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12 Top Tourist Attractions in Bulgaria

By Becky Griswold · Last updated on October 3, 2023

Bulgaria is a country of diverse landscapes and a depth of history which results in a nation filled with natural beauty and cultural richness that dates back to ancient times.

With high rocky peaks home to picturesque mountains, huge national parks where endangered animals roam wild, and swathes of sandy beaches that hug the Black Sea, along with relics of the Soviet rule, there is something for everyone to discover in the bold and this beautiful Balkan country . Here’s a look at the top tourist attractions in Bulgaria:

12. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral [SEE MAP]

Situated in the heart of the stunning city of Sofia is the iconic symbol of Bulgaria: the Aleksander Nevsky Cathedral. Paid for by the people of the city and built between the years 1882 and 1912, the cathedral was constructed to honor the lives of the 200,000 Russian soldiers who were killed fighting in the Russo-Turkish war for Bulgaria’s freedom from the rule of the Ottomans.

The cathedral itself is ornately detailed, with a decadent 45-meter high, gold-plated dome. Inside, you can walk among the many intricate mosaics, meaningful murals and depictions of saints and angels; huge chandeliers hang low, dripping in decadent gold, whilst the solid wood of the altar and pews is delicately carved.

11. Krushuna Waterfalls [SEE MAP]

Close to the village of Krushuna, nested in a lush forested landscape among the many karst rock formations, are the Krushuna Falls. The tallest of the falls is 20 meters high, where the turquoise water then splits into smaller falls and cascades over hunks of limestone, forming gentle pools and curious curves in the rock.

It is easy for visitors to reach the waterfalls and explore the surrounding area over bridges and steps. One pathway leads to a hidden cave where the source of the waterfall can be found – the spring is said have health benefits and is still a popular spot for locals from the nearby village.

10. Koprivshtitsa [SEE MAP]

Walk along the old winding road of Koprivshtitsa town, past the tricking streams and the colorful buildings, and be taken back to a Bulgaria of the past. Set in the heart of the Sredna Gora mountain range, historic Koprivshtitsa town was once a center for the fight against Ottoman rule and still today remains a place of Bulgarian pride.

The town is now popular with visitors and is an open air museum; its many mansions and houses are fantastic examples of the Bulgarian National Revival that occurred during the 19th century.

9. Buzludzha Monument [SEE MAP]

An icon of brutalist design and a masterpiece of Soviet proportions is the now abandoned Buzludzha Monument. Built in 1974 by the Bulgarian army, the monstrous monument was designed by various artists and creatives in charge of statues during the era.

The monument stands on the spot of a battle between the Turks and the Bulgarians which took place in 1868 and is where Dimitar Blagoev, along with other socialist leaders, outlined Bulgaria’s revolution into a communist state.

The stoic structure is now covered in political graffiti and has huge depictions of Lenin and Marx as well as lettering across the facade. The huge flying-saucer-shaped shrine to socialism was left to ruin after the fall of the Soviet Union but has become an unusual attraction for those interested in the history and striking design of the era.

8. Vitosha Mountain [SEE MAP]

The classic dome shape of Vitosha Mountain sits close to the urban sprawl of the city of Sophia and is where people go to take a break from the city and enjoy nature. With its own ski resort, pleasant hiking routes and fantastic panoramic views of the city below, the mountain is easily accessible from the city and can be reached by bus, on foot, and ropeways.

Vitosha Mountain’s highest point is 2,290 meters high and attracts visitors all year round who are drawn there to explore the Vitosha Nature Park, which is actually the oldest in the Balkans, and covers most of the mountain, as well as the mineral springs in the foothills.

7. Thracian Tomb of Sveshtari [SEE MAP]

The ancient Thracian tomb of Sveshtari was only discovered in 1982 when archaeologists uncovered the impressive site underneath a mound. The tomb is thought to have been built for a royal couple from the Thracian tribe of the Getae and dates back to the 3rd century BC.

The tomb is wonderfully well preserved; its ornate interior reveals impressive carvings and murals of half-female, half-plant figures which appear to be holding up the ceiling. The tomb is thought to be unique as there has been no other Thracian tomb discovered that has Sveshtari’s combination of astonishing architecture, sculpture and paintings.

6. Tsarevets Fortress [SEE MAP]

A symbol of Bulgaria’s past greatness, Tsarevets Fortress is built on the spot where the palace of the medieval tsars once stood 800 years before when Tarnovo was its capital. Explore the ancient rambling ruins and stumble across the remains of over 400 houses and innumerable churches.

The panoramic views of the surrounding landscape reveal how the location of the fortress was strategically placed, 206m above sea level, to protect the kingdom from invasion for hundreds of years. Visiting the stronghold involves a lot of walking up steep slopes, but because the only access to the fortress is on foot you can wander the grounds and climb the old walls in peace.

5. Sunny Beach [SEE MAP]

Sunny Beach is famous for long stretches of soft, sandy beaches that slope into the Black Sea and also for its numerous tourists who visit the resort town to enjoy its lively nightlife. The golden beaches stretch for eight kilometers along the coast and offer the perfect spot to spend time soaking up the sun and taking a swim.

The beaches in the area are clean and are sheltered from the elements, meaning the sea is perfect for swimming, whilst the plentiful hotels along the coast are also reasonably priced and family-friendly. This is the place to visit if you want to spend a few days relaxing in the sunshine and exploring the surrounding area, such as the ancient town of Nessebar.

4. Plovdiv Roman Theater [SEE MAP]

In the center of Plovdiv Old Town is one of the world’s best preserved ancient theaters. Discovered in the 1960s, the spectacularly striking structure dates back to the 1st century AD and is thought to have been built under the rule of the Roman Emperor Domitian.

The site would have played an important role in the ancient communities: this was where theatrical performances and famously ferocious gladiator fights would take place, as well as local government meetings and big gatherings.

The theater itself is still in use for opera and musical performances and holds an impressive 7,000 people. Amble along the old cobbled streets of the town and up the hill to the ancient theater, sit among the rows of sloping seats and soak in the silence and take in the uninterrupted views of the surrounding landscape.

3. Pirin National Park [SEE MAP]

Home to more than 70 glacial lakes, old forests and soaring 2,915-metre peaks and ridges, the Pirin National Park is a Bulgarian national treasure. The National Park is a safe haven for many different types of rare species that use the Balkan mountain range for shelter. Large animals still roam the slopes, from brown bears and wild boar to gray wolves and jackals; this is a remote and wild area that is under threat from development by ski resorts.

Spend your time visiting the unimaginably beautiful park by hiking the numerous paths, cycling among the alpine meadows or fishing alongside waterfalls. You can even stay overnight in Pirin’s huts, and find the famous Baykuchevata Macedonian pine tree that is said to be approximately 1,350 years old!

2. Old Nessebar [SEE MAP]

Nessebar has been charming visitors for the past 9,000 years and it keeps on enchanting people to this day. Set on a craggy peninsula that is connected to the mainland by a causeway, the charming old Nessebar town is an open-air museum packed full of pretty squares, churches and cobbled streets. The town’s history and monuments span the Roman and Byzantine eras, and remains of the old town walls can still be seen.

This fascinating town is packed full of character: take a look in the traditional timber houses built on sturdy rock foundations, sit and watch the windmill on the bridge between the old and new towns, and step silently in the stunning churches and chapels.

1. Rila Monastery [SEE MAP]

Take a trip to Rila Monastery and soak in the serene surroundings among the Rila mountains. Founded in the 10th century, and held in high esteem as being an important historic and cultural monument, the Eastern Orthodox Rila Monastery is an architectural icon.

Labelled as the Jerusalem of Bulgaria, it is the biggest monastery in the country and is home to compelling religious iconography, including wall paintings, carvings and historical artifacts.

The ancient monastery is still active and is home to around 60 monks who still live and work in the tranquil peace of the monastery inside its ornate buildings. The striking stripes of the exterior and gently curved arches, along with the crowning domes, set the monastery apart from the surrounding tree-covered mountainous landscape.

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24 Best Bulgaria Tourist Attractions and Top Places to Visit

Posted on May 25, 2024 | Julie J. |

Planning a trip to Bulgaria? After traveling all over the country last summer, let me share with you my favorite Bulgarian destinations and the best places to visit.

What I loved most was hiking in the mountains, I’d never have thought the scenery would be so gorgeous, and strolling around all the medieval towns. People are also super friendly and incredibly helpful, even when they don’t speak English.

It’s now one of my favorite destinations in Eastern Europe and I highly recommend it to people looking for a blend of historic places, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities.

So pack your bags and get ready to explore this beautiful country and discover all the best things to do in Bulgaria!

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Must-Visit Bulgarian Historical Sites

Rila monastery.

The Rila Monastery is one of Bulgaria’s most famous landmarks. I visited as a day trip from Bansko but you can also plan a day trip from Sofia even by renting a car or booking a tour.

Founded in the 10th century by St. Ivan Rilski, it is located in the Rila Mountains and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The beautiful frescoes and architecture, combined with the peaceful atmosphere, make visiting it a fantastic experience. While it’s pretty crowded, people are not allowed to talk (whispering is ok), so it stays pretty quiet. There are even people whose job it is to shush you!

Tsarevets Fortress

The Tsarevets Fortress is located in Veliko Tarnovo and used to be the capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire. Situated on a hill, it offers stunning views of the surrounding area and is a must-visit while in Bulgaria.

You can stroll around the ancient fortress just be ready to climb up quite a bit. You can also book a tour with an English-speaking guide to learn more about the place and Bulgaria’s history.

The site is also organizes an impressive sound and light show, which tells the story of the fortress and the history of Bulgaria. Make sure to check the schedule beforehand.

I highly recommend planning to spend a few days in Veliko Tarnovo if you have a car, as there are plenty of amazing places to visit nearby. If you’re traveling by public transportation, one day is enough to stroll around the historic town, explore the fortress, and visit a museum or two.

Ancient City of Nessebar

The Ancient City of Nessebar is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is located on the Black Sea coast. The city features well-preserved medieval architecture, and it is home to many churches and museums.

It is a great place to learn about the history of Bulgaria and to see some beautiful architecture while enjoying the seaside and the laid-back vibes.

Buzludzha Monument

The Buzludzha Monument is a unique landmark in Bulgaria. It was built in the 1970s to commemorate the Bulgarian Communist Party, and it is located on a mountain peak. The monument is abandoned now, but it is still an impressive sight to see.

I personally would only recommend checking it out if you have a car and want to visit other things nearby. It’s located in the Rose Valley near Kazanlak, known for the many Thracian tombs found in the area. Nearby you can also visit the open-air museum in Etar, showcasing traditional houses and buildings from the Balkan.

Best Bulgaria Tourist Attractions for Nature Lovers

Bulgaria is a country with a diverse landscape that is home to a variety of natural wonders. From mountains and lakes to waterfalls and rock formations, there is no shortage of breathtaking sights to see.

Seven Rila Lakes

Located in the Rila Mountains, the Seven Rila Lakes are a group of glacial lakes that are a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers.

Each lake has its own unique beauty, and together they create a stunning landscape that is sure to take your breath away.

I’d say it’s only worth going if you like hiking, you can take the cable car to the top, but without a good hike, you won’t see anything worthwhile. The best time to go hiking is during the summer months – in the winter it turns into a ski resort.

I absolutely loved it, you can plan to spend the day there, taking as many breaks as you want, and you can choose to only see a few of the lakes and not the seven. Note that it is forbidden to swim in any mountain lakes in Bulgaria.

From where the cable car takes you, you can buy food and drinks if needed but I recommend packing a lunch and plenty of snacks.

It will be cold up there, even in summer, and the weather can turn extremely fast, so bring a coat even if it’s sunny.

There are even areas where you can camp if you want to spend more than a day up there.

In the town at the bottom, you’ll find plenty of hot spring resorts if you want to relax after a day of hiking.

Pirin National Park

Pirin National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to some of the most beautiful mountain landscapes in Bulgaria. The park is home to over 70 glacial lakes, as well as a variety of plant and animal species that are unique to the region.

I actually liked hiking in Pirin better than in Rila, because it is quieter and sees fewer people. There are a lot of different paths you can take so you’ll probably be by yourself most of the time – and the scenery is just stunning.

The starting point to visit the park is from Bansko, which is also a must-visit. In the winter you can ski and in the summer go for hikes. From town, you can catch a van that will take you to the start of the hiking trails – there’s a restaurant and bathrooms there.

To get around the trails, I’ve used the Maps.Me app and it’s pretty accurate.

Belogradchik Rocks

The Belogradchik Rocks are a series of rock formations that are over 200 million years old. The rocks have unique shapes and colors that you won’t see anywhere else.

Start by visiting the fortress, from where you’ll get an amazing view over the rock formation. Then you can go for a hike.

While I highly recommend visiting Belogradchik, I didn’t really enjoy the hike because you don’t see much from the ground, plus there were A LOT of small flies flying right around my face. If you can afford it, take a hot air balloon ride, the views from above must be amazing.

I also recommend taking the train from Sofia – the landscape along the way is stunning – and the route is considered one of the most scenic train rides in the country.

Pobitite Kamuni

Pobitite Kamuni, sometimes spelled Pobiti Kamani, features unique rock formations in a desert-like setting. The rocks are known for their unusual shapes and sizes, and the area is perfect for hiking.

The best way to visit it is as a day trip from Varna.

Krushuna Waterfalls

The Krushuna Waterfalls are a series of cascading waterfalls surrounded by a dense forest.

You can book a tour from Sofia, drive there, or take a bus from Lovech to the village of Krushùna (it’s a 20-minute walk from where it leaves you).

Try not to go on weekends during summer to avoid the crowds.

Ardino and the Rhodope Mountains

Ardino is a small town located in the Rhodope Mountains in Southern Bulgaria and is a great base to explore the region’s beautiful landscapes.

I recommend renting a car otherwise you’ll be pretty limited in what you can see and do. The area is perfect for a 2 to 3-day road trip visiting small mountain villages and natural wonders.

Near town, don’t miss the unique Thracian cult complex and the Devil’s Bridge.

Vitosha Moutain

Located just outside of Sofia, Vitosha Mountain offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside. It’s a great day trip destination to escape city life – plus, you can easily reach the hiking trails via public transportation.

Balchik Botanic Garden

If you like botanical gardens, then you can’t miss the Balchik Botanic Garden, on the Black Sea coast. The garden is home to a variety of plant species from around the world and is one of the most popular gardens in the country. It’s particularly famous for its cacti collection.

The complex was built as the summer residence of the Romanian Queen Marie in the 19th century and you can visit some of the buildings as well.

Best Historic Towns And Cities to Visit in Bulgaria

Plovdiv old town.

Some of the most beautiful places in Bulgaria are found in Plovdiv’s Old Town where you’ll find a mix of Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman architecture, as well as charming cobblestone streets and colorful houses.

I loved the vibe there, it’s Bulgaria’s second-largest city yet it’s not overwhelming. Stay in the historic part of town, and just stroll around, getting lost in the small streets.

From Roman times, be sure to visit the Roman Amphitheater and the Ancient Stadium, both of which are well-preserved and offer a glimpse into the city’s past. The Regional Ethnographic Museum is also a must-visit to learn more about the country’s rich culture. It’s housed in a beautiful traditional house.

In the Kapana district, you’ll find many restaurants, cafés, and bars. It’s a great area to go for lunch and have a drink at night.

You’ll probably start your trip in Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, don’t skip it and plan to spend at least one full day there.

If you’re short on time it’s also a good base to explore the surroundings with many day trip options to Bulgaria’s top tourist attractions.

You can explore ancient ruins at the Serdica Archaeological Complex, visit the stunning Aleksander Nevsky Cathedral, or stroll through the city’s many parks and gardens. Don’t miss the National Museum of History and the women’s market.

I recommend joining a free walking tour of the historic center. It’s a great way to learn more about the city’s past and its iconic sites – and you can decide which sites you want to visit further on your own later on.

Veliko Tarnovo

Veliko Tarnovo, located in central Bulgaria, was once the capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire and is one of the oldest cities in Bulgaria. Today, you can visit the Tsarevets Fortress, which offers stunning views of the city and a glimpse into Bulgaria’s medieval past.

