5 Best Places to Visit in Bulgaria in 2025
Are you planning a European trip in 2025? Don’t overlook Bulgaria.
This beautiful country in Southeast Europe is full of History, charm and natural beauty. Without the crowds or high prices of Western Europe, I fell in love with Bulgaria as soon as I arrived. In fact, it quickly became one of my favorite countries for solo female travelers!
Whether you’re a culture lover, a nature enthusiast or just someone looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination, Bulgaria should be on your travel bucket list. Based on my own travel experience, here are the 5 best places to visit in Bulgaria in 2025.
1. Sofia – A City Where History Meets Modern Life
When I traveled to Bulgaria, I landed in Sofia late at night. After spending some hours at the airport waiting for the subway to open, I made my way to the city center.
I can’t even describe the feeling of seeing that empty city at 6 am. The sun was rising and the birds were starting to sing around the landmarks that instantly caught my attention. That’s the moment when I fell in love with Sofia. It’s one of my most special travel memories ever.
I instantly fell in love with Sofia
What I instantly noticed about Sofia was that there were barely any tourists. There weren’t many souvenir shops, many things were written only in Bulgarian and I could feel a vibe that I haven’t experienced in many other places.
It was amazing to experience Sofia as the locals do, seeing them go about their daily routines in peaceful neighborhoods and lively cafes. That’s when I really undestood how much of a hidden gem Bulgaria is!
I loved to see how locals live their daily life in Sofia
The city has so much to offer, from historical landmarks like the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral to the fascinating remnants of Bulgaria’s Soviet past. It’s a place where culture, nature, History and modern life blend seamlessly.
I had no idea about it before I visited Bulgaria, but Sofia is actually one Europe’s oldest cities! Look closely and you’ll see centuries and centuries of History built on top of each other.
There are historic ruins everywhere in Sofia – even in subway stations
Besides the History that Sofia has to offer, I was surprised to see how much beautiful architecture the city has. There are so many beautiful buildings, cosy streets and majestic churches to admire.
The mix of architectural styles—from Ottoman to Soviet to modernist—creates a unique and captivating urban landscape. Whether you’re strolling through the city’s boulevards or exploring hidden corners, Sofia’s architectural gems never fail to impress.
Step inside the city’s majestic churches and you’ll be greeted with breathtaking interiors—stunning frescoes, intricate woodwork and ornate altars that showcase centuries of devotion. The peaceful atmosphere inside these sacred spaces is the perfect quiet escape from the bustling city outside.
Make sure you explore Sofia’s buildings inside and out
Another thing I loved about Sofia was how safe I always felt. I felt free and comfortable to wander the streets, whether I was exploring the city center or more tucked-away spots. Sofia truly made me feel like I was part of the city’s pulse, not just a visitor passing through.
2. Rila Monastery: A Must-Visit Spiritual and Cultural Landmark
Visiting Rila Monastery was one of the most unforgettable moments of my trip to Bulgaria.
Tucked away in the heart of the Rila Mountains, the setting alone feels like something out of a fairytale. As I walked through the monastery’s grand arched entrance, I was immediately struck by the gorgeous frescoes and striped black-and-white architecture.
Rila Monastery was one of my favorite places in Bulgaria
One of the most breathtaking aspects of Rila Monastery is its frescoes.
Covering nearly every surface of the outer and inner walls, these vibrant and detailed paintings are a masterpiece of Bulgarian Orthodox art. I could barely believe how vivid the colors are, even after centuries! And the scenes they depict—ranging from biblical stories to images of saints and moral lessons—are haunting and beautiful at the same time.
You could easily spend an hour just admiring the tiny details and expressions in each panel. The artistry is not only visually stunning but deeply symbolic, offering a glimpse into the spiritual and cultural soul of Bulgaria.
