Bulgaria Holidays – 45 Places to visit in Bulgaria! Holidays in Bulgaria are ideal not only for nature or beach lovers, the country is also filled with lots of amazing sights and cultural places! In fact, it is a country of almost unlimited possibilities. Beautiful Black Sea coast, high mountains and fertile plains, national parks and waterfalls, nature reserves and protected areas, marshes and wetlands, lakes or caves, great hiking or skiing opportunities…

Fortresses, churches, monasteries, beautiful cities and towns with rich history and culture… These are just a few of many reasons why you should choose Bulgaria for your next holidays. And once you are here, be prepared for the following Places to visit in Bulgaria.



Seven Rila Lakes from Mount Ezeren, Places to visit in Bulgaria by Aski

Bulgaria Holidays – Places to visit in Bulgaria

1. Sofia

The city of Sofia is not only the capital of Bulgaria, it is also the largest city in the country. The city is situated in the foothills of Mount Vitosha. Its history dates back to the Bronze Age. A number of prehistoric sites have been uncovered all over the city.

The main attraction here is undoubtedly Alexander Nevsky Cathedral followed then by Ivan Vazov National Theater or The Rotunda of St George, among others.



Sofia Cathedral, Places to visit in Bulgaria by Jorge Láscar

2. Thracian Tomb of Sveshtari

Thracian Tomb of Sveshtari is a Getic tomb and another amazing UNESCO Site in Bulgaria which history dates back to the 3rd century BC.

It has been discovered relatively recently, back in 1982 in a mound, in the northern part of the country.



Thracian Tomb of Sveshtari, Places to visit in Bulgaria by Nenko Lazarov

3. Shipka Memorial

Shipka Memorial was built back in 1934 for the purpose to commemorate the soldiers who died in Russo-Turkish War, in a Battle of Shipka Pass.

You can find it right in the middle of the country within the Balkan mountain range.



Shipka Memorial, Places to visit in Bulgaria by Klearchos Kapoutsis

4. Perperikon

Perperikon is an ancient city boasting several ancient buildings that have been excavated since the year of 2000. It is situated in the southern part of the country.



Perperikon ancient city, Places to visit in Bulgaria by Edal Anton Lefterov

5. Baba Vida

Medieval fortress known in Bulgaria as Baba Vida is the only medieval castle that has been preserved in Bulgaria up to these days. Since it has been built back in the 10th century, the fortress survived several hard wars, battles and fights.



Baba Vida, Places to visit in Bulgaria by Klearchos Kapoutsis

6. Raysko Praskalo

There are many amazing waterfalls in Bulgaria, however, the highest one is that of Raysko Praskalo. It is protected by Central Balkan National Park which is situated in the middle of Bulgaria.

You can get here from the town of Kalofer following a hiking trail which takes about 4 to 5 hours.



Raysko Praskalo, Places to visit in Bulgaria by Petq stavarova

7. Devetashka cave

If you have seen The Expendables 2 movie starred with all old action heroes then you have already seen Devetashka cave. It is here where some scenes from that movie were set, but this is not the reason why this cave is on this list. It is the really huge natural creation and a home to around 30,000 bats.



Devetashka cave, Places to visit in Bulgaria by T.Y. for Utar Sigmal

8. Devil’s Throat Cave

One of the most popular natural attractions in Bulgaria is also Devil’s Throat Cave. It is situated in the south of the country, at the borders with Greece. Well hidden in the Rhodope Mountains, the cave is a branch of the Trigrad Gorge, one of the most beautiful gorges in the area.



Devil’s Throat Cave, Places to visit in Bulgaria by Edal Anton Lefterov

9. Dyavolski most

Dyavolski most is a very old stone bridge built in the early 16th century by the Ottomans to connect banks of the Arda River. If you are a hiking enthusiast in really good form and go on the 2200 kilometres long Sultans Trail leading from Vienna to Istanbul, you will pass through this bridge. 🙂

Don’t worry if you are not. Just come to the town of Ardino to see this bridge without any hard effort.



