Bulgaria Travel Guide
Bulgaria Essentials
Language: Bulgarian
Currency: Lev (BGN)
Rate:
Time Zone: GMT +2
Capital City: Sofia
Population: 7.5 million
Layout: See Map
Travel to Bulgaria
Nestled in the heart of south-eastern Europe lies the picturesque small country of Bulgaria. Famed for its exotic beaches, rich heritage and glorious snow-caped mountains, this Balkan gem is fast becoming Europe's most sought after holiday destination. Whether you plan to travel during the summer or winter months, Bulgaria promises adventure, picture-perfect landscapes and an unprecedented culture.
From north to south, east to west, Bulgaria is a wonderland just waiting to be explored. Travel to the ever-popular national capital city of Sofia (София), located just north-west of the country. Distinguished by its unique combination of European and Communist-style architecture, coupled with breathtaking orthodox churches, museums and magnificent art galleries, Sofia offers its guests a unique look into Bulgaria's rich history.
If adventure is what you're after, Bulgaria is home to some of Europe's most established ski resorts. Head to Bansko (Банско), a beautiful old town nestled in between the snow-capped Pirin mountains and home to world-class ski resorts. And for those looking to relax and rejuvenate amongst the crystallised slopes, you'll find hot-water mineral springs, located near the tranquil villages of Banya (Баня) and Ognianovo (Огняново), not far from Bansko.
For a more cultural experience, be sure to take a tour of the Rila Monastery (Рилски манастиp), situated in the north-western Rila Mountains, 117 km (73 mi) south of the capital Sofia. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this 10th century monastery is the largest and most famous Eastern Orthodox monastery in Bulgaria. Famous for its intricate wood-carvings and gold-plated iconostasis, the Rila Monastery is a sight that cannot be missed. And if you fancy traditional Bulgarian cuisine, be sure to try any one of the charming pubs and restaurants that line this ancient gem.
Travel south-east to the exotic northern Thrace. Here you'll witness first hand a picture-perfect stretch of infinite plains dominated by the majestic Maritsa river and its tributaries. Explore the many ancient Thracian sites, particularly The Valley of the Thracian Kings (Долината на Тpакийските Цаpе) - a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to the ancient Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak, as well as numerous other royal burial tombs from the fifth to second century BC.
Be sure to explore the Bulgarian Black Sea Coast. Soak up the sun at the the nation's third largest coastal city, Varna (Bаpна). Famed for its magnificent beach resorts and notorious for its nightlife, Varna is popular among both tourists and locals. For those who prefer to be in the water Lozenets (Лозенец) - a village and seaside resort in the south - is famed for its Lalov Egrek watersports centre which has one of the largest diving centres in Europe. Nesebar (Несебъp) is another region not to be missed on the Bulgarian Black Sea Coast. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this beautiful small coastal town is home to picturesque beaches and tranquil waters.
Lastly, make sure that in between your Bulgarian adventure, you sit back, relax and absorb the rich culture and heritage with a tasty Zagorka, the national larger. Happy travelling!
