Nestled in Eastern Europe, Bulgaria is a country of stunning natural beauty, rich history, and cultural heritage. From the sandy Black Sea beaches to the peaks of the Balkan, Rila, and Rhodope Mountains, Bulgaria offers breathtaking landscapes. The country is also renowned for its achievements in art, sport, and science and is home to ten UNESCO World Heritage Sites, each showcasing the ancient and diverse Bulgarian culture
The country has over 12 million visitors a year traveling in Bulgaria, captivated by its unique combination of deep history, unwavering culture, and breathtaking nature. Bulgaria offers a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be explored, so in this guide, I’ll share with you Bulgaria’s must-see sights, cultural riches, and hidden places. Whether you’re traveling in Bulgaria to explore vibrant city centers, peaceful and relaxing places in nature, or to go on an adventurous journey, this guide will help you navigate one of the world’s most interesting tourist destinations!
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The Diversity Of Traveling In Bulgaria
Bulgaria is most recognized for its Black Sea coast, but the truth is that when traveling in Bulgaria, you can discover sights that will capture your heart. There are countless hidden places, fortresses preserved from time immemorial, mountains with divine shapes and snow-capped peaks, fertile orchards, and fields dotted with roses.
If you didn’t know, you already know that one of Bulgaria’s symbols is the rose and that the country produces nearly half (1.7 tons) of the world’s rose oil, as well as perfumes and even cosmetic products with medicinal effects.
Yes, in addition to being beautiful, Bulgaria is also rich in in-depth knowledge of the medicinal effects of various herbs and foods, which people are treated with even today.
Bulgaria is a country where everyone can find their place. It is a suitable destination for winter sports in the most famous resorts of Bansko, Borovets, and Pamporovo, as well as for a peaceful, secluded holiday in its cozy villages. The beautiful beaches are always full, and of course, there is always a buzz of life and culture among the locals.
There is no reason to guess whether this place is worth visiting, even if you have no plan ahead. While traveling in Bulgaria, you will find at least one (I guarantee there will be more) place that will become your favorite. So let me show you at least some of the notable places.
Explore The Capital City – Sofia
One of the first places you will see when traveling in Bulgaria is the capital, Sofia. Yes, it has a noisy, lively, and dynamic city center with a lot of traffic. Like any European capital, right? But did you know it’s also the second oldest city in all of Europe? In fact, it hides a lot of sights, and what’s left to talk about is the amazing view of the Vitosha Mountains that can be seen from almost every point of the city.
The city is a wonderful place to explore, relax, and enjoy delicious Bulgarian cuisine and historical sights. Whether you want to walk around, relax with the occasional coffee, visit museums and learn about Bulgaria’s history, or go to the zoo or botanic garden, there’s something for everyone.
One of the things that can’t be missed is the Alexander Nevski Cathedral in the city center. Designed and built between 1882 and 1912 and declared a monument of national importance in 1955, the cathedral is on the list of 100 national tourist sites. It is the top attraction for tourists in Sofia. However, even just walking down the streets, you’ll see beautiful churches and architecture dating back centuries. You can go see also the streets in the charming old town “Old Sofia” and get a touch of old buildings.
Vitosha Mountain
If you want a more energetic experience, there are also several beautiful parks where you can go walk or do sport. Or you can go to clubs, try go-karting, or take a lift up Vitosha Mountain. Of course, you can walk too, go by car, or get public transportation.
Bulgaria’s Winter Resorts Near Sofia
Sofia, the capital city of Bulgaria, has another advantage over the other cities in Bulgaria: the nearby winter resorts—Borovets, Pamporovo, and Bansko. If you love the cold season and are looking for a cool and beautiful place with warm and friendly people where you can enjoy any winter sport, Bulgaria is your place!
The closest to Sofia is Borovets, located 68 km away. It is also the first winter resort in Bulgaria, declared as such in 1896. Today, it is among the most famous, modern, and visited resorts and offers excellent conditions for mountain tourism and sports: alpine skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, and mountain biking. Its altitude is 1,300 m, with the highest ski point at 2,560 m. There are 58 km of marked ski slopes on its territory, the longest of which is 12 km, and 8 of them are illuminated and suitable for night skiing. For families with small children, there are separate children’s areas with coaches and supervisors.
