place to visit if you’re looking to see the Black Sea on a backpacker’s budget or as a solo traveller. They are centrally located, have a friendly and helpful staff, an included breakfast, and both dorm and private rooms available.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Black Sea hotels!

Days 8-10: Veliko Tarnovo

If you’re fortunate enough to have 10 days to spend exploring Bulgaria, then heading to Veliko Tarnovo for the last two days is an excellent ending point.

Veliko Tarnovo, located to the north of Bulgaria, is a lively university town that once acted as the capital of Bulgaria. Today, it is famous for its mountain scenery and impressive fortress that commands spectacular views over the city and mountains surrounding.

Veliko Tarnovo is incredibly picturesque and well worth taking a day or two to explore on foot. It is also located very close to a number of great mountains, so it is possible to use the city as a base to go for a great day hike. As the former capital of Bulgaria and another ancient city, there is also a long and fascinating history here that is worth learning about.

As the home of one of Bulgaria’s best universities, there is also a lively, youthful energy which makes for a lot of good eateries, bars, and cafes along with some trendy shops and things to do.

Where To Stay in Veliko Tarnovo

Augusta Spa Hotel – This boutique hotel is centrally located and is a great option if you have a bit of a higher budget when visiting Veliko Tarnovo. They have a range of clean, comfortable, and air-conditioned rooms available, some commanding great views of the medieval fortress, and a great breakfast included in the nightly rate.

Hostel Mostel – This hostel, owned by the same people who run the branch in Sofia, is an excellent option for budget and solo travellers. They have both dorm and private rooms available and great common areas to meet other travellers.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Veliko Tarnovo hotels

Have More Time?

If you have more than ten days to spend in Bulgaria, or fancy getting a bit further off the beaten path, there are a few options you could take.

First, if you like nature, small towns, and wine, then heading to the lovely town of Melnik is a fantastic option. This tiny town is relatively easy to reach by public transport from Sofia and is an excellent stopping off point if you’re heading south to Greece after travelling in Bulgaria.

If you want to experience some of the best and most affordable skiing in Europe in the winter or visit a pristine hiking mecca in the summer, then the town of Bansko is also a great option to add to you Bulgaria itinerary.

Finally, the northwestern town of Belogradchik close to the Serbian border is a great offbeat destination in Bulgaria. Famous for its unique rock formations and imposing fortress, spending a day or two here will show you a different side to the country.

No matter how many days you have to devote to a Bulgaria travel itinerary, there is no denying that there are countless things to see and do in this underrated European nation.

Are you planning to visit Bulgaria? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

How to Get From Sofia to Thessaloniki by Bus, Train or Car

Is Bulgaria Expensive? A Guide to Prices in Bulgaria

My Perfect Plovdiv Itinerary For First-Time Visitors

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

great itinerary, lots of useful tips too. many thanks. marilyn

Thanks, Marilyn! Hope you have a great trip.

Hi. This looks like a very useful itinerary. Plan to visit next early June after an extended Turkey, Azerbaijan, Armenia trip. Was planning 5 days but I think 10+ will afford a much better flavor of Bulgaria. Thanks!

Hello, What is the best way to travel from Plovdiv to Varna? Bus? Return to Sofia and take a flight to Varna?

Best regards, Oliveira

You can take a bus directly from Plovdiv to Varna 🙂

How affordable and practical would it be to rent a car for places outside Sofia? Or is bus a better option than driving?

Renting a car can be a great option if you want a lot of flexibility and not to be beholden to bus timetables. Prices can vary depending on a number of factors.

How would you recommend getting to Plovdiv from Sofia? Could we take the local bus?

Yes, the bus is the best way if you’re using public transport 🙂

If I want to do a Bulgaria Greece trip. Start in Sofia then to Plovdiv. Can I fly into Greece next from Plovdiv? Or do I need to go back to Sofia to catch a flight?

Hi Dee Dee, Plovdiv airport is quite limited in its routes so I think your best bet would be to go to Sofia if you want to fly to Greece. Alternatively, I would recommend looking at taking the bus and going overland!

Another interesting old town is Koprivshtiza, on the road from Sofia to Black Sea, in high mountains and very picturesque. Also, there are many caves, waterfalls, natural wonders, and spa options to choose from.

Thanks for the tip, Lil!

Thanks a lot for this wonderful guide. I find it quite helpful.

Thanks, Gali! Hope you’re able to plan a great trip 🙂

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• The Best Attractions In Bulgaria

20 Best Attractions in Bulgaria

Bulgaria offers an immersive Balkan experience for visitors – you can explore Roman ruins in Plovdiv, hike in mountain ranges with jaw-dropping scenery or pick roses with locals. From ancient tombs to colorful old towns and fortresses, discover our pick of the best attractions in Bulgaria .

Experience bulgarian hospitality in traditional villages.

Architectural Landmark

Some of the Bulgarian villages have been turned into architectural reserves to preserve the beautiful houses of the past. Bulgarians love getting back to nature and to their roots, spending their weekend in villages – growing their own food, sleeping in guesthouses, or just enjoying the silence outside of the city. Vist Rila if you’re looking to get away from the big busy cities!

Delve into Bulgarian history at its best museums

Historical Landmark

Bulgaria has more than 1300 years of history as a country, with many tribes and foreign powers having left their influence over the centuries. Plan a stop at one or more of the Bulgarian museums and learn a bit about the past to better understand the present. History buffs will enjoy a day at the biggest history museum in the country, the National History Museum in Sofia that exhibits some of the most impressive ancient Thracian gold treasures as well as the most important items since prehistoric times. The streets of the Old Town of Plovdiv are dotted with traditional Revival-period houses, many of them museums. See it all on this tour!

Explore rock phenomena

Wind, water, and time have done their job in sculpting amazing rock formations all over Bulgaria. After that, people have used their imagination to create stories about the rock shapes that resemble people, mushrooms, and giants. Visit the Belogradchik Rocks to marvel at the castle set among the rocks, or the Stob Pyramids near Sofia to see the magical earth formations at sunset.

Stroll through historical towns

If you need to get away from the modern world, plan an escape to any of the historical towns in Bulgaria. Nessebar (protected by UNESCO) and Sozopol are located at the seaside and have magnificent Old Towns with wooden houses. The steep cobblestone streets of the Old Town of Plovdiv takes you two centuries back in history. Koprivshtitsa (difficult to pronounce but worth the effort) is a whole town keeping the spirit of the past epochs alive.

