Bulgaria Holidays Guide
Europe
For what you might think of as a pretty obscure country, there's a lot to see in Bulgaria. The big beach resorts in the Black Sea coast do a roaring trade in the summer to Northern Europeans who are looking for two weeks of sun and sea. During the winter, there are skiing resorts in the mountain ranges. They offer some of the most affordable winter sports in Europe. Perhaps the most rewarding part of Bulgaria is the historic cities, however – there are some incrediblecastles in the hills, medieval cities with winding streets, and sleepy old-fashioned villages.
Map of Bulgaria
Bulgaria
Bulgaria Holidays Planner
If you're looking for a beach holiday, then you'll likely end in Sunny Beach or Golden Sands. If you get tired of the resort, then Varna is the capital of the Black Sea Coast – a lively city with an amazing archaeology museum and a lovely city park, the Sea Gardens. Nesebar is a walled city with many churches – it gets busy in summer, though, so is best enjoyed in the morning or evening, when there are fewer daytrippers. VelikoTurnovo is Bulgaria's ancient capital and the site of an awe-inspiring fortress – if you're there in the evening, check to see if the sound and light show is playing. Bansko has ski resorts and traditional taverns with folk dancing.
Albena Beach
Places to Visit
Bulgaria is extremely good value for eating and drinking. If you're looking for a lively beach holiday then stay in the main resorts – if not, then Sozopol is pretty but not too busy. Varna is also a good bet if you want to see the 'real' Bulgaria but also want excellent tourist facilities – try renting an apartment here if you're on a budget. Sofia is Bulgaria's capital and has a few sights, including the beautiful Haghia Sofia – although if you're touring around, spend time in VelikoTurnovo instead. If you're going anywhere by taxi, agree a price before you get in – although you can get a shark cabbie anywhere, they seem particularly prevalent in Bulgaria!
Travel Facts
View from above across the highlands
Golden Sands
Melnik Wine Region
Bulgaria Holiday Tips