Looking for the top 10 best places to visit in Bulgaria? Bulgaria is a beautiful country located in Southeastern Europe, known for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural history, and delicious cuisine.
With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming trying to decide where to go on your trip to Bulgaria. Here are the top places to visit in Bulgaria that you won’t want to miss.
No matter where you go in Bulgaria, you will surely be struck by the country’s beauty and rich culture. Whether you are interested in history, nature, or just soaking up the local atmosphere, Bulgaria has something to offer for everyone.
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Check out our other round-ups for the Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Romania, Top 10 Must-See Places In Barcelona, or other must-visit European destinations.
Sofia
As the capital and largest city of Bulgaria, Sofia is a must-visit destination. It is home to many important cultural and historical sites, such as the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the National Museum of History, and the Boyana Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Sofia is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. Additionally, the city is home to several thermal baths and spas, such as the Sofia Central Mineral Baths and the Velingrad Mineral Baths, where visitors can relax and rejuvenate.
Plovdiv
Located in the central part of Bulgaria, Plovdiv is the second-largest city in the country and is known for its beautiful old town, which is home to many charming cobblestone streets and well-preserved Roman ruins.
Plovdiv’s Old Town is also home to the Ethnographic Museum, the Regional Historical Museum, and the Plovdiv Regional Art Gallery, which showcases the city’s history and culture. Additionally, Plovdiv is known for its lively arts scene, with many galleries, museums, and festivals, such as the International Fair Plovdiv and the Night of the Museums. You can also enjoy the scenic views and natural beauty of the surrounding Rhodope Mountains, as well as the nearby Bachkovo Monastery, one of the oldest and most important monasteries in Bulgaria.
Rila Monastery
Located in the Rila Mountains, the Rila Monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the most important cultural and religious sites in Bulgaria. It is home to beautiful frescoes, ornate decorations, and a peaceful atmosphere that is perfect for contemplation and reflection.
Visitors to the Rila Monastery can explore the complex and its grounds, including the St. Ivan Rilski Museum, which displays artifacts and historical items related to the monastery’s history. The Rila Monastery is also a popular destination for hiking and outdoor activities, as it is surrounded by the beautiful Rila Mountains and offers many hiking trails and scenic views.
The best time to visit the Rila Monastery is between May and October, as the weather is warm and the snow has melted. Visitors should be aware that the monastery is still a functioning religious site and visitors are expected to dress modestly and respect the monastery’s rules.
The Seven Rila Lakes
The Seven Rila Lakes, located in the Rila Mountains of Bulgaria, are a must-see destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The lakes are known for their crystal-clear waters and stunning mountain views.
To reach the Seven Rila Lakes, visitors typically start at the Rila Monastery and hike along a well-marked trail that winds through the mountains. The trail is relatively easy and can be completed in about 4-6 hours, depending on the pace of the hike. Along the way, hikers will be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, as well as the opportunity to see a variety of wildlife, including deer, bears, and eagles.
The Seven Rila Lakes themselves are each unique and offer their own unique beauty. The first lake, The Tear, is located at the highest elevation and is known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning mountain views. The second lake, The Eye, is known for its deep blue waters and is a popular spot for swimming. The third lake, The Kidney, is known for its unique shape and is surrounded by lush greenery. The fourth lake, The Twin, is known for its two distinct parts separated by a narrow strip of land. The fifth lake, The Trefoil, is known for its three distinct parts and is the smallest of the seven lakes. The sixth lake, The Fish Lake, is known for its shape which resembles a fish and is the shallowest of the seven lakes. The seventh lake, The Lower Lake, is the largest and most popular of the seven lakes and is known for its beautiful surroundings and excellent swimming opportunities.
The Pirin National Park
The Pirin National Park, located in Bulgaria’s Pirin Mountains, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its alpine landscapes and outdoor recreational opportunities. The park is home to the highest peak in the Balkans, Vihren, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Visitors to the park can enjoy a variety of activities, including hiking, skiing, and rock climbing The park also offers a variety of skiing and snowboarding opportunities during the winter months.
