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Visit Bulgaria

Major cities

Sofia

Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, is also the largest city. Sofia has a rich diversity of landmarks. You can dive in the history and enrich your cultural knowledge by exploring it and you can even ski during the winter season. Some of the most remarkable places in the capital are the Alexander Nevski cathedral, King’s castle, the National theater, Sofia Central Mineral Baths, Central Sofia Market Hall, National Palace of Culture, Vitosha boulevard, Vitosha National Park and Banya Bashi Masjid.

Varna

Varna is the third-largest city in Bulgaria and the largest city on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast. It is also one of the country's most popular seaside resorts. Strategically located on the Varna Bay, the city has served as a major economic, social, and cultural center for nearly three millennia. Historically known as Odessos, Varna has evolved from an ancient Thracian coastal settlement into one of the largest and most important ports on the Black Sea.

Plovdiv

Plovdiv is the second-largest city in Bulgaria and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe. As of 2024, it has a population of 329,489. Plovdiv is widely regarded as the cultural capital of Bulgaria and was designated European Capital of Culture in 2019. In addition to its cultural significance, the city is an important economic, transport, and educational center.

Plovdiv is renowned for its rich archaeological heritage, with numerous discoveries revealing the city's ancient past. Its most iconic landmark is the Ancient Theatre of Plovdiv, one of the best-preserved Roman theatres in the world and a site included on UNESCO's World Cultural Heritage Tentative List.

Must-see locations

Ivan Vazov Theatre

The National theatre “Ivan Vazov” is a national cultural institute in the field of theatrical art in Sofia. The beginning of its history is considered the order of the Ministry of Public Education then led by doc. Ivan Shishman from 1904. Since the spring the same year the name became Bulgarian National theatre. Today the official name is National theater “Ivan Vazov”.

National Palace of Culture

The National Palace of Culture, NDK is a national cultural centre in Sofia hosting conferences, exhibitions, concerts and special events. It is the largest congress centre in South-Eastern Europe. In July 2005 the International Association of Convention Centres (AIPC) awarded NDK their annual AIPC Apex Award in recognition of the highest client rating.

Vitosha National park

Vitosha Nature Park is the first nature park established in Bulgaria and on the Balkan Peninsula. On 27 October 1934, thanks to the active efforts of the Bulgarian conservation community, part of Vitosha Mountain was officially designated as a nature park. Its boundaries have been revised several times over the years, and today the park encompasses the entire mountain. Forested areas cover approximately 60% of the mountain's territory.

Seven Rila Lakes

The Seven Rila Lakes are a group of glacial lakes located in the Rila Mountain. They are the most visited lake group in Bulgaria and are included among the country's 100 National Tourist Sites.

As the water flows from one lake to another through natural streams, it forms a series of small waterfalls. The first three lakes – The Tear, The Eye, and The Kidney – each drain separately into The Twin, from where the water continues successively through The Trefoil, The Fish Lake, and The Lower Lake. A stronger stream flows through the last two lakes before leaving the lowest lake.

A visit to the Seven Rila Lakes typically includes a ride on the chairlift, which provides convenient access to the hiking trails leading to the lakes.

Rose Valley

The Rose Valley is an area in Bulgaria located south of the Balkan Mountains and north of Sеrnena Sredna Gora, which received its name in the middle of the 19th century from the traditions in the cultivation of oil-bearing rose. In the Valley of roses every year in the first days of June is celebrated the Feast of the Rose. In the town of Kazanlak, considered the capital of the Rose Valley, the historical and ethnographic complex “Kulata” is built, where tourists can observe traditional rose distillation and taste the products with the oil-bearing rose. There is also the specialized Rose Museum.

Raysko Praskalo waterfall

Raysko Praskalo waterfall is the highest permanent waterfall in Bulgaria and even on the Balkans. It is located in Stara Planina mountain. On the territory is the nature reserve “Dzhendema”, part of the Central Balkan National Park. It is formed from the waters of the Praskalska River, coming from the eternal glacier, located under Peak Botev, which doesn’t melt completely even during summer season. It was declared a protected natural site in 1965.

Prohodna cave

Prohodna Cave is one of the most famous caves located near the village of Karlukovo. It is easily accessible and has the longest cave tunnel in Bulgaria – 365 meters in length. It is naturally illuminated, since in its middle hall, due to erosion, the ceiling is pierced by the permeable waters, forming a phenomenon named Eyes of God – two identical in size eye-shaped holes.

Devetashka cave

Devetashka Cave is one of the largest caves in Bulgaria, located near the village of Devetaki in Lovech Province. Its enormous main hall is lit by natural skylights formed by collapsed sections of the ceiling, creating a dramatic play of light. The cave is home to one of Europe’s largest bat colonies and has been used as a filming location for several international productions, including “The Expendables 2”.

Must-try activities

Hiking

Located in the heart of the Balkans, Bulgaria offers incredible landscapes – from the majestic peaks of Rila and Pirin to the peaceful paths of the Rhodopes and Stara Planina. Walk among ancient forests, crystal clear lakes and picturesque villages as you explore this enchanting country. Whether you are an advanced adventurer or just a nature lover, the well-marked routes and organized trips in Bulgaria offer an unforgettable experience for everybody.

Skiing

Experience the ultimate skiing adventure in Bulgaria, a hidden gem for winter sports enthusiasts. With its snow-capped peaks and modern resorts, Bulgaria offers an array of skiing opportunities for all skill levels and age groups. Head to the renowned Bansko, Borovets, and Pamporovo resorts, where you’ll find well-groomed slopes, state-of-the-art facilities, and breathtaking alpine scenery. Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn or an expert seeking challenges, Bulgaria’s ski resorts provide excellent conditions, vibrant après-ski scenes, and affordable prices. Discover the thrill of skiing in Bulgaria and enjoy a winter wonderland like no other.

Horse Riding

Embark on an unforgettable horse riding adventure in the majestic mountains of Bulgaria. Explore the picturesque trails of the Rila, Pirin, and Rhodope ranges on horseback, where stunning vistas and untouched nature await. Whether you’re an experienced rider or a beginner, Bulgaria offers guided rides and riding schools to cater to all levels. Ride through lush forests, across rolling meadows, and past crystal-clear streams, immersing yourself in the beauty of the Bulgarian countryside. Horse riding in Bulgaria’s mountains promises a unique way to connect with nature.

Traditional cuisine

Tarator

Tarator is a type of cold yogurt soup, traditional for Bulgarian cuisine. Simple and very refreshing in the summer season. It is prepared by combining yogurt, water, finely chopped or grated cucumber, oil or olive oil, salt, dill and garlic, which are mixed and stirred.

Banitsa

Banitsa is a staple pastry in Bulgarian cuisine. It is prepared by layering sheets of thin dough, with a filling of eggs, yogurt and white Bulgarian cheese. The sheets layered with filling are rolled up, arranged in a tray and baked until golden and crispy. Banitsa is often enjoyed as a breakfast dish, snack, or even a main course, and it holds a special place in Bulgarian culture, often being prepared for festive occasions and holidays. Variations of banitsa can include additional ingredients such as spinach, leeks, rice, or pumpkin, depending on regional preferences and traditions.

Sarmi

Sarmi or stuffed cabbage rolls are meat or veggie stuffing wrapped in vine or cabbage leaves. Sarmi, known under different names, are part of the national cuisine of many European and Asian nations.