Best places to visit in Bulgaria

Bulgaria is one of Europe’s hidden gems, a country rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Located in the Balkans, it offers a diverse landscape ranging from the golden beaches of the Black Sea coast to the majestic peaks of the Rila and Pirin Mountains. Travelers can explore ancient Roman ruins, medieval fortresses, charming old towns, and vibrant modern cities. Bulgaria is also one of the most affordable destinations in Europe, making it a perfect choice for budget-conscious travelers. Whether you’re into history, nature, adventure, or simply looking for a beautiful place to relax, Bulgaria has something for everyone.

Best Cities to Visit in Bulgaria

Sofia – The Capital City

Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, is a fascinating mix of old and new, where historic landmarks stand alongside modern buildings. The city is known for its rich cultural heritage, lively arts scene, and affordable prices.

What to see in Sofia:

• Alexander Nevsky Cathedral – One of the largest Eastern Orthodox cathedrals in the world, this magnificent structure is adorned with golden domes and stunning frescoes inside.
• Vitosha Boulevard – The city’s main pedestrian street, filled with cafes, restaurants, and shops, offering a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll.
• Boyana Church – A UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its well-preserved medieval frescoes from the 13th century.
• Vitosha Mountain – Just outside the city, Vitosha offers excellent hiking in summer and skiing in winter, making it a great getaway from the urban hustle.

Plovdiv – Ancient Roman Heritage and Old Town

Plovdiv, Bulgaria’s second-largest city, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, dating back over 6,000 years. The city beautifully combines ancient history with modern culture.

What to see in Plovdiv:

• Ancient Roman Theater – A well-preserved amphitheater from the 1st century AD, still used for concerts and performances.
• Old Town Plovdiv – A charming area with cobbled streets, colorful 19th-century houses, and hidden art galleries.
• Kapana District – A trendy neighborhood filled with creative spaces, boutique shops, and vibrant street art.
• Nebet Tepe – An ancient Thracian fortress offering panoramic views of the city.

Varna

Varna is Bulgaria’s largest coastal city and a popular summer destination known for its sandy beaches, nightlife, and cultural landmarks.

What to see in Varna:

• Golden Sands Beach – One of the most famous beaches in Bulgaria, known for its fine sand and clear waters.
• Sea Garden – A vast seaside park with walking trails, botanical gardens, and open-air concerts.
• Archaeological Museum – Home to the world’s oldest processed gold, dating back over 6,000 years.
• Aladzha Monastery – A medieval rock-hewn monastery located in a forested area near Varna.

Veliko Tarnovo

Once the capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire, Veliko Tarnovo is a city steeped in medieval history and stunning architecture.

What to see in Tarnovo:

• Tsarevets Fortress – A massive medieval fortress that was the heart of Bulgarian royalty, offering breathtaking views.
• Samovodska Charshiya – A charming old market street with traditional crafts and local delicacies.
• Asenevtsi Monument – A striking monument dedicated to Bulgaria’s medieval rulers.
• Trapezitsa Hill – Another historical site with ancient ruins and remnants of the old capital.

Bansko

Bansko is Bulgaria’s top winter sports destination, but it’s also a charming town with a well-preserved historical center.

What to see in Bansko:

• Bansko Ski Resort – Offers excellent skiing and snowboarding conditions with modern facilities.
• Old Town Bansko – Features stone houses, traditional taverns (mehanas), and a cozy, authentic atmosphere.
• Velyanova House – A beautifully preserved 18th-century house showcasing traditional Bulgarian architecture.
• Pirin National Park – A UNESCO-listed nature reserve ideal for hiking and exploring in the summer.

Best Natural Wonders

Seven Rila Lakes

The Seven Rila Lakes are a stunning natural attraction in Bulgaria’s Rila Mountains, formed by glacial activity. The hike to see them starts at the Rila Lakes Hut, where a chairlift from the Panichishte resort takes visitors up to 2,100 meters. From there, well-marked trails lead to each lake, with “The Eye” and “The Tear” offering the best panoramic views from the highest points. The entire hike takes around 4-5 hours round trip, with opportunities to stop and admire waterfalls, alpine meadows, and the dramatic mountain landscape. The lakes are especially beautiful in summer when the snow has melted, revealing deep blue waters surrounded by green slopes.

Pirin National Park

Pirin National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a vast mountainous region in southwestern Bulgaria, known for its rugged peaks, glacial lakes, and rich biodiversity. The park’s highest point, Vihren Peak (2,914 meters), is a popular challenge for hikers, offering breathtaking views from the summit. Over 170 lakes dot the landscape, including the scenic Popovo Lake, one of the largest and most beautiful. The park is home to rare plant species like the endemic Edelweiss and diverse wildlife, including brown bears, chamois, and golden eagles. Well-marked trails make it accessible for both experienced trekkers and casual visitors, with Bansko serving as the main gateway to explore the area.

Belogradchik Rocks

The Belogradchik Rocks in northwestern Bulgaria are a striking natural wonder, featuring towering sandstone and limestone formations that have been shaped by erosion over millions of years. Some formations resemble figures and have inspired local legends, with names like “The Madonna,” “The Rider,” and “The Monks.” The best way to explore the area is by visiting the Belogradchik Fortress, which is partially built into the rocks. Originally constructed by the Romans and later expanded by the Ottomans, the fortress offers incredible panoramic views of the rock formations and the surrounding Balkan Mountains. The site is especially stunning at sunset when the reddish hues of the rocks become even more vibrant.