You’ll also find plenty of charming shops and restaurants in the Old Town. Do stroll around town, many houses have kept their traditional style and most streets are still paved. In summer, there are flowers everywhere, making the town even more lively.

I also enjoyed visiting the Prison Museum and taking a day trip to visit the surroundings. If you have a car, head to Hotnitsa waterfall, hike in Emen Canyon, and visit the Dryanova Monastery.

Ruse, located on the banks of the Danube River in Northern Bulgaria, offers beautiful and colorful architecture and a rich cultural heritage – it’s often referred to as little Vienna, for its resemblance with the capital of Austria. The architecture is a mix of classic styles, Baroque, Renaissance, Gothic, and Rococo.

You can explore the city’s many museums, historic houses, and galleries, or take a stroll along the riverfront promenade. Don’t miss the Pantheon of National Revivalists, which honors some of Bulgaria’s most important historical figures. Take a guided walking tour to not miss anything.

The Sexaginta Prista, the ruins of an ancient Roman fortress along the Danube, is also a must-see.

If you have a car, outside of town, you can visit the Orlova Chuka Cave, Cherven Fortress, the Churches of Ivanovo, and the Rock Monastery of Basarbovo.

Koprivshtitsa

Koprivshtitsa is a small town located in the Sredna Gora Mountains. It’s known for its well-preserved 19th-century architecture and important role in Bulgaria’s struggle for independence.

You can visit the many museums and historic houses in the town, or simply enjoy the beautiful scenery.

I went there by train from Sofia as a day trip – a couple hours is enough to visit the town but it can also be nice to spend a night at one of the guesthouses there and enjoy the small village vibes.

Melnik, located in southwestern Bulgaria, is known for its stunning natural beauty and historic architecture. You can explore the town’s many churches and museums, or take a hike in the surrounding mountains.

Don’t miss the Melnik Pyramids, unique rock formations that are a popular tourist attraction.

Best Bulgarian Beaches on the Black Sea Coast

If you’re visiting during the warmer months, make sure to add a beach destination to your itinerary. You can pick anything between laid-back fishing villages and lively party towns, all featuring beautiful beaches.

Sunny Beach

Sunny Beach is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Bulgaria, and for good reason. The beach is over 8 km long and offers plenty of space to relax and soak up the sun. There are also plenty of activities to keep you busy, from water sports to beach volleyball. At night, the beach comes alive with bars and clubs, making it the perfect spot for partygoers.

Golden Sands

Golden Sands is another popular beach destination in Bulgaria. The beach is surrounded by a natural park and offers stunning views of the Black Sea. The sand is soft and golden, and the water is crystal clear. There are plenty of restaurants and bars in the area, as well as a casino for those who want to try their luck.

If you’re looking for a more laid-back beach experience, Sozopol is the place to be. This charming town is located on a rocky peninsula and offers stunning views of the sea. The beaches are smaller and less crowded than some of the other popular destinations, making it the perfect spot for a relaxing getaway. Be sure to check out the old town, which is home to some of the best-preserved medieval architecture in Bulgaria.

Best Ski Resorts in Bulgaria

If you’re planning a winter vacation, Bulgaria boasts some of the best ski resorts in Europe, with Bansko, Borovets, and Pamporovo being the most popular destinations.

Bansko is a charming town located in the Pirin Mountains and is known for its well-groomed slopes and modern facilities. It has something for everyone, from beginner to expert skiers. The town itself is also worth exploring, with its cobbled streets and traditional architecture.

Located in the Rila Mountains, Borovets is another popular place in Bulgaria for winter sports. It offers 58 km of slopes and 13 lifts, making it one of the largest ski resorts in Bulgaria. The resort is also known for its vibrant après-ski scene, with plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from.

Pamporovo is a smaller ski resort located in the Rhodope Mountains. It’s a great destination for families and beginner skiers, with gentle slopes and a friendly atmosphere. The resort also offers plenty of non-skiing activities, such as snowmobiling and ice skating.

Festivals in Bulgaria

Rose festival in kazanlak.

Every year in early June, the town of Kazanlak hosts the Rose Festival , a celebration of the country’s rose-growing industry. The festival features a parade, music and dance performances, and a beauty pageant where the Rose Queen is crowned.

You can also visit the Rose Museum to learn more about the history of rose oil production in Bulgaria.

Kukeri Festival

Another unique cultural experience is the Kukeri Festival, which takes place in January and February in various locations throughout the country.

The festival is a pagan tradition that dates back to ancient times, and it involves men dressing up in elaborate costumes and performing dances to scare away evil spirits. The costumes are made from animal hides, and they often feature large bells that ring as the performers move.

Here you are with some of Bulgaria’s top tourist attractions. As you can see there are plenty of great destinations in Bulgaria, no matter what time of year you visit.

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15 best places to visit in bulgaria [2024 travel guide].

Discover the very best destinations in Bulgaria with this comprehensive guide...

With a diverse landscape including Black Sea beaches, ski resorts, snow-capped mountains, and thermal spas, this Slavic slice of Eastern Europe is a must visit for any serious traveler.

Other outdoor activities include hiking, camping and biking in some of the wildest parts of Europe.

The country's charming towns and cities also offer plenty in the way of entertainment, dining, history and architecture.

Bulgaria is one of the cheapest countries to visit in Europe so is perfect for those traveling on budget too.

So, without further ado, let’s dive right in and discover the very best places to visit in Bulgaria!

Travellerspoint

How to Get to Bulgaria

Getting to Bulgaria from the rest of Europe is a piece of cake as it's served by three of Europe’s biggest budget airlines; Ryanair , Easyjet and Wizz Air .

There are daily flights from most major European cities to airports across Bulgaria from Plovdiv and Sofia to Varna on the Black Sea and more.

If you're visiting from outside Europe then it’s best to fly to a large hub such as Frankfurt or Amsterdam and take a connecting flight for the final leg. 

There are daily buses to Bulgaria’s capital from neighboring countries. Below are a few of the most popular routes!

In addition to the regional bus companies servicing these routes, Flixbus is one of the most popular bus companies in Europe with routes covering Bulgaria both domestically and internationally. 

• Skopje (North Macedonia) to Sofia - 4h45m
• Bucharest (Romania) to Sofia - 6h30m
• Thessaloniki (Greece) to Sofia - 10h30m

There are international train services between many southeastern European countries and Bulgaria. There are daily direct trains from Croatia, Serbia, Romania and Turkey.

Some of the most popular routes include:

• Dimitrovgrad (Serbia) to Sofia - 2h10m
• Bucharest (Romania) to Sofia - 9h50m
• Istanbul (Turkey) to Sofia - 10h04m

Getting Around Bulgaria

Hiring a Car

Hiring a car is a great way to get around Bulgaria as it gives you more freedom to go where you please.  For the best deals check out Rental Cars !

Bulgaria is covered by a comprehensive, if a little slow, train network. However, it’s one of the cheapest (and most pleasant) ways to explore the country if you're not in a rush.

Getting from Sofia to Plovdiv takes around two hours and costs as little as $5.00. There are also trains to the resorts on the Black Sea!

Bulgaria has a pretty solid bus network covering all the major cities and resorts.

Fares are cheap (usually from about $2.00 per journey), and traveling by bus can often be quicker (though less scenic) than taking the train.

Motorhome/RV

One of the best ways to get around Bulgaria and the Balkans is to hire a motorhome/RV.

This is what we did during our drive around the world (which we're currently on) and we had the most amazing time! 

It's a great way to get around the national parks, mountains and Black Sea coast, and can save you a lot of money on accommodation too! Visit Motorhome Republic for the best deals! 

15 Best Places to Visit in Bulgaria

Plovdiv is Bulgaria’s Second largest City and is often touted as the oldest inhabited place in Europe. It's located in the south of the country 90 miles southwest of the capital, Sofia.

The city sits on the banks of the Maritsa River and is surrounded by seven mountains, just like Rome with which it shares much in common.

The history of the city dates back thousands of years and much of its Roman history is still evident , such as the incredible Theater of Philippopolis , which is still used for events today. 

Plovdiv is considered Bulgaria’s cultural capital, and it was even voted the European Capital of Culture in 2019. It's undeniably one of the best cities in Bulgaria and you'll soon see why! 

The city is packed with interesting things to do from walking its charming cobbled streets to stopping at street side cafes or restaurants for a bite of hearty local fayre. 

Bulgaria’s food is to die for, with the freshest, locally grown produce used by many of the city’s eateries.

One of the best things to do in Bulgaria is to climb one of Plovidiv’s hills for enchanting views of the city. Nebet Tepe and Bunardzhik Tepe are two of the most accessible.

This full day tour from Sofia is a great way to experience Plovdiv and takes in some of the city’s most famous attractions!

If you're looking for things to do in Plovdiv then here's an article that you might find useful...

Top Things to do in Plovdiv

• Explore Plovdiv Old Town
• Visit Plovdiv Roman theater
• Explore Kapana Suburb

Where to Stay in Plovdiv

HillHouse Plovdiv - This gorgeous property offers a variety of rooms and suites that feature an array of amenities including free WiFi, air conditioning, and a TV. You'll also be close to many of Plovdiv's popular attractions.

One of the best things to do in Bulgaria is to spend some time in the capital city of Sofia . This city’s history is no less impressive and you can witness evidence of its Roman, Medieval, Ottoman and Soviet past.

Sofia has a real east-meets-west feel to it and here you’ll find medieval churches, onion domed cathedrals and Ottoman mosques side by side.

One of Sofia’s most famous landmarks is the Aleksander Nevsky Cathedral .

This beautiful church with its blue and gold onion domes is considered one of Bulgaria’s most sacred symbols.

The city sits in the shadow of 2,292 meter (7,520 foot) Mount Vitosha, which makes an excellent day trip from the city. The panoramic views across Sofia’s rooftops are incredible too! 

The National Museum of Military History takes you on a journey from Bulgaria’s ancient history through to its days as part of the Soviet Union.

Sofia has a thriving foodie scene with some excellent restaurants offering a taste of traditional Bulgarian food , which is known for its simple, yet filling ingredients.

And let’s not forget about Bulgarian wine (more on that later). There are lots of great bars from local places full of character to trendy, modern establishments where you can sample some of the country’s drinks.

This three-hour guided city tour includes local food tasting and is a great way to get to grips with Bulgaria’s charming capital. 

Whatever, you choose to do you won't run out of things to do in Sofia ! 

Top Things to do in Sofia

• Visit St. Aleksander Nevsky Cathedral
• Climb Vitosha Mountain
• Visit the Boyana Church

Where to Stay in Sofia

Budapest Hotel (don’t worry, it’s not actually in Budapest) - This hotel is located in the center of Sofia and it's just a 5-minute walk from Central Train Station. All the rooms here are spacious and there's an on-site restaurant that guests can take advantage of.

3. Devils Bridge (Arda River)

The Devils Bridge (Dyavolski Most in Bulgarian) is a beautiful three-arched stone bridge across the Arda River gorge.

It’s located in the Rhodope Mountains near the town of Ardino, and not far from the Greek border.

The bridge was built between 1515 and 1518 by a Bulgarian builder named Dimitar, and it was used to connect Thrace with the Aegean Sea.

The Devils Bridge is certainly one of the hidden gems in Bulgaria, and makes a great day trip from Plovdiv, which is about a two-hour drive.

The picturesque valley and Arda River gorge are well worth exploring, and is one of the best natural places in Bulgaria.

The Devil’s Bridge isn’t easily reachable with public transport so you’ll need your own vehicle to get there. The other option is to take a bus to Ardino and then hire a taxi or Uber to take you the final distance.

Here's some more information about visiting Devils Bridge if you're looking to add this place to your itinerary (which I definitely recommend).

Top Things to do at the Arda River

• Visit Devils Bridge
• Go hiking in the Rhodope Mountains
• Explore nearby Ardino 

Where to Stay in Ardino

Stylish Loft Apartment - You won't find many accommodation options in Ardino but this gorgeous one-bedroom apartment is a real gem. It sleeps up to four people and features a kitchen, spacious living area, and free WiFi.

If you’re looking for a bit of pampering, then head to the spa town of Devin in the Vacha River valley in the far south of the country.

Devin is one of the most popular Bulgaria tourist attractions thanks to the hot springs, thermal spas and resorts located here.

The waters of Devin have been known for their healing properties since times of antiquity, and people flock here to treat all sorts of ailments (usually related to the skin).  

One of Bulgaria’s most popular bottled mineral water brands, Devin, is bottled here.

Devin’s location nestled in the mountain means it's one of the most scenic parts of Bulgaria. There is plenty for lovers of the outdoors, from gorges, interesting rock formations, caves, forest, rivers and more.

What better thing to do after hiking in this beautiful region than resting your weary feet in the healing waters of a spa or hot spring?!

Three popular tourist spots include Trigrad gorge, Devil’s Throat Cave and Yagodinska Cave.

There are buses to Devin from Plovdiv (2h40m) and there is one daily service from Sofia (4h0m).

Top Things to do in Devin

• Relax at one of the hot springs
• Explore Devin town

Where to Stay in Devin

Spa Hotel Ismena - Now, this is one of the most beautiful hotels that you'll come across in Bulgaria! Spa Hotel Ismena is not only set in a gorgeous location but you'll have free use of an indoor thermal pool, hot tub, salt sauna, and steam bath! 

Bansko in the Pirin Mountains in southwest Bulgaria is famous for its ski resorts.

Todorka Peak is home to a variety of different ski and snowboard runs and is the perfect place to visit in Bulgaria for winter sports.

But it’s not just about skiing and snowboarding, as Bankso forms part of the beautiful Pirin National Park with many great hiking trails, dramatic ridgelines and glacial lakes.

This is one of the wildest parts of Europe as the Pirin Mountains and valleys are home to wolves and bears among other flora and fauna.

There are buses from both Sofia and Plovdiv to Bansko and the journey time is around three hours from each! 

If you're looking for things to do in Bansko then you might find this article helpful...

Things to do in Bansko

• Hit the slopes at Bansko Ski Resort
• Visit Muratovo Lake
• Hike Vihren Peak

Where to Stay in Bansko

The Hot Springs Medical and Spa Hotel  - As the name suggests this hotel features an on-site spa so you'll benefit from an array of fantastic facilities including two swimming pools, a sauna, steam bath, and a Turkish hammam. There's also a tour desk at the hotel where the staff can organize tours for you! 

6. Rila National Park (Seven Rila Lakes Hike)

The Rila National Park in northwestern Bulgaria is home to a series of seven glacial lakes. 

These lakes are staggered at intervals between 2,000 and 2,500 meters up in the mountains and are one the most picturesque places to visit in Bulgaria.

The Seven Rila Lakes are all interconnected by streams and waterfalls and are one of Bulgaria’s most famous tourist attractions.

Each lake has its own name based on its unique characteristics, from “the Tear” due its clear waters, to “the Lower Lake”.

The lakes are reachable from the resort town of Panichishte. It’s a 90 minute walk to the lower lakes, and the hike around all of the lakes takes another four to five hours, so a good level of fitness is required.

There's also a chairlift from the resort up to the lakes which is a better way to arrive so you have enough energy for the hike. If you wish to take the chairlift back, ensure you return by 16:30. 

With the above in mind, one of the best ways to experience what is one of the most beautiful places in Bulgaria is to take a day tour with transport direct from Sofia.

Things to do in Rila National Park

• Hike around Seven Rila Lakes
• Climb Musala Peak (the highest point in the Balkans)

Where to Stay in Rila National Park

Lion Hotel Borovets - This gorgeous hotel is the perfect base for exploring Rila National Park as it offers a free shuttle service to the chairlifts. You'll also have access to plenty of facilities including a lobby bar, fitness center, sauna, and a swimming pool.

7. Rila Monastery

Rila Monastery (Sveti Ivan Rilski) is located inside Rila Monastery Nature Park, one of the largest national parks in Bulgaria. 

The monastery was founded in 927AD by the hermit Ivan of Rila who lived in a cave close to where the monastery is now.

Rila Monastery is one of the best places to visit in Bulgaria thanks to its tranquil location in the mountainous national park.

The building as you see it today dates back to the 15th Century, with some parts older still. The complex includes a church, a residential area for the 60 or so monks that live here, and a museum. 