Locations In Nature
For nature lovers who want more, there are many wonderful places to visit in Southern Bulgaria and the Balkan region. This region is mostly full of mountains, cozy villages, small wine taverns, and seemingly endless lowlands.
The Rila Monastery – Rilskiya Manastir (Рилския Манастир)
The Rila Monastery is one of the most beloved symbols of Bulgaria. You’ll find it right in the heart of the Rila mountain. This incredible place was founded in the 10th century by the monk Ivan Rilski. It’s no surprise that it attracts visitors from all over the world, drawn in by its unique architecture and the stories of its miraculous powers. From the moment you step inside the Rila Monastery, you’ll be enchanted. The incredible murals adorning its facade will make your heart beat with pride and admiration. There are simply no words to describe the feeling of standing in such beauty against the backdrop of the majestic mountain.
Seven Rila Lakes – Sedemte Rilski Ezera (Седемте рилски езера)
This is the most visited landmark in Bulgaria by tourists from all over the world and is one of the 100 national tourist sites. Visiting this place is a dream for many people, and those who have been there describe it as “paradise.”
The seven Rila lakes are a group of lakes of glacial origin located on the Rila mountain terrace between 2095 and 2535 m above sea level. Each of them has its own specific name: The Tear, The Eye, The Kidney, The Twin, The Shamrock, The Fish, and The Lower Lake.
The most popular way to access the lakes is a lift located 4 km from Panichishte and can be reached by car. The lift goes up to the Rila Lakes hut, from where the main route to the seven lakes begins along marked paths. The place is steeped in a magnificent legend.
Paradise Sprinkler – Raĭskoto Pruskalo (Райското пръскало)
Paradise Sprinkler is a famous natural landmark. At 124 m, it is the highest waterfall on the Balkan Peninsula. It is located in the central part of Stara Planina at the foot of its highest peak, “Botev,” in the territory of the Central Balkan National Park.
The waterfall is impressive in size and energy and requires a long and challenging hike to reach it. However, the whole path and experience are worth it when you climb up, and this view unfolds before you!
“Central Balkan” National Park – Natsionalen Park “Tsentralen Balkan” (Национален Парк “Централен Балкан”)
In addition, the National Park is a wonderful option for a day trip along one of its short eco-trails. Locals often spend warm days in the cool forests of the “Central Balkans.” In fact, hiking tourism is well-developed there, with many huts where you can stay. In today’s hectic world, a person needs distance, peace, and connection with nature. You have to feel it.
Eco-Trail “White River” – “Byala reka” (Бяла река)
My advice is to go on the eco-trail “White River” – “Byala Reka” (Бяла река). It’s a lovely trail in the forest, where you can see numerous animals and interesting plants. It is located about 6.5 km northwest of the colorful whale town of Kalofer (you must visit it), near the Kalofer Monastery. The path is 1800 m long and describes a figure eight with its forest branches and 8 wooden bridges over the steep hills by the White River. Stunning place!
Sights
The Central Balkan National Park is a fascinating place with a wealth of historical and cultural sights! The Folk Crafts Museum in Troyan is home to a large number of the objects found during excavations. You’ll absolutely adore this place when you visit Bulgaria! Another great place is the open-air ethnographic museum in Etara, in the lovely town of Gabrovo. Everyone in Bulgaria has been to Etara at least once, and it’s a place that everyone holds in their heart, while the city itself carries the true culture and spirit of Bulgaria’s past, which is truly special!
There are also museums in Karlovo, Sopot, Klisura, Kalofer, and other nearby towns. The region of Central Bulgaria is an exceptional cultural treasure trove!
Rose Valley – Rozovata Dolina (Розовата долина)
As we said, one of Bulgaria’s symbols is the rose, and, more specifically, the rose valley near the town of Kazanluk. This is one of the most stunning places you can see while traveling in Bulgaria! These endless valleys are full of roses, with their divine smell and fascinating views!
You can visit this place, walk through the valley, or even try picking roses. On the other hand, if you prefer, you can visit the Museum of Rose in Kazanluk. Even if you don’t do it, just a walk in this tiny town will be enough to see this rose beauty, learn more about traditional rose picking, or buy some perfumes and cosmetics.