Hike in the mountains

Hikers will find all sorts of terrains in Bulgaria – the Pirin and Rila Mountainsmore are rockier and more Alpine-like, while the Rhodopes have rounder shapes and are more green. The Bulgarian mountains are relatively well signed (depending on the route you’ve chosen), but you should always bring a map and a compass with you. There’s an emblematic mountain hike, the Kom to Emine route, which crosses Bulgaria from west to east, finishing at Cape Emine at the Black Sea coast. You will need special training for it, though, as it takes around 20 days to cover.

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The Ancient Theater in Plovdiv

The imposing structure of the Ancient Theater in Plovdiv Old Town has been well preserved, dating back to the first century. Theatrical performances and gladiator fights took place here, as well as important gatherings of the local government. Come during the summer months to enjoy opera or live music, seated on the ancient stones.

Tsarevets Fortress in Veliko Tarnovo

Prohodna cave, belogradchik rocks, pirin national park, krushuna waterfalls.

The Balchik Palace and Botanical Garden

Natural Feature

One of the best destinations for cultural attractions on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast is the palace in Balchik and its impressive botanical gardens. The palace belonged to the Romanian queen Maria, who ruled these parts of Bulgaria at the time. She loved Balchik so much she made her own spiritual haven.

The town of Koprivshtitsa

The sveshtari tomb.

Sveshtari Tomb is a Unesco-protected ancient Thracian site, discovered in 1982. It was built for the purpose of a royal funeral, although archaeologists are unsure of the name of the deceased. The most impressive feature inside are the 10 female figures with their arms up, appearing as if they are supporting the ceiling.

The Rose Valley

Rila monastery, join a cultural festival.

There is a marvelous Bulgarian tradition for every season – from the Kukeri monster dances in winter to the Rose Festival in the Rose Valley in June and the July Morning tradition on July 1 when the locals greet the rising sun to welcome the summer. On June 3, the ancient tradition of Nestinari , walking on embers, takes place in the small border village of Balgari. In the first weekend of August, the biggest open-air bagpipe gathering fills the air with folkloric music on the mountain slopes around the village of Gela. Find a cultural festival in Plovdiv!

Taste local delicacies

Bulgarian cuisine has much in common with the other Balkan countries, but it has its own specialties, too. Fresh vegetable salads are locals’ favorite all year round (try the fresh vegetables and Bulgarian feta cheese Shopska salad and Ovcharska salad, the mayonnaise-based Ruska salad, or the Mlechna salad that is similar to the Greek tzatziki). If you travel through the Rhodope Mountains, don’t miss its local culinary delights. Go wine tasting in Sofia!

Hit the beaches

The Bulgarian coast attracts many European vacationers every summer, offering both wild and luxury beaches. Sunny Beach, Golden Sands, and Kiten have a more vibrant, party atmosphere, while Sinemorets, Ahtopol or Kavarna are better for families. Varna and Burgas are the two major coastal cities that also have industrial zones and big shopping malls.

Enjoy the snowy slopes

Bansko, Pamporovo, and Borovets are the three major ski resorts in Bulgaria with many ski and snowboard facilities. There are tracks for both beginners and advanced winter sports enthusiasts.

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Must-see attractions in Bulgaria

Thracian Tomb of Sveshtari

The highlight at this Unesco-protected Thracian settlement is a nearly perfectly preserved three-chamber burial tomb from about 300 BC. The high quality…

Archaeological Museum

Exhibits at this vast museum, the best of its kind in Bulgaria, include 6000-year-old bangles, necklaces and earrings said to be the oldest worked gold…

Tsarevets Fortress

Veliko Târnovo

The inescapable symbol of Veliko Târnovo, this reconstructed fortress dominates the skyline and is one of Bulgaria’s most beloved monuments. The former…

Aleksander Nevski Cathedral

One of the symbols not just of Sofia but of Bulgaria itself, this massive, awe-inspiring church was built between 1882 and 1912 in memory of the 200,000…

Etâr Ethnographic Open-Air Museum

If ambling down cobbled lanes with a stick of halva in hand sounds like an agreeable foray into Bulgaria's past, a day in Etâr will delight. Nearly 50…

Dryanovo Monastery

A history of destruction and revolution, as dramatic as its cliff-backed location, entices visitors to Dryanovo Monastery. Originally founded in the early…

Roman Amphitheatre

Plovdiv’s magnificent 2nd-century AD amphitheatre, built during the reign of Emperor Trajan, was uncovered during a freak landslide in 1972. It once held…

Summer Palace of Queen Marie & Botanical Gardens

Black Sea Coast

At the far western end of the seafront, this palace was completed in 1926 by King Ferdinand of Romania for his English wife, Queen Marie, when Balchik was…

Founders of the Bulgarian State Monument

Visible within a 30km radius, this tremendous Soviet-era monument was opened in 1981 to commemorate the First Bulgarian Empire’s 1300th anniversary…

Emen Canyon

Thrashing beneath lofty limestone cliffs, the Negovanka River has sculpted deep creeks and pretty waterfalls in this captivating nature reserve, 22km west…

Sokolski Monastery

A sky-blue church, posing against forested valleys, is the centrepiece of this 1833 monastery. What began as a humble wooden church outside Sokola Cave …

The Archaeological Museum houses an impressive array of locally excavated Roman and Slavic artefacts, housed on two floors and helpfully signposted in…

National Exhibition of Crafts & Arts

Somewhere between an open-air museum and a shoppers' paradise, this handicrafts complex exhibits marvellous examples of traditional Bulgarian woodcarving,…

Sveta Sofia Church

Sveta Sofia is one of the capital's oldest churches, and gave the city its name. A subterranean museum houses an ancient necropolis, with 56 tombs and the…

Daskalov House

As well as faithfully representing 19th-century design styles within its walls, Daskalov House contains the fascinating Museum of Woodcarving and Icon…

Belogradchik Rocks

The massive Belogradchik sandstone and limestone rock formations cover an area of around 90 sq km and tower over the town. The rocks, standing up to 200m…

Kaleto Fortress

Almost blending in with the surrounding rocks, the Kaleto Fortress was originally built by the Romans and later expanded by the Byzantines, Bulgarians and…

Boyana Church

Tiny 13th-century Boyana Church is included on Unesco’s World Heritage list and its 90 murals are among the very finest examples of Bulgarian medieval…

Housed in a former mosque built in 1496, this museum displays a wealth of Thracian, Roman and medieval artefacts. Highlights include a mosaic floor from…

