Best Places to Visit in Bulgaria: 25 Charming Locations

Best Places to Visit in Bulgaria- Key Highlights

1. Explore ancient ruins and historical landmarks dating back centuries, a few of the best places to visit in Bulgaria.
2. Relax on pristine Black Sea beaches or venture into scenic mountain landscapes.
3. Immerse yourself in vibrant cities with rich culture and lively nightlife.
4. Indulge in delicious Bulgarian cuisine and renowned wines.
5. Discover hidden gems off the beaten path for authentic experiences.

Introduction

Sofia, the charming capital city, is a must-see with its rich history and vibrant spirit. However, Bulgaria has so much more to offer. Explore this magical land and discover many beautiful places often the beaten tourist path. You can find ancient ruins, well-kept old towns, stunning mountains, and sunny coastlines. Get ready to be amazed by the hidden gems and unforgettable adventures that wait for you. Continue below to read my list of 25 best places to visit in Bulgaria.

25 Must-Visit Locations in Bulgaria

Bulgaria is a place with different landscapes and a rich history. It has a mix of cultural treasures and natural beauty. You can find ancient cities, quaint villages, beautiful beaches, and tall mountains here. There is something for every traveler to love.

You can explore historical sites, relax on clean beaches, or spend time in nature. Bulgaria has special experiences waiting for you. Start your adventure and find the hidden gems that make this Balkan country a great place to visit.

1. Sofia – The Capital’s Charm

Sofia is a busy capital city. It mixes old history with a lively modern vibe. This exciting city has many cultural sites, like the beautiful Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and interesting items in the National Archaeological Museum.

Underneath its modern look, you can find traces of its rich past. There are Roman ruins that tell stories of long ago. Yet, Sofia is not only about history. Its lively streets are filled with trendy cafes, busy markets, and a fun nightlife. Come and see the unique mix of old and new in Sofia. This city does a great job of keeping its historical roots while showing off its modern charm.

Planning a visit to Sofia? Check out my complete travel guide!

2. Plovdiv – Ancient City with a Modern Twist

Plovdiv is one of the oldest cities in Europe. It smoothly combines its ancient history with a modern feel. You can stroll through its lovely Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, you will find colorful houses and cobblestone streets. You can also see remains of Roman history, like the impressive Roman Stadium.

In 2019, Plovdiv became the European Capital of Culture. The city is full of artistic energy. You can explore a lively arts scene, visit trendy cafes, and enjoy hip bars. All these places add to the city’s exciting vibe.

Planning a visit to Plovdiv? Check out my complete travel guide!

3. Varna – The Seaside Gem

Varna is the third-largest city in Bulgaria. It sits on the beautiful Black Sea coast. You can walk along the lively promenade and enjoy the sun on the sandy beaches. The refreshing sea breeze at the lovely Sea Garden adds to the fun.

You can also learn about its rich history at the Archaeological Museum. Here, you will find the famous Varna Gold Treasure. This treasure is the oldest gold item in the world. You should try the tasty seafood, visit the colorful markets, and have fun in the city’s nightlife.

Varna gives you a great mix of relaxation and adventure. It is a perfect spot for anyone who wants a memorable seaside getaway.

4. Burgas – Coastal Beauty and Nature

Embrace the calm of the Black Sea coast in Burgas. This city has a relaxing feel. It has beautiful sandy beaches, a charming seaside promenade, and a lively city center. Burgas is a great place for anyone who wants sun, sand, and sea.

You can explore the amazing Sea Garden. This large park has sculptures, fountains, and stunning views of the bay. Walk along the busy pier, enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants, or just relax and take in the peaceful coastal vibe.

5. Rila Monastery – Spiritual Serenity

The Rila Monastery is located high in the Rila Mountains. It shows Bulgaria’s deep spiritual history and great architecture. John of Rila founded this UNESCO World Heritage Site in the 10th century. Many visitors are amazed by its beautiful frescoes, detailed carvings, and calm environment.

When you enter the monastery’s courtyard, you can feel a wave of peace. You can admire the colorful arches, lovely murals, and listen to the soft sound of water from the fountain. There is also a museum that shares its rich history. It has religious objects and beautiful examples of Bulgarian art.

Visiting the Rila Monastery is a special experience. It offers a look into Bulgaria’s deep spiritual customs and architectural beauty.

