Fabulous places in Bulgaria or what adults and children can see. Tips for vacationers or what is definitely worth seeing in Bulgaria Beautiful places in Bulgaria

Are you going to Bulgaria? This is a wonderful country with many beautiful places. What can you see in Bulgaria, what attractions and places deserve attention?

Where to go in Bulgaria?

So, what to see in Bulgaria? We offer you the most interesting places:

This is an incredibly beautiful and interesting place! If you want to feel the dizzying aroma of roses and see many opening buds and already blooming flowers, then you should definitely go here. This valley is located near the small town of Kazanlaka, located 200 kilometers from Sofia.

At the beginning of summer, this place turns into a real factory for the production of breathtakingly aromatic rose oil, which is added to perfumes and cosmetics. At this time, the local population collects the harvest, and many petals rush into large vats, from which aromatic liquid then flows out in a trickle.

2. Even if you are not a fan of reading and books, still take a look at it, located in the capital of the country - Sofia. Firstly, the inside of the building is incredibly beautiful. And from the outside, the library resembles a real palace. Secondly, ancient manuscripts and books can be found in the storage facilities.

Some works are so old that they are even handwritten. Thirdly, there are also books by contemporary authors. Perhaps you will find something that really interests you. And opposite the building there is a monument to Cyril and Methodius, who were not only monks, but also scientists and educators of their time. One way or another, visit this historical place if you are in Sofia.

There are seven of them in total, and they are located high in the mountains. It is better to go here in mid-summer, but even at this time you can observe a thin crust of ice on the surface of glacial mountain waters. The lakes are connected by icy streams, waterfalls and rapid water flows.

Between them you can see both snowdrifts and clearings with many fragrant wildflowers. Getting here is not easy, it is better to do it using a ski lift. The road is quite long, but the place is worth a visit.

4. If you are in Bulgaria, be sure to visit a small ancient town of Nessebar. This city is about 3000 years old and has been declared a museum. There are an incredible number of historical places, each of which is a symbol of a particular era. Nessebar is located on a rocky peninsula, connected to the mainland by a rather narrow isthmus.

There are many historical and architectural monuments, beautiful and simple houses that impress with their color. You can explore the entire city in a day, as it is very small: only 300 meters wide and about 850 meters long. And be sure to visit the gorgeous beaches of Nessebar!

5. Any tourist will be interested to see, located near the capital of the country in the Rila Mountains. The history of this unique place goes back to the distant 10th century. Surprisingly, the monastery was repeatedly attacked by enemies and experienced natural disasters. So, he survived a fire, an earthquake, and Turkish raids.

But each time local residents restored the structure, thanks to which it exists to this day. Today, the monastery houses several shrines, for example, the cross of Raphael, the icon of the Virgin Mary “Guide”, as well as the relics of John of Rila. There is also a museum and library on site. And the inside is so beautiful that not going into the monastery is simply a crime.

Located near the small town of Belogradchik. They tried to destroy this building more than once, but it was always restored. And this fortress was built to protect trade routes leading to the north back in the ancient times of the Romans.

The structure consists of three majestic tiers, the top of which has a huge reservoir for collecting rainwater, carved out of stone. Once at the top of the fortress, you will be able to see the Belogradchik rocks, which amaze with their grandeur and beauty. By the way, you can also visit them.

The sights of this town are so ancient that they can tell about the times of prosperity of the Roman Empire. For example, here you can see the amazing Roman amphitheater, which was built of marble back in the 2nd century AD.

In the center of the town there are ancient towers, and all the buildings are literally imbued with the Renaissance era. The houses are beautiful and colorful, they look like dolls. Among other things, Plovdiv has many monuments and museums. In general, be sure to visit this town.

– one of the most ancient and beautiful towns on the Bulgarian coast. This marvelous place is located in a bay that amazes with its beauty. Balchik is protected from storms and bad weather by Cape Kaliakra, so it is always quiet and sunny here. By the way, on this cape you can see mysterious caves, as well as the remains of ancient fortress walls.