Buzludzha Monument

The concrete UFO looming over Shipka Pass is central Bulgaria's most peculiar sight. This former assembly hall slid into disrepair after the fall of…

Nativity Memorial Church

A magenta-and-white ice-cream cone of a church glows above tumbledown Shipka village, its golden onion domes glittering from thick woodlands. Part of…

Poda Conservation Centre

Four lakes surrounding Burgas (Pomoriysko, Atanasovsko, Mandrensko and Burgasko) comprise 9500 hectares and represent the largest wetland system in…

Cherven Fortress

Just outside the village of Cherven, about 30km south of Ruse, are the remains of a remarkably intact 6th-century hilltop citadel. Several streets, towers…

Oslekov House

With its triple-arched entrance and interior restored in shades from scarlet to sapphire blue, Oslekov House is arguably the most beautifully restored…

Historical Museum

This regional historical museum traces the history of the town and surrounding area from Thracian and Roman times through to the 19th century. The pride…

St Anastasia Island

This small volcanic island makes for a fun day of exploring. The island, which has served as a religious retreat, a prison and pirate bait (according to…

Covered Bridge

A touch of Florence in the heart of Bulgaria, this covered bridge is the only such structure in the Balkans. Renowned Bulgarian architect Kolyu Ficheto…

Magura Cave

One of the largest caves in Bulgaria, with a total length of about 3km, the Magura is known for the size of its stalagmites and stalactites, as well as…

Roman Thermae

The well-preserved ruins of Varna's 2nd-century-AD Roman Thermae are the largest in Bulgaria and the fourth-largest of their kind in Europe. Visitors are…

The diverse collection here includes valuable remnants from excavations carried out at the nearby Kibela (Cybele) Temple (referred to at the museum as the…

Nativity Church

The five chambers in Arbanasi's oldest surviving church are covered in kaleidoscopic frescoes (dating between 1632 and 1649), featuring a pantheon of…

Balabanov House

One of Plovdiv's most beautiful Bulgarian National Revival–era mansions, Balabanov House is an enjoyable way to experience old town nostalgia as well as…

Orlova Chuka Cave

Lying 2km from Peplina village, the country's second-longest cave is accessible for around 3km of its length. Visitors pass through several chambers, the…

Primorski Park

Established in 1878, this large and attractive green space, overlooking the sea, stretches for about 8km and is said to be the largest of its kind in…

Roman Fortress of Sexaginta Prista

Archaeological work is ongoing at this former Roman fortress at a high point along the Danube. Research attests to some 2000 years of continued military…

Museum of Natural History

This well-done museum in Srebârna village presents a good overview in English of birdlife and other fauna around Lake Srebârna and should be a first port…

Sveti Georgi Rotunda

Built in the 4th century AD, this tiny red-brick church is Sofia's oldest preserved building. The murals inside were painted between the 10th and 14th…

Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin

Varna's cathedral (1886) is topped with golden onion domes. Note the murals (painted in 1950) and colourful stained-glass windows, though you'll have to…

Blue Rocks Nature Park

Despite its enigmatic name, there's little more than a bluish haze hanging over this rubbly nature park. But these hills have revolutionary history:…

Museum of Socialist Art

If you wondered where all those unwanted statues of Lenin ended up, you'll find some here, along with the red star from atop Sofia's Party House. There's…

More destinations you need to see

Wander-Lush

Easy Bulgaria Road Trip Itinerary for 10 Days of Travel

With stunning national parks, historic cities and sweet villages, and an incredibly diverse landscape of mountains, lakes and rock formations, Bulgaria is a crowd-pleaser when it comes to Balkans travel .

This country has something for everyone – and because it’s so compact and easy to get around, it’s also one of the best places in the region for a road trip .

Whether you’re travelling in peak summer season for hiking or you’re planning to visit Bulgaria in winter to take advantage of the country’s skiing opportunities, there are an infinite number of ways you can design a Bulgaria road trip.

The following itinerary, suitable for summer or winter travel, is tailored to 10 days in Bulgaria but can easily be edited to be shorter or longer. It covers all the highlights, including several national parks, the Black Sea coast and several UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

Renting a car in Bulgaria

Sofia is the logical place to pick up your car in Bulgaria. But don’t book it until you’re done with sightseeing – you don’t need a car for the city centre as metro and bus services are more than adequate.

I recommend using Local Rent to source a budget-friendly hire car from a local agent. Prices average 21 Euros per day, and there are plenty of perks you don’t get with the bigger brands including no deposit, comprehensive insurance included, and delivery to your address in Sofia.

If you’re driving in winter, tyre chains and ski/snowboard racks are optional extras and cost an additional 4-10 Euros (for the duration of the trip, not per day) depending on the vehicle.

→ Check prices and availability here on the Local Rent website .

Where to start your Bulgaria road trip

I recommend starting your itinerary in Sofia, Bulgaria’s capital city. Flights from Western and Eastern Europe service the city’s international airport, and rail and bus connections from neighbouring countries are plentiful.

You should budget at least 1-2 full days for Sofia in order to see the highlights. If you’re short on time, I highly recommend joining a walking tour of the city centre – this small group tour covers the main tourist spots while this alternative itinerary focuses on Sofia’s communist past.

Check out this list of 101 things to do in Sofia for more inspiration.

Bulgaria road trip map

Click here to open the map via Google Drive .

Bulgaria road trip itinerary for 10 days of travel

Day 1: depart sofia to start your bulgaria road trip itinerary in the mountains of rila & pirin.

The highest mountain range in Bulgaria, the Rila Mountains are an experience you don’t want to miss. If you visit in winter, you can play winter sports and ski the slopes. In warmer weather, you’ll want to take advantage of the many hiking trails. 

Having your own car will allow you to access more remote mountain huts which are truly some of the country’s loveliest accommodations. Samovilla in Govedartsi is one of many darling chalets on the fringe of Rila National Park.

Rila Monastery

Leaving Sofia, Rila Monastery should be your first stop. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it was founded in the 10th century and is by far Bulgaria’s most iconic Eastern Orthodox monastery.

Rila sits at a high elevation and takes several hours to reach by car. The way the roads wind up the mountain, you’ll feel like you’re entering another world – especially in winter when the hills are snow capped and sparkling.

Spend a good hour or so wandering the grounds of the monastery and the interior, admiring the stunning frescoes, architectural flourishes and well-kept grounds. There’s a dress code, so make sure you have your knees and shoulders covered to show respect before you enter.

If you can adjust your timeline, consider spending a night inside the monastery. Monks still live there and the gates close early, but it’s definitely a unique experience.