6. Bansko – Winter Wonderland

Bansko is located in the beautiful Pirin Mountains. It is a great place for winter sports fans and nature lovers. As one of Bulgaria’s best ski resorts, Bansko gives you excellent skiing and snowboarding. There are slopes for everyone, no matter your skill level.

In addition to the slopes, you can explore the lovely town of Bansko. It has traditional houses, cobblestone streets, and cozy taverns that serve tasty Bulgarian food. You can also see the nearby Pirin National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has clean lakes, beautiful hiking trails, and different plants and animals.

7. Veliko Tarnovo – The City of Tsars

Veliko Tarnovo sits on a hill above the Yantra River. This city was once the capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire, and it has a charming medieval feel. You can walk through the Old Town. It has lovely traditional houses that flow down the hills and cobblestone streets with craft workshops.

You should visit the grand Tsarevets Fortress. It stands proudly on a hill and lets you explore the history of Bulgarian leaders. As you walk around, you will find the Royal Palace, the Patriarchal Church, and big gates. At night, you can see an amazing sound and light show that lights up the fortress walls.

8. Sozopol – History Meets the Sea

On the beautiful Black Sea coast lies Sozopol. It is one of Bulgaria’s oldest towns. Sozopol offers a mix of history, charm, and seaside beauty. You can explore the picturesque Old Town. It features cobblestone streets with traditional wooden houses, small shops, and cozy cafes.

Visit the Archaeological Museum. It has artifacts from ancient times, including pieces from the Greek colony of Apollonia Pontica. You can check out the town’s historic churches, relax on golden-sand beaches, or enjoy fresh seafood while taking in stunning sea views.

9. Nesebar – The Pearl of the Black Sea

Known as the “Pearl of the Black Sea,” Nesebar is a charming coastal town. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can walk through its beautiful Old Town. This area is on a small peninsula linked to the mainland by a narrow strip of land.

You can see many amazing buildings here. There are ancient churches with beautiful paintings, parts of old Roman walls, and traditional Bulgarian homes with bright colors. You can relax on the sandy beaches or enjoy fresh seafood at the restaurants by the water. The unique vibe of this historical spot is delightful.

10. Balchik – The Botanical Marvel

Along the beautiful Black Sea coast, Balchik draws visitors with its amazing Botanical Gardens. These gardens show off nature’s beauty and were created in the early 20th century by Queen Maria of Romania. They have many colors and lovely scents, with different plants from all over the world.

You can explore themed gardens, enjoy lovely waterfalls, find secret paths, and admire the quiet beauty of the Palace, which used to be a summer home for Queen Maria. Take a nice walk along the seaside promenade, relax on Balchik’s beaches, and enjoy the calm vibe of this coastal treasure.

11. Koprivshtitsa – A Walk Through History

Step back in time in Koprivshtitsa. This charming town is set in the Sredna Gora Mountains. It is famous for its Bulgarian Renaissance architecture and history. You can stroll along cobblestone streets. They are lined with colorful houses that have beautiful details. Each house tells a story of the town’s rich history.

You can visit the homes of important Bulgarians like Dimitar Blagoev and the writer Lyuben Karavelov. You will learn about their lives and the Bulgarian National Revival period. Check out the museums, discover traditional crafts, and feel the authentic vibe of this historical town.

12. Ruse – Elegance by the Danube

Ruse, often called “Little Vienna,” is a beautiful city by the Danube River. It has stunning buildings that show off Neo-Baroque and Neo-Rococo styles. These styles remind us of its rich history as a big trading center.

You can walk along Aleksandrovska Street, which is perfect for pedestrians. This street has shops, cafes, and cultural sites to enjoy. A nice stroll along the Danube promenade is calming. You can also take a scenic boat ride or visit Rusenski Lom Nature Park. This park has amazing rock formations and many types of birds.

13. Sinemorets – Unspoiled Beaches

Escape to the beautiful shores of Sinemorets. This hidden gem sits on the Black Sea coast and is famous for its untouched beauty and calm vibe. You can find quiet coves with clear turquoise waters. These spots are great for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying nature.

Explore the varied landscapes of Strandzha Nature Park. Here, you can see green forests, winding rivers, and special plants and animals. You can hike on scenic paths, find hidden waterfalls, or just relax on the beach and enjoy the calm coastal atmosphere.