The town has an amphitheater structure and many platforms, which means that while walking around Balchik you can enjoy amazing views. In the coastal area of ​​this wonderful town there are many mineral springs and healing mud, so you will have the opportunity to combine business with pleasure and improve your health.

In addition, Balchik has an art gallery, two churches, and museums. There is also the largest botanical garden, which contains about 3,000 species of a wide variety of plants.

9. If you want to not only get your fill of culture during a week’s stay in Bulgaria, but also relax physically and mentally, then be sure to visit the beautiful city ​​of Sozopol. This is a well-known and beloved seaside resort, where many tourists from all countries vacation every year.

Once here, you will be able to enjoy the most beautiful snow-white sandy beaches and crystal waters of the Black Sea, the beauty of a quiet harbor, which is one of the most romantic places in the resort, as well as stunning views of the coast. Holidays here are a little different from what tourists are used to. Here time seems to slow down. Wooden and stone houses, as well as cultural monuments and nature, attract attention.

10. Must visit Aladzha Monastery. Its uniqueness lies in the fact that it is carved into the rock. This monastery was created in the 4th century by Christian hermits, and it existed for a whole millennium, but then was plundered by Ottoman invaders.

This unique structure consists of two tiers, and at the entrance you can see a museum dedicated to the history of the creation and existence of this monastery. In the first tier of the monastery there is a refectory, kitchen and cells of the monks who lived here. Of course, they are changed, but they look exactly as they looked many centuries ago.

And on the second tier there is a chapel. In addition, near the monastery you can find catacombs. According to legend, they served as a refuge for monks who defended themselves from the Ottoman invaders.

11 . If you love wine, be sure to go to Melnik town. The town is small, but it is very beautiful and quiet. The population is only 300 people, but the houses and buildings are beautiful and outlandish. It will take you a few minutes to walk along the main and longest street of Melnik.

But it’s worth coming here just for the delicious wines that are produced according to the ancient traditions of ancient wineries (the city is their capital). Be sure to visit a local tavern and taste aromatic wines. But don’t get carried away, because there are other interesting places in the town, for example, the Melnik rocks, as well as the Rozhen Monastery.

Be sure to travel to Bulgaria and visit the most famous and beautiful places in this country. Let the journey be interesting and unforgettable!

Bulgaria is popular among Russian tourists due to the relatively low prices for holidays and real estate. But in this country you will find not only a beach holiday, there are cities with beautiful architecture and many attractions. By the way, several cities in Bulgaria are among the oldest in Europe.

List of Bulgarian cities to visit

• Sofia
• Varna
• Plovdiv
• Burgas
• Veliko Tarnovo
• Bansko
• Koprivshtitsa
• Melnik
• Kazanlak

Sofia – a beautiful European capital

Sofia (photo: @abzguy/Instagram)

The capital of Bulgaria is one of the oldest cities in Europe. Tourists will definitely enjoy its charming cobbled streets and wide boulevards and many museums. These include the Archaeological Institute and Museum, the Museum of the History of Physical Culture and Sports, the Museum of Socialist Art, the Historical Museum of Bulgaria, the National Historical and Archaeological Museum, the Ethnographic Museum, the Museum of Natural History, and the Earth and People Museum.

Varna – a tourist mecca on the Black Sea coast

Varna (photo: @j2thefresh/Instagram)

Varna is well known to those who have been to Bulgaria on a resort holiday, because it is she, and not the capital of the country Sofia, that is the tourist center of Bulgaria due to its seaside location. But that's not all, because Varna has quite a lot of interesting cultural attractions, and this city is vying for the title of European Capital of Culture in 2019.

