Regions at a Glance

Bulgaria can be divided into four major travel regions, each with its own character:

Sofia & Surroundings

For whom: City travelers, culture lovers, foodies
Bulgaria's capital lies at the foot of the Vitosha Mountains and surprises with a mix of ancient ruins, Ottoman mosques, socialist monumental architecture, and a young, dynamic creative scene. The surroundings offer day trips to the Rila Monastery and the Zemen Fortress.

Black Sea Coast

For whom: Beach vacationers, partygoers, culture fans
378 kilometers of coastline with golden sandy beaches, the lively resorts of Sunny Beach and Golden Sands, the port city of Varna with Roman baths, the UNESCO Old Town of Nessebar, and the bohemian artist town of Sozopol. Perfect from June to September.

Mountains (Rila, Pirin, Rhodopes)

For whom: Hikers, nature lovers, skiers
Three majestic mountain ranges with alpine drama: the Rila Mountains with the legendary Rila Monastery and the Seven Lakes, the Pirin Mountains (UNESCO) with ancient black pines, and the mystical Rhodope Mountains with their caves, bridge ruins, and the legend of Orpheus.

Valley of the Roses & Central Bulgaria

For whom: History enthusiasts, romantics, wine lovers
The heart of Bulgaria: the famous Rose Valley with the Rose Festival in June, the old capital Veliko Tarnovo with its spectacular fortress, the Thracian tombs of Kazanlak (UNESCO), and the craft town of Koprivshtitsa with its colorful Revival houses.