Dyavolski most, Places to visit in Bulgaria by Vassia Atanassova – Spiritia

10. Rila Monastery

The most famous monastery in Bulgaria is none other than that of Rila Monastery. Its renowned architecture is playful, colorful, full of cute details and will amaze even those who are not very interested in religious buildings.

You will see for example the first Bulgarian globe, rare icons, old weapons and shimmering valuables in the treasury. The large paved courtyard is surrounded by stone arcades, so you will feel like being in a castle. And the monastery is then surrounded by thick forests of Rila Mountains.



Rila Monastery, Places to visit in Bulgaria by Raggatt2000

11. Belogradchik Fortress

Majority of the tourists are heading to Bulgaria mainly in summer to enjoy great Bulgaria holidays at the seaside resorts, but the country has a lot of sights that worth a visit as well.

And one such must-see sight is an ancient Belogradchik Fortress. It is situated in the northwestern part of the country and was built during the times of Roman Empire.



Belogradchik Fortress, Places to visit in Bulgaria by Klearchos Kapoutsis

12. Asen’s Fortress

Asen’s Fortress was built on a high rock as a medieval fortress already in the 11th century. It can be found in the northern part of Rhodope Mountains and is the most popular attraction in the region of Asenovgrad.



Asen’s Fortress, Places to visit in Bulgaria by Спасимир

13. Euxinograd Palace

Bulgaria also boasts some of the finest palaces and one of the best examples is Euxinograd Palace. This royal summer palace was built in the 19th century at the Black Sea Coast, not far from Varna. It is featured with beautiful gardens and fountains that surround the palace.



Euxinograd palace, Places to visit in Bulgaria by Dimcho Panayotov (Benkovski)

14. Rila National Park

More than half of Bulgaria is covered by mountains and forests. The country boasts a total of 44 mountain ranges, the average altitude is 480 meters.

Perhaps the most impressive mountains are the Rila mountain with its highest peak of Musala. Reaching a height of 2925 meters, it is the highest peak not only in Bulgaria but throughout the Balkans.



Malyovitsa Peak, Rila National Park, Places to visit in Bulgaria by Stelian Kasabov

15. Pirin Mountains

Although Rila Mountains are the most impressive and highest in the country, Pirin Mountains are considered the most beautiful ones. It is also one of only two natural places in Bulgaria that were inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

They offer hundreds of lakes and canyons, countless beautiful peaks and an unlimited number of stunning views and scenery. Pirin is very popular due to countless hiking opportunities.



Konaraevo summit and Perleshki lakes in northern Pirin mountain, Places to visit in Bulgaria by Deyan Vasilev

16. Srebarna Nature Reserve

Srebarna Nature Reserve is an area of a freshwater lake and its surroundings which is adjacent to the Danube River. It covers an area of over 6 square kilometres and is home to almost 100 species of water birds, including some rare or endangered.

Every winter is also a temporary home to about 80 other migrating species of birds. Among the most interesting species include Dalmatian pelican, great egret, night heron, heron pink, glossy ibis and Eurasian Spoonbill. Nature Reserve has been inscribed on UNESCO World Heritage List since 1983 as another one from only two UNESCO natural sites.



Srebarna Nature Reserve, Places to visit in Bulgaria by Mincov

17. Prohodna karst cave

On the right-hand tributary of the river Iskar you can find the largest karst cave of Bulgaria and possibly of Europe, called Prohodna. The height of the cave ranging from 29 meters to 43 meters and its length is 265 meters.

Thanks to its smooth walls the interior looks like the Gothic cathedral. A surreal impression is further enhanced by two circular rock windows in the ceiling. It is amazing natural formation, which barely finds any competitor in Europe.