As it's one of the country's UNESCO World Heritage sites this isn't a place that you want to miss, especially if you want to see the best of Bulgaria! 

This small group tour from Sofia takes in Rila Monastery as well as Sofia’s Boyana Church and is a great way to visit these famous Bulgaria attractions. 

Where to Stay near Rila Monastery

Family Hotel Gorski Kut - This hotel puts you in the perfect location to explore Rila Monastery and many of the rooms offer scenic views of Rila Valley! There's an on-site restaurant, bar, and a terrace area where you can relax and admire the scenery!

8. Velingrad

Another town in the Rhodope Mountains famous for its healing waters is Velingrad . The town was founded as late as 1948 after the unification of several villages in the region.

There are over 90 mineral water springs located around Velingrad and the most well known are Ladzhene, Kamenitsa, Chepino, Rakitovo and Kostandovo.

The mineral waters are used to treat and prevent many diseases and as such the town is popular with people from across the country.

There are 22 different mineral baths and pools here, and they vary in terms of temperature and mineral content levels. 

Due to the town's popularity there are three sanitariums, over 60 hotels and 140 restaurants, so you’ll find everything you could possibly need here.

Although there are many great hotels and spas, camping is a wonderful way to experience Velingrad, and Thermal Camping Velingrad is a camping ground with hot springs and swimming pools. 

Velingrad is honestly one of the best destinations in Bulgaria - especially if you're looking to relax!

Things to do in Velingrad

• Take a thermal bath
• Explore the town
• Visit Lake Kleptuza

Where to Stay in Velingrad

Park Hotel and Spa Vella Hills - Like many of the hotels in Velingrad, this property has an on-site spa where you'll have access to a variety of excellent facilities. The hotel and its outdoor pool also offer stunning views of the surrounding area.

9. Batak Reservoir

Batak Reservoir in the Rhodope Mountains is the third largest in Bulgaria and is hugely popular with tourists and people looking to get into the great outdoors.

This picturesque body of water is one of the best places to visit in Bulgaria thanks to the pristine nature and stunning views.

The Batak Reservoir is surrounded by forested hills and mountains with small settlements on the shore. 

There is plenty to do around the reservoir with hiking, biking, horse riding and fishing all being popular activities . It’s also possible to get out on the water with kayaks or take a boat trip.

This reservoir may not be one of the most 'iconic' things to see in Bulgaria, but it's certainly got a lot to offer! 

The nearest town is Batak, which is just five miles from the shore. 

Things to do at Batak Reservoir

Where to stay in batak.

Guest House Batak - This guest house is the perfect place to stay if you're looking to visit Batak Reservoir. Boasting spacious rooms with plenty of amenities and a great location, it's one of the best options in the area!

10. Shipka Pass

The Shipka Pass is a 1,150-meter (3,820-foot) pass through the Balkan Mountain Range in central Bulgaria.

The area is famous for the Battle of Shipka Pass between the Russians (with help from Bulgaria) and the Ottoman Empire during the Russo-Turkic War of 1877 to 1878.

The Shipka Monument is a 31.5-metre (98-foot) stone tower erected in 1934 to commemorate the battle.

In addition to the historic nature of the Shipka Pass, it also commands stunning views over the countryside below and is perfect for hiking.

There are daily buses from Sofia to Shipka which take around 3 hours. From Plovdiv the bus takes around two hours!

If you're planning to to drive the Shipka Pass then you'll find this information helpful...

Things to do at the Shipka Pass

• Hike the Shipka Pass
• Visit the Monument to the Battle of Shipka
• See the Shipka canons

Where to Stay in Shipka

Shipka Hotel - Shipka Hotel is one of the more authentic properties in the area yet it's still got plenty of awesome facilities including a fitness center, a restaurant, and garden area. There's also continental breakfast available! 

11. Veliko Tarnovo and Tsarevets Fortress

The beautiful old town of Veliko Tarnovo was once the center of the Second Bulgarian Empire and is bursting with history, unique architecture and interesting museums.

The town sits on the Yantra River and is spread across three hills rising above the river. One of these is Tsarevets which houses a large medieval fortress overlooking the town. 

Tsarevets Fortress dates back to 1185 and was once the most important stronghold in Bulgaria.

The complex has been restored to its former glory which took over 50 years and was completed in 1981 to mark the 1300th anniversary of the Bulgarian state.

There is a lot more to Veliko Tarnovo than just the fortress though. Here, you'll find a charming old town with cobbled streets, roman ruins, a monastery and lots of wonderful street side cafes and restaurants. 

Things to do in Veliko Tarnovo

• Visit Tsarevets Fortress
• Explore the old town
• Visit the Monastery of the Holy Transfiguration

Where to Stay in Veliko Tarnovo

Tsarevets Design and Spa - This gorgeous hotel is one of the closest accommodation options to Tsarevets Fortress so you'll have easy access to this popular attraction. Not only that but Tsarevets Design and Spa is set in a reconstructed old town house so the architecture is pretty incredible.

12. Saeva Dupka Cave

Saeva Dupka Cave complex , with over 400 meters of natural corridors and halls is one of the best places to visit in Bulgaria , and is even used as a venue for concerts.

The cave is named after the two brothers Seyu and Sae who hid inside during the Ottoman invasion of Bulgaria. 

Inside you can witness an impressive array of stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over millennia. Saeva Dupka really has to be seen to be believed, and is utterly gorgeous inside. 

The caves have been inhabited since at least Roman times, and now serve as one of Bulgaria’s most popular attractions.

There are five main galleries to explore within the caves, each with its own unique geological formations.

Saeva Dupka is just an hour and a half’s drive from Sofia, but the easiest way to get there is to take a guided tour .

Here's some more information about visiting Saeva Dupka Cave ...

13. Belogradchik Fortress

The impressive Belogradchik Fortress is a large rock-walled fortress in the Balkan Mountains in the far northeast of Bulgaria.

Belogradchik Fortress dates back to Roman times and the large, rocky outcrop served as natural defensive walls.

The fortress is one of the best preserved in the whole of Bulgaria and is an important part of the country’s history. If you're looking to learn more about the fortress' history then here's an article that you may want to read...

This fortified stronghold is located 1.5 miles from the town of Belogradchik, itself a popular tourist destination. In addition to the fortress, you can also visit the nearby Belogradchick rock formation.

This tour from Sofia is a great option and includes the fortress and rocks,transport, plus all entrance fees and an English-speaking tour guide.

Things to do in Belogradchik

• Visit the Fortress
• See the Belogradchik Rocks
• Explore the beautiful town

Where to Stay in Belogradchik

Skalite Hotel - Skalite Hotel is one of the best options in Belogradchik because of its spacious rooms, great location, and fantastic facilities. Here, you can play billiards, relax in the indoor pool, and eat in the on-site restaurant.

Varna is Bulgaria’s premiere Black Sea resort which is home to six beautiful sandy beaches as well as some excellent bars, restaurants and cafes.

The port city is also home to some incredible museums, not least of which houses a 6,000 year old jewelry collection called the “ Gold of Varna ”.

Not only that but the city is home to beautiful parks, gardens, orthodox churches and architecture dating back centuries.

The main city beaches offer a host of waterborne activities from swimming and sunbathing to kayaking, boat trips , fishing and more, while the town beaches are lined by bars and restaurants catering to tourists.

If you want to avoid the crowds and go where the locals do, then head to Asparukavo beach, a short bus ride from the center of town.

You'll find tons of things to do in Varna which definitely makes it one of the best cities to visit in Bulgaria! This is especially the case if you're looking for a little bit of relaxation and some excellent food.

Things to do in Varna

• Enjoy the city beaches
• See the Varna Gold
• Sample some of the city’s restaurants

Where to Stay in Varna

Aqua Hotel - Aqua Hotel is a great option if you're staying in Varna as it's just a short walk from the beach and it's right next to a shopping area. You'll also have access to the on-site fitness center, restaurant, and bar.

15. Melnik (Bulgarian Wine Region)

Bulgaria has its very own wine region covering over 150,000 acres , and it was once the fourth-largest wine producer in the world.

Melnik is at the heart of the country’s wine region and the city makes a great base for exploring the nearby vineyards and wineries.

There are lots of great wine-tasting tours which include transport from Sofia.

The city is also home to some interesting churches, a monastery, and some interesting architecture and geological features.

The nearby Melnik Earth Pyramids are well worth checking out too! These sandstone pyramids and obelisks rise out of the foothills and tower 100 meters above the forest. 

As you can see there are plenty of things to do in Melnik ...

Things to do in Melnik

• Go on a wine tasting tour
• Visit the Melnik Earth Pyramids

Where to Stay in Melnik

Hotel Melnik - Hotel Melnik is located in a scenic area of town and offers guests a variety of facilities including a wellness center, a bar, a restaurant, and a BBQ. There are also plenty of awesome rooms to choose from!

Bulgaria Travel Tips & FAQ

When is a good time to visit bulgaria.

Bulgaria is a great destination year-round, but the two best seasons for visiting are summer (for the beaches and hiking) and winter (for skiing and winter sports).

The climate is temperate-continental with hot summers, and long, cold winters. Snowfall usually happens between January and March.

Bear in mind that the temperatures will always be lower in the mountains too! 

How Long Should You Spend in Bulgaria?

If you're looking for a beach holiday then one week is perfect, however if you want to explore the cities, towns and mountains then two weeks is better . 

What is a Good Budget for Bulgaria?

Bulgaria is cheap by European standards. A recommended budget is $70 per person, per day.

This can increase to $100 if you stay at expensive Black Sea or mountain ski resorts. If you stay at hostels then $50 per day is a more realistic budget!

Is Bulgaria Safe to Visit?

Bulgaria is a very safe country with low instances of violent crime. Opportunistic theft and pickpocketing can occur at tourist spots, and if visiting the beach, always keep an eye on your belongings. 

Where To Go After Bulgaria?

There's no denying that Bulgaria is one of the best places to visit in Europe but where do you go from here?

As Bulgaria has great transport links to the rest of the Balkans, exploring this often neglected little corner of Europe is a great idea. 

For the ultimate Balkan road trip, there are plenty of options for onward travel. For starters, there are five countries that border Bulgaria; Serbia, North Macedonia , Greece , Turkey, and Romania .

Any of these countries would make for the ultimate Balkans road trip, but you don't have to end your road trip there.

If you're looking to continue on through Europe then why not head to Albania , Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro , or Croatia ?

The road trip options are endless so where will you visit?

Here's some more inspiration for your road trip:

• Dubrovnik on a Budget: The Complete Guide
• The Famous Mostar Bridge Jump
• The Best Things to do in Split, Croatia

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20 Gorgeous Places to Visit in Bulgaria

Bulgaria offers very varied trips. The Mountain slopes of Bansko and Pomporovo attract skiers in the winter, and the Black Sea beaches draw crowds in the summer months. It has a unique charm all of its own. Here are my favorite beauty spots in this extraordinary country…

1. The Black Sea Beaches

An excellent place to start is the country’s famous coastline. Bulgaria is known for its Black Sea coastline, with long sandy beaches dotted with hotels, traditional fishing villages, and historical sites.

Tourists flock to the glitzier resorts of Sunny Beach and Golden Sands, but I personally believe the city beaches in Varna and Burgas are just as beautiful.

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2. Nessebar

Often referred to as the Pearl of the Black Sea, the historic town of Nessebar dates back to antiquity when it was founded as a Thracian settlement known as Menebria. Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Bulgarians, Crusaders, and Ottomans all took turns fortifying the ancient town and the narrow peninsula on which it is located.

Today, a stroll on its cobblestone streets will bring you to remnants of 40 brick churches dating back to the 5th century. The beautiful town is an important site, and UNESCO recognizes it  as a World Heritage Site .

One of the oldest towns on the Black Sea coastline, Sozopol is a famous fishermen’s village and seaside resort.

Located 35 kilometers south of Burgas, Sozopol was known in the 6th century BC as Apollonia, complete with a temple dedicated to Apollo. The town is small enough for a casual stroll.

You can walk along the quays as the day’s catch is unloaded or through the old town, with its wooden houses desperately calling for repair. If the sea is too deep or rough for swimming, you can always sunbathe on the rocks along the shore! 

4. Rila Monastery

Known as the Jerusalem of Bulgaria, this picturesque Eastern Orthodox monastery in the forested mountains less than two hours south of Sofia is worth a pilgrimage visit.

Named for St. Ivan of Rilski, a tenth-century hermit who lived in a nearby cave, the monastery has been built, burnt, and rebuilt over the centuries, with the latest construction dating to the 1800s.

Enter the courtyard, and you will be stunned by the perfect harmony of the church, with its graceful arches in bold black-and-white stripes set under a row of sculpted gargoyles, tiled roofs, and five domes reaching towards the sky.

In the distance are the peaks of the Rila Mountains, complimenting an oasis of serenity perfect for religious hermits and modern visitors alike.

Varna is one of the major tourist destinations in the country. It is easy to see why; it’s a beautiful city with fantastic beaches, excellent restaurants, and lovely green spaces. Varna is often referred to as the sea capital of Bulgaria , as many locals flock to the city in the warmer months.

Varna has many picturesque beaches with fine golden sand and crystal-clear water. A few good surf breaks are also available if you prefer to surf or bodyboard.

Rapongi Beach is perhaps the best beach in Varna, as it is well-maintained and doesn’t get too crowded. You can also travel north to the resort of Sunny Day or Sirius Beach, both stunning locations popular with tourists.

There are plenty of other activities to enjoy in the city, including many excellent clubs, restaurants, and bars along Kraybrezhna Aleya. This part of the city is charming and beautiful at night.

6. Plovdiv Old Town

Plovdiv, the second-largest city in the country, has something that Sofia does not – an old town on a hill. The city was founded some 6,000 years ago and developed on seven hills, but one was destroyed at the beginning of the 20th century.

The Old Town towers over the city centre with structures from different eras, including a remarkably well-preserved Roman amphitheatre.

The Old Town is best known for its Bulgarian Renaissance architectural style, with colourful houses displaying the National Revival’s unique exterior characteristics on every corner. Walking up the hill is a delight, with the many galleries and house museums all worth a visit.

7. Belogradchik

Belogradchik Fortress is an artificial construction set against a stunning outcrop of rocks. The combination is so unique and picturesque that it seems lifted from a Disney fairytale. What’s even more unique than the fortress is the surrounding countryside.

The Belogradchik Rocks, named in 2009 as Bulgaria’s candidate to be selected as one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature, is a stunning arrangement of strange-shaped sandstone and conglomerate rock formations.

8. Lake Atanasovsko

Lake Burgas is a beautiful bright pink lake just west of Burgas. Unlike most other pink lakes worldwide, the lake’s colour is not solely caused by high salt levels.

Although there is a lot of salt in the lake, it is also influenced by the farming of brine shrimp in the water. The lake’s colour tends to vary depending on where the fishermen and salt miners are currently active. Multiple basins in the middle of the south side of the lake are used for salt mining.

These basins often have the most vivid colours, ranging from dark red to soft pink. Unlike other pink lakes, it is possible to swim in Lake Burgas.

It is encouraged because the mud the lake contains is said to have medicinal properties. Some locals believe it has anti-ageing properties and can heal specific ailments; because of this, it’s a well-known wellness attraction. 

9. Koprivshtitsa

Walking the narrow alleyways of the village of Koprivshtitsa, some two hours east of Sofia, you’ll feel transported back to the momentous months of 1876, when the locals bravely fought against their oppressive Ottoman rulers.

Inside the colorful houses, which represent Bulgarian National Revival architecture of the 19th century, local patriots plotted their rebellion, leading up to the first shot in the unsuccessful April Uprising.

The village contains memorials and museum houses displaying ethnographical treasures, old weapons and farm implements, national costumes, artwork, and jewelry.

10. Veliko Tarnovo

Veliko Tarnovo was the historic capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire between the 12th and 14th centuries. It is located in the country’s centre and is a popular tourist attraction.

The reconstructed Tsarevets fortress bears no resemblance to the medieval palaces of the tsars who ruled from the hilltop until their defeat by the Ottomans in 1393. Still, you can almost sense the country’s former greatness when walking through the gates of this picturesque stronghold! 

Melnik is known for two things. It is the smallest city in Bulgaria and is home to some of the country’s best wineries.