Plovdiv – a city of ancient architecture

Plovdiv (photo: @elvisdino/Instagram)

Plovdiv is one of the oldest European cities. It's hard to believe, but in age it surpasses both Athens and Rome. It is often called a city of contrasts because the streets of Plovdiv harmoniously combine modern buildings with charming ancient architecture that will take you back many centuries. More than two hundred buildings in this city are under state protection.

Burgas is a famous resort city for beach holidays

Burgas (photo: @lo6iq_batko/Instagram)

Burgas is another Bulgarian resort city on the Black Sea coast. It is famous for its clean beaches, comfortable hotel complexes and excellent shopping spots for tourists. Burgas is popular among Russian tourists as an excellent resort for family holidays due to its low prices.

Veliko Tarnovo – a picturesque town and ancient capital

Veliko Tarnovo (photo: @vodkatongue/Instagram)

Veliko Tarnovo is located in the northern part of Bulgaria, it is the administrative center of the Veliko Tarnovo region. The city is located in the valley of the Yantra River. Veliko Tarnovo is one of the oldest cities in the country, its history goes back more than five thousand years, which is confirmed by archaeological excavations. There is a medieval artists' quarter and an interesting Old Town, walks through which will impress tourists.

Bansko – ski resort in Bulgaria

Bansko (photo: @lucydodsworth/Instagram)

Did you know that in Bulgaria you can not only relax at the sea, but also ski? Bansko is a ski resort in the southwestern part of the country. But even if your goal is not to set sports records, you can also have a great time in Bansko. For example, walking along its colorful streets. The city has a museum of wall paintings and wood carvings, house museums, and the Church of the Holy Trinity.

Ruse – an architectural pearl

Ruse (photo: @pilula_20/Instagram)

Bulgarian Ruse is rightly called little Vienna, and the comparison with the Austrian capital is very obvious in its central part. Ruse is located on the right bank of the Danube, and it cannot leave indifferent a traveler who is interested in ancient sights. The city has many churches, natural parks and reserves, ancient fortresses. The Danube here forms a natural border with Romania, separating Bulgarian Ruse from Giurgiu.

Koprivshtitsa – a small town with beautiful architecture

Koprivshtitsa (photo: @stanislava_pa/Instagram)

Koprivshtitsa does not catch the eye on the map of Bulgaria, because it is a rather small town, which, nevertheless, is very picturesque and attractive for tourists. This is a real museum city in the very center of the country, which provides the opportunity to visit the house-museums of prominent Bulgarian personalities.

Melnik is the smallest city in the country

Melnik (photo: @anikapetal/Instagram)

Melnik is the smallest town in Bulgaria, its population is less than 400 people. However, it is absolutely impossible to beat it on the list of the most beautiful cities in the country that you need to visit. It is located at the foot of the Pirin Mountains, and got its name from the chalk rocks. Soviet writer Yuri Trifonov immortalized Melnik in his story “The Smallest Town,” which was published in 1967.

Kazanlak – the city of the Valley of Roses for lovers of natural beauty

Kazanlak (photo: @iwanderwithmycamera/Instagram)

The city is geographically located in the very center of Bulgaria, and not far from it is the famous Valley of Roses, where the Rose Festival has been held every year for over a hundred years. In addition, there are enough historical attractions, for example, the Rose Museum, the Kazanlak Tomb, the Kulata ethnographic complex, several churches, and historical museums.

Bulgaria is a European country with a rich cultural heritage, warm sea, sandy beaches and picturesque mountain peaks. The mild climate makes it pleasant to relax here at almost any time of the year. And even though sandy beaches are not so attractive in winter, ski resorts can provide a good rest for both lovers of active pastime and connoisseurs of natural beauty. Increasingly, our compatriots associate Bulgaria with inexpensive but high-quality holidays.

We should also talk about Bulgarian cuisine. Traditional cooking recipes here have their own unique national flavor. The presence of a large number of vegetables, aromatic spices and seasonings, fruits and grains - without all this it is impossible to imagine traditional dishes of Bulgarian cuisine. In addition to sweet desserts, sheep's cheese and a glass of red wine are served as an appetizer.