Rila National Park & the Seven Rila Lakes

The most popular hiking trail in these mountains is the Seven Rila Lakes. You’ll see, of course, seven lakes: The Tear, The Eye, The Kidney, The Gemini, The Triplets, The Fish Lake, and The Lower Lake.

Each lake is different, with the Tear being the highest, the Lower Lake being the lowest, the Eye being the deepest, and the Fish Lake being the shallowest. Bring a picnic to enjoy at the Kidney for beautiful views.

The cable car up to the lakes still runs in winter , but you might find that the whole landscape is white-washed with snow, making it difficult to discern the different lakes. Consider spending a day at Bansko or Borovets for skiing and snowboarding instead.

Day 2: Continue to historic Melnik

A few hours’ drive further south towards the border with Greece , Melnik enjoys a prime location in the heart of Bulgaria’s wine region . There’s a wine museum where you can learn about the practice of winemaking and try the local drop. You can also stop by wine stores and vineyards for walk-in tastings.

In addition to sipping local wines, take time to visit the Melnik Earth Pyramids, huge sandstone rocks that have been shaped over the centuries by rain and erosion.

If the weather is suitable, a short day hike up to Rozhen Monastery is a must-do. Built in the 15th century, it was ravaged by fire in the 1600s but has since been restored to its original glory.

Historic Chavkova House , with its sprawling gardens, is the ideal place to stay in Melnik if you want to explore the centre by foot and get some R&R ahead of a busy day 3.

Day 3: Follow the Rhodope Mountains to Trigrad Gorge & Smolyan

The Rhodope Mountains stretch across southern Bulgaria and into Greece. For more amazing day hikes, follow the popular trails since they’re well-marked. If you’re a more experienced hiker, you’ll love the freedom of getting out on the mountains away from the beaten path.

For an unforgettable experience, treat yourself to a night at Petko Takov’s House in Smolyan, a traditional country house with decadent rooms and a taverna.

Trigrad Gorge

East of Melnik, Trigrad Gorge is the third largest gorge in Bulgaria, with walls ranging from 100 to 300 metres high. The ravine was formed by the Trigrad River, which courses through the rocks.

While exploring Trigrad Gorge, make sure you venture to the bottom of the highest cliffs to experience Devil’s Throat Cave – it contains an underground waterfall that merges with the Trigrad River.

After spending time in the rugged Rhodope Mountains, you’ll be glad to see Smolyan, a resort town close to the Greek border. It sits in the valley of the Cherna and Byala Rivers.

The perfect winter escape, it has plenty of indoor activities on offer including museums, art galleries and restaurants that serve national food and regional specialties.

Days 4 & 5: Relax in Plovdiv, Bulgaria’s most charming city

Heading north back into central Bulgaria, Plovdiv is the second-largest city in the country and one of the oldest in the world. There are Roman ruins to explore, including the Roman Forum of Philippopolis and the Ancient Stadium.

While you’re in the Old Town area, visit Dzhumaya Mosque, one of the oldest and largest mosques around. Most modern mosques have one dome, but Dzhumaya Mosque has nine.

Plovdiv is a delightful mix of old and new. As well as gorgeous examples of Bulgarian Revival Architecture you’ll find many hidden treasures, including the Kapana district, with its enticing assortment of street art, craft beer bars and restaurants. Spend an afternoon walking the pedestrian streets and browsing the many independent shops and cafes.

Time your visit just right so you can be atop one of Plovdiv’s seven hills at sunset. You won’t believe the astonishing views. Plovdiv City Center Hotel is a great base for your stay and just a short walk from some of the best sunset spots. Spending two days in Plovdiv gives you a chance to really explore the history – I spent a full week here and never ran out of things to do.

Days 6 & 7: Soak up Black Sea coast vibes in Varna & Nesebar

Bulgaria’s Black Sea offers a different experience depending on the time of year  you go. Outside of summer peak season you can experience the historic cities without the crowds. Nesebar and Varna are both must-sees.

Often called the ‘Pearl of the Black Sea’, Nesebar is a historical fishing town that was once part of the Ottoman Empire. You can easily spend a couple of days here seeing the ancient fortress and ruins.

History is well-balanced with modern conveniences, so you can enjoy the touristy side of town as well. Nestled within the old town but still walking distance from the sea, Kirios Hotel offers guests the best of both worlds.

Further north along the coast, Varna is Bulgaria’s third-largest city. Make time for sights of historical interest including the Archaeological Museum, which has ancient gold artefacts that date back 6,500 years. The Battle of Varna Park Museum has tombs from 4,000 BC with a unique Stone Forest just beyond the battlefield.

If you’d rather stay close to nature, you can enjoy the University Botanical Garden. It spans 360 hectares and is a great place to have a picnic. When you’re ready to relax by the Black Sea, the Sea Garden is a landscaped park that runs along the waterfront.

Guest Rooms Boutique Varna offers simple but comfortable rooms within walking distance of the Roman baths, the port, and other major attractions.

Day 8: Head inland to Veliko Tarnovo, Arbanasi & Nicopolis ad Istrum

After a few days by the sea it’s back to the mountains of Bulgaria’s interior. Veliko Tarnovo is a walkable city with a charming old town and the most impressive fortress in the country, Tsarevets, at its highest point. This city used to be Bulgaria’s capital but is now known for its amazing views and history.

It’s also home to one of the largest universities outside of Sofia. Because the population skews young, you’ll find a lively bar scene and lots of events in Veliko Tarnovo. Hostel Mostel , one of Bulgaria’s best hostels, is a great place to meet people. If you prefer your privacy, Guest House Diabora is set inside a stunning heritage home.

After exploring the fortress grounds, walk or take a taxi up the hill to the nearby village of Arbanasi for magical views looking down onto Tsarevets. The Roman-Byzantine ruins at Nicopolis ad Istrum, 20 kilometres north of Veliko Tarnovo, are also worth a look-in if you’re a fan of archaeology.

Day 9: Drive to Koprivshtitsa via Kazanlak, Shipka & the Buzludzha

By now you should be ready to start winding up your Bulgaria road trip and heading back towards Sofia. But first, there’s still ample time for a mini road trip within a road trip to Koprivshtitsa, making several incredible stops along the way. 

The Kazanlak area has a wealth of natural and historical sights, all worthy of a stopover. Consider visiting:

• The Tomb of Seuthes III
• The Megalith Rock Sanctuary
• The Museum of Roses
• The Museum of Photography

In Shipka, don’t miss the Buzludzha , the famous UFO-shaped Memorial House built by the Bulgarian Communist Party. The drive up Buzludzha Peak is rough and winding, but it’s worth it for the views. The monument is currently closed off for some much-needed restorations, but you can still admire its otherworldly form from afar.