It will take you minutes to walk up the town’s one main street, but you’ll sit for hours at a local tavern, your head spinning under the intoxicating spell of the rich red wines.

If you get up from your seat, the nearby pyramidal Melnik Rocks and the Rozhen Monastery are worth a visit.  

12. Pomorie

Pomorie is a picturesque coastal resort town in Burgas Bay on the eastern seaboard of Bulgaria. Easily one of the most beautiful places to visit in Bulgaria, the city sits on a narrow rocky peninsula with spectacular views of the coastline to the north and south.

While it attracts many Bulgarian tourists yearly, it is a secret that most foreign tourists don’t know about. The town has two distinct sections — the old town center to the east and the newer, more touristy section to the west/southwest.

The senior town center is charming, with many small hotels, authentic shops, and restaurants. The eastern tip of the peninsula has several small beaches that are usually less crowded than those to the north or southwest.

Sunset Resort is located to the southwest of the town. It is a modern resort adjacent to South Beach, the largest beach in the city. This is a more touristy part of the town, but it is a fantastic location if you want a resort with modern amenities. Pomorie Lake is one of the “must-see” locations in Pomorie.

Located to the north of town, it is a stunning saline coastal lagoon home to dozens of bird species. Medicinal mud is produced at the lake, and visitors can enjoy a refreshing mud bath.

Other attractions in the area include the Museum of Salt, the Pomorie Museum of History, and the street markets in Kableshkovo (held every Thursday). Two local wineries worth visiting are Winery Messembria and Stratsin Winery.

13. The Evksinograd Residence

The Evksinograd Residence is one of the most romantic buildings in Bulgaria. Located 8 kilometres north of Varna, this 19th-century palace was often used as a holiday home for royalty.

The mansion’s exterior is very similar to French mansions of the 18th century. It is ornate, romantic, and quite beautiful. The interiors are luxurious, with marble fireplaces, French chandeliers, large dining halls, antique furniture, and rare paintings. Expect to see a lot of gold and silk!

The grounds surrounding the park are no less decadent. French park architects were designed to lay out the 800-acre park. They planted many rare species of plants, some of which are alive today.

At one point, more than 500 species of flowers were in the grounds and greenhouses. A winery was added to the palace in 1891, and excellent wines are still produced today. It produces Chardonnay, Riesling, Traminer, Muscat Ottone, and Vratsa Muscat wines.

Tourists can visit the palace, explore the parks, and even sample the wines. They can also stay in the palace complex, which has a restaurant on the grounds. It is a beautiful building that is sure to delight.

14. Seven Lakes

This group of gorgeous glacial lakes is located high in the Rila Mountains. The appropriate time to visit the lakes is in the summer, as even in June, they can be frozen. The terrain alternates between deep snowdrifts and patches of brilliant wildflowers.

The lakes are located one above the other in a mountain valley, interconnected by streams and waterfalls. Access to the lakes is difficult, although riding a ski lift shortens the distance up the steep mountainside.

Legends say the lakes were formed by the tears of a female giant, crying for her beloved! Aw! 

15. Belogradchik Fortress

Belogradchik Fortress is an old fortress in northwest Bulgaria on the northern slopes of the Balkan Mountains. It’s close to the Bulgarian town of Belogradchik, home to about 5,000 people.

The fortress was established as a surveillance post when the Roman Empire controlled the region. In the 14th century, the Bulgarian tsar Ivan Stratsimir extended it to include fortified garrisons.

The Ottomans captured the fortress in 1396, making it even more important for repelling the Hajduk insurrectionists in the area.

The way the fortress runs between the vast sections of natural rock is awe-inspiring, with some incredibly scenic views from the top of the defence.

16. Tevno Vasilashko Lake

Tevno Vasilashko Lake is one of the most spectacular locations in Europe. It is a magnificent glacial lake surrounded by rugged mountain peaks in Pirin, Bulgaria.

The lake’s unique, saturated blue color reflects the vast mountains nearby. Tevno Lake is the largest of a series of glacial lakes in the Vasilashko Lakes area.

The other lakes are Fish Vasilashko Lake, Upper Vasilashko Lake, Rainbow-shaped Vasilashko Lake, and Upper Todorino Lake. They are all beautiful lakes, but Tevno Vasilashko Lake is the most impressive.

There are tour operators who offer one-day trips up the Vasilashki glacial valley, visiting three or four of the lakes. It is a magical journey that showcases an incredible part of this unique country!

17. Best For Alpine Village

Dolen Village is an alpine village in the western Rhode Mountains (about 26 km from Gotse Delchev). It is one of the most romantic villages in Bulgaria, with narrow cobblestone roads, stone walls, and authentic buildings designed in the Bulgarian Revival style.

The village was founded in the 16th century by Bulgarians escaping the Ottomans who had invaded the country. It flourished in the 18th century as multiple industries in the area became prosperous.

Many houses have stone foundations, timber walls, and overhanging top stories. Inside, there are usually ornate ceilings and elaborate carpentry on display.

The locals have added wonderful gardens to most homes, so walking the streets is like being a part of a beautiful fairy tale. It is an experience you won’t forget.

18. Pirin National Park

Most travellers don’t realize how picturesque Bulgaria’s natural environment is until they see the Pirin National Park . It is a 403.56 km2 park in southwestern Bulgaria. It encompasses most of the Pirin Mountains, a vast mountain range covering the southwest part of the country.

Pirin National Park was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 and is part of the World Network of Biosphere Reserves. The park is home to over 100 glacial lakes, the largest being Popovo Lake. Many stunning glaciers are also located throughout the mountains.

The park has hundreds of animal species, including the beautiful boreal owl, white-backed woodpecker, fire salamander, agile frog, red deer, and Eurasian three-toed woodpecker.

If you are lucky, you might glimpse one of the park’s rarer animals, such as the lesser spotted eagle, golden eagle, or peregrine falcon! 

19. Kamchia Biosphere Reserve

The Kamchia Biosphere Reserve stands out as a National Park because of its massive size and pristine natural environment. This reserve is a 1,200-hectare (2,965-acre) UNESCO-listed biosphere on Bulgaria’s northern coastline.

It has a varied landscape ranging from vast floodplains at the mouth of the Kamchia River to long beaches adjacent to the Black Sea coastline.

Established in 1977, it contains many ancient forests and spectacular natural waterways. The reserve is located 20 km south of Varna and is surrounded by the villages of Bliznatsi, Staro Oriahovo, and Shkorpilovtsi.

Kamchia is the perfect location for hiking, camping, boating, or relaxing on one of the many vast beaches.

20. Zheravna

Located in the rolling hills of the Balkan Mountain Range is the magical village of Zheravna. The town is an architectural reserve consisting of more than 200 houses built during the Bulgarian National Revival period in the 18th and 19th centuries.

I love that walking through the village feels like travelling back in time! You will marvel at the beautiful buildings’ detailed red ceramic roof tiles and elaborate timber decorations. Many of the buildings have been converted into guest houses, so it is possible to stay in the town.

The interiors of the guest houses are just as lovely as the exteriors, featuring wooden carvings and ornate carpentry performed by artisans hundreds of years ago. Plenty of nature walks surround the village, plus several museums and an art gallery, all of which I’d recommend visiting!

Beth Pinches - writer and photographer Beth was born under a wandering star, with drama in her veins and ink in her pen. After stints studying theatre in Dublin and Utrecht she used her creative streak to see as much of the world as she could on as little money. She toured Italian Schools with a children’s theatre troop, lived as an au pair in both Rome and Washington DC, explored the British countryside, worked her way through much of Europe, Salsa danced in Cuba and road-tripped down America’s west coast where she discovered her spiritual home; Portland, Oregon. Other places she loves include Croatia, Finland, Japan and India. In between adventures, travel writing and performing she resides peacefully with her family, cats and ukulele. Find Beth on Linkedin or  Facebook . Hotel Reviewing Experience - Asked by many tourist boards and many high-profile travel brands to formally review hotels including Visit Jersey , Visit Sweden , and Israel Tourist Board. Also travelled around the world scouting out and reviewing all the most unique hotels in the world, check out our Instagram page for photos . Listed as a top UK travel journalist . Portland Reviewing Experience - Lived in Portland for 6 months and spent many months scouting out all the coolest spots.

32 thoughts on “20 Gorgeous Places to Visit in Bulgaria”

soooooooooooooooooooooooooooonnn 🙂

Great list. Bulgaria is the best choice for the traveler on a budget.

Your post recall my old memories. when I was 17 years old. My father got a Bulgaria family trip from his office. I visit so many places in Bulgaria. Like parks, restaurant and many other. But Back sea beach is very beautiful all over the Bulgaria. Thanks for recall my old memories.

I will travel to Bulgaria for first time where do you recommend I visit? Traveling in Feb/Mar…

Thank you for a wonderful article on Bulgaria my birthplace My home now is NYC for a little over 20 years and unfortunately for me I have lost touch with some of Bulgaria unique places to visit that I have never been even close to except the Black Sea;( I’m planning a very short 3 day trip to surprise my mom for her birthday in July and after seeing the wonderful pics I have made a decision to spend a day in Melnik with my family;) Thank you for sharing with us your experience in BG and I’m glad it’s been a great one ☝️

Im starting to feel that Bulgaria is way misunderstood pertaining to the Engineering and political influence it has had on the world. I think that Ancient Bulgaria could be the birth place of all modern humans and relegious thought. Every ancient discovers in Bulgaria predates all other civilizations! I,m even starting to think that the Dorians , that migrated to the southern Helens in 1200 BC, may have been the Ancient Tracians of Bulgaria. If, my new book is ever puplished, I will definitly spend a lot of ti

When you are on the north of the Black Sea Coast you may made some trips around: the mussel farm Daboka, Balchik with his gorgeous Botanical Garden and Queen Maria’s Castle, Varna with the amazing night life.

Nice article, Bulgaria is very beautiful country! 🙂

Thanks, Bulgaria its a beautiful country

The Bulgarian town Nessebar is one of the oldest settlements in Europe. It has a long and rich history and offers excellent conditions for an unforgettable romantic seaside vacation.

I’m Bulgarian born and bread and I love my country so much and I never tire of its wonders. These photos are beautiful.

Great post! I am bulgarian and Sozopol is a favourite of mine. Thanks for bringing me back 🙂

I’d disagree about the Sofia not being the most attractive city, I liked it’s variety of architecture, as well as its proximity to Mount Vitosha and theamount of greenery in the city itself.

Our friend Ellis has really done a great job highlighting some of the “must-see” spots around the country.

Seven Lakes’s picture stolen my heart. Bulgaria this summer for mr for sure!

Wow I didn’t know there were so many places to explore in Bulgaria. I quite liked Sofia when I was there in 2011, some funny and quirky things about the city, and I would definitely go back to Bulgaria again.

Some fabulous photos of yet another Eastern European destination that remains under the radar..but that only makes it more appealing! Great post.

Great article! I know where I can go for my next beach holiday now 😉

Great article I’ve never really thought of visiting but these places definitely look very beautiful.

Great photos! We were so close to going to Bulgaria when we were in Turkey last year…and now I wish we had! Maybe next year we’ll make our way there.

Cheers for the great post!

I’m planning to visit Bulgaria this summer between my Brussels and Holland voyages and you guys made me wanna go there even more! The Black Sea beaches simply rock!

Agness my friend! I wish I was still in Bulgaria to show you around.

Yes! I haven’t been to all the places mentioned, but I agree…Bulgaria is gorgeous. Melnik is one of my favorite memories of the whole trip. The best thing about Bulgaria other than the beauty and the people….the food! Delicious!

Melnik is a wonderful destination. And yes, the food in Bulgaria is very, very good. I am glad you enjoyed visiting Bulgaria and stopped by to read this article and remember. You’ll just have to go back again to visit the places you missed.

Thank you, Ellis, for doing so much for Bulgaria. Your persistence as a foreigner to portray the best we have here is amazing. Great job!

Thanks Ivan. Coming from you, this is a real compliment!

Wow, I never knew Bulgaria was this pretty! We’re in the very early stages of planning a europe trip and I just added Bulgaria to the list 🙂

Angela, I hope you do get to visit Bulgaria very soon! (Go there now before too many tourists discover this amazing destination).

Bulgaria is pretty low on the travel radar for me, but these places look so beautiful. I think it may be worth a visit.

I would never have considered visiting Bulgaria, until the day my job was relocated to Sofia. Now I am really thankful that I had a chance to live, and work, and travel in Bulgaria!

Wow, waht a gorgeous pictures and such an interesting post! I sure want to go back to Bulgaria to visit some of the above places. I have only visited Sofia once, for a week, and we loved it! Indeed, even Sofia is totally under the radar of travelers. It deserves better! The only difficult thing for us was the Cyrillic handwriting on streetnamesigns and so on….;-)

Hey Curly Traveller,

I’m glad you had a chance to visit Sofia. That was our home for two years. After awhile, you begin to understand the Cyrillic texts on street signs and stores. Even dealing with menus is a talent that you can pick up, but it’s a challenge!

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Best things to do in Bulgaria

The Best Attractions in Bulgaria.

Best Things to do in Bulgaria

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What are the Best Attractions in Bulgaria? What are The Best Things to do in Bulgaria with Kids or as a Couple?

Discover the 13 Coolest and Most Unusual Things to Do in Bulgaria ,  the Best Things to Do in Bulgaria & Best Places to See in Bulgaria , Amazing Scenic Places to Visit in Bulgaria, the Most Iconic Things to do in Bulgaria . 

From the Castle in Love with the Winds to the Rila Monastery this is the Ultimage Guide of Top Tourist Attractions in Bulgaria .

Hike in the Rila National Park, marvel at the Ravadinovo castle, discover the treasures and secrets of the Alexander Nevski Cathedral in Sofia, treat yourself to a lazy day on Bolata Beach or Sinemorets beach,… Find inspiration among a selection of the best things to do in Bulgaria .

Book your flights , your accommodation in Bulgaria as well as your activities and tours in Bulgaria and discover one of the most beautiful countries in Europe.

Need more inspiraiton? Discover the Most Famous Castles in Bulgaria , The Most Beautiful Sandy Beaches in  Bulgaria , The Most Magical Secret Spots in Bulgaria as well as the Best Ski Resorts in Bulgaria . 

1. Castle In Love with the Wind

Ravadinovo - Sozopol

Ravadinovo Castle, also called Castle in Love with the wind is the work of the last knight of Europe, a Bulgarian celebrity, famous sportsman but also investor who built his dream.

This castle is the pride of the inhabitants of Sozopol and is the Most Visited Tourist Attraction in Bulgaria .

Far from being just a tourist attraction, it hosts events, weddings, Bulgarian and foreign families who discover a castle worthy of fairy tales.

Castle in Love with the wind is ranked among the most beautiful castles in Bulgaria as well as among the most beautiful castles in Europe .

Book your flights to Burgas Airport, your accommodation in Sozopol as well as your tours and activities in Bulgaria such as a " Sozopol: Guided Romantic Tour ", the #1 Top Thing to Do in Bulgaria For Every Kind of Traveler.  

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Burgas Airport (40 min by car).

  Where to stay:   " Sea Sense Boutique Hotel ". This property is 1 minute walk from the beach.

2. Aleksander Nevsky Cathedral

This neo-Byzantine style Orthodox cathedral is one of the Most Iconic Places to Visit in Bulgaria . Considered the most beautiful cathedral in Bulgaria, it has been completely restored.

Do not miss to visit the museum of icons located in the crypt.

Book your flights to Sofia, your accommodation in Sofia as well as your activities and tours in Sofia such  as a " Sofia Afternoon Walking Tour with Wine and Food Tasting ".

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Sofia.

  Where to stay:  " Sense Hotel Sofia " is a 5-star hotel with a prime location, a few steps from the Parliament.

3. Visit Plovdiv

A visit to Plovdiv is one of The 10 Best Things to Do in Bulgaria.

The oldest inhabited city in Europe (more than 6000 years old), it was recently European Capital of Culture and elected among the best destinations to visit in Europe. Its ancient theatre, its shopping streets, its cultural events, its many museums and the unique architecture of its traditional houses make a visit to Plovdiv one of the  Best Things to Do in Bulgaria for Couples .