There are many small private wineries in Bulgaria. Today there is even such a concept as wine tourism. Depending on the region you choose, you will be able to try one or another type of wine. For example, on the coast there are good conditions for the growth of white grapes, and in the south of Bulgaria the Mavrud variety takes root better. Developed infrastructure, a high level of service, and the presence of a large number of architectural monuments attract more and more tourists to this country every year. Most vacationers want to combine business with pleasure: boat trips and swimming in the sea with visits to interesting places. Bulgaria is simply an ideal option in this regard.

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What to see in Bulgaria?

The most interesting and beautiful places, photographs and brief descriptions.

The Rila Lakes are located in the northwestern part of the mountain range of the same name. You can get to them by lift. A walking tour will take you much longer. When you reach the end point of your journey, an unforgettable beauty will open before you: glacial lakes with crystal clear water against the backdrop of mountain peaks reaching into the sky.

Both people and nature have worked on this piece of land. The first defensive fortifications began to be built here during the Roman Empire. Nature here has created, perhaps, the most unusual mountain range. Over time, the strangely shaped rocks received their own names and became surrounded by legends.

This monastery is located at the foot of the Pyrian Mountains. Stained glass windows and frescoes, ancient iconostases and the miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary have been preserved to this day, and delight the eye of both believers and tourists. The architectural design of the monastery lacks pretentiousness and pomp. The entire monastery complex fascinates with the simplicity of its lines and the elegance of its architectural composition.

Funeral decorations and other burial details have not survived to this day. But the frescoes, amazing in their beauty, have been preserved. Their value is simply enormous, because they date back to the 4th century BC. The Thracian tomb is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, so an exact copy of it was created for tourists.

This early Christian church has a very unusual history. From the 16th to the 19th centuries, during Turkish rule, it was converted into a mosque, and only at the end of the 19th century, the Rotunda of St. George again became a Christian temple. It was even possible to restore the frescoes on the walls and dome of the building. Today, as before, religious services are held here, and there is also a museum.

Beautiful two-story houses with bay windows and wooden stairs, streets lined with paving stones, graceful bridges with wooden railings - all this is reminiscent of a set from an old film. People here are sensitive to their customs and folklore. The village is located on the territory of an architectural reserve. There is also an ethnographic museum and many other places associated with the Bulgarian Renaissance.

Millions of roses. Every woman dreams, if not to receive it as a gift, then at least to see such a sea of ​​flowers right away. If you visit the valley near the Tundzha River, you will have the opportunity to enjoy this unforgettable spectacle, and the exquisite aroma of a thousand flowers will turn your head. You will definitely want to come back here again and again.

A mountain slope covered with coniferous forests is an ideal place for hiking in summer, autumn and spring. With the arrival of winter, Vitosha is covered with snow and becomes a place of pilgrimage for skiers and winter sports enthusiasts. Ski resorts, affordable prices and good service attract quite a large number of tourists here.

It is not for nothing that this fortress was the residence of the Bulgarian kings. The entire architectural ensemble of this building literally “screams” about wealth and grandeur. In addition, this place is literally covered with many legends and fairy tales. You definitely need to see it with your own eyes. No photographs can convey the globality and monumentality of this architectural monument.

The Baba Vida Fortress Museum stands on the banks of the Danube. Many events in the history of Bulgaria are closely connected with this architectural monument. Today, special theatrical performances are organized for tourists and vacationers on the territory of the fortress. The distant past will come to life before your eyes, you will become more familiar with the life and culture of this country, and you will simply receive aesthetic pleasure from watching the performance.

Today, a historical and archaeological reserve has been created on the territory of the ancient settlement of Pliski. In the distant past, the capital of Danube Bulgaria was located here. To date, some of the buildings have been successfully reconstructed. The best preserved remains of the ancient palace belonging to Khan Omurtag.

