Bulgaria, a small Balkan country in Eastern Europe, is a hidden gem that’s waiting to be discovered. With its rich history, diverse landscapes, and vibrant culture, it offers something for every traveler. But before we dive into the wonders of Bulgaria, let’s answer a common question: Is Bulgaria in the EU? Yes, Bulgaria has been a member of the European Union since January 1, 2007.
Discover the Mountains, Traditional Towns and Ski Resorts - Bulgaria is home to iconic mountain ranges: The Balkan, Rila, Pirin, and Rhodope mountains. These mountains make a perfect backdrop for Bulgaria's traditional towns, rich in cultural heritage. One such town is Koprivshtitsa, a peaceful town of colorful houses, traditional Bulgarian architecture, and folk festivals. It was once the heart of the fierce April uprisings against the Ottoman Empire. Bulgaria is fast becoming one of the most popular countries in Europe for skiing. With budget-friendly resorts, decent snowfall, and World Cup-standard pistes, it’s no wonder hundreds of thousands of skiers descend on the country’s slopes each winter. There are three major ski resorts in Bulgaria - Bansko, Borovets and Pamporovo - plus many other smaller, quieter ones to explore. Borovets is the second biggest resort in terms of length of slopes - 58 km to be precise. It’s located at the foot of the highest peak on the Balkans – Musala, and the slopes are spread at an altitude from 1330m to 2550m. Bansko is a luxury apartment-hotel in Bansko and located at the highest point in town. The elevated position provides fantastic panoramic views of Bansko, the Pirin, Rila and Rodopi mountains combined with unmatched proximity to the Todorka and Vihren peaks. Pamporovo is a popular family-friendly ski resort in Bulgaria.
Explore the Seaside Towns - Bulgaria's Black Sea Coast is a must-visit for beach lovers. Burgas is a beautiful seaside town flanked by the sea and several lakes. Unlike its neighboring seaside towns, Burgas did not start to really actively develop until the 20th century. Another charming seaside town is Sozopol, Bulgaria's oldest town. Established in 610 BC by the Greeks, it became a center for the arts and a place of salvation. Sunny beach is popular as the party center in the Black Sea Coast.
Experience the Rich History - History is woven into the fiber of Bulgaria. It has been occupied for millenniums, and the countless ruins, ancient churches, and imposing fortresses that remain throughout the country, are a constant reminder of Bulgaria's unique narrative. The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, is an iconic symbol of the country. Built between the years 1882 and 1912, the cathedral was constructed to honor the lives of the 200,000 Russian soldiers who were killed fighting in the Russo-Turkish war for Bulgaria's freedom from the rule of the Ottomans.
Enjoy the Bulgarian Natural Beauty
Bulgaria is a country filled with natural beauty. Close to the village of Krushuna, nested in a lush forested landscape among the many karst rock formations, are the Krushuna Falls. The tallest of the falls is 20 meters high, where the turquoise water then splits into smaller falls and cascades over hunks of limestone, forming gentle pools and curious curves in the rock. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner, Bulgaria has something for you. The Seven Rila Lakes trail offers breathtaking views of the seven glacial lakes, each named after their most characteristic feature. Vihren Peak, located in Pirin National Park, offers a challenging 4.8-mile long trail. The peak is the highest point in the Pirin Mountains and the second highest in Bulgaria. The Malyoviza trail is located in Rila National Park and is 9.9 miles long. The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. Located in Pirin National Park, the Bezbog trail is 8.0 miles long. The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. This trail is located in Sofia, Sofia, Bulgaria. It’s a beautiful trail that offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding landscapes. Located in Pirin National Park, the Okoto Lake trail is a short 1.0-mile long trail. The lake is one of the most beautiful in the park and is a must-visit for nature lovers.