Krushuna Waterfalls

Krushuna Waterfalls, located near the village of Krushuna in central Bulgaria, are a stunning natural attraction known for their turquoise pools and lush forest surroundings. The main waterfall, around 20 meters high, splits into smaller cascades, creating a picturesque, multi-tiered flow over limestone terraces. A well-maintained eco-trail with wooden bridges and stairways allows visitors to explore the area up close, leading to hidden caves and panoramic viewpoints. The mineral-rich waters give the pools their striking blue-green color, making them a popular spot for photography. The waterfalls are easily accessible, just a short walk from the parking area, making them a perfect place for a relaxing nature escape.

Cape Kaliakra

Cape Kaliakra is a breathtaking headland on Bulgaria’s northern Black Sea coast, famous for its towering red cliffs that plunge 70 meters into the sea. The cape is rich in history, with remnants of ancient fortifications, medieval walls, and a small museum showcasing its past as a Thracian, Roman, and later Bulgarian stronghold. A scenic pathway leads visitors through the ruins to a lighthouse and a viewing platform offering panoramic sea views. Dolphins are often spotted in the waters below, and the area is a prime location for birdwatching. The best time to visit is at sunset when the cliffs glow in deep red hues, creating one of the most spectacular coastal landscapes in Bulgaria.

Hidden Gems of Bulgaria

Cities that get overlooked

Koprivshtitsa

A historic town frozen in time, Koprivshtitsa is known for its well-preserved 19th-century Bulgarian Revival architecture and its role in the April Uprising of 1876. Nestled in the Sredna Gora Mountains, it offers a perfect escape into Bulgarian history and culture. Walk through cobbled streets, visit colorful historic houses-turned-museums, explore the Oslekov House and the Lyutov House, and enjoy the surrounding mountain scenery.

Why visit? It’s one of the best-preserved historical towns in Bulgaria, showcasing traditional houses and museums.

Melnik

Bulgaria’s smallest town, Melnik is famous for its stunning natural surroundings, including the unique sand pyramids, and for its deep-rooted wine-making traditions. The town’s history dates back to Thracian times, making it a blend of ancient ruins, medieval charm, and viticulture.

Why visit? A perfect mix of history, nature, and some of the best wines in Bulgaria.

Zheravna

A charming mountain village where time stands still, Zheravna is famous for its well-preserved wooden houses from the Bulgarian Revival period. The peaceful atmosphere, cobbled streets, and surrounding nature make it a great place for a relaxing getaway.

Why visit? It’s one of Bulgaria’s most authentic and picturesque villages, offering a glimpse into traditional Bulgarian life.

Tryavna

A small town famous for its traditional woodcarving and icon painting, Tryavna is a hidden gem in the Balkan Mountains. The town has preserved its Renaissance charm, with beautiful bridges, churches, and artisan workshops. Visit the Museum of Woodcarving and Icon Painting, admire the Tryavna Clock Tower, stroll along the picturesque Old Town, and enjoy local traditional cuisine.Why visit? A great spot to explore Bulgarian art and crafts, away from the tourist crowds.

Balchik

A beautiful coastal town on the Black Sea, Balchik is known for its romantic seaside views, the Balchik Palace, and its stunning Botanical Garden. Once a favorite retreat of the Romanian Queen Marie, it has a unique blend of Bulgarian, Romanian, and Mediterranean influences.Why visit? A peaceful seaside town with history, culture, and breathtaking gardens.

Top tourist spots

These spots offer a mix of history, nature, and authentic Bulgarian culture, making them perfect for travelers looking to explore beyond the usual tourist spots.

• Shiroka Laka – A traditional Rhodope village famous for its authentic Bulgarian architecture and folk music.
• Prohodna Cave (Eyes of God) – A natural rock formation with two large openings in the ceiling resembling eyes.
• Kovachevitsa – A remote mountain village with stone-built houses and a tranquil atmosphere.
• Tyulenovo – A hidden coastal spot with dramatic cliffs and sea caves.
• Madara Rider – A unique rock relief depicting a horseman, a UNESCO-listed site with mysterious origins.

Other Interesting Places to Visit

• Rila Monastery – Bulgaria’s most famous monastery, known for its colorful frescoes and serene mountain setting.
• Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak – A UNESCO-listed burial site with impressive ancient paintings.
• Boyana Church – A medieval church near Sofia with stunning frescoes from the 13th century.
• Shipka Memorial – A monument commemorating Bulgaria’s fight for independence.
• Etar Open-Air Museum – A fascinating recreation of 19th-century Bulgarian village life.

Travel Tips for Visiting Bulgaria

Best Time to Visit

• Summer (June–August): Best for the Black Sea coast.
• Spring & Autumn (April–June, September–October): Ideal for sightseeing and hiking.
• Winter (December–February): Perfect for skiing in Bansko and Borovets.

Insurance & Safety

• Travel insurance is recommended, especially for adventure activities.
• Bulgaria is generally safe, but be cautious of pickpocketing in busy areas.

Driving and Car Rental Tips

Renting a Car

• If you are from a country that is not a signatory to the 1968 Vienna Convention, you will need an International Driving Permit to rent and drive in Bulgaria.
• Top rental agencies: Top Rent-A-Car, Europcar, Hertz.
• Expect prices around €20-40 per day.
• Full insurance coverage is advisable.

Driving Conditions & Rules

• Roads vary in quality; highways are good, but some rural roads are rough.
• Toll vignettes are required and must be purchased before driving on highways.
• Parking in major cities can be difficult; use designated zones.

Bulgaria is a diverse and affordable travel destination offering a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, hiking in the mountains, or relaxing on the beach, Bulgaria has something to offer every traveler. Plan your trip with an open mind and adventurous spirit, and you’ll be rewarded with unforgettable experiences.