Bulgaria is one of the few exotic nations of Europe, due to the fact that it boasts sublime beaches, lovely churches, winter sport opportunities and great hiking, to name a few. Although it has traditionally not been regularly visited by Westerners compared to other European nations, this is beginning to change. It is a beautiful place, with a wide range of activities for a traveller to do.

Northwest Bulgaria

The country’s gate to the West. The national capital and largest city, Sofia, is located in this region.

Southwest Bulgaria
This is a mostly mountainous region dotted with popular winter resorts and stunning nature. Attractions include the wintersport resorts of Bansko and Pamporovo, the university town of Blagoevgrad, and the spectacular Seven Rila Lakes near Kyustendil.

Northern Thrace
This region includes plains dominated by the Maritsa River and its tributaries, with many ancient Thracian sites (some of which are on UNESCO’s World Heritage List). Located here is the country’s second largest city, Plovdiv, which is one of the world’s oldest cities.

Bulgarian Black Sea Coast
The most visited region of the country, the Black Sea Coast is home to the popular resorts of Sunny Beach and Varna’s Golden Sands, the ancient towns of Nesebar and Sozopol, and the vibrant port cities of Burgas and Varna.

Central Northern Bulgaria
South of the Danube River, this region includes cities with turn-of-the-20th-century architecture such as Lovech and Rousse, known as the “Little Vienna”. The uniquely designed and picturesque medieval capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire, Veliko Tarnovo, is also here. Nature preserves and wild forests can be found near the coast.