Is Bulgaria Worth Visiting? What Makes It a Must-See
Rila monastery, Bulgaria
You’re scrolling through travel blogs, your finger hovering over the usual suspects: Italy, France, Spain. They’re beautiful, timeless, but a small voice in your head is whispering for something… different. Something with more mystery, fewer crowds, and a story that hasn't been told a million times over.
And then you see it: Bulgaria.
The name conjures vague images—perhaps of yoghurt, Cyrillic script, or tales of the Black Sea coast from a friend of a friend. You find yourself typing into the search bar, "Is Bulgaria worth visiting?"
Let me stop you right there. The short answer is an emphatic, resounding YES.
But you’re not here for the short answer. You’re here for the why. You want to know if this Balkan nation, tucked away in the southeastern corner of Europe, is truly worth your precious vacation time and hard-earned money.
In this guide, we're not just going to scratch the surface. We’re going to peel back the layers of Bulgaria—from its gold-laden Thracian tombs and majestic mountain peaks to its soulful cities and mouth-watering cuisine. By the end, you won't just know if Bulgaria is worth visiting; you'll be checking flight prices.
The Big Picture: Why Visit Bulgaria Now?
Aerial view of Arkutino Region near resort of Dyuni, Bulgaria
Bulgaria exists in a traveller's sweet spot. It's no longer a completely hidden secret, meaning it has the infrastructure for a comfortable and exciting trip—good transport links, a variety of accommodation, and plenty of English speakers in tourist areas. However, it hasn't yet reached the point of over-tourism that plagues so many other European hotspots.
This means you get the best of both worlds: authenticity and accessibility. You can wander through the ancient streets of Plovdiv without being herded like cattle, find a secluded cove on the Black Sea coast, or hike for hours in the Rila Mountains and feel like you have the world to yourself.
Three words define the Bulgarian travel experience:
Diversity: In a single trip, you can ski down pristine mountain slopes, relax on a sandy beach, explore Roman ruins, and party in a modern, vibrant capital city. The sheer variety packed into a country roughly the size of Tennessee is astounding.
Depth: This isn't a new country. This is an ancient land. Its history is a complex tapestry woven with the threads of Thracians, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Ottomans, and Soviets. You feel this depth everywhere—in the foundations of Sofia, the frescoes of its monasteries, and the stoic pride of its people.
Value: Let's be frank—your money goes further here. Far further. Bulgaria is one of the most affordable destinations in the European Union, allowing for a rich travel experience without the financial anxiety. Five-star luxury, budget backpacking, and everything in between is accessible.
So, let's dive into the specifics that make this country an unmissable destination.
A Journey Through Millennia: Bulgaria's Layered History
Plovdiv, Bulgaria, Old Town
To visit Bulgaria is to walk through a living history book. Every city, every stone, and every mountain pass has a story. This isn't a country where history is confined to museums; it's right under your feet.
The Echoes of Thracian Kings
Long before the Romans arrived, the lands of modern-day Bulgaria were home to the Thracians—a fierce and mysterious people renowned for their horsemanship and masterful goldsmithing. They left behind no written language, but they did leave behind treasure.
The Valley of the Thracian Rulers, near the town of Kazanlak, is a must-see. This area is dotted with hundreds of burial mounds (tumuli). Many, like the Kazanlak Tomb (a UNESCO World Heritage site), contain breathtakingly intricate frescoes depicting scenes from Thracian life. While you can only visit a replica of the original tomb to preserve it, the experience is no less humbling. You can also explore the Golyamata Kosmatka Tomb, the final resting place of the great Thracian king Seuthes III, where you can walk into the actual burial chamber. It's a powerful connection to a civilization that predates much of Europe as we know it.
Roman Grandeur in the Balkans
The Romans knew a good piece of real estate when they saw it. They conquered the region and left their indelible mark. Nowhere is this more apparent than in Plovdiv, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe.
The city’s crown jewel is the Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis. Imagine sitting on stone seats carved in the 2nd century AD, looking out over the modern city, with the Rhodope Mountains in the distance. This isn't a ruin cordoned off by velvet ropes; it's a functioning venue that still hosts operas and concerts on warm summer nights. You can also wander through the remains of the Roman Forum and a stunningly preserved Roman stadium that runs beneath the main pedestrian street.