Finally, the last leg of your road trip will take you to delightful Koprivshtitsa, a historical village where you can see landmarks from the Bulgarian uprising against the Turks.

Many of the houses have been preserved with their unique architecture on full display. Some have been transformed into cultural museums while others have been reborn as guest lodgings.

For a chance to sleep inside one of these stunning heritage monuments, stay at Family Hotel Panorama .

Day 10: Return to Sofia

Spend the morning in Koprivshtitsa before returning to Sofia.

Quick tips for driving in Bulgaria

• In Bulgaria you drive on the right-hand side of the road.
• Seat belts are mandatory for both front and back-seat passengers.
• Bulgaria has a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to drink driving – keep this in mind if you plan on visiting the country’s wineries.
• Bring a hands-free mount with you as it’s illegal to use your mobile phone when driving.
• During the winter months (November-March) you must have your headlights on at all times.
• Winter tyres with 4mm of tread are required in winter (enforceable by law). Snow chains are compulsory in some areas when conditions are harsh – be sure to research your route well in advance and add on chains if you need them.

→ Find more great tips for driving in Bulgaria here .

Bulgaria essentials

Here are my favourite resources to help you organise your trip to Bulgaria.

FLIGHTS: Find affordable flights to Bulgaria on Skyscanner .

TRAVEL INSURANCE: Insure your trip with HeyMondo , my preferred provider for single-trip and annual travel insurance.

VISAS: Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa for Bulgaria and apply for an expedited visa online.

SIM CARD: Buy an eSIM and data package for Bulgaria online before you go. My top choice is the Eurolink eSIM from Airalo (10 GB for 30 days).

AIRPORT TRANSFER: Pre-book a private transfer to your hotel in Sofia (prices start from $25 per car ).

ACCOMMODATION: Find the best hotel deals in Bulgaria on Booking.com .

CAR HIRE: Use Local Rent to hire a budget-friendly car from a local agent or Discover Cars to hire through an international rentals company.

DAY TRIPS & CITY TOURS: Find the best city tours and day excursions in Bulgaria using Get Your Guide or Viator .

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Maps of Bulgaria

Noted for its diversity, Bulgaria's landscape ranges from mountainous peaks covered in snow to valleys and lowlands giving way to the coast of the Black Sea . The Balkan Mountains cut across the central part of the country, while the Rhodope Mountains run through southern Bulgaria, along its border with Greece. The highest point in the country, located in the Rila Mountains, is Musala Mt., at 9,594 ft. (2,925 m). Moving on north of the Balkan Mountains the fertile lowlands of the Danubian Plain slope gradually down to the Danube River. The south-eastern lowlands (Maritsa Basin), drained by a series of small rivers, slope to the Black Sea. Major rivers include the Danube River, as it forms the northern border with Romania, and the Iskur, Maritsa, Struma, Tundzha and Yantra rivers.

Bulgaria is a country located in the south eastern region of the European continent, occupying the eastern part of the Balkan Peninsula. It is geographically positioned both in the Northern and Eastern hemispheres of the Earth. Bulgaria is bordered by 5 countries: by Romania in the north; by Turkey and Greece in the south; by North Macedonia in the southwest and by Serbia in the west. It is bounded by the Black Sea in the east.

Bulgaria Bordering Countries : Macedonia , Greece , Turkey , Romania , Serbia .

Regional Maps : Map of Europe

Outline Map of Bulgaria

The above blank map represents Bulgaria, a southeastern European Nation, occupying the eastern part of the Balkan Peninsula. The above map can be downloaded, printed and used for educational purposes like map-pointing activities and coloring.

The above outline map represents Bulgaria, a southeast European nation. As can be observed in the map, Bulgaria has a rough rectangular outline. 

This page was last updated on February 5, 2021

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20 Gorgeous Towns and Cities in Bulgaria You’ve Never Heard Of

- This post may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure.

Bulgaria has been a hidden gem but is now becoming a popular holiday destination. With golden beaches next to the Black Sea, a mountainous landscape and many historic sites, it’s not difficult to see why people are travelling to Bulgaria. Another advantage of visiting this country is that it is reasonably priced, much more so than the resorts along the Mediterranean. The Bulgarian Black Sea coastline is 378 km (235 miles) long, and beaches cover around a third of this, 11 of them having a Blue Flag. You can still find quiet beaches but some have become more popular, not only for swimming and sunbathing but also for watersports.

History buffs will be in their element in Bulgaria. There are museums galore, over 100 monasteries, thousands of churches, historic castles and ancient ruins. The country is one of the world’s largest winemakers, producing about 145 million litres a year. Try to visit a winery during your stay. The national drink is Rakia, a clear spirit but be careful as the ABV can be anything between 40 and 95%!

The variety of food found in Bulgaria stands out. Being next to Turkey, a lot of their food is made with herbs and spices and has a distinct Middle Eastern taste. Influences have also been taken from Greece which is to the south of the country but the Bulgarians have put their twist on them. Their version of Greek moussaka is made with potatoes and pork mince rather than eggplant and lamb mince. Their famous salad, Shopska Salata, is like Greek Salad but grated sirene cheese is used instead of cubes of feta cheese.

Summers in Bulgaria are long and hot while autumn is usually pleasantly warm and is a popular time for people who want to tour historic sites and visit museums. Winters are long and cold, but because of the mountains, there are excellent skiing opportunities on offer. If you feel Bulgaria could be your holiday destination, read on. Here are 20 Bulgarian cities to get you started. 

5- Veliko Tarnovo

11- stara zagora, 12- haskovo, 13- dobrich, 18- pazardzhik, 19- velingrad, 20- nessebar, towns and cities in bulgaria, 20 bulgarian cities to visit.

Sofia is the capital of Bulgaria and is in the western part of the country, close to the Vitosha Mountain, where you can hike in the summer and ski in the winter.

It is home to around 1.28 million people and like most capital cities, it is buzzing with life.

There is an excellent choice of restaurants, great shops, and a lively nightlife.

One of the main reasons for visiting Sofia is its historical significance and attractions.

In the centre of the city, you will find the remains of the Serdica Fort which was constructed in 2000 BC by the Thracians.

You can also see the Roman-Byzantine church of St George, built in the 4th century AD.

Over 80% of the Bulgarian population are Eastern Orthodox Christians, and churches in Sofia are plentiful.