If you’re interested in history and culture, you can also visit the ancient fortress of the medieval town of Melnik, the smallest town in Bulgaria, which is located at the foot of the Pirin Mountains. The town’s architecture and wine cellars are also a must-see.
Veliko Tarnovo
Located in northern Bulgaria, Veliko Tarnovo is a charming city with a rich history and a beautiful old town. It is known for its picturesque streets, historic fortresses, and breathtaking views of the Yantra River.
Visitors can explore the old town, which is built on three hills and is home to many medieval and Renaissance-era buildings, such as the Tsarevets Fortress, the Patriarchal Cathedral, and the Church of the Holy Forty Martyrs. The city also has several museums and galleries, such as the Veliko Tarnovo Regional Historical Museum and the Samovodska Charshiya, an open-air ethnographic museum.
One of the main attractions of Veliko Tarnovo is the Tsarevets Fortress, which offers a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding area. The best time to visit Veliko Tarnovo is between May and October when the weather is warm and the city’s many outdoor attractions can be fully enjoyed.
Black Sea Coast
Bulgaria’s Black Sea Coast is a popular destination for beach-goers and water sports enthusiasts. The region is home to many beautiful resorts and sandy beaches, making it the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun.
Some of the most popular beach towns and resorts include Sunny Beach, Golden Sands, and Albena, which offer a wide range of accommodations, restaurants, and nightlife options. The coast is also home to many historic and cultural sites, such as the ancient city of Nesebar, and the medieval town of Sozopol.
Visitors can also take boat trips to nearby islands, such as St. Anastasia Island and St. Ivan Island, which offer beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and a variety of outdoor activities. A coast is also a good place for fishing and diving, with many diving centers and fishing boats available for rent.
The best time to visit the Black Sea coast of Bulgaria is during the summer months of June to September when the weather is warm and the beaches are at their busiest. Visitors should be aware that some of the beaches may be overcrowded during the peak season, and it is recommended to book accommodation in advance.
Cape Kaliakra
Cape Kaliakra is a scenic coastal area located in northeastern Bulgaria. The cape is a nature reserve and is known for its stunning cliffs, caves, and beach. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as hiking, bird watching, and swimming. One of the main attractions of Cape Kaliakra is the medieval fortress, which offers panoramic views of the Black Sea. Additionally, the area is home to many plant and animal species, making it a popular destination for nature lovers. To get to Cape Kaliakra, you can fly into Varna Airport and then take a bus or car to the cape. Accommodation options include camping, hotels, and guesthouses. Overall, Cape Kaliakra is a must-visit destination for those looking for a mix of history, nature, and adventure.
Bansko
Bansko is a town in Bulgaria that is known for its ski resorts and traditional Bulgarian architecture. It is located at the foot of the Pirin Mountains and is a popular destination for both winter sports and summer activities such as hiking and mountain biking. Visitors can also explore the town’s old quarter, which features cobblestone streets, traditional houses, and churches. Additionally, there are many restaurants and bars in Bansko where you can try local Bulgarian cuisine and enjoy the nightlife.
Nesebar
Nesebar is an ancient town located on the Black Sea coast of Bulgaria. It is known for its well-preserved Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Old Town is home to many historic buildings, including the 5th-century Church of St. Sophia, the 11th-century Church of St. John the Baptist, and the 14th-century Church of St. Stephen. Visitors can also explore the ancient fortifications, including the walls and towers, that surround the Old Town.
In addition to its rich history, Nesebar also offers a variety of activities for visitors. The town is surrounded by beautiful beaches, making it a popular destination for swimming and sunbathing. There are also many restaurants, cafes, and bars where you can enjoy traditional Bulgarian cuisine.
To get to Nesebar, you can fly into Burgas Airport and then take a bus or car to the town. Accommodation options include hotels, guesthouses, and apartment rentals. Overall, Nesebar is a must-visit destination for history buffs, beach-goers, and anyone looking for a charming and picturesque town on the Black Sea coast of Bulgaria.
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