The city, which pulsates with the spirit of the Bulgarian Revival with its magical Old Town, where beautiful and richly decorated houses from that period can be visited.

The best way to get to know Plovdiv is by walking through its streets. Here you can stroll through the renovated streets of Kapana Creative District, and later immerse yourself in the light and music show of the Singing Fountains in the Tsar Simeon's Garden.

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Plovdiv.

  Where to stay:  " Plovdiv City Center Hotel ". Stay in the heart of Plovdiv.

4. Rila National Park

Want to leave the city and  stress? Treat yourself to a breath of fresh air and pure nature and visit the Rila National Park, one of the 13 Cool and Unusual Things to Do in Bulgaria . Fall under the spell of one of its 7 lakes, Bliznika Lake.

Rila Mountains owe their name to the hermit monk « St. John of Rila » who also gave his name to the famous Rila Monastery, considered one of the Most Important Cultural and Tourist Attractions in Bulgaria .

Bliznika means "Twin Lake" in Bulgarian, it is one of the 7 lakes of the Rila Mountains, located at more than 2,200 metres above sea level. The inhabitants of Sofia often leave the capital to recharge their batteries in this park on weekends.

Book your flights to Sofia, your accommodation in Sofia as well as your tours and activities in Bulgaria such  as a " The Seven Rila Lakes: Full-Day Tour from Sofia ".

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Sofia (1h30 by car).

  Where to stay:  " Sense Hotel Sofia ". This 5-star hotel with an exclusive spa area.

5. Rose Festival 

Discover a place in Bulgaria where the scent of roses meets ancient history. Kazanlak, also called "Valley of Roses" organizes every year, during three weeks (with the apogee the first week of June), a festival celebrating the rose grown in this valley. This is one of the Most Unusual and Funniest Things to Do in Bulgaria .

Traditional costumes, parades, handicrafts made from roses, concerts, coronation of the queen of roses,… this unique festival in Europe has been organized for more than 100 years by the inhabitants of Kazanlak to celebrate the "Rosa Damascena", the Bulgarian oil-bearing rose.

During your stay do not miss to visit the Shipka Monastery but also the Shipka Monument and Buzludza Monument ranked among the best hidden gems in Bulgaria .

Book your flights to Plovdiv (1H30) or Sofia (2h30), your accommodation in Bulgaria as well as your tours and activities in Bulgaria such as a " Rose Valley Tour & UNESCO Site Kazanlak ".

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Plovdiv (1h30 by car) or Sofia (2h30).

  Where to stay:  “ Zornica Hotel " offers an outdoor swimming pool, a sun bed, a sauna and massages.

6. Etar Ethnographical Village

Etar - Gabrovo

Immerse yourself in the incredible history of Bulgaria, its customs, its traditions, its crafts, its culinary specialties by visiting the ethnographic village of Etar, one of the Best Things to Do in Bulgaria & Places to See .

This open-air museum, also considered one of the best destinations to visit in Bulgaria , is located in northern Bulgaria, 2 hours drive from Sofia or Plovdiv .

Discover  20 regional crafts such as pottery, crafts, cutlery making, wood-carving,... There are many restaurants on site to taste Bulgarian culinary specialties.

Book your flights to Plovdiv or Sofia (2h by car), book your accommodation in Bulgaria as well as your tours and activities in Bulgaria such  as a " Bansko: Thermal Pool Escape ".

  How to get there:  Book your  flights  to Plovdiv or Sofia (2h by car).

  Where to stay:  " Grand Hotel Plovdiv ". Situated at the heart of Plovdiv.

7. Belogradchik Rocks

Belogradchik

Discover the incredible rock formations of Belogradchik and its fortress, which is ranked among the most beautiful castles and fortresses in Bulgaria . Belogradchik is also one of the best hidden gems in Bulgaria .

The fortress of Belogradchik bears the name of this city rewarded by the European Commission for its commitment to sustainable tourism. During your stay in the region do not miss to visit "Venetsa Cave" and "Lepenitsa Cave".

Book your flights to Sofia, your accommodation in Sofia as well as your tours and activities in Bulgaria such as a " Sofia: Lovech, Devetaki Cave and Krushuna Waterfalls Tour ".

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Sofia (2h30 by car).

  Where to stay:   " InterContinental Sofia " offers two restaurants and a 24/7 fitness centre.

8. Buzludzha Monument

It is one of the symbols of futuristic architecture also called monumental or brutalist architecture. It is at the top of this hill, (dynamited to install this monument), that the Bulgarian Communist Party was born.

This incredible construction, which took 7 years to build, was only open to the public for 8 years, from 1981 to 1989. It is for sure one of the Most Amazing Places to Visit in Bulgaria .

After the fall of communism, the building fell into disrepair and became a paradise for Urbex who love abandoned places.

Many projects are on the table to revive and protect this exceptional place which bears witness to Bulgaria's past and a very important part of its history and the history of Europe.

During your stay in the region, be sure to visit Etar village, an ethnographic village ranked among your best places to visit in Bulgaria .

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Plovdiv (2h by car).

  Where to stay:  “ Plovdiv City Center Hotel ". Featuring a bar, terraced and views of city.

9. Bolata Beach

This cove beach is one of the  most beautiful beaches in Bulgaria . Protected from the wind, this small beach is perfect for a lazy day. Take your parasol with you and your picnic basket. The water is crystal clear and shallow, perfect for families.

In high season there are foodtrucks on site (drinks, ice cream and food). Possibility to park near the beach.

During your stay do not miss to visit Kaliakra fortress located a few minutes walk or drive from Bolata Beach it is ranked among your  best castles in Bulgaria .

Book your flights  to Varna (1H by car) your  accommodation in Varna  as well as your  tours and activities in Bulgaria  such as a " Varna Guided Tour ".

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Varna (1h by car).

  Where to stay:  " Royal Grand Hotel and Spa - All Inclusive ". Stay near Bolata.

10. Monument to Bulgarian Soviet Friendship

Varna is reputed to be one of the best seaside resorts in Bulgaria with its many fine sandy beaches and all-inclusive resorts.

Varna is also known worldwide for the "Monument of the Bulgarian-Soviet Friendship", one of the  Top Tourist Attractions in Bulgaria , a monument of pure communist style also called "Bombastic Style" or "Monumentalism".

From the top of the monument you can enjoy a breathtaking view of Varna and the sea.

Even if the monument seems close to the city centre we advise you to take a bus or a taxi to get there because once there you will have to climb many steps to reach the top of the monument top-rated among the Best Things to Do in Bulgaria .

Book your flights to Varna, your accommodation in Varna as well as your tours and activities in Varna such as a " Varna: Black Sea Cruise With Lunch and Drinks ".

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Varna.

  Where to stay:  " The Palace Hotel, Sunny Day ". Set on the beachfront.

11. Dyavolski Most - Devil's Bridge

The Dyavolski Most, one of the Top Tourist Attractions in Bulgaria , is an arch bridge that crosses the Arda River in southern Bulgaria, 2h by car from Plovdiv . 

Like all arched bridges, its reflection in the water makes a perfect circle appear, seen by some as a doorway to Hell. The hell bridge is actually located in a welcoming natural site,  ( parking 200 m from the bridge).

Built in the 16th century, this bridge is one of Bulgaria's best hidden gems for its beauty and the legends surrounding it. It is also top-rated among the Best Things to do in Bulgaria .

Book your flights to Plovdiv, your accommodation in Plovdiv as well as your tours and activities in Bulgaria .

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Plovdiv (2h30 by car).

  Where to stay:  " Plovdiv City Center Hotel " located 200 m from Roman Theater Plovdiv.

12. Sinemorets beach

Do you want to laze around, enjoy the sun, let yourself be lulled by the sound of the waves and forget all your problems? Drive towards Sinemorets and treat yourself to a day of pure relaxation on "Veleka Beach", this is one of the Best Things to Do in Bulgaria .

This wild beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Bulgaria . The perfect combination of river beach and classic beach, facing the sea. A surfer spot, Veleka beach (the other name for Sinemorets Beach) also appeals to nature and water sports lovers.

Climb the hill facing the beach for an exceptional view of this natural and wild beach. Sinemorets beach, is truly one of the most beautiful wild beaches on the Black Sea Coast and one of the Best Tourist Attractions in Bulgaria.

Book your flights  to Burgas (1h30 by car) or Varna (2h30), your  accommodation in Burgas  as well as your activities and tours in Bulgaria .

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Burgas (1h30 by car) or Varna (3h by car).

  Where to stay:  " Primoretz Grand Hotel & Spa " is a beachfront hotel.

13. Rila Monastery

Rila National Park

Few people know it but Rila is not only the name of the place where this monastery is located but also that of a hermit, John of Rila, who became St. John of Rila after his canonization by the Orthodox Church.

This place is to put at the top of your  Bulgarian Travel Wishlist  if you like history, if you are a believer or interested in religions but also for lovers of architecture and art.

The Bulgarian Renaissance marked the awakening of this country and the awareness, after years of domination and repression, of its identity and its culture.

Take walking shoes with you and, during a 2-hour hike, discover the Rila Cave, a founding place of this now world-famous monastery. This exceptional site, one of the Best Tourist Attractions in Bulgaria , is located in the heart of nature, the perfect opportunity to combine a culture & nature walk.

Book your flights  to Sofia, your  accommodation in Sofia  as well as your  tours and activities  such  as a " From Sofia: Rila Monastery Small Group Tour ".

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Sofia (1h50 from Rila Monastery).

  Where to stay:  " InterContinental Sofia " offers two restaurants, a 24/7 fitness center and city and mountain views

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23 Amazing Places to Visit in Bulgaria

I believe Bulgaria is one of the most underrated countries in Europe. Most tourists who choose Bulgaria as a holiday destination focus only on the Black Sea coast, not knowing how beautiful Bulgaria actually is. Yet the country offers so many diverse attractions and the list of best places to visit in Bulgaria is really long.

I was lucky to visit Bulgaria a few times and this country never stops surprising me with its beauty, architecture, culture, and long and interesting history. Over the years it also has become one of my favorite destinations and I’m always happy to return there and discover even more Bulgaria tourist attractions.

And so if you are wondering what to do in Bulgaria I’ve prepared for you the list of the best places in Bulgaria to put in your Bulgaria itinerary . To make this list even more complete and show you more than only places I’ve been to, I’ve asked a few fellow travel bloggers about their favorite Bulgaria must-see.

Keep on reading to find out about all the beautiful places in Bulgaria.

Planning a trip to Bulgaria?

Here are the services I always use and personally recommend:

• Accommodation : I always book a place to stay on Booking.com
• Tours: when I decide to go on a tour I use either Viator or Get Your Guide .
• For transportation and booking tickets online , I usually use 12Go or Omio
• Looking for the airport pickup ? Check Welcome Pickups!
• If you plan to rent a car during your trip to Bulgaria check Discover Cars to compare prices and find the best deals
• Get insured for your trip to Bulgaria with SafetyWing

Table of Contents

Places to visit in Bulgaria

Western bulgaria.

For some reason, Sofia, the capital and the largest city in the country, doesn’t have the best reputation among travelers who prefer other (mostly coastal) places to visit in Bulgaria. Well, that’s a big mistake since this is a wonderful place to visit as there are so many great things to do in Sofia and the city offers plenty of different attractions.

Sofia is one of the oldest cities in Europe, founded some 2500 years ago, and even if it doesn’t seem at first you can find some ancient remnants right in the city center (next to the entrance to the Serdika metro station). However, most of the city’s highlights are much newer, from the 19th century onwards.

Be sure to see the beautiful Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and other places of worship (there are holy places of different religions standing near each other), visit some interesting museums (including my favorite Museum of Socialist Art), walk down Vitosha Boulevard – the main pedestrian area in the center or enjoy the culinary scene, especially in the old Central Market Hall.

Sofia is also full of little quirks that make the city so much cooler, when you look around you will spot unique street art, weird sculptures, interesting shops, and more.

What I personally like the most about Sofia is its vibrant atmosphere – on the warm days the city is alive until late night hours and crowds enjoy the outdoor dining options and spend the time outside.

The city can be also a good base for some great day trips from Sofia – a few of the must-visit places in Bulgaria are located a short distance from the capital.

Read more about Sofia:

• 19 Amazing Things to Do in Sofia, Bulgaria
• 50 Sofia pictures that will inspire you to travel to Sofia, Bulgaria
• Sofia, Bulgaria – the city that can be a new Berlin!

Find the accommodation in Sofia here.

See the best Sofia tours here.

Belogradchik

Belogradchik, a small town in the north-west part of Bulgaria, near the border with Serbia , is known for the unique rock formations and a fortress neatly incorporated into them. The picturesque rocks – the most impressive rock formation in Bulgaria – reach up to 200 meters high and look and the landscape is a bit similar to the famous Meteora in Greece (minus the monasteries).

The fortress, known also as Kaleto, was initially built in the Roman Empire times in the 3rd century and over the years it was expanded under different rules. Due to the unique combination of nature and the work of human, this is one of the most unique fortresses you can find in Europe.

Near Belogradchik you can also visit Magura Cave with the valuable prehistoric wall paintings.

Find the accommodation in Belgradchik here.

Rila Monastery

Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the biggest attractions in Bulgaria and is popular for a reason. Located some 120 km away from the capital, visiting Rila Monastery is a perfect day trip from Sofia.

The first monastery was established here in the 14th century but already in the 10th century, the nearby caves were inhabited by hermit Ivan of Rila. Eventually, the monastery was named after him. The beautiful buildings you can admire today date back to the mid-19th century since the monastery had to be rebuilt after the fire.

What makes Rila Monastery famous are amazing external frescoes – they are bright, colorful, and rich in decorations. If you look closer you might find some interesting and disturbing images like the devil walking with a man on a chain.

Inside the monastery complex, you can visit the Nativity of the Virgin church, the tower of Hrelja from the 14th century (the oldest of all the buildings), and the History Museum.

And if you get hungry or would like to get some souvenirs you can find a few shops and restaurants just outside the monastery gate.

Remember to visit the place with the respect – not only this is a holy place but this is still a working monastery with some 60 monks living there.

The best way to get to Rila Monastery is by car or one of the organized tours that depart from Sofia daily.

Read more about visiting Rila Monastery in this article I wrote: “Day trip from Sofia to Rila Monastery, Bulgaria” .

Find the best tours to Rila Monastery here.

Rila Mountains

While the Black Sea coast is one of the most popular destinations in Bulgaria, fans of mountains and hiking shouldn’t dismiss the country.

There are some really spectacular peaks and hiking trails in Bulgaria, with Rila Mountains being the highest mountain range in the country (or even in the Balkans). In fact this is the 6th highest mountain range in Europe! The highest peak of Bulgaria – Musala (2925 meters above sea level) is located in Rila Mountains too.

A big part of the area was declared a national park and is a popular tourist destination. If you are short on time you can visit Rila Mountains as a day trips from Sofia (the range is located south of the capital) and hike the most popular and spectacular trail near Seven Rila Lakes – you can be sure to see some incredible views there!

Recommended by Sarah from A Social Nomad

Bansko is just 2 hours from Bulgaria’s capital city, Sofia, and 2.5 hours from Plovdiv, yet it’s a world away. This glorious mountain town is Bulgaria’s largest ski and snowboard resort and perches on the edge of Pirin National Park.

In winter there are super facilities – alpine and cross country skiing, ice skating and dips in the natural hot springs, amazing cozy restaurants to visit. When the snow goes, Bansko is quieter, and the more lovely for it.

There’s incredible hiking here, both inside and on the edges of the National Park, where there are a string of huts offering accommodation and food on your hikes. An active mountain biking community, white water rafting, and horse riding mean that this is an outdoor lover’s dream.

Another reason to visit Bansko is its festivals, from Bohemian to Opera and the world-renowned Jazz festival – all are free and held in the old town square.

Enjoy Bulgarian wine, great fresh local food – the trout from the local lakes is divine, and close by you’ll find a narrow-gauge railway runs here over the highest pass in the Balkans.

Find the accommodation in Bansko here.

See the best Bansko tours here.

Pirin Mountains

A bit further south, towards the border with Greece, you can visit Pirin Mountains with the highest peak Vihren (2 915 meters above sea level). This is yet another amazing area with stunning views and great hiking opportunities.