The frescoes of Rila Monastery are unbelievable
The peaceful silence of the courtyard, surrounded by mountains and pine trees, made the experience feel almost spiritual. But Rila Monastery is not just a religious site; it’s a place full of History, beauty and peace. If you’re visiting Bulgaria, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is absolutely worth the trip!
It’s the perfect day trip from Sofia and I’ve shared all the details on how to get there below 👇🏼
READ THE FULL ARTICLE: How to Visit Rila Monastery: The Perfect Day Trip from Sofia
3. Plovdiv: Europe’s Hidden Gem and One of Its Oldest Cities
After visiting nearly 50 countries, Plovdiv is the biggest hidden gem I’ve ever found.
Before I started researching for my trip to Bulgaria, I had no idea this city even existed. When I discovered it and started reading about it, I was shocked about its ancient History and extremely well preserved Roman ruins. I obviosly knew I had to put this city on my Bulgaria itinerary.
Plovdiv has incredible Roman ruins to be explored
The ancient Roman Theater is a real highlight, still standing as a testament to the city’s significance during the Roman Empire. But Plovdiv is full of historical treasures—Roman ruins are scattered throughout the whole city! Sometimes you’ll find them in the most unexpected places.
Near the bustling walking street, you can explore the remnants of the Roman Stadium, which once hosted gladiatorial contests. Quite close by, you’ll find the most unique H&M store I’ve ever seen. Walk inside and you’ll find ruins of the ancient roman walls in the middle of the store. I just couldn’t believe that city: even clothing stores have History to tell!
Plovdiv has the most unique H&M I’ve ever seen
But it’s not just the ruins that make Plovdiv special. The city is a hub of creativity, with vibrant art galleries, charming cafes and the thriving Kapana district. That part of the city is full of independent shops and street art and it’s such a cool place to hang out.
Another interesting area of the city is the Old Town. This charming maze of narrow cobblestone streets is full of beautifully preserved historical houses. Each house tells its own story, showcasing the city’s rich cultural heritage with its colorful facades and intricate woodwork. Be sure to visit this historical house that once belonged to an ultra-wealthy family, who showcased their status by building a fountain in the living room—designed to keep rose water flowing constantly.
Make sure you enter at least one of the historical houses of Plovdiv
Whether you’re a History lover or someone who just enjoys exploring charming neighborhoods, Plovdiv has something for everyone. For me, it was a perfect blend of cultural depth and modern energy. It became not only one of my favorite places in Bulgaria but also one of my all-time favorite cities.
4. Veliko Tarnovo: The City of the Tsars
Tucked into the forested hills of northern Bulgaria, Veliko Tarnovo is a city that feels like a journey back in time. Once the medieval capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire, this magical city remains one of the most historically significant and visually striking places in the country.
I’m not sure you would agree with me, but the view of the houses on the hills reminds me of Porto in Portugal. Except it’s still a hidden gem!
Veliko Tarnovo is still such a hidden gem but it reminds me of Porto, Portugal
The crown jewel of Veliko Tarnovo is Tsarevets Fortress, perched dramatically above the Yantra River.
This medieval stronghold was once the heart of the Second Bulgarian Empire and remains a powerful symbol of the nation’s past. As you walk along its ancient stone pathways, it’s easy to imagine the grandeur of Bulgaria’s golden age.
You can picture royal palaces standing tall, old churches on the hill and thick stone walls built to protect the city. The panoramic views from the top add to the fortress’s magic, offering a sweeping look over the city and the river below.
The Tsarevets Fortress is a must-see in Veliko Tarnovo
One of my favorite parts of Veliko Tarnovo was wandering through Samovodska Charshia, the charming old market street just behind the main road.
It’s lined with little shops and workshops, each with its own character. One store really stuck with me—it was run by a local family, with the mom working there for 33 years and her son for 18. The walls were covered in photos of them over the years and the whole place felt more like stepping into someone’s living room than a shop.
It was such a warm, personal space and a perfect example of how the spirit of Veliko Tarnovo lives on in the people who call it home.