If you only have time to visit one church, it should be The Saint Sofia Church. 

It is ornate and has a magnificent dome, but the real pull is the necropolis underneath the church.

You will see many ancient Roman tombs, some even having frescoes painted on them. 

There is a museum here as well.

You will see evidence of the other religions practised if you head to Sveta Nedelya Square where there is an Eastern Orthodox Church, a Catholic Church, a Jewish Synagogue, and an Islamic Mosque.

Museum-lovers will be in their element in Sofia.

Museums include the National Archaeological Museum, the National Art Gallery in the former Royal Palace, the Museum of Socialist Art, and the National History Museum, which houses some famous gold artefacts.

You should take a day trip from Sofia to Rila Monastery, 117 km (73 miles) away. It is the monastery dedicated to Saint Ivan of Rila and is the world’s most famous Eastern Orthodox monastery built in the 10th century and houses beautiful frescoes.

Recommended tours:

• Sofia: Small Group Walking Tour
• From Sofia: Rila Monastery and Boyana Church Day Trip

Stay at: Grand Hotel Millennium Sofia

Varna is the third-largest city in Bulgaria and one of the country’s tourist hotspots on the Black Sea coast in the north. 

It has beautiful beaches and there are even a couple of places where you can go surfing.

The best beach is Rapangi Beach because it is well-kept and doesn’t get too busy.

If you want a break from the beach, the town is full of history.

There are some ruins of Roman Baths to visit, Orthodox churches and monasteries, and museums such as the History Museum and the Archaeological Museum.

Walk along Kraybrezhna Aleya, a coastal path that goes by the beach past seafood restaurants, where cocktail bars and nightclubs open in the evening, and the place comes alive.

Most of these places close for the winter, as Varna is a summer resort.

Varna loves to host festivals and each year there is a music festival, a folklore festival, a jazz festival, and a ballet competition.

Recommended tour: Varna: Guided VIP Tour

Stay at: City Boutique Inn

Plovdiv is the second-largest city in Bulgaria and sits on seven hills between the Rhodope Mountains and the Balkan range.

It is in the country’s south and is one of the oldest cities in Bulgaria that has been continuously inhabited.

It was founded in the 6th century BC and is a city for history lovers.

Plovdiv has been occupied by many races, including the Thracians, Macedons, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottoman Turks.

You can see these influences in the architecture throughout the city.

The Roman influence is evident; you can still see the ruins of the Roman Stadium, the Forum and the Eirene Residence.

The Roman Amphitheatre is still used as an open-air theatre.

The Old Town has cobblestone streets and brightly coloured National Revival houses.

It is built on three of the seven hills, and you get lovely views of the rest of the city from the Old Town.

The city is known for its artsy atmosphere, and you may be lucky enough to be there when there is an art or music festival on.

There are plenty of traditional Bulgarian eateries and international restaurants, such as Mexican, Italian, and Bavarian.

Nightlife is lively and especially popular with youngsters in their early 20s.

• Plovdiv: 2-Hour Sightseeing Walking Tour
• From Sofia: Group Day Trip to Plovdiv by Bus
• Plovdiv: Perperikon, Haskovo and Thracian Tomb Full-Day Trip

Stay at: Gallery 37 Powered by ASTON

Burgas is on the Black Sea’s southeastern coast and is Bulgaria’s fourth-largest city.

Most of the beaches around Burgas are small and tucked into sandy bays with crystal clear and calm waters.

The Sea Garden, right next to the main beach, has a lovely promenade and well-kept gardens, fountains, playgrounds, tennis courts, cafes and a theatre.

It’s a lovely place to spend a couple of hours.

For those interested in learning about the area’s ancient history, head to the Archaeological Museum, where you will see artefacts from as far back as 1,600,000 BC to 1.600 BC.

Housed in the museum are tools, pottery, ritual items, and even the valuables found in the tomb of a Thracian princess.

If you want to shop ‘til you drop, head to Burgas Galleria, which is a three-storey shopping mall.

Here you will find both Bulgarian shops and international high-street stores and a food court on the second floor.

Stay at: Hotel Residence Promenade

Veliko Tarnovo is in central Bulgaria and is one of Europe’s oldest cities.

If you are either a nature lover or are interested in the history of Bulgaria, you will have a fantastic holiday here.

22 km (13.6 miles) outside the city is the Emen Canyon which takes around two hours to walk.

It leads to a spectacular waterfall, 10 metres (32 feet) high.

86 km (54 miles) away from the city is the Devetashka Cave which is an enormous cave two km (1.2 miles) long.

It is an intricate network of tunnels with stalactites, stalagmites, and underground lakes.

The tunnels themselves measure seven km (4.3 miles) and you need to book a tour in advance to visit the caves.

The city of Veliko Tarnovo was the capital of Bulgaria between the 12th and 14th centuries.

The Yantra River flows through the city and the Stambolov Bridge takes you to the Asenevtsi Monument, which celebrates the power of the Medieval Bulgarians and from here, you get a beautiful view of the city.

Other city highlights include the King’s Castle, which was used when the city was the capital, and the Charshia Art Gallery, which focuses on arts and crafts.

There are museums in the city, such as the Regional History Museum, the Archaeological Museum and the Museum of Illusions.

Recommended tour: From Sofia: Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanasi Tour with Transfer

Stay at: Bey House Royal Hotel

For more cities in Europe, read:

• 20 Best  Cities in Greece
• 20 Best Cities in Poland
• 20 Best Cities in Spain
• 20 Best Cities in Portugal
• 20 Best Cities in Turkey
• 20 Best Cities in Scotland
• 20 Best Cities in Italy
• 20 Best Cities in Ireland
• 20 Best Cities in Germany
• 20 Best Cities in Austria
• 20 Best Cities in Wales
• 20 Best Cities in Hungary
• 20 Best Cities in Serbia
• 20 Best Cities in Bulgaria
• 20 Best Cities in Slovakia
• 20 Best  Danube River Cities
• 20 Best Cities in Romania
• 20 Best Cities in Finland
• 20 Best Cities in France
• 20 Best Cities in Switzerland
• 20 Best Cities in England
• 20 Best Cities in Iceland
• 20 Best Cities in Netherlands
• 20 Best Cities in Belgium
• 20 Best Cities at Night
• 20 Best Cities in Croatia
• 20 Best Cities in Denmark
• 20 Best Cities in Norway
• 20 Best Cities in Sweden
• 20 Best Cities in Slovenia
• 20 Best Cities in Latvia

Ruse is in the northeast of the country along the river Danube.