Even in the capital, Sofia, you can see this history. During the construction of the city's metro system, they unearthed the ruins of the ancient Roman city of Serdica. Instead of building over it, they masterfully integrated the ruins into the modern city in the Serdika Ancient Complex, creating a stunning open-air museum right in the city centre.
Medieval Tsars and Spiritual Strongholds
After the fall of Rome, the First and Second Bulgarian Empires rose, becoming formidable powers in medieval Europe. Their legacy is one of imposing fortresses and profound spirituality.
Tsarevets Fortress, the town of Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria
The former medieval capital, Veliko Tarnovo, is a spectacle to behold. Built on three hills and bisected by the winding Yantra River, its main attraction is the Tsarevets Fortress. Walking through its gates feels like stepping onto a movie set. You can climb to the top, where the Patriarchal Cathedral stands, and survey the kingdom as the tsars once did.
But the spiritual heart of Bulgaria is undoubtedly the Rila Monastery. Tucked away in the dense forests of the Rila Mountains, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a masterpiece of Bulgarian Revival architecture. Its arched balconies, brilliant frescoes depicting biblical scenes with startling colour and detail, and the central church with its golden domes create an atmosphere of serene majesty. It’s more than just a beautiful building; it’s a symbol of Bulgarian identity and perseverance, having preserved the nation’s culture and language through centuries of Ottoman rule.
Ottoman Shadows and National Revival
For 500 years, Bulgaria was under Ottoman rule. This period left a complex legacy of beautiful mosques, covered bridges, and a fierce desire for independence that culminated in the Bulgarian National Revival in the 18th and 19th centuries.
This is best experienced in the Old Town of Plovdiv. Here, wealthy Bulgarian merchants built magnificent, brightly coloured houses with ornate wooden facades and overhanging upper floors. Walking these cobblestone streets is like stepping back in time, with each house telling a story of newfound prosperity and cultural pride.
For the Nature Lover: A Playground of Mountains, Beaches, and Wonders
Spring Blossoms Over Arda River Bend in Rhodope Mountains, Bulgaria
If you think Bulgaria is just about history, you're in for a surprise. Its natural landscape is as diverse and dramatic as its past.
The Majestic Mountains
Over 30% of Bulgaria is mountainous, offering endless opportunities for hiking, skiing, and simply breathing in the fresh, alpine air.
Rila Mountains
Two of the Seven Rila Lakes, Rila Mountain, Bulgaria
Home to the Balkans' highest peak, Musala (2,925m), and the country's most iconic natural wonder: the Seven Rila Lakes. A chairlift takes you part of the way up, followed by a hike that reveals one stunning glacial lake after another, each with a name like "The Tear" and "The Kidney." The panoramic view from the top, with all the lakes nestled below, is a memory that will stay with you forever.
Rhodope Mountains
Fortress of King Asen, Rhodope Mountains, Bulgaria
Rhodope is one of the best mountains in Bulgaria to visit! These are the mystical, ancient mountains of legend, said to be the mythical birthplace of Orpheus. They are gentler, with rolling green hills, deep gorges, and picturesque villages. Here you can explore wonders like the Trigrad Gorge and descend into the Devil's Throat Cave, where a massive underground waterfall thunders into the earth. It's a place for slower travel, for connecting with folklore, and for enjoying the legendary hospitality of the Rhodope people.
Pirin Mountains
Spring landscape near Bansko, Pirin Mountains, Bulgaria
A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Pirin range is more rugged and alpine in character, with sharp, marble peaks. The town of Bansko, a world-class ski resort in winter, serves as the perfect basecamp for summer hiking. The trek to Vihren Peak, the second-highest in Bulgaria, is a challenging but incredibly rewarding day out for experienced hikers.
The Black Sea Coast: Beyond the Stereotypes
The Bulgarian Black Sea coast has a reputation, largely thanks to the sprawling party resort of Sunny Beach. And while you can certainly find a cheap pint and a wild night out there, that's only a tiny fraction of what the coast offers.
The Ancient South
View of Sozopol, Bulgaria
For a dose of charm and history, head south. Sozopol and Nessebar (a UNESCO World Heritage site) are ancient fishing towns built on rocky peninsulas. Their old towns are a labyrinth of cobblestone streets, traditional wooden houses, and tiny, centuries-old churches. You can spend your days exploring ruins, your afternoons on a quiet beach, and your evenings dining on fresh fish at a cliffside restaurant overlooking the sea.
