Discovering Bulgaria: 10 Best Tourist Places
A hidden gem in the Balkans, Bulgaria offers exceptional scenery, rich culture and ancient history. From majestic mountains and forests to sunny beaches and lakes, Bulgaria offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure and relaxation. You can also discover the colourful traditions, cuisine and crafts of the Bulgarian people, who have preserved their heritage through the centuries. Whether you want to visit the vibrant capital city of Sofia, medieval monasteries and churches, or charming villages and markets, Bulgaria will surprise and delight you with its beauty and hospitality. What to see on a tour of Bulgaria?
Top 10 Bulgaria
Here is a list of the 10 most important tourist destinations in Bulgaria that you should visit:
- Welcome to Sofia! Bulgaria’s beautiful capital and largest city, known for its rich art and culture. Sofia is the perfect place for a city break or even a longer stay! You simply have to see the National Museum of Earth and Man and the St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Sofia – they’re absolute must-sees! Vitosha Boulevard is the heart of Sofia, where you’ll find shops, restaurants and cafés galore. It’s the perfect place to walk around and soak up the atmosphere of the city. And if you want to explore more than just the capital, Sofia is a great base for other Bulgarian cities and tourist attractions.
- Varna is a lovely port city on the Black Sea, famous for its amazing archaeological treasures, including the Varna Archaeological Museum. Varna is the perfect place to relax on the beach and explore at the same time! Varna also has a lot to offer in terms of culture. There are theatres and museums where you can learn more about Bulgarian history and tradition. And if you’re into astronomy, you’ll love the Nicolaus Copernicus Planetarium in Varna, which is right in the heart of the resort. Bulgarian cuisine is a real treat for the tastebuds, and the restaurants in Varna serve dishes that will satisfy every gourmet. The nearby resort of Golden Sands is also well worth a visit, even if it is a little crowded.
- Plovdiv is one of the oldest cities in Europe and it’s easy to see why! It has a gorgeous old town and an amazing Roman amphitheatre. The Old Town is one of the best things about Plovdiv. It’s a real treat, stretching over three hills. The Old Town is full of character, with narrow, cobbled streets and buildings in a variety of architectural styles, from ancient to those of the Bulgarian Renaissance. If you’re looking to soak up the local culture, Plovdiv is the perfect place for you! It’s brimming with cultural events, festivals and fairs. In fact, it was named the European Capital of Culture in 2019, which just goes to show how rich its cultural scene really is. And the best part is, you can get there from Sofia in less than two hours, making it an ideal spot for both short and longer trips!
- Burgas is a gorgeous coastal city with the most beautiful beaches and a lovely promenade, perfect for sun-seekers and relaxation. It’s a place that every tourist should visit at least once in their lifetime! One of the best things about Burgas is the Sea Garden, a huge seaside park with so much to see and do! You’ll find beautiful alleys and fountains, playgrounds, cafes and even an open-air theatre. It’s the perfect place for a relaxing stroll or a picnic with the family. Burgas will certainly not disappoint you. When planning a holiday in Bulgaria, be sure to include Burgas in your ‘must-see’ list!
- Nessebar is an ancient city with a rich history and lots to see. It’s full of historic churches and charming streets, and it’s a great place for an active holiday. There’s the Aquapark Paradise, which is ideal for family outings, and after an adventurous day, there’s nothing better than dinner at one of the local restaurants, serving fresh fish and traditional Bulgarian dishes.
- Bansko is a wonderful ski resort at the foot of the Pirin Mountains, known for its excellent winter sports conditions. Bansko has so much to offer, not just great slopes! In summer, the town comes alive with opportunities for trekking, mountain biking and cultural festivals. Tourism in Bansko is growing rapidly, with numerous hotels and spas offering comfortable accommodation and relaxation after a day full of activities.
- Sozopol is an absolute gem! It’s one of Bulgaria’s oldest cities, with incredible Greek and medieval ruins. The old town is simply magical, with its wooden houses and narrow cobbled streets. It’s the perfect place to take a walk back in time and soak up the atmosphere of the past. And for adventurers, the clear waters of the Black Sea offer unparalleled conditions for diving and other water sports. Sozopol is truly a must-visit destination!
- Veliko Tarnovo is an incredible historic town known as the ‘City of the Tsars’, with an absolutely amazing hilltop fortress. The Carewec Fortress is one of the most important and most visited places in Bulgaria. It’s where some of the most important historical events in Bulgaria took place, including coronations!
- Sandanski is an amazing spa town known for its incredible therapeutic thermal springs and absolutely beautiful parks. Sandanski is situated in a picturesque valley at the foot of the Pirin Mountains and is renowned for having one of the healthiest climates in Europe! It is known for the healing properties of its thermal springs, which are simply amazing. The town offers a wide range of spas and wellness facilities where you can recuperate and immerse yourself in a relaxing atmosphere. Planning a visit? You’ve got to check out the latest attractions and events that can enrich your stay!
- Kazanlyk is a town in the Valley of Roses, famous for its rose oil production and vibrant rose festival – a truly unmissable experience! The city is world-famous for its engineering and textile industries, but it is the vast fields of roses that stretch around it that attract tourists from all over the globe. And there’s more! Kazanlak is also known for its production of rose oil, which is prized for its aromatherapy properties and used in perfumeries across the globe.
There’s so much more to Bulgaria than just its amazing sights! You’ll also get to experience the incredible hospitality and warmth of its people. Bulgaria has something for everyone! Whether you’re looking for adventure in the mountains, relaxation on the beach or cultural experiences in the cities, this wonderful country has it all. The best time to visit most of these places is from May to June and June to August, when the weather is most favourable. So, what are you waiting for? Come and discover the magic of Bulgaria!