14. Melnik – Wine and Sand Pyramids

Discover Melnik. It is the smallest town in Bulgaria. It is surrounded by stunning sand pyramids and is known for its rich history and fine wine. You can explore narrow cobblestone streets. These streets are lined with traditional houses that come from the 18th and 19th centuries. The architecture tells the story of its prosperous past.

You can dive into the world of Bulgarian winemaking. Visit Melnik’s well-known wineries and sample some wine. You will taste the unique flavors of the strong red wines from this area. Enjoy hiking through the beautiful Melnik Sand Pyramids. This natural wonder was created by erosion. Take in the beauty of this special geological place.

15. Kazanlak – Valley of Roses and Thracian Kings

Journey to Kazanlak, a town in Bulgaria’s Rose Valley. It is famous for its lovely rose oil and rich Thracian history. Visit the Museum of Roses to see all about roses. You can learn how people make rose oil and admire the beautiful rose fields when they are in bloom.

There are ancient Thracian tombs in the area. One of them is the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the Kazanlak Tomb. This tomb is famous for its well-preserved paintings from the 4th century BC. Don’t miss the annual Rose Festival. It is a fun event that celebrates Bulgarian culture and the area’s rose tradition.

16. Belogradchik – Rocks Telling Stories

Get ready to be amazed by the Belogradchik Rocks. These are stunning natural shapes formed over many years by erosion. The tall sandstone formations look like different shapes and figures. This creates a dreamlike landscape that sparks the imagination. Visit the Belogradchik Fortress, which sits on top of the rocks, and take in incredible views of the surrounding area.

There is a legend that each rock formation tells its own story. This adds a sense of mystery to the natural wonder. You can hike along marked trails, find hidden caves, and let your mind wander among these amazing rock sculptures.

17. Tsarevo – Coastal Calmness

Escape to the calm of Tsarevo, a lovely town by the southeastern Black Sea coast. Enjoy its beautiful beaches, where the waters are calm and great for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Check out the town’s harbor. Here, you’ll see fishing boats and yachts. Feel the relaxing pace of this seaside spot.

Hike on the scenic trails along the coast. You will get stunning views of the Black Sea and the nature around it. Enjoy fresh seafood at local places to eat, wander through the town’s shops and markets, or just unwind on the beach and soak in the peaceful vibe.

18. Samokov – Gateway to Natural Wonders

Samokov is located at the base of the beautiful Rila Mountains. It is a great starting point to discover Bulgaria’s natural wonders. You can visit the nearby Rila National Park. This park is famous for the Seven Rila Lakes, a stunning system of glacial lakes known for their clear beauty and tough hiking paths.

You can find hidden waterfalls, walk through thick forests, and enjoy many kinds of plants and animals in this beautiful mountain area. In the winter, Samokov becomes a popular place for skiing. It has great conditions for winter sports lovers.

19. Tryavna – Art and Tradition

Step into the artistic world of Tryavna. This lovely town is famous for its old Bulgarian Renaissance buildings and traditional crafts. You can walk along its cobblestone streets. These pathways are lined with workshops where local artists create traditional wood carvings, paint icons, and make pottery.

Take time to admire the details in Tryavna’s houses. They have colorful fronts, wooden balconies, and special features. Be sure to visit the Daskalov’s House. This is a gem of Bulgarian Renaissance architecture. You should also check out the Museum of Iconography. It displays the rich religious art traditions of the area.

Tryavna is a great mix of art, history, and tradition. It lets visitors feel the heart of Bulgaria’s artistic heritage.

20. Sapareva Banya – Thermal Water Paradise

Experience the refreshing power of nature at Sapareva Banya. This spa town is well-known for its healing mineral waters. You can take a dip in the thermal pool that is fed by the hottest geyser in continental Europe. The water can reach 103°C (217°F). The therapeutic qualities of the water can help soothe your body and mind.

You can also explore the town’s parks and gardens. Enjoy a relaxing stroll or treat yourself to spa treatments that use the mineral waters. Don’t miss the Geyser Park, where you can watch the geyser erupt regularly.