A family legacy in the heart of Veliko Tarnovo
Whether you’re a History lover, a photographer or a traveler looking for something authentic and off-the-beaten-path, Veliko Tarnovo offers a unique taste of Bulgaria. It’s a place where past and present coexist in stunning harmony and you should definitely visit while it’s still such a hidden gem!
5. Varna: The Sea Capital with Stunning Sights
While Varna wasn’t my absolute favorite destination in Bulgaria, it’s definitely worth a visit—especially if you’re interested in exploring unique History and experiencing the lively atmosphere of the Black Sea coast.
I visited in mid-May, hoping for warm weather to relax on the beaches, but it was surprisingly chilly. So, if you’re planning a beach vacation, keep the season in mind. But no matter the weather, the Sea Garden is really nice to explore!
It was too cold to go for a swim at the Dead Sea but the Sea Garden was beautiful to explore
One of Varna’s standout attractions is the Dormition of the Mother of God Cathedral. This massive and beautiful Orthodox church is famous for its colorful frescoes and striking golden domes. Even though the city felt a bit busier and less charming compared to other Bulgarian towns I visited, the cathedral’s impressive architecture alone makes Varna worth a stop.
This iconic Cathedral is a must-see in Varna
For me, the most unique thing to do in Varna was visiting the Varna Archaeological Museum. It’s home to the Varna Gold Treasure, which is considered the oldest gold ever discovered—over 6,000 years old.
Seeing these incredibly detailed pieces up close is honestly mind-blowing—especially knowing they were found in ancient burial sites. The fact that such intricate gold work came from prehistoric graves makes it even more fascinating. If you’re into History or just want to experience something truly one-of-a-kind, this museum is a must.
You can see the World’s oldest gold in Varna
Bulgaria is, hands down, the biggest hidden gem I’ve ever discovered—not just in Europe. I really think that Bulgaria is one of the World’s best hidden gems.
Besides, after visiting 30 countries solo, Bulgaria is one of my top 6 countries for first-time solo female travelers!
From the historic streets of Sofia, Plovdiv and Veliko Tarnovo, to the serene beauty of Rila Monastery and the coastal vibes of Varna, every part of the country felt like a new and unexpected adventure! It’s a place full of ancient History, diverse landscapes, delicious food and genuine hospitality—without the tourist crowds or high prices.
If you’re looking for an underrated travel destination that truly delivers, Bulgaria is absolutely worth visiting.
DO YOU WANT TO HELP THIS PROJECT? USE THE LINKS BELOW AND I’LL GET A SMALL COMMISSION THAT REWARDS MY WORK 👇🏼
- Skyscanner: Flight deals 🛫
- Booking.com: Hotels, flights & car rentals 🛏️
- Hostelworld: Hostels around the World 📍
- AirHelp: Get paid for a delayed or cancelled flight💰
- Airalo: Get an Esim 📱
- Omio: Book transportation 🚆
- 12goAsia: Book transportation in Asia 🚌
- Trip.com: Flights, hotels, car rentals & transfers 💰
- Get Your Guide: Tours & entrance tickets 🎫
- Tripadvisor: Find other travelers’ opinions ✍🏼
- Rental Cars: Rent a car for your trip 🚗
- Discover Cars: Get up to 70% discount on car rentals 💰
- Revolut: The best international card 💳
- Surfshark: Stay safe online (86% discount & 3 extra months for free) 💻
- Klook: Get 8% discount on Klook with my FLIPFLOPS Promo Code 🤑
- IATI Insurance: Get 5% discount on your travel insurance 🔒
- Worldpackers: Voluntering opportunities in more than 140 countries 🌎
- Viator: Tours & activities anywhere in the World 🎟️
- Osprey: The best backpacks 🎒
- LARQ: Self-cleaning bottles that kill viruses and germs 🦠
- TravelSpend: 50% discount on the best budget-tracking app 💰