It has an Austrian feel due to its architecture and is known as ‘Little Vienna’ It is a city of firsts.

The first Bulgarian newspaper was printed here, the weather service was established here, and the first railway in Bulgaria was completed here.

It is also the largest port city in the country, so it wouldn’t be difficult to spend a whole week here and still not see everything.

It has 19 museums, including the Regional Historical Museum of Ruse.

Other highlights include the churches of Ivanovo, 20 km (12.4 miles) south of Ruse, which are little monasteries hewn out of rock, and the Sveta Troitsa Cathedral, built in the 17th century and houses many holy relics.

The Basarbovo Monastery is unique as it is entirely built inside caves.

Head to Freedom Square to see the Monument of Liberty, dating back to the beginning of the 20th century.

Here, the architecture is of different styles and there are statues and fountains to be seen.

On the edges of the square are bars and restaurants.

It is lovely here after dark as many fountains and statues are lit up.

Stay at: NC Apartment Ruse

Shumen is in the northeast of the county and is 88.6 km (53.4 miles) from Varna and would make a nice day trip.

The city’s highlight is the Shuman Monument on Ilchov Hill, which commemorates the 1300th anniversary of the creation of Bulgaria in 681 AD.

It is enormous, and you need at least an hour to see all of it.

It has been designed in the cubism style, which is quite unusual as cubism is generally used in paintings.

Eight concrete blocks are built at different angles, showing pictures from Bulgarian history between the 6th and 10th centuries.

Three of the blocks are covered in mosaics.

To get to the monument, you will need to climb 1,300 steps, representing the 1.300 years of Bulgaria.

Take a taxi if you don’t have the energy to climb the steps.

Shumen houses the largest mosque in Bulgaria, the Tombul Mosque, which is worth visiting for the beautiful paintings.

In the centre of the city, you will find restaurants and cafes.

Much of the area is pedestrianised.

Less than 20 km (12.4 miles) from Shuman is the Madara Rider, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It is a rock relief from around the 8th century and depicts a man on a horse spearing a lion, with a dog running behind him.

Stay at: MiTRa Luxury Apartments

If you are looking for sea, sand, and watersports, you won’t go wrong with Sozopol.

Located on the southern coast of the Black Sea, the beaches are sandy, and holidaymakers enjoy swimming, sunbathing, scuba diving, windsurfing, water skiing, and sailing all day long.

It gets busy from June until September, but if you want somewhere quieter, you can always drive a little out of town and find a cosy cove.

Sozopol is one of the oldest cities in Bulgaria, its history going back 2,500 years.

You will find more than beach life here.

The Old Town is lovely, with narrow streets, churches, old houses, and authentic restaurants.

In 1974, it was given the prestigious honour of being an architectural and historical reserve.

Sozopol has an archaeological museum and an art gallery, and just outside the city is Ravadinovo Castle which is well worth visiting.

The castle is beautiful and, on the grounds, there is a waterpark, a lake with swans, and a zoo.

It’s an excellent place for the whole family.

If you are in the city at the end of the summer, you can enjoy the Apolonia Festival.

On offer are theatrical performances, films and open-air concerts.

• A Romantic Escape to Sozopol: Bulgaria’s Seaside Heaven
• Magical Christmas Tour to Sozopol: A Winter Wonderland!

Stay at: Apolonia Apartments

Vratsa is the biggest city in the country’s northwest and is an excellent base for outdoor activities.

Just 10.5 km (6.5 miles) away is Vracansky Balkan National Park, which has more than 500 caves to explore.

In the park, you can cycle or even mountain climb; in winter, you can ski.

There are hotels, restaurants and cafes within the park.

It is the second-largest park in Bulgaria and is a haven for flora and fauna.

There are over 1,100 species of plants to be found as well as birds of prey, including the griffon vulture.

16 km (9,9 miles) from Vratsa is the Ledenika Cave which has stunning stalagmites and superb acoustics.

Because of this, concerts are held here.

If you want a day in the city, there are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and a few museums.

Stay at: Spacious Apartment with a view SUNNY DAY

Pleven is in the country’s north and is Bulgaria’s seventh most populous city.

It is known to be the city of museums, so if you are more interested in history and culture than beach life, this is the place for you.

The Regional History Museum is particularly spectacular as it has over 250,000 artefacts from ancient, Medieval, and more recent times.

There is even a collection of 25,000 old coins.

For a moving experience, visit the St George the Conqueror Chapel Mausoleum, built between 1903 and 1907 and dedicated to the Russian and Romanian soldiers who died during the Liberation of Bulgaria in 1877.

Stay at: Hotel Villa Kaylaka

Exploring Eastern Europe? You may also like:

• 20 Landmarks in Bulgaria
• 20 Bulgarian Cities
• 20 Things To Do In Sofia
• 22 Landmarks in Hungary
• 20 Cities in Hungary
• 15 Things Hungary Is Famous For
• 22 Castles in Czech Republic
• 21 Landmarks in Czech Republic
• 20 Things To Do In Prague At Night
• 15 Things To Do In Prague
• 20 Day Trips From Belgrade
• 10 Things To Do In Belgrade
• 20 Cities in Serbia
• 20 Things To Do In Baku
• 20 Slovakian Cities and Towns
• 20 Slovenian Cities and Towns
• 20 Latvian Cities and Towns
• 20 Things To Do In Tallinn
• 20 Castles in Poland
• 20 Landmarks in Poland
• 20 Polish Drinks
• 20 Cities in Poland
• 20 Things To Do In Warsaw
• 20 Things To Do In Krakow
• 20 Things To Do In Krakow At Night
• 20 Things To Do In Gdansk
• 20 Castles in Romania
• 20 Landmarks in Romania
• 20 Cities in Romania
• 20 Castles in Belarus
• 20 Things To Do In Tbilisi
• 20 Things To Do In Armenia
• 20 Cities In Armenia
• 20 Things To Do In Riga
• 20 Things Romania Is Famous For

Stara Zagora is an ancient city in central Bulgaria, and while it is not considered a tourist destination, there is enough to experience for a day or two.

If you are staying in Plovdiv, drive there for a change of scenery 101.8 km (63 miles) away.

The Regional Museum of History is a must-see, as is the Neolithic Dwellings Museum, which houses the remains of a Neolithic house from the 7th century BC.

There is also an art gallery with over 4,000 artworks, a Museum of Religions, and a Museum of Beer.

The beer museum is housed in the Zagorka Brewery, and you can take a tour and then have a tasting.