Prohodna tunnel, Places to visit in Bulgaria by Vassia Atanassova – Spiritia

18. Ledenika cave

Just north of the Bulgarian capital, Sofia, you can visit Ledenika cave which is considered the most beautiful cave in Bulgaria. In winter you can even see here ice creatures after which the cave was named.

The cave is open all year round and the basic admission is 4,- Bulgarian Levs.



Ledenika Cave, Places to visit in Bulgaria by Todor Bozhinov

19. Aladzha monastery

If you are spending your Bulgaria holidays at Golden Sands, then I have one great tip for a short trip to the nearby 4th-century cave monastery, which is known as Aladzha monastery.

You will like how this monastery was established in the 25-m high karst cliff, as well as its mosaics, paintings, frescoes and the catacombs. The basic admission here is 5,- Levs.



Aladzha monastery, Places to visit in Bulgaria by vacacionesbulgaria.com

20. Rock-hewn Churches of Ivanovo

In the northern part of the country, not far from the borders with Romania and the city of Ruse you can find another great UNESCO World Heritage Site – Rock-hewn Churches of Ivanovo.

These monolithic churches, chapels and monasteries are carved into the rock and are worthwhile mainly for its well-preserved medieval frescoes.



14th century mural portrait of Tsar Ivan Alexander from the Rock-hewn Churches of Ivanovo, Places to visit in Bulgaria by A. Nikolov

21. Basarbovo monastery

If you are still keen on visiting some more rock monasteries, then you will find Basarbovo monastery suitable for your next trip. It is the only rock monastery in Bulgaria that is still active!



Basarbovo monastery, Places to visit in Bulgaria by Mincov

22. Orlova chuka cave

Inhabited already in the Paleolithic Age, Orlova Chuka cave has been again discovered in the 20th century.

Now it is accessible from early April till the end of September every day for a basic fee of BGN 6. During the winter it is home to several species of bats.



Orlova Chuka Cave, Places to visit in Bulgaria by Iliana Teneva

23. Ruse

The city of Ruse is the fifth largest city in the country. It is situated along the banks of the Danube River in the northeastern part of Bulgaria.

Directly across the river on the opposing banks is Giurgiu, Romania. While being 200 kilometres away from the coastlines of the Black Sea, Ruse is still none the less a popular tourist destination as a result of its rich cultural history. In its Eco Museum & Aquarium, you can meet Mammoth and other amazing animals.



Mammoth, Ruse, Places to visit in Bulgaria by Ivorrusev

24. Bansko

In the foothills of the Pirin Mountain range, one will find the ski resort town of Bansko. While known today for the freshly powdered slopes above the city, the area dates back to the prehistoric days.

Some of the oldest sites just outside of town have been dated back to 100 B.C. The rich history of the city and region is what makes visiting Bansko more enjoyable.



Pirin mountains in Bulgaria as seen from Bansko ski resort by Amorphisman

25. Varna

The city of Varna is one of the largest cities situated along the Black Sea coastline today. It is also the third largest city in the country with a third of a million residents.

The city of Varna is known as the summer capital of Bulgaria and today much of the city’s industry is tourism related. There are many things to see and do in and around Varna, such as Sea Garden, Cathedral, Archaeological Museum, Dolphinarium and a lot more than help you to enjoy Bulgaria holidays all day and night long.



Sea Garden, Varna, Places to visit in Bulgaria by Marcin Chady

26. Golden Sands

The seaside resort village of Golden Sands can be found along the Black Sea coastline. It is close to the national park which shares its name and is only 17 kilometres away from Varna.

It is one of the more popular tourist destination hot spots in the area; attracting thousands of visitors every year from all over Europe.



Golden Sands resort beach, Places to visit in Bulgaria by Chlempi

Find more great photos and information about Golden Sands in this facebook page: Golden Sands.

27. Sozopol

Just south of Burgas along the Black Sea coastline, you will find the ancient city of Sozopol which is known today for the many resorts situated nearby as well as the annual Apollonia art and film festival. The festival occurs annually in the early part of September.

