Eventful history has endowed Bulgaria with a rich cultural, architectural, and artistic heritage, while natural beauty and recreational opportunities make it one of Europe's most desirable holiday destinations. Carpeted by dense forests and fed by mighty rivers, this ancient land once drew invaders from distant corners of Europe. Today, the country's Black Sea coastline and seven rugged mountain ranges top have become must see’s. While its growing cities offer modern shopping, dining, and entertainment opportunities, Bulgaria's countryside remains a history buff's paradise,
Things to know before visit Bulgaria
Bulgaria witnesses four seasons- a hot and dry summer, cold and wet winters, a warm spring and long and pleasant fall. Autumn lies between November and March when temperatures drop and snow is a common sight. Summers are seen between June and August while winters are between December and mid-March.
The sprawling capital of Bulgaria, Sofia is steeped in history that is visible through its onion-domed churches, Red Army monuments, Ottoman mosques and an array of museums that house some treasures from the past. Away from the historical beauty and relevance of the city, Sofia also offers some adrenaline pumping activities. Travelers come here to ski and hike to the mighty Mt Vitosha.
Get a history and culture tour of Bulgaria through Plovdiv. This quaint, historical town straddles seven hills and is dotted with 19th-century mansions, Tsar Simeon Gardens and cobble-stoned streets. People come from far and wide to relish the varied music and art festivals that the city hosts all through the year and to enjoy some grand architecture. While in Plovdiv definitely visit the Roman amphitheater, Balabanov house, Archaeologicla museum and more.
Varna may not be as popular a tourist destination as Sofia and Plovdiv but it has its own colonial charm. It has an enthralling history, rustic, crumbling Roman bathhouses, glorious Orthodox architecture and the azure blue waters of the ocean. So all history buffs, culture vultures and those who want to soak in the sun, sand and beach should head to Varna for a treat. While here you should see the Aladzha monastery, Archaeological museum, Euxinograd and the Naval museum.
The ancient city of Tsars stands tall on the edge of Bulgaria’s northern mountains, divided by the Yantra River. This beautiful backdrop of the city is astounding with terracotta-coloured roofs adding elegance to the waterways below. It is one of the oldest towns in the country and is home to the Tsarevets Fortress. When here, definitely visit the handicraft market Samovodska Charshiya, that still has the charm it had two centuries ago and also the varied museums and churches.
A gateway to the southern reaches of the Black sea coast, Burgas, is different from the other historical and cultural town of Bulgaria. It is a modern town with trendy art decor and vibrant music. This beach town is a great place to relax and enjoy some of the best music festivals held in the country. Besides the beaches, Burgas also has three lakes that are renowned for bird-spotting and water activities.
Travel Advisory:For the latest information and advice on safety and entry requirements please consult your travel agent well in advance of your departure and visit the following government website:
Department of Foreign affairs and trade www.dfat.gov.au
Smart Traveler website www.smartraveler.gov.au
Electricity: While traveling to Bulgaria it is advisable to carry an international power plug adapter. The standard voltage is at 230V/50Hz. The associated plug types are C and F.