The Wild North
Balchik, Black Sea, Bulgaria
The coast north of Varna is wilder, more rugged, and less developed. Here you'll find dramatic white cliffs at Balchik, home to a lovely botanical garden and the whimsical palace of a Romanian queen. Further north, Cape Kaliakra juts out into the sea—a sliver of red-hued cliffs where you can watch dolphins play in the waves below and hear legends of maidens who tied their hair together and leapt into the sea to escape the Ottomans.
The Urban Explorer's Guide: Cities with Soul
Bulgarian cities are not just stopovers; they are destinations in their own right, each with a unique personality and a vibrant story to tell.
Sofia: The Resilient Capital
Patriarchal Cathedral St. Alexander Nevsky, Sofia, Bulgaria
Sofia is a city of contrasts, where Roman ruins sit beside imposing Soviet-era buildings and golden-domed Orthodox cathedrals. It's not as immediately pretty as Prague or Budapest, but its charm is deeper and more rewarding.
At its heart is the "Triangle of Religious Tolerance," where an Orthodox church, a Catholic cathedral, a synagogue, and a mosque stand within a few hundred meters of each other—a powerful symbol of the city's long history of coexistence. You can stroll down the vibrant, pedestrianised Vitosha Boulevard, with its endless cafes and shops, all under the watchful eye of the magnificent Vitosha Mountain, which looms over the city and is accessible by a short bus ride and a cable car for hiking. Sofia is a city that grows on you, revealing its cool, creative side in its hidden bars, independent art galleries, and thriving restaurant scene.
Plovdiv: The Timeless Artist
Gablestone street with traditional houses in Plovdiv, Bulgaria
If you only have time for one city besides Sofia, make it Plovdiv. As Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited city, its history is palpable. But Plovdiv is no relic. It pulsates with creative energy, a spirit that earned it the title of European Capital of Culture in 2019.
The heart of its modern life is the Kapana district, or "The Trap." Once a neighbourhood of craftsmen, it's now a vibrant maze of pedestrian streets filled with craft beer bars, speciality coffee shops, designer boutiques, and street art. You can spend a day getting lost in Kapana, then climb one of Plovdiv’s seven hills to watch the sunset over the tiled roofs of the Old Town. It’s a city that effortlessly blends the ancient with the avant-garde.
Veliko Tarnovo: The Citadel of Kings
The historical town of Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria
As mentioned earlier, Veliko Tarnovo is the historical capital, and it feels every bit the part. The city is dramatically draped over steep hills, with houses that seem to cling precariously to the cliffs above the Yantra River. The entire city is a viewpoint, but the main event is the Tsarevets Fortress. At night, the fortress comes alive with a spectacular sound and light show that recounts the city’s glorious and tragic history.
Nessebar: A UNESCO Treasure in the Sea
View of Nessebar, Bulgaria
Jutting out into the Black Sea on a narrow, man-made causeway, Nessebar is less a town and more a living museum. This UNESCO World Heritage site was founded by Thracians over 3,000 years ago and later settled by Greeks, Romans, and Byzantines. The result is a stunningly dense collection of history on one tiny peninsula. The "urban exploration" here involves getting lost in a labyrinth of cobblestone streets, discovering the ruins of dozens of medieval churches—some no bigger than a small room—and admiring the iconic 19th-century wooden houses with their stone ground floors. It’s a magical place where you can explore an ancient church in the morning, have lunch at a seaside restaurant, and then find a quiet spot to swim in the afternoon.
Bansko: More Than Just a Ski Slope
Houses and snow mountains panorama in bulgarian ski resort Bansko
While world-famous as a budget-friendly ski and snowboard mecca, to see Bansko as just a winter resort is to miss its soul. For the rest of the year, it transforms into a tranquil gateway to the magnificent Pirin Mountains. But the real charm lies in its historic Old Town. Here, you'll find a different kind of architecture: imposing stone kashti (fortified houses) with thick walls and tiny windows, built to protect wealthy merchant families. You can explore the beautifully preserved Velyanova House and wander down quiet streets to the Holy Trinity Church with its formidable clock tower. The town is also renowned for its hundreds of mehanas (traditional taverns), making it one of the best places in Bulgaria to experience hearty local cuisine and music.