Countless visitors from all over Europe make their way to Sozopol old town or to nearby Ravadinovo Castle every single year to enjoy their Bulgaria holidays.



Ancient gate of Sozopol, Places to visit in Bulgaria by Todor Bozhinov

28. Veliko Tarnovo

In the northern part of Bulgaria straddling atop three hills which are situated along the banks of the Yantra River, you will find the city of Veliko Tarnovo.

Also known as the City of Tsars, Veliko Tarnovo is home to a number of palaces which have belonged to the Tsars of the past. Today the city is a popular tourist destination.



Veliko Tarnovo above the Yantra River, Places to visit in Bulgaria by Nikola Gruev

29. Plovdiv

The second largest city in Bulgaria is none other than that of the city of seven hills, Plovdiv. There are about 350,000 residents that call this city home.

The area has been inhabited since prehistoric times with a number of settlements dating back to 4000 B.C. having been unearthed just outside of town. You must visit its old town with several ancient Roman ruins, monasteries, museums or galleries.



The Ancient Theater of Plovdiv, Places to visit in Bulgaria by Edal Anton Lefterov

30. Nesebar

The town of Nesebar is a popular tourist destination and home to a number of large and famous seaside resorts. Situated along the coastline of the Black Sea, Nesebar is commonly referred to as the pearl of the Black Sea because it is home to one of the finest beaches in the region.

You will find lots of beautiful churches in Nesebar which is why it is sometimes referred to as the town with the highest number of churches per capita.



Nesebar fortifications, Places to visit in Bulgaria by B0rder

31. Sunny Beach

Located along the coast of the Black Sea, one will find the resort known simply as Sunny Beach. This large resort town can be found only 35 kilometres north of Burgas and offers more than 200 hotels offering over 300,000 beds.

There are more than 130 restaurants in Sunny Beach as well as a number of bars clubs and discos too. Luna parks, aqua parks and other attractions will make your Bulgaria holidays even more adventurous and funny.



Sunny Beach, Places to visit in Bulgaria by Meph666

32. Albena

Albena boasts up to a hundred meters wide beach, shallow sea and pyramid hotels standing on the beach. Here you will also find carefully prepared foliage and a horse riding centre, which is one of the best in Bulgaria.

Furthermore, your Bulgaria holidays will become more interesting here with plenty of sailing and windsurfing schools. Albena is first class holiday resort and is, therefore, more expensive than other resorts in the country.



Albena, Places to visit in Bulgaria by Boby Dimitrov

33. Borovets

Located in the Sofia Province, and situated along the northernmost slopes of Mount Rila, you will find the popular winter resort town of Borovets. While originally the area was established as a royal hunting ground, today it is home to a number of hotels, restaurants, bars and clubs.

It has also played host to the World Cup Alpine Skiing on a number of occasions. It is one of the best Ski and Snowboard Resorts in Bulgaria.



Borovets, Places to visit in Bulgaria by Klearchos Kapoutsis

34. Pamporovo

The city of Pamporovo is located in the southernmost portion of Bulgaria and is situated in the Rhodope Mountains. Pamporovo is a popular ski resort town and has many fine hotels and resorts.

It is also a popular summer destination as well as a number of eco-tourists make their way to the city every single year.



Pamporovo, Places to visit in Bulgaria by Steve Lacey

35. Balchik

The city of Balchik is situated along the coast of the Black Sea and is a well-known resort town. The town is only 42 kilometres from Varna and every year thousands of visitors from all over Europe make their way to Balchik to have quiet and relaxing Bulgaria holidays under the sun.

The city is also well known as the home of many fine Bulgarian painters. Do not forget to visit Palace and Botanical Gardens here.



Balchik, Places to visit in Bulgaria by Boby Dimitrov

36. Primorsko

When it comes to a vacation along the coast of the Black Sea, many people choose Primorsko for their Bulgaria holidays. This popular resort town is only 52 kilometres from Burgas and features one of the finest stretches of beach in the area.