If you visit Bulgaria during the summer, you can attend the traditional Rose Festival. This is a big, unique celebration with a full show program. Young people can even compete for the title of queen and king of the rose. It’s a very fun experience!
Tsarevets Fortress In Veliko Tarnovo
Traveling in Bulgaria, we cross to the other side of the Old Mountain – Stara Planina (Стара Планина) in Northern Bulgaria. There is the city of Veliko Tarnovo, one of the oldest capitals of the country. In it, you can visit the National Military University “Vasil Levski,” the University of Veliko Tarnovo “St. Cyril and Methodius,” the Cathedral of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary, the “Mother Bulgaria” monument (colloquially called the “monument of the eternal fire”), Tsarevets and Trapezitsa fortresses, numerous museums and cultural attractions – a total of 1613 historical sites of Bulgaria.
But the most famous of all is the Tsarevets Fortress – Krepostta Tsarevets (Крепостта Царевец), located near the old town of Veliko Tarnovo. It is a truly magnificent place, brimming with greatness, glory, and wealth! This is a truly special place where you can step back in time and learn about Bulgaria’s fascinating history. There’s no wonder why tens of thousands of tourists come here each year!
It was the main Bulgarian fortress during the Second Bulgarian Kingdom (1185 – 1396) and is among the Hundred National Tourist Sites. The fortress is surrounded by defensive walls that are 3m thick and feature battle towers. The biggest attraction of Tsarevets is the night audiovisual show “Sound and Light.” It is an indescribably exciting view; you must see it with your own eyes!
How Do You Say “Traveling” In Bulgarian?
In Bulgarian, the word “traveling” translates as putuvane (пътуване).
Vocabulary Related To Traveling In Bulgaria
| English | Bulgarian | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Travel | Пътуване | Putuvane |
| Tourist | Турист | Turist |
| Hotel | Хотел | Hotel |
| Restaurant | Ресторант | Restorant |
| Reservation | Резервация | Rezervatsiya |
| Train | Влак | Vlak |
| Bus | Автобус | Avtobus |
| Ticket | Билет | Bilet |
| Map | Карта | Karta |
| Sightseeing | Разглеждане на забележителности | Razglezhdane na zabelezhitelnosti |
| Souvenir | Сувенир | Suvenir |
| Currency | Валута | Valuta |
| Lev (Bulgarian currency) | Лев | Lev |
| Passport | Паспорт | Pasport |
| Visa | Виза | Viza |
| Customs | Митница | Mitnitsa |
| Language | Език | Ezik |
| Guidebook | Пътеводител | Putevoditel |
| Tourist Information Center | Туристически информационен център | Turisticheski informatsionen tsentar |
| Hostel | Хостел | Hostel |
| Adventure | Приключение | Prikluchenie |
| Culture | Култура | Kultura |
| Nature | Природа | Priroda |
| Local Food | Местна храна | Mestna hrana |
FAQs About Traveling In Bulgaria
1. Is It Safe To Travel To Bulgaria Now?
Bulgaria has always been a safe place for everyone. There is no major crime or other dangers and problems, on the contrary. The people are extremely hospitable, and there are always tourists. Some of them are unable to resist nature, food, and women, so they decide to stay and live in Bulgaria.
2. What To Know Before Traveling In Bulgaria?
You need to know that saying “no” to eating and drinking is impossible in Bulgaria! Rakia and Shopska Salad are the ultimate treat, so it’s best if you can drink and know how to have fun. Of course, this is a joke. You should know that you can always ask for help; many people speak English, there is a strong Internet connection everywhere, and make sure to have cash (the currency is the LEV) because you won’t be able to pay by card in some places.
3. Is Bulgarian Hard To Learn?
Bulgarian is one of the oldest Slavic languages and uses the Cyrillic alphabet. It is different from most languages, especially English, but with good practice, everything is possible. The hardest part is Bulgarian grammar.
Summary
Bulgaria is a beautiful place full of so many stunning locations and breathtaking views. You can’t imagine all these feelings until you go traveling in Bulgaria. This is an old, rich country with warm, welcoming energy. Prepare yourself with some language lessons, or just make sure you have downloaded the Ling app and get your bags because the best Bulgarian vacation is waiting for you!
