Highlights of Bulgaria

Things to do: Bulgaria boasts a wealth of cultural and natural attractions. In Sofia, visit the stunning Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Vitosha Mountain, and the historic Boyana Church, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Rila Monastery, nestled in the Rila Mountains, is an architectural masterpiece. Along the Black Sea coast, towns like Varna and Burgas offer sandy beaches and vibrant seaside resorts.

Food: Bulgarian cuisine is hearty and rich in flavor, with a strong focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Signature dishes include banitsa, a flaky pastry filled with cheese or spinach, and kavarma, a slow-cooked meat and vegetable stew. Tarator, a cold yogurt and cucumber soup, is a refreshing staple in summer. Desserts such as baklava and kiselo mlyako (yogurt with honey) reflect the country’s Ottoman heritage. Homemade rakia and Bulgarian wines, particularly reds from the Thracian Valley, are excellent accompaniments to meals.

Nightlife: Sofia is a hub of nightlife with underground bars, trendy clubs, and live music venues. Varna and Sunny Beach transform into party hotspots during the summer, hosting beach parties, festivals, and nightclubs that draw international crowds.