Things to Do in Bulgaria

Beaches and Seaside Resorts

The beach and seaside resorts along the Black Sea have long been Bulgaria’s major tourist draw. Even during the socialist era, the coast attracted visitors from Eastern Europe, and with the country’s opening, more and more Western travelers have been drawn by the excellent value for those seeking beach holidays. In short, everything is here to delight fans of the genre, though it’s true that July and August attract large crowds (especially in the north), though not necessarily more than elsewhere around the Mediterranean at the same time.

Along Bulgaria’s 350 km of coastline, with Varna and Burgas as the main entry points, there’s no shortage of seaside resorts. Among the best-known and/or most popular are Albena, Kiten, Primorsko, the Golden Sands, or even Sunny Beach, which is the largest resort in Bulgaria.

Water Activities

Fishing:

Diving:

Watersports:

Sailing:

Thalassotherapy and Wellness

In the Black Sea coastal areas, major hotel complexes generally offer a range of body treatments and wellness programs. Additionally, the country has 58 balneotherapy centers and numerous thalassotherapy and spa centers, all typically at prices that are unbeatable compared to France or other Western European countries.

Hiking

Hiking

With its mountains, three national parks, and eleven nature parks, Bulgaria offers a great range of hikes for all levels and durations, including multi-day treks. Among the most popular spots are the Rila Mountains, the Rhodopes, the Bulgarka Nature Park, and especially the Pirin, not to mention the Mount Vitocha, which overlooks the capital and provides a good selection of hikes (and skiing) in a beautiful setting.

Cycling

Horseback Riding

Winter Sports

With its mountains and 56 winter sports resorts (Borovets, Pamporovo, Bansko, and Vitosha are the main ones), where you can ski for very little, Bulgaria is starting to make a name for itself in Europe.

Every year, more and more foreign skiers come to spend at least a week, to the point that in many European countries, including France, there are now agencies specializing in organizing all-inclusive ski trips to Bulgaria with guides, equipment, and transfers. Despite the distance and additional costs, the package almost always remains cheaper than the equivalent in the French mountains or elsewhere.

Outdoor and Nature Sports

Golf

Hunting and Fishing

Whitewater Activities

Other Activities

Climbing and mountaineering:

Paragliding and aerial sports:

Caving:

Cultural Life and Activities

Nightlife and Going Out