Katie and Pierce
Bulgaria might not be the first country that comes to mind when planning a European adventure, but this Balkan gem has been quietly winning over travelers with its incredible mix of history, nature, and culture. From ancient Roman amphitheaters and medieval fortresses to pristine mountain lakes and sunny Black Sea beaches, Bulgaria offers experiences that will surprise and delight even the most seasoned travelers.
This comprehensive guide covers the absolute best things to do in Bulgaria, whether you’re interested in exploring historic sites, hiking through stunning landscapes, relaxing on beautiful beaches, or diving into the local food scene. Let’s discover what makes Bulgaria such a special destination.
1. Visit The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral In Sofia
This stunning cathedral is one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world and the symbol of Sofia. Its golden domes and teal accents create an unforgettable sight. Make sure to step inside to admire the beautiful Orthodox traditions and visit the crypt icon museum that many visitors overlook. The interior is particularly mesmerizing with its intricate decorations and peaceful atmosphere.
2. Explore The Rila Monastery
Nestled in the heart of the Rila Mountains, this monastery is arguably the most impressive monument in Bulgaria. The combination of bold architecture featuring striped archways and bright domes against the mountain backdrop creates a magical setting. You can explore the monastery complex, which includes an 8,800-square-meter fortress-like area with a beautiful church at its center. Consider staying for lunch at the riverside restaurant to try local trout paired with Bulgarian wine.
3. Discover Ancient Plovdiv
As Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited city, Plovdiv offers an incredible journey through time. The Roman Theater is so well preserved it’s still used for performances today. The city’s Old Town features beautiful Revival-era houses turned into galleries and museums. Don’t miss the artsy Kapana district, where you can enjoy craft beer at Monkey House or Cat & Mouse while admiring street art. The city’s central park with its delightful fountain show is perfect for ending your day.
4. Hike The Seven Rila Lakes
These glacier lakes create one of Bulgaria’s most spectacular natural sights. Each lake sits at a different altitude, creating a stunning cascade effect. The full hike takes about 4-5 hours and while challenging, it’s doable for anyone in decent shape. Take the chairlift to save energy for the actual lakes circuit. The views are absolutely worth every step, especially on clear days when you can see all seven lakes from the highest viewing point.
5. Experience Veliko Tarnovo
Known as the City of the Tsars, Veliko Tarnovo will transport you back in time. The mighty Tsarevets Fortress dominates the cityscape, perched dramatically on a hill above the winding Yantra River. The old town is a maze of cobblestone streets filled with local craft shops and authentic restaurants. Try dining at Shtastliveca for traditional Bulgarian cuisine, and don’t miss ending your night at the lively Tequila Bar.
6. Visit Nessebar’s Old Town
Built on a rocky peninsula connected to the mainland by a narrow strip, Nessebar combines more than 3,000 years of history with beautiful sea views. Wander through cobblestone streets past ancient churches and Roman ruins, stopping at charming restaurants to sample fresh seafood. The 5th-century Church of St. Sofia and 11th-century Church of St. Stephen are particularly impressive.
7. Party At Sunny Beach
Bulgaria’s most famous beach resort is perfect if you’re looking for lively entertainment. The beach itself is huge, with soft sand and warm water. You’ll find everything from beach bars and water sports to nightclubs and restaurants. While it can get crowded in peak season, the sheer size of the beach means you can always find your own spot to relax.
8. Explore The Rose Valley
Bulgaria produces most of the world’s rose oil, and this valley is where the magic happens. Visit between May and June to see (and smell) the rose fields in full bloom. Even if you miss the blooming season, the Rose Museum offers interesting insights into this centuries-old tradition. The valley’s location near the Balkan Mountains provides beautiful backdrops for photos.
9. Marvel At The Buzludzha Monument
This otherworldly concrete and glass structure looks like a flying saucer landed on a mountaintop. While you can’t go inside, the exterior is impressive enough, especially against the mountain landscape. The drive up offers spectacular views, and if you time it right, you might catch a stunning sunset behind the monument.
10. Visit The Boyana Church
Located just outside Sofia, this medieval church showcases incredible frescoes that have survived since the 13th century. The artworks are remarkably well preserved and show an extraordinary level of detail. Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds, as only eight people can enter at a time.
