Rila Monastery
Region: Rila Mountains
Cultural Heritage
Founded in the 10th century, the supreme holy site of Bulgarian Orthodoxy known for vivid frescoes and arches.
Tourism in Bulgaria
Explore notable sights and destinations in this country
Tourist attractions
Plovdiv Old Town and Ancient Roman Theatre
Region: Plovdiv
Cultural Heritage
A historic district in one of Europe's oldest cities where Ottoman and Roman ruins coexist.
Nessebar Ancient Town
Region: Burgas Province
Cultural Heritage
A World Heritage town on a peninsula jutting into the Black Sea, with concentrated church clusters.
Pirin National Park
Region: Near Bansko
Nature
A national park with alpine scenery of glacial lakes and limestone peaks.
Seven Rila Lakes Trek
Region: Rila Mountains
Nature
Emerald-colored glacial lake clusters scattered at 2,100m altitude.
Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
Region: Sofia
Religious Architecture
Bulgaria's largest Orthodox cathedral with iconic golden domes.
Tsarevets Fortress
Region: Veliko Tarnovo
Medieval Fortress
Ruins of the Second Bulgarian Empire's capital city, popular for light shows.
Kazanlak - Valley of Roses
Region: Stara Zagora Province
Culture/Agricultural Experience
A fragrant village where rose picking experiences and perfume distillation tours are available from May-June.
Sozopol Old Town
Region: Burgas Province
Cultural Heritage
A charming port town with wooden Ottoman houses and an archaeological museum.
Sunny Beach Resort
Region: Black Sea Coast
Resort
A long beach and water sports hub popular with young Europeans.
Suggested itineraries
World Heritage Highlights 5 Days
Duration (days): 5
Highlights: Sofia, Rila Monastery, Plovdiv, Nessebar
A circuit efficiently touring central mountain and Black Sea coastal cultural heritage from the capital base.
Black Sea Resort & Valley of Roses 7 Days
Duration (days): 7
Highlights: Burgas, Nessebar, Kazanlak, Veliko Tarnovo
A relaxing trip combining beach stays and rose-picking experiences, concluding in an ancient capital.
Winter Skiing & Hot Springs 4 Days
Duration (days): 4
Highlights: Bansko, Pirin National Park, Dobrinishte Hot Springs
Enjoy skiing and natural hot springs at prices considered Europe's best value.
Travel tips
- Public transport features a well-developed bus network; intercity express buses are convenient.
- Metro exists only in Sofia; tickets are purchased at vending machines before gates.
- The lev is pegged to the euro, but exchange at banks or official exchange offices.
- Summer Black Sea coast receives strong sunlight; sun protection is essential.
- English is not widely spoken outside tourist areas; learning basic phrases is helpful.
- Tap water is potable, but mineral water is safer in rural areas.
- Smoking-non-smoking separation is inadequate in restaurants; confirm if necessary.
- Be cautious of pickpockets in nightlife districts; distribute valuables.
- Mountain hiking sees frequent weather changes; bring warm clothing and insurance is recommended.
- Martenitsa purchased when visiting in March makes a good souvenir as a lucky charm.
- Confirm taxi meters are activated before departure.
- Many shops have shortened hours on Sundays; plan shopping accordingly.