You will find the ruins of a Roman Forum and an ancient main street close to the promenade.

Stay at: Park Hotel Stara Zagora

Haskovo is a city in southern Bulgaria, near the Greek and Turkish borders 97 km (60 miles) from Plovdiv, and it would make a nice day trip.

The city is best known for its religious sites.

Climb the hill in the city just above the Jewish Quarter and see the monument dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary.

As well as being able to admire the statue, you will get great views over the city.

The Haskovo Regional History Museum is worth spending an hour or two and houses over 120,000 artefacts from the region going as far back as prehistoric times.

Close to Haskovo, in the village of Uzundzkovo, you will find the Church of the Assumption, the largest rural church in the country.

It is worth visiting as it was restored in 2007 and has some beautiful stained-glass windows, icons and frescoes, and one of the largest iconostases in the country.

Haskovo has an excellent range of restaurants, including traditional Bulgarian, Mediterranean, Greek, Italian and Chinese.

Stay at: Hotel Bohemi

Dobrich is in the northeastern part of the country.

It is 30 km (18.6 miles) from the Black Sea coast and resorts such as Golden Sands, the largest resort in the north.

If you are staying at the coast, Dobricht is a lovely place to go for a change of scenery.

Some museums in Dobrich are worth visiting, including the Old Dobrich Ethnographic Museum and the History Museum, which houses 163,000 exhibits, many from prehistoric times.

If you have children, they will enjoy the zoo with 350 animals from 70 species and more room for them than in other zoos in the country.

Stay at: Park Hotel Izida

Sliven is in central Bulgaria in the foothills of the eastern Balkan Mountains, popular in the winter with skiers.

If you are here at other times of the year, there are plenty of museums to visit.

Check out the Regional History Museum, which houses artefacts dating back to the 7th century, and the Museum of Popular Customs.

Sliven is an excellent base to explore Blue Stones National Park, where you can see waterfalls, visit caves and marvel at the rocks that turn blue in certain lights.

The park is 38 km (23.6 miles) from Sliven.

Stay at: National Palace Spa & Wellness Hotel

In southwestern Bulgaria, Melnik is in the heart of Bulgaria’s best wine-producing area.

The region has plenty of wineries to visit for tours, wine tasting, and there is a wine museum in the city.

It is very cheap to go to the museum, and the entry fee includes a tour of the museum and tasting of four wines and a rakia.

You can buy a bottle of your favourite wine and even bottle it yourself!

If you only have time to visit one winery, it should be Villa Melnik which has won many awards for its wines.

It offers different tours ranging from a simple tasting to a tour of the vineyards and winemaking facilities and a tasting of six wines.

The emphasis on wine doesn’t stop here.

If you visit the 18th-century Kordopulov House Museum, which used to belong to a Greek trader who produced wine, you will get a free tasting.

A 10-minute drive from the city is Rozhen Monastery, the largest monastery in the Pirin Mountains.

It dates to the 13th century and has lovely 16th-century frescoes.

Recommended tour: Full-Day Tour to Rila Monastery and Melnik

Stay at: Manoleva House

Pernik is 30 km (19 miles) southwest of Sofia and is a lovely place to go for a day trip.

Here you will find Kraka Fortress dating back to Medieval times.

You can tour the ruins, discover the secrets of the fortress and admire wonderful views of the area.

The fortress is not the only place where will find fantastic views. Another place to go is the Tower of Saint Dimitar.

There is a museum in the city, the Pernik History Museum which shows artefacts relating to the history of Pernik.

If you have time, visit the traditional village of Lomnitsa, close to Pernik, for pretty houses and shops selling handmade pottery and other homemade goods.

Stay at: Apartment G17

If you are staying in Stara Zargora, Yambol makes a pleasant day trip to see something different 87 km (54 miles) away.

For military enthusiasts, The Museum of Combat Glory has an extensive collection of tanks, photos, documents, belongings, medals, decorations and other artefacts relating to the people who fought in the Balkan Wars and the two World Wars.

In Yambol’s Synagogue complex, you will find the George Papazoo Gallery, which displays artworks from both Bulgarian and international artists and a collection of religious icons.

If you enjoy a glass of wine or two, visit MarVin Vineyard for a tasting just outside the city.

Stay at: HomeViza

Pazardzhik is on the banks of the beautiful river Maritsa, in the country’s south, 113 km (70 miles) from Sofia.

It is another city suitable for a day trip or maybe a weekend as there is enough to see to warrant a couple of days.

The Church of the Dormition houses impressive icons by master artists from the Debar School and wooden carvings showing scenes from the Bible.

The city has a History Museum with an exhibition about sport development in Bulgaria, an Ethnographic Museum and a Clock Tower.

Also worth visiting is the Konstantin Velichkov House Museum, the former home of Velichkov, a political activist and writer.

In the Stanislov Dospevski Gallery, you will see some of Dospevski’s spectacular icons.

The city has some beautiful squares where you can while away the hours over a coffee or wine.

Stay at: Lux Apartment

Velingrad is known as Bulgaria’s spa resort and is in the country’s south.

It has an abundance of mineral waters, excellent hotels and a mild climate year-round.

Around 200,000 people come here yearly to take advantage of the 80 mineral springs.

There are many spas and treatment centres, and you are welcome whether you are trying to cure ailments or want to boost your health.

In the city, you will find the Velingrad Museum of History, which has more than 19,000 archaeological artefacts, icons, old, printed books, and even a whole exhibition dedicated to Easter eggs.

In the winter, you can come here for skiing.

Stay at: Hotel Arte SPA & Park

Nessebar is a large resort on the Black Sea and is always busy during the summer.

There are two beaches bordering the Old Town, and a 10-minute drive takes you to Sunny Beach, which is 5 km (3.1 miles) long and has a golden beach.

There are many restaurants, cafes and bars here, and the nightlife is lively.

The Old Town of Nessebar is a UNESCO World Heritage Site because it has several old churches and historic buildings, including original 19th-century Bulgarian Revival houses.

The Old Town is on an island connected to the rest of the city by a causeway.

There are 40 monasteries and churches in the city of Nessebar.

The frescoes in the Church of the Holy Saviour are impressive and show scenes from the life of Christ and the Virgin Mary.

See the Black Madonna icon in the Church of the Dormition of Theotokos and the well-preserved frescoes and icons in St. Stephens Church.

Recommended tour: Nessebar: “FunForTwo”, adventure and city walk for couples

Stay at: Apartment Complex Rich

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