21. Stara Zagora – Among the Oldest Cities

Journey through time in Stara Zagora. It is one of the oldest cities in Europe and goes back to the Neolithic period. You can look at its many historical layers. You will find ancient Thracian settlements, Roman ruins, and Ottoman-era buildings. There are also modern-day monuments to see.

Visit the Neolithic Dwellings Museum. This museum has very well-preserved homes from the 6th millennium BC. It gives you a glimpse of life in prehistoric times. You can also check out the Regional History Museum. It holds artifacts from different historical periods. Don’t miss the Augusta Traiana Forum. These are the remains from the Roman city that was once here.

22. Vidin – Fortresses and Views

Discover Vidin, a beautiful town in Northern Bulgaria. It sits by the banks of the Danube River. Vidin has giant fortresses and lovely views. Check out the Baba Vida Fortress. This medieval site is from the 10th century. It gives great views of the Danube and the surrounding area.

Take a walk along the Danube promenade. Enjoy a nice boat trip. Visit the town’s historical center. There, you can see Ottoman-era buildings, cute shops, and local restaurants. Don’t miss the Vidin Synagogue, one of the biggest synagogues in Bulgaria. Its architecture is wonderful.

23. Smolyan – Mountains and Lakes

Escape to the beautiful Smolyan, located in the lovely Rhodope Mountains. This area is known for its green forests, beautiful lakes, and interesting folklore. Visit the stunning Smolyan Lakes, a group of glacial lakes linked by nice hiking paths. These paths provide amazing views of the mountains around.

Check out the Planetarium and Observatory to learn more about space. Also, visit the historic Smolyan Monastery, which shows the area’s rich spiritual history. Enjoy the local food, which is famous for using fresh mountain herbs and ingredients.

24. Troyan – Monastery and Crafts

Troyan is located in the foothills of the Balkan Mountains. It attracts many visitors because of its peaceful monastery and rich craft traditions. You should visit the Troyan Monastery. It is one of Bulgaria’s biggest and most important monasteries. The monastery is famous for its beautiful frescoes, detailed woodcarvings, and calm atmosphere.

While you are there, you can check out the town’s craft workshops. You can learn about the art of pottery, as Troyan is known for its unique ceramic ware. If you enjoy the outdoors, you can hike in the nearby mountains. There are many scenic trails where you can connect with nature.

25. Boyana Church – Historical Church

Discover the historical and artistic treasures of Boyana Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located on the outskirts of Sofia. This small church, dating back to the 10th century, houses some of the most remarkable medieval frescoes in Europe.

Admire the vibrant colors, intricate details, and expressive faces of the figures depicted in the frescoes, representing various biblical scenes and historical figures. The church’s unique architecture, featuring three distinct layers built in different periods, adds to its historical and artistic significance.

Conclusion

Bulgaria is a wonderful place to visit. It offers a nice mix of history, nature, and culture. You will find many things to see and do. The ancient city of Plovdiv is full of charm. Varna, by the coast, is a beautiful spot. If you want peace, visit the Rila Monastery. Bulgaria has great places for every kind of traveler. You can enjoy fun in Bansko’s winter or relax on the beaches in Sinemorets. There are many unique places, like Belogradchik, Kazanlak, and Nesebar, where history meets nature. Make your plan to visit Bulgaria with this list of the best places to visit in Bulgaria and see the natural beauty of this Eastern European gem for yourself.

Planning a visit to Bulgaria? Check out my complete travel guide!

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time to Visit Bulgaria?

The best time to visit Bulgaria really depends on what you like. If you want to see the Rose Valley, come in May or June when they harvest roses. From June to September, you can enjoy sunny beaches and the best beach resorts. If you love skiing, December to March is the best for that. Spring and autumn have nice weather, making it a good time to explore cities and attend cultural festivals.

Do I Need a Visa to Travel to Bulgaria?

Visa rules for Bulgaria change based on your nationality. Many countries’ citizens can enter without a visa for a short time. However, you should check your specific visa needs based on where you’re from before you travel. This will help make sure you have the right travel documents. Remember, Bulgaria is not in the Schengen Area.

Can I Use Euros in Bulgaria?

Bulgaria is in the European Union, but its money is the Bulgarian Lev (BGN). It is a good idea to change your money to Bulgarian Levs as soon as you arrive. You can exchange your currency at banks, exchange offices, and some hotels, especially in the capital city and popular tourist areas.