It is even more picturesque thanks to the numerous lakes you can find all over the place. Pirin Mountains are among the most beautiful places to see in Bulgaria so if you are a fan of mountains and raw landscape you can’t miss them.

With the population of under 400, Melnik – located in the very south-west of the country – is the smallest town in Bulgaria. The place is known for the wine-making traditions, the wine has been produced here since the 14th century and the local drink used to be a favorite wine of Winston Churchill.

Melnik is picturesquely located in the shadow of Pirin Mountains, just under the so-called Melnik Earth Pyramids – a unique rock formations. You will find many beautiful traditional houses in Melnik as well as the 12-the century Byzantine House – one of the oldest remaining civilian buildings in the Balkans .

Near the town you can also visit Rozhen Monastery with 16th-century frescoes.

Find the accommodation in Melnik here.

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Central Bulgaria

Koprivshtitsa.

Koprivshtitsa is one of the prettiest towns in Bulgaria yet it’s not widely popular among international tourists. It is located in the central part of the country, some 110 km away from Sofia, in a valley surrounded by green mountains.

Koprivshtitsa is known for its beautiful architecture, you can find there numerous 19-century historical houses built in the so-called Bulgarian Revival style. Today many of them host museums of well-known Bulgarians – be sure to visit some of them to see interesting interiors from the period the houses date back to. But it’s fine even if you will only admire the architecture from the outside as the buildings have distinctive shapes, vivid colors, and rich decorations.

Koprivshtitsa feels a bit like the time has stopped there. Be sure to wander around the town, discover it without a map, get lost in the maze of the narrow streets, and fall for the charming corners you will surely find.

Getting to Koprivshtitsa is rather easy, there are a few daily train connections from Sofia but the train station is located a few kilometers outside the town so you need to take the bus to get to the center (the schedule is connected with the trains arrivals/departures). You can also go there with the tour from Sofia.

Read more about Koprivshtitsa in my article “Koprivshtitsa, Bulgaria – is this the prettiest town in the country?” .

Find the best Koprivshtitsa tours here.

Veliko Tarnovo

Veliko Tarnovo is one of the highlights of Bulgaria that you can’t miss. The place is known as the “City of the Tsars” since it was the capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire in the Middle Ages and still today it is packed with old monuments and attractions.

The most important one is the Tsarevets Fortress located at the edge of the town. In the past this was the center of the Bulgarian rule, today you can see only the remnants of the former glory but it still is an impressive place to visit. Not to mention amazing views of Veliko Tarnovo and the surrounding that you can admire from there.

Another highlight of the city is the market area with beautiful 19th-century houses (built in the Bulgarian Revival period) and even more great views of the area around.

Veliko Tarnovo is such a pleasant place to visit and it’s worth staying there overnight. Once the crowds of daytrippers are gone you can wander around the city again and enjoy its laid-back atmosphere, walk along the river, enjoy picturesque views, or feast in one of the many restaurants serving delicious Bulgarian food.

There are also a few nearby places (like Arabanasi village) that are worth visiting when you are in Veliko Tarnovo.

Read more about Veliko Tarnovo in my article “Day in Veliko Tarnovo – my highlight of Bulgaria”.

Find the accommodation in Veliko Tarnovo here.

See the best Veliko Tarnovo tours here.

Plovdiv, the second-largest city in Bulgaria, is probably the oldest continually inhabited city in Europe, with traces dating back to the 6th century BC. While the majority of the attractions are newer, you can still find some old remnants in the center (like the impressive Roman Amphitheater from the 1st century AD or the Roman Stadium from the 2nd century AD, discovered in 1923).

Plovdiv is picturesquely located on the seven hills, some of them offer a beautiful panorama of the city. The UNESCO listed old part of Plovdiv is really charming with cobbled streets and beautiful houses in the Bulgarian Revival style (some of them host museums), you can also find there remnants of the fortress walls from medieval times.

Plovdiv is also known as the cultural capital of Bulgaria, it had the title of the European Capital of Culture in 2019. The main cultural and creative hub is the colorful and vibrant Kapana Art District, this is also the trendiest part of the city, full of cafes and people.

Plovdiv is surely one of the best places to visit in Bulgaria so be sure to put it in your itinerary too.

Find the accommodation in Plovdiv here.

See the best Plovdiv tours here.

Devetashka Cave

Recommended by Raluca from Travel With A Spin

Devetashka cave is one of the deepest karst caves in Bulgaria, but just a small part is accessible to tourists. It’s located in the Lovech region , 85 km from Veliko Tarnovo and 170 km from Sofia. You can access it directly via Road 301, as there’s a small parking place in front of it.

Archaeological findings proved that humans have lived here since the late Paleolithic era, as early as 70,000 BC. Other fauna species traces were also found. Nowadays, it’s still inhabited by amphibians, reptiles, birds, and bats. The cave was declared a natural landmark and is closed to the public in June and July, the bats’ breeding season.

Devetashka cave is known for the sinkholes, an underground river, miniature waterfalls, and eleven lakes. Several large holes in the rocky ceiling allow sunlight to illuminate the spacious main hall, reaching 60m height.

Due to this microclimate, its floor is covered by lush vegetation. When visiting the cave it’s hard to believe sometimes that you are actually underground.

Devetashka cave was featured in 2011 in The Expendables 2, which was the cause of several fines and clashes between the production team and the authorities. Some of the activities are considered to have endangered or damaged the cave.

Buzludzha Monument

Recommended by Julia from The Cure for Curiosity

If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path spot in Bulgaria, make your way to Buzludzha Monument.

Located on a remote peak in the Balkan Mountains just a couple of hours outside of Veliko Tarnovo, this monument will amaze you from the moment you set eyes on it. This is due to its incredibly odd architecture that is saucer-shaped, like a UFO. Unsurprisingly, the inside follows a similar motif.

Originally built in the 1970s, Buzludzha was used as a gathering place for the Communist Party between 1981 and 1990. Since then, it has been abandoned and fallen into disrepair. Today, you can make the trek through the beautiful Bulgarian countryside to visit the Buzludzha Monument.

While you’re there, stare in awe at the fascinating building and its stunning natural surroundings and learn more about the communist past of the region. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider exploring the interior. Just use caution as there are parts of the structure that are crumbling.

It’s also worth noting that although Buzludzha has been gaining traction as a tourist site, it is an abandoned building and has a tumultuous past. This makes entering it both a bit controversial and potentially dangerous.

Recommended by Daniela from Ipanema travels

Kazanluk (or Kazanlak) is a small, quiet town, located just in the middle of the country. It can be easily visited on a day trip from Veliko Tarnovo, Plovdiv, and Sofia, or included on any Bulgaria itinerary that goes from North to South or from West to East.

The most famous attraction in Kazanluk is the Thracian Tomb , a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The tomb is a part of a 4th-century BC necropolis located near the ancient capital of the Odrysian Kingdom – Seuthopolis.

The frescoes of the tomb are simply amazing – vivid colors, almost Renaissance-like and lifelike figures. They depict a Thracian funeral feast with a chariot racing.

If you are fascinated by ancient history, you can visit other Thracian tombs just a short drive from Kazanluk – the Tomb of Seuthes III, and the Thracian Tombs of Shushmanets and Ostrusha.

The area where Kazanluk is located is known as the Rose Valley. Roses are grown there for the extraction of rose oil.

At the end of May, the town celebrates the rose harvest with an amazing Rose Festival, and it chooses its own Queen of Roses. If you miss the festival, you can still visit the Rose Museum, where you can learn about rose growing and rose oil production.

Located right at the border with Romania , Ruse can be a perfect stop if you travel from Bucharest to Bulgaria or a great day trip from Bucharest , but it is also worth a small detour during your Bulgaria tour.

Even if this is yet another place with a history dating back to ancient times, the main reason to visit Ruse is beautiful 19th and early 20th-century architecture (usually Neo-Baroque and Neo-Rococo), more in the Central European style than any other place in the country – that’s why the city is often called “Little Vienna “. You will find many impressive buildings in the center and wandering around this part of the city is a real pleasure.

Fans of brutalist architecture will surely appreciate the building of the Municipality Hall – one of the greatest examples of brutalism in Bulgaria.

Near the city, you can visit the Orlova Chuka cave – the second-longest cave in Bulgaria.

Find the accommodation in Ruse here.

Basarbovo Monastery

Recommended by Laura from Laure Wanders

The Bararbovo Monastery , also known as the rock-hew churches of Ivanovo, is located near Ruse, close to the Romanian border. What makes this place special is that it is the only active rock monastery in Bulgaria.

It was founded during the second Bulgarian Empire (1185-1396) and named after Saint Dimitrii Basarbovski, a shepherd that led an ascetic life here. The monastery was later abandoned for a long period of time but it was renovated and brought back to life during the 20th century.

When you visit the monastery, you will find beautiful, century-old murals in between its walls. The complex consists of a church, hermitages, a bell tower, and a crypt. It is quite an interesting place with a very serene atmosphere.

Note that there is a well in the inner yard. This well was dug by Saint Dimitrii himself and some people still believe that its water has healing powers!

Shumen might not be the most obvious stop during your trip to Bulgaria but it surely is an interesting place. While there might be not too many things to do there, the city is home to one of the most spectacular monuments in the country – the Monument to 1300 Years of Bulgaria – and that’s already a good reason to visit Shumen.

The memorial complex is located on the top of the hill above the city, to get there you need to walk up 1300 stairs (this number isn’t a coincidence). The monument was unveiled in 1981 to commemorate the 1300th anniversary of the creation of the Bulgarian state and is a unique mixture of brutalist and cubist styles.

This is one of the weirdest and quirkiest yet fascinating concrete masterpieces you will ever see. It shows some of the important people and events from Bulgarian history between the 6th and 10th centuries and the mosaic you can find there is the largest one in Europe.

Shumen itself is a pleasant city, with some nice yet decayed old houses (in the Bulgarian revival style), art-nouveau buildings, or the largest mosque in Bulgaria.

Near the city, you can also visit the famous Madara Rider – a UNESCO-listed rock relief from the 7th or 8th century.

You can read more about Shumen in my article “Why you should visit Shumen, Bulgaria”.

Find the accommodation in Shumen here.

Black Sea Coast in Bulgaria

Varna, the third-largest city in Bulgaria and the seaside capital of the country is a surprisingly pleasant place to visit. While the main reason to visit Varna is the Black Sea, the city has some other interesting sights too.

You can visit the Archeological Museum with the oldest gold treasure in the world (it’s over six thousand years old!), see the beautiful cathedral or explore the center of the city. Varna is also home to a beautiful park called the Sea Garden that stretches on a large area along the sea.

If you are interested in history don’t miss the museum dedicated to the 1444 battle of Varna. Near the city, you can also find some unique rock formations, such as the Stone Forest.

But the main thing to do in Varna is the enjoy the seaside with all its attractions.

Find the accommodation in Varna here.

See the best Varna tours here.

Al Adzha Monastery

Recommended by Ucman from Brown Boy Travels

Al Adzha Monastery is a monastery complex carved on the side of a 25m high cliff, located close to Varna. It is 17 km north of the beautiful beach city and 3 km from the popular Golden Sand Beach Resort famous for its beaches and casinos on the Black Sea.

The monastery is surrounded by a forest which makes the way to the monastery and visiting the site a very calming experience.

The cave monastery has been around since the 4th century A.D and has survived multiple empires and religious changes all the way to Ottoman rule. Some locals still consider this area and the hills around, sacred.

The monastery, its multiple residential cave dwellings, and three churches are painstakingly carved into a high limestone rock. All these individual units are then joined by external stairs. It really is a fascinating spot to marvel at human ingenuity in the name of religion.

The name Al Adzha comes from Turkish which means brightly painted due to the colorful murals on the walls of the caves. They didn’t survive with time but some of them can be seen in the adjacent museum.

Al Adzha monastery is easy to reach by car or taxi and you can easily explore this beautiful wonder in a few hours. If you prefer to explore and enjoy the serenity that brought so many monks here go early in the morning or later in the afternoon. It is highly advisable to wear sturdy shoes with a good grip for this trip.

Recommended by Anda from Travel for a while

Balchik is a port town on the northern Bulgarian coast, close to the Romanian border. However, it doesn’t have an industrial feeling like the larger cities of Varna or Burgas, but more of an artistic vibe.

About 100 years ago, Balchik became the summer residence for Queen Mary of Romania. She loved the little town as much as Peles Castle and had a villa built right by the sea. Her residence is now the main attraction in Balchik, along with the spectacular multi-level Botanical Gardens around the villa. The best time to visit the gardens is at the beginning of the summer when the roses at the lower level are in full bloom.

When you finish exploring the gardens, you can enjoy the sea, walk the seaside promenade to Albena resort close by, or take a boat and admire the sunset from the sea.

There are also plenty of terraces where you can have dinner or a cocktail by the sea.

Find the accommodation in Balchik here.

Nesebar often called a “Pearl of the Black Sea”, is packed with attractions and monuments and therefore was included in UNESCO World Heritage List in 1983. The town was founded in the 6th century BC and over the years it’s been on the edge of the empires which resulted in a turbulent history.

The highlight of the town is the old part of Nesebar, located on the peninsula (it used to be an island). You can find there a few old churches, ruins of the fortifications and of course beautiful revival houses.

Nesebar is a perfect day trip from Burgas, Varna, or other places along the Black Sea coast.

Recommended by Carolin from Happy when Abroad

Burgas, the fourth largest city in Bulgaria, is located in the southeast of the country, directly on the coast of the Black Sea. The city is relatively small and full of history, culture, beaches, and shopping places.

One of the best things to do in Burgas is strolling around the beautiful Sea Garden, which amazes with colorful flowers as well as numerous cafes, restaurants, and different exhibitions. Alongside the Sea Garden, you will find a long beach, attracting many tourists and locals alike.

If you come here between June and September, you will witness the famous annual sand festival, where huge sculptures made of sand are displayed for visitors.

Regarding historic and cultural activities, it is recommended to visit the Archaeological Museum of Burgas to learn about the Greek and Roman eras, or to come upon the museum of aviation, one of the newest attractions in the city.

Taking a sunset walk along the Pier, which stretches almost 300 meters into the sea and offers great views of the Black Sea and Burga’s iconic lighthouse, is the ideal way to round up your trip to the city.

Find the accommodation in Burgas here.

See the best Burgas tours here.

Located just south of Burgas and easily accessible by bus, Sozopol is one of those picturesque seaside towns that you have to visit in Bulgaria. In the summertime, this is a popular and busy spot but if you visit off-season you can enjoy a sleepy little town, perfect for wandering around.

This is one of the oldest settlements on the Bulgarian coast, dating to the Bronze Age. Today in the old town you can see plenty of beautiful old houses, the main attraction of Sozopol. They were built in the so-called Black Sea school of architecture and look a bit like the traditional houses in the central part of the country but are made of stone and wood.

Next to the old town, you can find a long and sandy Central Beach where you can relax and sunbathe.

If you visit Sozopol in September you can enjoy the popular Apollonia Festival of Arts with numerous cultural events.

Find the accommodation in Sozopol here.

Recommended by Victoria from Guide Your Travel

Ahtopol is a small town located in south-eastern Bulgaria. Despite its small size, Ahtopol is steadily gaining popularity among tourists who appreciate how quiet it is and its affordability.

Life in Ahtopol takes place by the beach with plenty of opportunities for water sports, swimming, and simply relaxing. Recently a growing number of restaurants and even resorts have opened in the area giving tourists a great selection of activities and places to stay.

Restaurants range from affordable options to mid-price ones. Definitely stop by La Vita Club which boasts incredible views and a delicious menu. The restaurant Agata beach is also well worth a visit and even has a hot tub for its guests who can enjoy the beautiful terrace and the view of the beach.

Ahtopol is also a great spot to learn how to surf or go for a kayak or canoeing trip. You’ll love the beautiful waters of the black sea and the secluded feel of Ahtopol.

Find the accommodation in Ahtopol here.

Map of the best places to visit in Bulgaria

To give you an idea of where all the places mentioned above are, here is the map of Bulgaria with all those great destinations

Final thoughts on visiting Bulgaria

As you can see yourself, Bulgaria really has a lot to offer and everyone will find something interesting there, whether you are looking for city life, nature, culture, history or simply relax. Add to that delicious food and affordable prices and you can be sure that you are in for excellent holidays in Bulgaria.