11. Discover Sozopol
This charming coastal town offers a more laid-back vibe than its busier neighbors. The old town peninsula features lovely wooden houses and ancient stone walls. The beaches here have some of the warmest waters in Bulgaria, and the absence of massive resorts nearby helps maintain its authentic atmosphere.
12. Explore The Stone Desert
Just 20 kilometers from Varna, you’ll find one of Europe’s few deserts. The Stone Desert (Pobiti Kamani) features fascinating hollow stone columns that have puzzled scientists for years. Some believe it was once a petrified forest, while others think it might have been an ancient coral reef. Walking among these mysterious formations feels like exploring another planet.
13. Visit The Thracian Tomb Of Kazanlak
Step back in time to the 4th century BCE at this remarkable tomb. While you’ll visit a replica to protect the original, the paintings are fascinating, showing scenes of Thracian life including a famous royal couple farewell scene. The level of detail in the murals is incredible, especially considering their age.
14. Climb Mount Vitosha
Sofia’s backdrop mountain is perfect for outdoor adventures year-round. In summer, hike to the Cherni Vrah summit or enjoy sunset views from Kopitoto. In winter, hit the ski slopes. The mountain is easily accessible by cable car or bus from the city, making it perfect for a day trip.
15. Experience The Krushuna Waterfalls
These cascading waterfalls create pools in beautiful shades of blue and green. There are two routes to explore: one takes you to the upper falls and caves, while the easier path follows the river and small lakes. Take time to do both trails and maybe pack a picnic to enjoy by one of the pools.
16. Visit The Prohodna Cave
The highlight of this 262-meter-long cave is the “Eyes of God” , two similarly shaped holes in the ceiling that create an eerie face-like formation. The cave is easily accessible and free to visit. The natural light from the “eyes” makes it easy to explore without special equipment.
17. Explore The Melnik Pyramids
These natural sandstone pyramids reach heights of up to 100 meters and create an incredible landscape. The nearby town of Melnik is Bulgaria’s smallest, with just 385 residents, but it’s famous for its fantastic red wine. Combine your visit with wine tasting at local wineries.
18. Visit The Devetashka Cave
This massive cave is like something out of a fantasy movie, with huge openings in its ceiling allowing sunlight to stream in and create a unique ecosystem. The cave is home to rare bat species and has a fascinating history of human habitation dating back 70,000 years.
19. Tour Sofia’s Religious Sites
Take a walking tour of Sofia’s Square of Religious Tolerance, where you’ll find Orthodox churches, a mosque, and a synagogue all within a few blocks. The nearby Central Market Hall is perfect for sampling local products and snacks.
20. Savor Bulgarian Cuisine
Bulgarian food is a delicious surprise for many visitors. Start with the famous Shopska salad fresh vegetables topped with shredded white cheese. Try Tarator (a refreshing cold soup perfect for hot days), Kavarma (a rich slow-cooked stew), and Banitsa (a flaky pastry that’s great for breakfast). Don’t forget to try the local wines.
21. Visit The Belogradchik Fortress
This fortress seems to grow right out of the red rocks it’s built upon. The natural rock formations stretch for 30 kilometers and reach heights of 200 meters. The combination of medieval architecture and natural rock formations creates something that looks straight out of a fantasy movie. Time your visit for sunset when the rocks glow red in the evening light.
Have Fun!
Bulgaria offers something for every type of traveler throughout the year. Summer (June to August) is perfect for beach activities and mountain hiking, while winter brings excellent skiing opportunities. Spring showcases the Rose Valley in full bloom, and autumn offers mild weather ideal for exploring cities and historical sites.
Whether you’re planning a quick city break in Sofia, a beach holiday on the Black Sea coast, or an extended journey through the country, these activities will help you experience the best of Bulgaria. Remember that while some destinations like Sunny Beach and Nessebar can get crowded in peak season, you can always find less-visited spots that are equally rewarding.
The best part? Bulgaria remains one of Europe’s more affordable destinations, offering excellent value for money whether you’re dining out, staying in hotels, or joining guided tours. So pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and prepare to discover one of Europe’s most underrated destinations.
