Bulgaria

Top destinations to visit in Bulgaria

Your Bulgaria travel must include the following-

1. Sofia City: The capital city, Sofia, is both the largest city and a separate administrative region.
2. Sofia Province: Surrounding the capital, this province includes suburban and rural areas.
3. Plovdiv Province: Home to the city of Plovdiv, known for its rich history and culture.
4. Varna Province: Located on the Black Sea coast, it includes the city of Varna, a major coastal destination.
5. Burgas Province: Another coastal province with the city of Burgas and access to the Black Sea.
6. Veliko Tarnovo Province: Known for the historic city of Veliko Tarnovo, which was the medieval capital of Bulgaria.
7. Ruse Province: Situated along the Danube River, it includes the city of Ruse.
8. Blagoevgrad Province: Home to the popular mountain destination of Bansko and the town of Blagoevgrad.
9. Stara Zagora Province: Located in central Bulgaria, known for its historical significance.
10. Haskovo Province: In the southern part of the country, bordering Turkey and Greece.

Best time to visit Bulgaria

The best time to visit Bulgaria is spring, from April to June. Bulgaria has mild weather with warm summers and cold winters. Summer is great for hiking and enjoying the Black Sea coast.

Experiences you should not miss in Bulgaria

1. Visit the Alexander Nevski Cathedral
Among the top attractions in Bulgaria, a visit to the Alexander Nevski Cathedral, located in a square that shares its name, remains an enduring favorite. Its pristine golden domes, painstakingly restored with gold leaf from the Russian Orthodox Church, continue to dominate the city's skyline and glisten in any sunlight. Even on overcast days, their radiance can brighten the surroundings.
Constructed in the ornate neo-Byzantine style between 1882 and 1912, the cathedral is dedicated to St. Alexander Nevski, a Russian tsar known for leading his country to victory over Sweden in 1240. He served as the patron saint of Tsar Alexander II, the Russian ruler during the cathedral's construction.
 
2. Stroll the Plovdiv's Old Town
Plovdiv, situated in the Plain of Thrace, stands as Bulgaria's second-largest city and arguably one of the most charming. The most delightful approach to Plovdiv's Old Town involves following ul Saborna, a winding path that ascends to the Nebet Tepe Citadel from pl Dzhumaya.
As you ascend, the first captivating sight on your right (up a set of steep steps) is the Church of the Virgin Mary, distinguished by its vibrant pink and blue clock tower. A brief detour from here leads you to the remarkable Roman Amphitheatre.
Constructed in the 2nd century during Emperor Marcus Aurelius' rule, it stands as Bulgaria's best-preserved Roman monument. Today, it serves as a venue for operas, plays, and concerts, with performances nearly every evening during the summer, including the renowned Verdi Festival.
 
3. Relax at the Sunny Beach
Sunny Beach is renowned for its extensive, gently sloping sandy shores that lead to the Black Sea and its vibrant nightlife, which draws in numerous tourists. Stretching for eight kilometers along the coastline, these golden beaches provide an ideal setting for sunbathing and swimming. The area boasts clean beaches that are well-protected from the elements, creating perfect conditions for swimming. The coastal region is also home to a variety of reasonably priced, family-friendly hotels. Sunny Beach is the perfect destination if you seek a few days of relaxation in the sun and wish to explore nearby areas like the ancient town of Nessebar.
 
4. Discover Tsarevets Fortress
Tsarevets Fortress, a symbol of Bulgaria's historical grandeur, occupies the very spot where the medieval tsars' palace stood some 800 years ago when Tarnovo was the capital. As you explore the ancient, sprawling ruins, you'll encounter the remnants of more than 400 houses and countless churches.
The panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape offer insight into the strategic placement of the fortress, perched at 206 meters above sea level to safeguard the kingdom from potential invasions over the centuries. While a visit to this stronghold entails ascending steep slopes on foot, the absence of vehicular access allows you to freely wander the grounds and scale the aged walls in tranquility.

Things to know before traveling to Bulgaria

1. Currency: Bulgaria's currency is the Bulgarian Lev (BGN). You'll find ATMs widely available, and credit cards are accepted in most places, especially in cities and tourist areas.
2. Language: The official language is Bulgarian. While many Bulgarians working in the tourism industry speak English, it can be helpful to learn some basic Bulgarian phrases to enhance your experience.
3. Safety: Bulgaria is generally a safe country for tourists. However, exercise common sense and be vigilant against pickpocketing and petty theft in crowded areas.
4. Visa Requirements: Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter Bulgaria. Check the latest visa requirements well in advance of your trip.
5. Local Cuisine: Bulgarian cuisine is diverse and flavorful. Don't miss trying local dishes like banitsa (a pastry filled with cheese), kavarma (slow-cooked stew), and Shopska salad. Bulgarian yogurt is also famous and delicious.
6. Tipping: Tipping is customary in Bulgaria. In restaurants, a tip of around 10% of the bill is appreciated. You can also tip taxi drivers and tour guides.
7. Transport: Bulgaria has a reliable public transportation system, especially in cities like Sofia and Plovdiv. Trains and buses are popular for traveling between cities.
8. Weather: Bulgaria experiences four distinct seasons. Summers can be hot, especially on the Black Sea coast, while winters are cold with the potential for snow, particularly in the mountainous regions.

Why choose Acqua?

Acqua offers access to local expertise through carefully selected tour operators who possess excellent language skills, destination knowledge, and buying power. Customize
your trip to Bulgaria by choosing accommodation, transportation, activities, and pace. Directly booking with local operators ensures cost efficiency and supports local economies. Acqua partners with established operators for favorable rates, providing peace of mind with guarantees and insurance coverage. By choosing Acqua, you support responsible travel and contribute to community projects.