I can’t wait when I go there again to see more of the country and I hope you will decide to visit Bulgaria soon too!

Travel Resources

Below you can find the brands I trust and use when planning trips:

• You can find the best accommodation options at Booking . They have many discounts and excellent customer service. Click here to look for the place to stay in Bulgaria
• I recommend joining organized tours to get to know the place better and to visit more places during your trip. You can find a great selection of tours at Viator or Get Your Guide .
• To always stay connected I use Airalo eSim cards – click here to get yours!
• Never travel without travel insurance , you never know what might happen and better safe than sorry. You can check the insurance policy for Bulgaria here.
• Make sure to have the offline map always installed on your phone, they can save you so many troubles. I always use the free app Maps.Me .

For the end I left a few announcements that might interest you:

• Sign up to my newsletter or follow me on Bloglovin to get updates about the new posts
• Join my Facebook group about Eastern Europe, the Balkans and former USSR and connect with fellow travellers and enthusiasts of these regions – just click here!
• I’ve included a few handy links of services and products I personally like and use so you can plan your own trip to Bulgaria too. They are often affiliate links. This means I will get a small commission if you book/purchase anything through my links, at no extra costs for you. Thank you!

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Linda Gerbec

Thank you for another interesting and informative post. My husband and I have visited Sofia, Plovdiv, Byala (with side trips to Varna and Nessebar), and Bansko. I have yet to visit any place in Bulgaria I didn’t enjoy.

I’m glad you enjoyed the article. Bulgaria has so much to offer and has so many underrated places. I also keep discovering it and each place is a gem really.

There are 60 cities in Bulgaria and you recommend 50.

I focused on the highlights for tourists, it’s impossible to mention every single place.

Lori Trochim

So much helpful information! Thank you. What’s the best way to get from place to place? Car? Bus? Train?

While public transport works fairly well in Bulgaria, car is the best option so you can easily get to some more remote locations too

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• The Best Attractions In Bulgaria

The 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 attraction s in Bulgaria .

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

Tsarevets Fortress was built where the palace of the Bulgaria n king (referred to as tsar ) once stood, over 800 years ago. Climb the Tsarevets Hill and check out the Tsarevets Museum Reserve. If you’re planning ahead, coordinate your visit with the Sound and Light show – for upcoming dates, check the local Tourist Office.

Prohodna Cave

Prohodna Cave is a favorite spot for both tourists and rock climbers , due to its unique structure. Look up to see the two openings in its ceiling, which look so much like a set of eyes that the locals began calling the cave the Eyes of God. It’s even more impressive on a bright night, with the moon shining through the so-called eyes.

Belogradchik Rocks

There are some spectacular rock shapes around the small town of Belogradchik and like clouds in the sky, they can resemble animals, people or unusual objects – if you look hard enough. What makes the Belogradchik Rocks even more alluring is its very own fortress, built within the rocks with walls, floors and stairs. The view from the top is phenomenal.

Pirin National Park

Pirin is one of the most popular Bulgaria n mountains for hiking. It’s no surprise many visitors claim it stole their heart, as the landscape is mainly alpine rock, with deep blue lakes dotted all around. There are many hiking trails within the national park – Koncheto Ridge is a particularly challenging one. It’s a good idea to bring a map and compass.

Krushuna Waterfalls

These waterfalls almost look artificial, they are so postcard perfect. The turquoise water makes a beautiful contrast against the snow-white rock brinks of the cascades. More than 800 years ago, hermits carved caves out of the rocks and lived in them. Krushuna Waterfalls are located in Northern Bulgaria , near Letnitsa village.

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The Balchik Palace and Botanical Garden

One of the best destinations for cultural attraction s on the Bulgaria n 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

Koprivshtitsa will twist your tongue with its hard-to-pronounce name, but it’s worth the effort because it’s one of the best preserved Revival-period towns. Stroll past the colorful houses and visit one which has been transformed into a museum, to soak up the historical atmosphere and learn more about how the Bulgaria ns gained their liberty.

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

Bulgaria is known as the Country of Roses, and there’s a specific area where most of the rose fields are located: the Rose Valley, near the town of Kazanlak. Every year, for a whole month – mid-May to mid-June – the Rose Festival fills the air with the sweet scent of rose blooms. Tourists are welcome to join the rose-picking process , as long as they’re prepared for the early start, as the best time to do it is sunrise.

Rila Monastery

Rila Monastery is the biggest Bulgaria n monastery , established in 10th century by the Bulgaria n saint and hermit Ivan of Rila. A Unesco World Heritage Site, it is one of the most significant cultural, religious and architectural sites in Bulgaria . Besides the monastery buildings, there’s a fortification tower in the monastery court.

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See & Do

Spiritual places to visit in bulgaria.

Places to Stay

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Guides & Tips

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The 7 Best Day Trips from Plovdiv

Superstitions Only Bulgarians Understand

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• 21 Beautiful Places To Visit In Bulgaria In 2024 That Are A Treat To Your Eyes

23 Mar 2023

Bulgaria is a country with picturesque landscapes, along the coast of Black Sea. With mountains and rivers on one side and sun-kissed beaches and azure sea on the other, Bulgaria boasts of beautiful cities and resort towns, which fascinate each and every traveler with their own charm and aura. From castles to forts, museums to amusement parks; there are innumerable places to visit in Bulgaria. Make sure to check them out on your trip to Bulgaria for an exquisite time with your family and friends.

Places To Visit In Bulgaria

Bulgaria is adorned with many spectacular places. To make up for an exciting holiday, you must cover most of these beautiful places to visit in Bulgaria that we have listed below:

• Rila Monastery
• Veliko Tarnovo
• Koprivshtitsa
• Sunny Beach
• Belogradchik
• Pobiti Kamani

Image Source Sofia, the capital city, is one of the most gorgeous top places to visit in Bulgaria . There are various places to visit in Bulgaria, Sofia . Presenting a flawless amalgamation of old city and modern township, Sofia is home to 2000 years old churches, municipal buildings, and cathedrals on one hand and modern museums, art galleries, city parks and boulevards on the other. Nestled at the foothill of Vitosha mountain, this largest Bulgaria city is flocked by tourists around the year.

Must see: Boyana church, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Ivan Vazov National Theatre, Saint Nedelja Church and National Museum of Military History and South Park

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Image Source Overlooking the Black Sea, Varna is one of the significant places to see in Bulgaria. Showcasing history and heritage of the bygone era, this serene resort town comprises of Roman baths, ancient cathedrals, and museums. Varna beaches are vibrant and happening and lined with shacks and bars, where people can hang out, sunbathe and unwind and indulge in water sports.

Must see: Roman Bath, Dormition of the Mother of God Cathedral, Baroque Opera House and Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin

Image Source As one of the historical cities in Bulgaria, Plovdiv is mostly visited by history lovers and anthropologists. This is one of the ancient Bulgaria places, built around 7 hills, along with the course of Maritsa River. Featuring fortresses, amphitheaters, churches, cobbled stone roads, and vintage houses; Plovdiv offers utmost holiday charm, like none other.

Must see: Plovdiv Roman stadium, Roman amphitheater, Staria grad, Park Tsra Simeon and Alyosha Soviet Army Memorial and Ethnographic Museum

Suggested Read: Paragliding In Austria: Head To These Amazing Destinations In The Heart Of Europe!

4. Rila Monastery

Image Source Nestled amid Rila Mountains; this is the largest monastery in Bulgaria. Much famed as Monastery of Saint Ivan of Rila, this is the most popular Eastern Orthodox Monastery and one of the top tourist attractions in Bulgaria. Founded in the 10th century by St. John of Rila- this stunning monastery is visited by thousands of pilgrims every year. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is built in Mamluk, arabesque, Byzantine and Romanesque pattern. It looks stunning and magnificent with the wooden staircases, black and white arches, domes and colorful mosaics, while the 250 well-preserved manuscripts and paintings are things to admire.

Must see: Other than the monastery and its in-house museum and gallery, one can also explore Rila National Park, Rila Mountains, and Medi Valley Winery

Image Source Next in the list of best places to visit in Bulgaria in summer is Nesebar. This is another pretty town, located by the Black Sea coast, known for its ancient ruins, edifices, and stunning beaches. The old part of Nessebar, comprising of Byzantine-era fortifications and Roman baths are located on an island, which is bridged with the mainland by a man-made walk away. You can also visit the famous 11th century St. Stephen church, located there, which houses an ornamented altarpiece and many of mural paintings. Apart from this, one can sunbathe on the beaches, enjoy water sports and relish seafood or spend some crazy fun-filled moments at the beachfront water park.

Must see: St. Stephens Church, Winery Messembria, Church of Saint Sophia, Church of the Holy Archangels Michael and Gabriel, Aquapark

Suggested Read: Museums In Austria: 8 Amazing Storehouse Of History And Art In The Heart Of Europe

6. Veliko Tarnovo

Image Source Renowned as ‘city of Tsars’, Veliko Tarnovo is a small and quaint city in central Bulgaria. This is a 7000 years old town, located by the Yantra River and surrounded by three hills, namely; Tsaravets, Trapezitsa, and Sveta Gora. Veliko Tarnovo was once the capital of the second Bulgarian empire. As a fortified city, the place is walled on all sides and offers superb panoramic views of the surrounding. With more than 30 monasteries, cobblestone streets, mythical homes, and churches; Veliko Tarnovo looks surreal and a visit to this place during Bulgaria holiday is worth in every sense.

Must see: Tsaravets Fortress, Monastery of the Holy Transfiguration of God, Forty Martyrs Church and Asen’s Monument

Image Source Bansko is the most buzzing skiing destination of Bulgaria and one of the best places to visit in Bulgaria in winter. Nestled at the foothills of Pirin Mountains, Bansko welcomes all winter sports lover with wide arms. One among the must-see Bulgaria places; this ski resort town boasts of numerous ski and snowboard areas on Todorka Peak like Tomba Run and offers longest skiing season in Bulgaria. Apart from this, Bansko is also famous for ski restaurants, nightlife, and spa and hosts the Bansko Jazz Festival every year.

Must see: Vihren Peak, Todorka, Kutelo, and Bansko Gondola Ski lift

Suggested Read: Sweden In March: 10 Eye-Catchingly Beautiful Places To Visit In Europe’s Svedala

Image Source One of the ancient coastal towns to see in Bulgaria; Sozopol exhibits relics and remnants of the Bronze Age. Perched at the Black Sea coast; there is an ancient fortress overlooking the sea and archaeological evidence of a sprawling Christian complex. Best known for splendid beaches and nightlife; Sozopol attracts travelers of all kinds, throughout the year. It is one of the significant cultural centers of Bulgaria and hosts Apollonia Art and Film Festival every year.

Must see: St. Thomas Island, St. Ivan Island and The Castle of Ravadinovo

9. Koprivshtitsa

Image Source Colorful houses, cobblestone streets, buzzing public squares and markets pretty much sum up what you can experience at Koprivshtitsa- one among the popular tourist places in Bulgaria. With the backdrop of Sredna Gora mountains; this historic town is perfectly set on the banks of Topolnita River and is famous for its folk festivals and carnivals.

Must see: Oslekov House, Topalova House, Dimcho Debelyanov House, and Lyuben Karavelov Museum

Suggested Read: 17 Spots For Snorkeling In Europe Every Underwater Enthusiast Must Visit

Image Source Bordered by sea and several lakes, Burgas is another name in the group of best places to visit in Bulgaria . Though this is an industrial city but the beaches, restaurant and shacks remain crowded with tourists and locals. During summer, the main promenade hosts summer theatre performances, which enhance the charm of the place, manifold.

Must see: Church of Saint Cyril, Sea Garden, Lake Burgas, Lake Atanasovsko and St. Anastasia Island

11. Sunny Beach

Image Source The discussion on places to visit in Bulgaria is half-hearted if you do not include Sunny Beach in it. Adorned with nightclubs, beach shacks, restaurants and water sports; Sunny Beach allures and tempts, travelers of all kinds. The beaches look dazzling and vibrant with loungers, umbrellas, yachts, go-cart track and water park.

Must see: Action Aquapark, Winery Messembria, Sunny Beach Luna Park and karting track

Suggested Read: Bulgaria In Winter: 10 Things To Do To Make Your Vacation Memorable

12. Belogradchik

Image Source Located on the northern slopes of Balkan Mountains, Belogradchik is another place to see in Bulgaria. Also known as Kaleto, this place is famous for unique sandstone and limestone rock formations, monoliths and hoodoos. Certainly, a place to wonder, Belogradchik also has an ancient fort, caves, and museums.

Must see: Magura Cave, Baba Vida, Kaleto Fortress and Belogradchik rocks, Museum of Nature and Science

13. Pamporovo

Image Source Another popular ski resort in Bulgaria, Pamporovo is set on the foothills of Rhodope Mountains. Lined with pine forests, the skiing area looks surreal and leaves everyone in awe. One can indulge in skiing and snowboarding during winter months, while summer is ideal for hiking and camping. Make sure you book a spot for skiing. We promise it will be worth the time and money.

Must see: Pamporovo Ski resort, Spree Skiing School and Fun Park.

Suggested Read: Top 12 Bulgarian Restaurants That Will Leave You Spoilt For Choice

Image Source Nestled on the right bank of Danube; Ruse is an important river port and a quaint Bulgarian city. Housing more than 300 Neo-Baroque and Neo-Rococo buildings, Ruse is also described as ‘Little Vienna’. This is the only place to visit in Bulgaria, that comprises of Bulgarian-Romanian bridge, known as Ruse-Giurgiu Friendship Bridge.

Must see: Svoboda- Liberty Square, Profit-Yielding Building, Friendship Bridge, Freedom Square, Sveta Troitsa Cathedral, Eco Museum, and Orlova Chuka Cave

15. Hisarya

Image Source Hisarya lies at the edge of Sredna Gora mountain range and best known for relics of Roman walls, gates, baths, and theatres. The name was derived from the word Turkish word Hissar or Hisar- which means Fort or Castle. It is located at a distance of 44 kms from Plovdiv, hence can make up for a great day trip option.

Must see: Thracian temple, Mineral Spring Momina Banya and Horseback Riding Camp Ezdun

16. Arbanasi

Image Source Arbanasi is a quaint village perched on a hill about 5 kilometers away from Veliko Tarnovo. Besides the amazing views of Veliko Tarnovo and Tsarevets, the village also offers a plethora of streets and old houses surrounded by high National Revival style buildings. It is one of the oldest places to visit in Bulgaria among the locals. Make sure to stop by here.

Must see: Nativity Church and Konstantsalieva House

17. Pobiti Kamani

Image Source Bulgaria’s only desert, Pobiti Kamani is one of the most fascinating places to visit in this country. It is located 20 km west to varna and is home to a variety of flora and fauna. The sand dunes and rock formations that goes up to 7 m high in this desert are fascinating. Guess what, these rock formations are hollow from inside and looks as if they are stuck in the sand.

Must see: The Stone Forest, Quarry in Beloslav, Bulgarian Black Sea Coast

18. Kaliakra

Image Source If you are wandering along the Black Sea Coast in Bulgaria, you will come across Kaliakra, one of the historical places to visit in Bulgaria . The legend has it that forty people jumped from the cliff with their hair tied together. They thought that it was a better option than being captured by the Ottomans in the 14th century. The medieval fortress against the stunning backdrop will take your breath away.

Must see: Cape Kaliakra, Castello di Kaliakra

19. Balchik

Image Source One of the most popular places to visit in Bulgaria for families , Balchik is absolutely worth the visit. This small town is located near the northern part of Black Sea Coast in Bulgaria. It has so many places to visit like the summer residence of Romanian Queen Marie of Edinburgh and the famous botanical gardens.

Must See: The Palace of Balchik, Botanical gardens, Balchik Beach

20. Kazanlak

Image Source Also known as the ‘Valley of Roses’, Kazanlak is an attractive tourist destination in Bulgaria where you will find tombstones of Thracian kings. It is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Site in Bulgaria which is why it must be on your list of all the places to visit.

