Bulgaria packs a wealth of attractions intro a relatively small territory

A land of adventures

Exceptionally rich biodiversity, natural parks, unique natural landmarks, impressive caves and canyons, glacial lakes – it is difficult to describe how multi-faced is Bulgaria’s nature. Remote villages, modern cities and a vibrant culture complete the offer, rewarding all those willing to step off the beaten track to explore all the country has to offer.

Cities and Villages

Founded thousands of years ago, Sofia is Bulgaria’s capital and largest city, with a population of 1,250,000. Like every big city, Sofia has something for every taste: from historical sites, museums and churches to a multitude of restaurants, bars, taverns, and many other entertainment offers. Sofia and the immediate vicinity also boast fantastic spa complexes. The hot springs at Bankya offer wonderful facilities for rest and relaxation. There are ten spa centres within the capital’s city limits offering therapeutic and beauty treatments.

Bulgarian villages are famous for their beautiful natural settings and their hospitable residents. Village tourism has been successfully developed in many of them, providing the opportunity to experience Bulgarian lifestyles and culture, enjoy local traditions and customs, and taste Bulgarian dishes prepared according to age-old recipes.

The Coast

The Bulgarian Black Sea coast is a wonderful place for a summer holiday. The coastline is 378 km long and boasts 209 beaches. Many are wide, while others are small and nested in picturesque marine bays. The beaches and the sea offer excellent conditions for various water sports such as surfing, water skiing, diving, underwater exploration, and fishing, whether from the surface or underwater.

Adventure

Bulgaria’s mountains cover a third of the nation’s territory, and feature a well-developed network of eco-trails. Fully-equipped climbing facilities have been established in some mountain regions such as the town of Vratsa, Lakatnik Rocks and Malyovitsa. The ski season in the medium high and the alpine resorts last about 130 days each year. 

You can also explore Bulgaria’s mountains on horseback. There are equestrian facilities throughout the country offering both shorter rides and pack trips with a guide, both in the mountains, lowlands, and the Black Sea coast.  Those searching for a jolt of adrenalin can try whitewater rafting on Bulgaria’s swift-flowing rivers, such as the Struma, Iskar, and Mesta. Rafting and kayaking are also popular on the rivers in the Iskar and Kresna Gorge areas. It is exceptionally exciting to ride the rivers in May and June, when the water levels are at their highest.