The Trio of Time Capsules: Koprivshtitsa, Zheravna, and Tryavna
For an explorer seeking the very heart of the Bulgarian National Revival, these three towns are essential. They are "architectural reserves," meaning they are so perfectly preserved they feel like you've walked onto a 19th-century film set.
Koprivshtitsa
Traditional Old House in Koprivshtitsa, Bulgaria
Perhaps the most famous and visually stunning, Koprivshtitsa is a town of heroes and brilliant colours. It is one of the most unique places to visit in Europe. Its grand, brightly painted houses, set in a picturesque mountain valley, were once home to famous revolutionaries. It was here that the first shot of the 1876 April Uprising against Ottoman rule was fired. Each house-museum tells a powerful story of Bulgarian spirit.
Zheravna
Zheravna, Bulgaria - architectural reserve
If you are looking for the best unknown places in Europe to visit, Zheravna is the place. Quieter and more rustic, Zheravna offers a different, deeply authentic atmosphere. The entire village is a masterpiece of dark wood architecture. Over 200 wooden houses, some more than 300 years old, line its narrow cobblestone streets. It's a place for slow, contemplative walks, where the creak of wood and the scent of pine fill the air.
Tryavna
Beautiful panoramic view of the old town in Tryavna, Bulgaria
This town is celebrated for its artistic heritage. It was the centre of the Tryavna School of Art, renowned for its incredible woodcarving and icon painting. You can feel this legacy everywhere, from the beautifully carved ceilings in the Daskalov House to the town's charming central square, featuring an original clock tower and an arched stone bridge known as the "Bridge of the Hunchback."
Melnik: Where Wine Flows and Sandstone Glows
Traditional house in Melnik town, Bulgaria
Welcome to the smallest town in Bulgaria, a place with more character per capita than almost anywhere else. Melnik is famous for two things: its unique, robust red wine made from the local Shiroka Melnishka Loza grape, and the surreal landscape of the Melnik Earth Pyramids—giant, strangely shaped sandstone formations that surround the town. Exploration here is a multi-sensory experience. You'll wander among historic National Revival houses, then descend into deep cellars dug directly into the sandy cliffs to taste the town's legendary wine. A visit to the Kordopulov House, a massive 18th-century home with its own sprawling wine cellar, is an absolute must.
A Culinary Journey: More Than Just Yoghurt
Bulgarian Cuisine - Chicken Skewer
Prepare your taste buds, because Bulgarian food is one of the country's most pleasant surprises. It's hearty, fresh, flavourful, and incredibly affordable. Rooted in peasant traditions, it relies on high-quality local produce, grilled meats, and a wonderful array of fresh and aged cheeses.
Must-Try Dishes
Shopska Salad: This is the national dish, and you'll find it on every menu. It's a simple but perfect combination of diced tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and peppers, topped with a generous grating of fresh white sirene cheese (similar to feta). The colours—white, green, and red—mimic the Bulgarian flag.
Banitsa: The quintessential Bulgarian breakfast and snack. It's a flaky pastry made with phyllo dough, eggs, and sirene cheese, often rolled into a spiral. Best eaten warm from a local bakery.
Kebapche/Kyufte: You'll smell these grilling everywhere. Kebapche are elongated minced meat patties (pork, beef, or a mix) seasoned with cumin, while kyufte are rounder and often include onion. Served simply with fries, a side salad, and a dollop of lyutenitsa (a delicious red pepper and tomato relish).
Tarator: The perfect cold soup for a hot summer day. It's made from yoghurt, cucumbers, garlic, dill, and walnuts. It sounds unusual, but it's incredibly refreshing.
Musaka: Don't expect the Greek version. Bulgarian moussaka is a hearty, comforting dish made with potatoes, minced meat, and a creamy yoghurt-and-egg topping.
The Drinks Scene
Rakia: You cannot visit Bulgaria without trying (or at least being offered) rakia. This potent fruit brandy is the national drink. It can be made from grapes, plums, apricots, or figs, and is typically enjoyed as an aperitif alongside a Shopska salad. Be warned: the homemade stuff can be incredibly strong! Nazdrave! (Cheers!)
Bulgarian Wine: Bulgaria is one of the world's oldest wine-producing regions, a fact that is slowly being rediscovered. The Thracian Valley is famous for its rich reds, particularly the local Mavrud grape. The Melnik region is known for its bold, spicy Shiroka Melnishka Loza. Wine is excellent and incredibly cheap.