Must See: Museum of Roses, Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak, Koprinka Dam, Tomb of Tsar Setv

Image Source An open-air museum in Bulgaria, Etara is a one-of-its-kind place that you ought to visit on your holiday. It is located on the northern edge of the Bulgarka Nature Park and has Bulgarian customs, craftsmanship, and culture on display. You will also find numerous restaurants outside the museum where you can taste the finest Bulgarian cuisine.

Must see: Karadzica water-mill, Sokolski monastery

Further Read: 13 Frolicsome Beaches In Europe For All The Excited Beach Bums Across The Globe

With this list of popular places, now you can plan a foolproof trip to Europe . Ensure you cover most of these places to visit in Bulgaria and have a memorable trip that you will cherish forever. We promise that you’ll have the time of your life and will not be disappointed by everything that Bulgaria has to offer you.

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Bulgaria

Is Bulgaria an expensive country?

Bulgaria is an affordable destination as compared to other European countries. Accommodation and travel costs here are quite affordable and ideal to plan a budget trip.

Is Bulgaria safe for tourists?

Yes, Bulgaria is a safe country for tourists. The crime rate here is very low and tourists can easily travel around without worrying about a robbery or any crime.

Is it safe to visit Bulgaria, given the covid situation?

Yes, it is safe to visit Bulgaria given that you follow all guidelines and take all the necessary precautions. Make sure to get yourself vaccinated before planning a trip, also wear masks at all times, maintain social distance at public places and sanitize your hands regularly to avoid the spread of the virus.

Why is Bulgaria so famous?

Bulgaria is famous worldwide for its folklore, opera singers and musicians. It is also home to many great sightseeing points and attractions.

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Must-see attractions in Sofia

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…

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…

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…

Archaeological Museum

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…

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…

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…

Sofia History Museum

The history of Sofia is presented on two floors of the magnificent former Turkish Mineral Baths, just behind the mosque. Exhibitions are divided…

Ancient Serdica Complex

This remarkable, partly covered excavation site, situated just above the Serdika metro station, displays the remains of the Roman city, Serdica, that once…

Sveti Nikolai Russian Church

This beautiful church with glittering mosaic exterior and golden domes was completed in 1914 for Sofia’s Russian community, and named in honour of St…

Sveta Petka Samardzhiiska Church

This tiny church, located in the centre of the Serdika metro complex, was built during the early years of Ottoman rule (late 14th century), which explains…

National Museum of Natural History

You can almost sense the ghosts of generations of school parties dutifully trooping through the musty halls of Bulgaria's oldest museum, founded in 1889…

National Museum of History

Housed in the former communist presidential palace, this museum occupies a stunning, if inconvenient, setting; unless a coach party turns up, you may have…

Zlatnite Mostove

Zlatnite Mostove is a spray of large boulders – a 'stone river' – that runs down a slope from an altitude of about 1700m down to 1350m. The name, which…

Sofia Synagogue

Sofia’s Moorish-style synagogue was designed by Austrian architect Friedrich Gruenanger, and was consecrated in 1909. Built to accommodate up to 1170…

Kid-friendly science and technology museum with plenty of interactive exhibits and gadgetry to delight children from 6 to 16 years of age. There are…

Lions, tigers, elephants and bears are among the animals at Sofia's small zoo, situated in a park about 2km south of the city centre. There are also play…

Aleksander Nevski Crypt

Originally built as a final resting place for Bulgarian kings, this crypt now houses Bulgaria's biggest and best collection of icons, stretching back to…

Monument to the Soviet Army

Near the entrance to Borisova Gradina, this gigantic monument was built in 1954 and is a prime example of the forceful socialist realism of the period…

Peyo Yavorov House-Museum

The Romantic poet and revolutionary Peyo Yavorov (1878–1914) briefly lived in a small apartment here; the three rooms have been restored to their original…

Sofia City Garden

This small, central park, bounded on its northern end by ul Tsar Osvoboditel, is favoured by Sofia's chess-playing pensioners. It's home to the National…

Sveta Nedelya Cathedral

Completed in 1863, this magnificent domed church is one of the city’s major landmarks, and is noted for its rich, Byzantine-style murals. The church was…

Sofia City Art Gallery

The chunky building at the southern end of the City Garden park is an art gallery staging rotating exhibitions of mostly contemporary Bulgarian and…

Dragalevtsi Monastery

This working monastery is probably the oldest of its kind in Bulgaria. It was built around 1345, but abandoned only 40 years later. The monastery contains…

National Gallery Quadrat 500

This massive visual-arts gallery combines the holdings of the National Gallery and the former Museum of Foreign Art. The result is several hundred…

Ethnographical Museum

Displays on regional costumes, crafts and folklore are spread over two floors of the former royal palace, and many of the rooms are worth a pause…

National Museum of Military History

This out-of-the-way museum tells the story of warfare in Bulgaria, with most space given to the period from the 1876 April Uprising through to WWI…

National Polytechnic Museum

A treasure trove for anyone interested in the history of technology, this low-key museum displays an intriguing (though not always well-labelled)…

Sveti Sedmochislenitsi Church

Set in a leafy garden, this church dedicated to Sts Cyril and Methodius and their five disciples was originally built as a mosque in 1528; it later became…

Sofia University Botanical Garden

Sofia's small botanical garden includes a glasshouse filled with palms and cacti, a rose garden, and various trees and flowers (labelled in Bulgarian and…

Banya Bashi Mosque

Sofia’s only working mosque was built in 1576. It’s certainly an eye-catching edifice, and the red-brick minaret makes a convenient landmark. Visitors are…

Earth & Man Museum

This rather old-fashioned museum is dedicated to geology, with two floors of minerals, crystals, ores and the like. There are some big and impressive…

Mausoleum of Prince Alexander I Battenberg

This unusual building with its lone copper dome is the final resting place of modern Bulgaria's first head of state.

Borisova Gradina

Lying southeast of the city centre, Sofia’s most attractive park is filled with countless statues and flowerbeds and is a relaxing place for a stroll. It…

Royal Palace

Originally built as the headquarters of the Ottoman police force, this is where Bulgaria’s national hero Vasil Levski was tried and tortured before his…

President's Building

The Bulgarian president’s office isn't open to the public, but the changing of the guard ceremony (on the hour) is a spectacle not to be missed; for the…

Yuzhen Park

South of the city centre, Yuzhen Park is a vast, wild green sprawl, filled with trees and shady pathways. A sparkling stream bubbles through it, and there…

Doctors’ Garden

This neat, secluded park features a big, pyramidal monument dedicated to the medics who died in the Russo-Turkish War (1877–78). Also here is an outdoor…

National Palace of Culture

Sofia's vast concert hall dates from 1981 and houses countless chambers, as well as music clubs and cafes. It watches over an elongated park known as pl…

Ivan Vazov House-Museum

Bulgaria’s best-loved author, Ivan Vazov (1850–1921) lived at this house from 1895 until his death. Vazov wrote Under the Yoke, a classic of Bulgarian…

Ploshtad Bulgaria

Watched over by the polygonal concrete bulk of the National Palace of Culture, this elongated park, with a fountain, ice-cream kiosks and bars, is popular…

More destinations you need to see

Home » Travel Guides » Bulgaria » 15 Best Things to Do in Sofia (Bulgaria)

15 Best Things to Do in Sofia (Bulgaria)

Bulgaria’s capital has a lot of stories to tell, and each historic attraction will give you a new perspective on Sofia’s complicated past. Take the churches here that have spent several centuries of their existence as mosques, the overbearing soviet architecture or the Roman history that is still being uncovered and blends with the modern city.

Many of the buildings you’ll see are from the Bulgarian Revival in the late-19th century, when the country reclaimed its independence from the Ottomans. And always to the southwest looms the monumental Vitosha Mountain.

Here are the best things to do in Sofia :

1. St. Alexander Nevski Cathedral

The scale of this building will blow you away. Inside St. Alexander Nevski has room for 10,000 people and it’s the second largest cathedral in the Balkan region.

As with a great deal of Sofia’s grand architecture, the city’s cathedral dates to the 1880s.

This was directly after the Ottomans were overthrown and the state of Bulgaria was re-established.

It was originally dedicated to the Russian soldiers that lost their lives in the course of this liberation.

When you’re inside, look up at ceiling of the main cupola, which has a mural of the Lord God Sabbath.

The crypt here is open to visitors and has a big collection of icons.

2. St. George Rotunda

The heart of ancient Serdica and the oldest building in modern Sofia, this red brick church was built all the way back in 300s.

It’s a wonder that this building has survived unscathed for such an amount of time, and all around are interesting little details that hit home the great age of the site and civilisations that have passed though.

Step inside to view the detailed medieval frescoes that had been painted over by the Ottomans when the church was converted to a mosque in the 1600s.

These were only rediscovered and restored in the 1990s. Outside you can see the flagstones of a Roman street and other remnants of Ancient Serdica.

3. Vitosha Boulevard

The fanciest street in the city, Vitosha Boulevard is where all the posh boutiques and fashion houses are clustered.

If you’re not an upmarket shopper then you can just console yourself with those arresting views of Vitosha Mountain which is capped with a dusting of snow for much of the year and framed by the street’s tall buildings.

It’s a thoroughly pleasant place to spend a couple of hours; the cafes along the pedestrian street have outdoor seating and in recent years the lampposts, benches and kiosks have been redesigned into an elegant art nouveau style, recalling the early years of the Bulgarian Revival.

4. St. Sofia Church

It was this church that gave the city of Sofia its name in the 1300s during the Second Bulgarian Empire.

This unassuming red brick building goes right back to Byzantine times and was founded in the 500s on top of the ancient city of Serdica’s necropolis, as well as an older church from a century before.

When you visit you can see the remnants of this ancient church and the tombs that date back more than 1500 years.

For two centuries after the Ottoman invasion this was a mosque, but was abandoned after one earthquake in the 1800s brought the minaret down and another killed the Imam’s two son’s.

5. Boyana Church

On the lower slopes of Vitosha Mountain (which we’ll come to next) is this UNESCO heritage site.

The location of this medieval church is almost dreamlike, in a grove of tall softwood trees in a quiet suburb of the city.

Boyana Church was built in three stages from the 1000s to the 1800s, but the most important additions were made during the Second Bulgarian Empire in the 1200s.

This is when the fabulous interior frescoes were painted, depicting some 240 historical and biblical figures in a realistic style 200 years before renaissance artists were doing the same.

The paintings, by an unknown artist, include contemporary portraits of two Bulgarian rulers, Tsar Konstantin Assen and Tsar Koloyan, next to their wives.

6. Vitosha Mountain

Climbing to more than 2,200 metres behind Sofia’s southwestern suburbs is Vitosha, a monumental peak in a nature park, promising more adventure than you could ever cram into one trip.

The easiest way to access Vitosha is via Aleko, the mountain’s ski resort, which is where the Simeonovo gondola lift will drop you off.

From there the walk to Vitosha’s Black Peak is surprisingly light when then weather’s good in spring or autumn, as the peak is part of a large plateau that seems to go on forever thanks to its shallow gradient.

Of course, you don’t need to go that far for an incredible, vertiginous view of Sofia.

7. National Institute of Archaeology

Ferdinand I was on hand when this museum was inaugurated back in 1905 as a way of bring all of the important archaeological finds scattered around Sofia and Bulgaria under one roof.

And the roof they chose was that of the city’s former Grand Mosque, decommissioned following the Bulgarian Revival.

The main sections here are Prehistory, Main Hall (containing items from classical civilisations), Medieval Section and Treasury.

The last on that list has the Valchitran and Lukovit Treasures, two breathtaking hoards of Thracian Gold.

Discovered in 1953, the Lukovit Treasure dates to the time of Alexander the Great’s invasion of Thrace in 400BC.

8. National Historical Museum

This museum’s home is also a piece of Bulgarian history in its own right.

The National Historical Museum is housed in the former dictator Todor Zhivkov’s residence.

It’s a hulking slab of Stalinist architecture fronted by a massive open yard.

The collection at the museum is gigantic; the 65,000 items on display is just one tenth of what is held behind the scenes in its archives.

The variety of items here is also mind boggling, going from 20th-century space research equipment to treasures belonging to the Odrysians who held sway in Bulgaria until they were conquered by the Romans in the 1st century.

9. Ivan Vazov National Theatre

The Viennese architects Helmer & Fellner, responsible for a catalogue of extravagant buildings across Central Europe, built this theatre in 1909.

True to form the Ivan Vazov National Theatre is a grand neoclassical structure that remains the last word in Bulgarian culture to this day.

The building with its towering portico is an iconic sight for Bulgaria, appearing on banknotes, and is most famous for its drama productions.

Chief Director here is Alexander Morfov, responsible for acclaimed Bulgarian and Russian language adaptations of Don Quixote and Shakespeare plays in here and in Russia.

10. Borisova gradina

Sofia’s most famous park was landscaped in the 1880s right after the Bulgarian Revival, making it the oldest one in the city.

It was developed over the next 50 years by three different designers: the Swiss Daniel Neff, the Alsatian Joseph Frei and then the Bulgarian Georgi Dutev (when the park’s Soviet monuments were installed).

But what’s impressive is that all the landscapers worked within the original plan, and the upshot is a pleasing sense of coherence for such a big project.

It all makes for a refreshing afternoon amble, and if you’re here on a summer evening there are free concerts to catch.

11. Serdica Amphitheatre

Sofia’s own Roman amphitheatre wasn’t discovered until 2004.

In its day it was one of the largest in the Roman empire, holding gladiator fights and grisly battles pitting men against wild beasts.

What’s also interesting about this arena is the way it had three lives: First it was a theatre, then an amphitheatre that was sacked by the Goths.

In the 400s the arena was rebuilt but was abandoned not long after.

After it was unearthed it became integrated into the design of the Arena di Serdica hotel, but visitors off the street are free to look down at the ruins from the hotel’s specially-designed gallery.

12. Central Mineral Baths

Sofia has a lot of spring activity, and these waters have drawn visitors since medieval times.

The Ottomans developed their own hammam at this site, and when it was destroyed following the Bulgarian Revival a new city bathing complex was built.

The Central Baths date to 1913 and were in use up until the mid-80s.

It’s one of Sofia’s most photographed buildings, constructed in the neo-byzantine style with a large dome behind an impressive vestibule.

The gardens are open to the public and the fountain at the centre is fed by the hot natural mineral water.  You’re free to try it if you’re brave enough!

13. Park Vrana

These are the grounds of the stately home of the aristocrat Simeon II, who was Tsar of Bulgaria from 1943-46 before going into exile.

After returning he was prime minister from 2001-05.

The estate is only open on weekends and you can’t enter any of the buildings, but the landscaped gardens are one of the most tranquil settings in Sofia.

Multilingual guided tours take place every hour and offer fun snippets about the palace and its grounds.

For instance the estate once had an exotic menagerie, including Bulgaria’s first elephants, which were used for yardwork in the grounds!

14. The Synagogue

Sofia has the largest synagogue in the Balkan region, and the third-largest in Europe.

It was built for Sofia’s sizeable Sephardic Jewish population in 1909 and Tsar Ferdinand I of Bulgaria was here when it was inaugurated.

More than 1,000 people can fit inside this cavernous building which is in the Moorish Revival style inspired by the old Sephardic temple in Vienna, destroyed in 1938.

Step inside to see the permanent exhibition about the history of Bulgaria’s Jewish communities.

15. Banya Bashi Mosque

If you arrive outside prayer times you can drop in to tour Sofia’s only mosque.

It was designed by Mimar Sinan, the epoch-defining Turkish architect responsible for spectacular works across the Ottoman Empire during this period.

Banya Bashi is from 1576, built at the very beginning of the city’s Ottoman period.

The name comes from Sofia’s mineral baths, which had attracted visitors throughout the region during the 1500s.

The mosque can fit 700 worshippers, and if you pass on Fridays you’ll notice many stragglers outside listening via the mosque’s external loudspeaker.

15 Best Things to Do in Sofia (Bulgaria):

• St. Alexander Nevski Cathedral
• St. George Rotunda
• Vitosha Boulevard
• St. Sofia Church
• Boyana Church
• Vitosha Mountain
• National Institute of Archaeology
• National Historical Museum
• Ivan Vazov National Theatre
• Borisova gradina
• Serdica Amphitheatre
• Central Mineral Baths
• The Synagogue
• Banya Bashi Mosque