What's Bulgaria Known For? 7 Best of Bulgaria to Experience!

Bulgaria has remained off the beaten track as far as tourist destinations go, making it all the more appealing. What exactly is Bulgaria famous for, and what makes it so alluring to intrepid travelers?

Resting on the Eastern edge of the Balkan Peninsula, Bulgaria is one of the oldest countries in Europe.

Surrounded by the pine-clad massifs of the Balkan Mountains, Bulgaria is steeped in a magical mosaic of culture, history, and natural beauty. 

Bulgaria is a country begging to be explored. Whether you are a history buff or a budding photographer, this incredible nation has something for everyone. Next time you plan a trip around Europe, be sure to include Bulgaria in your itinerary!

When I took a Europe tour, I absolutely loved Bulgaria for its rich tapestry of traditions like dancing, music, magnificent costumes, and ancient crafts. 

Still, with so many layers to this beautiful country, it would take weeks to really know the lay of the land. Luckily, we'll start with what Bulgaria is famous for and why. 

Roses, hot springs, and Bulgarian yogurt might spring to mind, but there's so much more to this extraordinary country.

I bet you're tipping to know, so let's dive right in!

The Best of Bulgaria, Things to Know Before You Go!

This list of top things Bulgaria is best known for will come in handy. Take everything you need before you step off! It's time to explore the hidden gems that Bulgaria has to offer in this ultimate guide!

7. UNESCO Sites and Heritage Landmarks

One of the things Bulgaria is known for is its incredible landmarks and UNESCO sites. There are plenty of them!

The country's long and rich history have produced natural and manmade landmarks. From ancient cities to beautiful monasteries, there's something for everyone to discover! 

Some of the most famous Bulgarian ones you shouldn't miss seeing include the ancient city of Nessebar, the Rila Monastery, the Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak, and the Boyana Church.

If you're a bit short on time, visiting the Rila Monastery is a must! This breathtakingly beautiful abbey is the most famous Eastern Orthodox monastery in the world and a symbol of the Bulgarian nation. 

Marvel at the stunning blend of Arabesque, Byzantine, Mamluk, and Romanesque styles!  

6. Bulgarian Yogurt

Bulgaria is celebrated for its namesake yogurt, which is loved all over the world. The slightly sour, jelly-like yogurt has been produced by Bulgarians for more than 4,000 years and is regarded as one of the healthiest dairy products in the world.

Yogurt might not be your thing, but I dare you to try it! Just a taste is enough to have you convinced. 

5. Roses and Rose Oil

Bulgaria is one of the biggest rose-oil producers in the world. The beautiful, highly fragrant flowers are Bulgaria's national pride symbol. Most of the flowers, pink-petaled Damask roses and all, come from the Rose Valley in Central Bulgaria.

If you love roses, be sure to visit Bulgaria during the rose-picking season between May and June. Don't miss the Rose Festival, a celebration of the harvest. You can join the rose-picking process by visiting a rose essential oil distillery in your spare time. 

4. Hot Springs

There's nothing better than soaking in a thermal mineral spring after a day of hiking or skiing. 

Lucky for you, Bulgaria is a haven for hot springs. Boasting more than 700 registered springs, it's one of Europe's most famous spa destinations, as the hot springs are believed to have healing properties. 

The ancient ancestors of Bulgarians, the Thracians, built settlements around the hot springs to make use of them. Decades later, Roman invaders did the same. Today, Bulgaria is best known for its luxury spas. What a fun fact!

Some of the best spa towns in Bulgaria to visit include Chiflik, Hisarya, Kyustendil, and Sandanski

3. The Magnificent City of Plovdiv

Dating back over 6,000 years, Plovdiv is the oldest inhabited city in Europe and a must-see on a visit to Bulgaria. Regarding culture and heritage, Plovdiv is up there with the best of Europe's historic cities.

The magical Old Town is lined with beautiful and richly decorated houses built in the Bulgarian Revival style. The best way to soak up the atmosphere of this charismatic town is to stroll around the streets on a walking tour.  

Explore the Kapana Creative District, the ancient theater, and the many museums dotted about the city. 

Be sure to view the spectacular Singing Fountains light and music show in Tsar Simeon's Garden or pop into one of the local bars for a drink, as Plovdiv is also known for its outstanding wines.

2. Superb Ski Resorts

Winter is a wonderland in Bulgaria, and the mountainous regions are home to some fantastic ski resorts. When it comes to skiing, Bulgaria is one of the cheapest places to travel on the continent! You'll find some of the most inexpensive ski passes, lodging, and packages in Europe.

The largest international mountain resort in Bulgaria is Borovets. Located in the Rila Mountains, the resort features luxury hotels, restaurants,  bars, and excellent conditions for snow sports during the winter.

Pamporovo is a modern ski resort in the heart of the Rhodope Mountains, the mountains of the mythical singer Orpheus. This is the most southern skiing resort in Europe, so you'll have plenty of sunshine and wonderful snow throughout the whole season.

If you prefer less crowded slopes, head to the small secluded resort of Malyovitsa. Situated in the Malyovitsa region of the North-Western Rila mountains, the resort has several ski runs that are ideal for beginner skiers like me!

1. Beautiful Black Sea Beaches

Bulgaria has some spectacular beaches with fine, golden sand and warm, clear water. There are loads of lovely spots along the coastline of the Black Sea where you can spend the day soaking up the sun. 

You'll find quiet beaches with safe swimming for kids, and party beaches where the cool crowds flock to have fun.

Gorgeous seaside resorts like Primorsko have all the bells and whistles akin to the luxury European seaside resorts. If you want to escape the crowds, there are plenty of secluded coves along the coast where you'll have the beach all to yourself for the day.

My top picks for the best beaches in Bulgaria:

• Sunny beach: the ultimate party beach and the best place for people-watching
• Sozopol: perfect for families
• Smokinya Beach: great for camping
• Kara Dere Beach: isolated, wild, and wonderfully secluded
• Varna: A super beach close to the city  

Now that you have a better idea of some of Bulgaria's best assets, it's time to start planning.

Let Pilot Plan with You!

Bulgaria may have a slightly rough-around-the-edges feel, but it's a country that has so much to offer adventurers and brave travelers.

Are you set to explore Bulgaria? Then you need a handy app like Pilot to plan your nature-bound adventures or trips.