Many artefacts have been unearthed around the town in recent years which date back to the Bronze Age.



Primorsko, Places to visit in Bulgaria by Boby Dimitrov

37. Burgas

The second largest city in Black Sea Coast is none other than that of Burgas. With just over two hundred thousand residents, Burgas has grown to become a popular tourist hot spot in the country.

The city is surrounded by a number of lakes and even has a stretch of beach along the Black Sea. The city’s port is considered to be the largest in the country.



Burgas coast, Places to visit in Bulgaria by Evgeni Dinev

38. Kiten

The town of Kiten has quickly grown to become a very popular resort town located along the Black Sea. It is located at the mouth of Kiten River and as result, has two wonderful beaches; one on either side of the river.



Atliman (Northern) Beach in Kiten, Places to visit in Bulgaria by Zourich

39. Sandanski

The town of Sandanski is known as a popular destination in Bulgaria. The town itself is situated in the foothills of Pirin Mountain, along with the banks of the Sandanska Bistritsa River in the south-western part of the country.

The town is well known for its natural mineral water springs which can be found throughout the surrounding area. One of its main attractions is the Archaeological Museum.



Sandanski, Places to visit in Bulgaria by vacacionesbulgaria.com

40. Tsarevo

In the southeastern part of Bulgaria, along the coast of the Black Sea, you will find the resort town of Tsarevo in a cove 70 kilometres away from Burgas.

It is situated in the foothills of the Strandzha Mountain and has quickly grown in popularity over the years for its rich diversity of amenities and sports.



Nestinarka beach, Tsarevo, Places to visit in Bulgaria by Artur Malinowski

41. Sand pyramids around Melnik

The Melnik Pyramids are sandstone natural formations. They are spread in an area of 17 square kilometres among the villages of Melnik, Kurlanov and Rožeň. There are several hundred of these pyramids and unlike those in Egypt, these ones are still changing due to geological composition of the soil as well as the dry Bulgarian climate.

You could find such sand pyramids also in other European countries such as Italy, Albania or France.



Sand pyramids, Melnik, Places to visit in Bulgaria

42. Open Air Ethnographic Museum Etara, Gabrovo

Well, this is an open-air museum situated right in the middle of the country, only 8 kilometres from Gabrovo town. The museum is full of the new buildings in the style of the original townhouses that once stood in Gabrovo and the production facilities that were used here as well.

The whole area is very pleasant. Basic admission to the open-air museum is 5 Lv (around 2.50,-EUR)



Open Air Ethnographic Museum, Etara, Gabrovo, Places to visit in Bulgaria by BloodIce

43. Zlatograd

Being the southernmost city in Bulgaria, Zlatograd and its old town is a conservation area with 120 registered buildings and archaeological monuments.

If you wish to experience Greek air in Bulgaria, visit Zlatograd. Walk through its wonderful streets and be amazed of everything you’ll see here. The town will definitely surprise you with its amazing atmosphere!



Zlatograd, Places to visit in Bulgaria by Ggia

44. Bojentsi

Bojentsi is an old village retaining its original appearance. If you want to see how the Bulgarian villages and life used to look like before, then visiting Bojentsi village is a must!

The houses are not only for admiring, you can even stay in one as they offer accommodation here as well!



Bojentsi, Places to visit in Bulgaria by Красимир Косев

45. Kaliakra

Kaliakra is the Cape on the Black Sea coast in the Dobrich region of Bulgaria. The local cliffs reach a height of 70 meters above sea level, they are mostly made of limestone and its iron content gives them a reddish colour.

It is one of the top tourist destinations in Bulgaria, in 1941 it was declared a protected area.



Kaliakra, Places to visit in Bulgaria by Spiridon MANOLIU

These were some of the most beautiful Places to visit in Bulgaria. You will surely visit at least some of them on your Bulgaria holidays. If you think that I have forgotten to add some must-see places here, please let me know below in the comments.