Ayran: A simple, savoury drink made by mixing yoghurt and water. It's the perfect accompaniment to a greasy banitsa or a spicy kebapche.
The Practicalities: Answering Your Key Questions
So, you're intrigued. But what about the practical side of planning a trip?
Is Bulgaria Cheap?
Yes, by European standards, Bulgaria is exceptionally affordable. It offers some of the best value for money on the continent.
Accommodation: You can find clean, comfortable private rooms in guesthouses for €20-€30, and stylish city-centre Airbnbs for €40-€60. A bed in a well-rated hostel is often under €15.
Food & Drink: A hearty meal in a traditional restaurant (a mehana) can cost €7-€12 per person, including a drink. Street food like a banitsa is less than €1. A local beer is typically €1-€1.50.
Transport: Intercity buses are efficient and cheap; a 3-hour journey might cost €8. Car rental offers the most freedom and is also reasonably priced, especially when booked in advance.
Your budget can stretch incredibly far, allowing you to splurge on unique experiences, nice dinners, or an extra week of travel.
Is Bulgaria Safe?
Yes, Bulgaria is a very safe country for tourists. The people are generally warm and hospitable. The main concerns are the same as in any other European country:
Petty Crime: Pickpocketing can occur in crowded tourist areas and on public transport in Sofia. Be mindful of your belongings.
Taxi Scams: This is the most common issue. Always use a reputable taxi company (like OK-Supertrans in Sofia) called via an app or phone, or ensure the driver uses the meter. Avoid hailing taxis directly outside train/bus stations or major tourist sites.
Driving: Bulgarian drivers can be aggressive. If you rent a car, drive defensively and be prepared for some winding mountain roads.
Using common sense is all that's required for a safe and trouble-free trip.
When Is the Best Time to Visit?
Bulgaria is a genuine year-round destination, with the "best" time depending entirely on what you want to do.
Spring (April-June) & Autumn (September-October): This is the sweet spot. The weather is pleasant for exploring cities and hiking, the landscapes are lush (spring) or beautifully coloured (autumn), and there are fewer crowds than in summer.
Summer (July-August): The best time for the Black Sea coast. The weather is hot and sunny, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. It's also peak season for hiking in the high mountains.
Winter (December-March): This is ski season. Resorts like Bansko, Borovets, and Pamporovo offer fantastic skiing and snowboarding at a fraction of the cost of the Alps. Sofia and Plovdiv are also magical under a blanket of snow, with charming Christmas markets.
Language and Communication
The official language is Bulgarian, and the alphabet is Cyrillic. At first glance, the alphabet can seem intimidating, but don't let it deter you.
In cities and major tourist destinations, you will find that many younger people, as well as those working in tourism, speak excellent English. Menus in restaurants are often available in English.
Learning a few basic words will go a long way and will be greatly appreciated:
Hello: Zdravei (Здравей)
Goodbye: Dovizhdane (Довиждане)
Thank you: Blagodarya (Благодаря) - or the more informal Merci.
Yes: Da (Да)
No: Ne (Не)
The Final Verdict: So, Is Bulgaria Really Worth Visiting?
Gablestone street in Nessebar, Bulgaria
Let's circle back to the original question. After journeying through ancient tombs, hiking to glacial lakes, exploring soulful cities, and tasting the nation's heart on a plate, the answer should be clear.
Bulgaria is not just "worth visiting." It's a destination that rewards the curious traveller in ways few other European countries can.
It’s for the traveller who wants to feel like an explorer, discovering a Roman theatre in the heart of a bustling city or a secluded monastery in a quiet forest.
It’s for the adventurer who wants to hike a dramatic ridge in the morning and be on a sandy beach by evening.
It’s for the foodie who delights in discovering a robust, unpretentious cuisine that tastes of the land itself.
And it’s for the savvy traveller who knows that a truly rich experience has nothing to do with the price tag.
Bulgaria is a country of soul, of resilience, of surprising beauty, and of warm, genuine welcomes. It’s a country that is confidently stepping into the future while fiercely protecting its ancient, layered past.
So, stop wondering. The answer is yes. A thousand times, yes. Go and discover the layers for yourself. You will not be disappointed.