The residence of Queen Mary was built specifically for this crowned person. The architecture of the palace ensemble successfully combines elements of European and Arabic styles. From its terrace there is a beautiful view of the azure surface of the sea, mountain ranges and the botanical garden.

It is not for nothing that the Boyanka Church was included in the UNESCO cultural heritage list. A unique medieval painting dating back to 1259 has been preserved on its walls. The images of saints are striking in their realism and attention to detail. The artistic and historical value of these mural paintings is difficult to overestimate.

This ancient town, in addition to the beauty of nature, pleases the eye with many architectural monuments and ancient temples. The historical center of Sozopol has been declared an architectural reserve. The modern part of the city has a well-developed infrastructure, there are many hotels, cafes and restaurants.

The Patriarchal Cathedral of St. Alexander Nevsky is the second largest Orthodox church in Bulgaria. Its wall paintings include 273 hand-painted frescoes. In the decoration of the temple you can see unique Orthodox icons made by famous Russian masters.

This city has something to surprise both experienced travelers and newcomers. Many architectural monuments here date back to the period of prosperity of the Byzantine Empire. The list of the most famous and visited places in Old Nessebar includes the Archaeological Museum, the Ethnographic Museum, and the Church of St. Stephen. The favorable geographical location attracts crowds of tourists here.

It is difficult to convey in words all the beauty and grandeur of this monastery complex. Carved iconostases, murals by famous artists of that time, ancient icons and unique architecture make this monastery a pearl of world architecture. This monastery still operates today, occupying an area of ​​about 8800 sq.m.

And this city has everything that Bulgaria can boast of: the sea, beaches, home-produced wine, countless architectural monuments, temples and museums. Many famous artists, writers and cultural figures of the Bulgarian Renaissance lived and worked in Melnik.

Most accurately, this archaeological complex from the Middle Ages can be described in one word: “monumentality.” According to legend, this is where the grave of Orpheus is located. There was also a temple dedicated to the god Dionysius. Perperikon is an ancient city. He still keeps many secrets from prying eyes.

The Dzhumaya Mosque is admired by all tourists, regardless of religion. First of all, the artistic design of the external facade and internal walls of the building attracts attention. The decorations on the external facade are not too noticeable, but inside the mosque the elegant painting, stylized with floral patterns, makes an unforgettable impression.

Hospitable Bulgaria welcomes tourists all year round. The sights of Bulgaria and excellent hotel service are a good reason to visit the sunny country. Golden Sands, Borovets and many health resorts form the basis of numerous tourist routes, staffed by well-trained guides. And any travel direction that tourists choose guarantees them an interesting story about all the sights, monuments and sights they encounter along the way.

What to see in Bulgaria first

The main step in planning a trip is choosing where to go and in what order, and we have compiled a list of attractions that have gained worldwide fame. If they are with you, then organizational issues will be resolved much easier and faster, leaving yourself time to get acquainted with local traditions.

1. Aladzha Monastery (Varna)

Aladzha Rock Monastery

Aladzha Monastery is lost next to the Golden Sands resort. It is difficult to determine the style of its architecture, because it is carved into the rock, and the rock is almost vertical. It is difficult to hit and is almost invisible from the outside. Among all the attractions of Bulgaria, the monastery is one of the oldest objects. The time of its foundation is considered to be the 4th century. Until the attack of the Ottoman conquerors, the monastery was active. It ceased to function in the fourteenth century.

The medieval monastery will be of interest to those who decide what to visit in Bulgaria. The unique complex operates from May to October. You can learn more about its history in the museum, which is located at the very entrance to the monastery.

Christian hermits who were once located here lived on the first level of the building. There is a kitchen, a temple and monastic cells here. There is a chapel on the second floor of the monastery. The rock is quite large, there are many narrow gorges in it, in which it is easy to get lost. According to legend, it was in them that the unfortunate monks hid from the cruel Ottomans.

2. Rila Monastery (Sofia)

Main church of the Rila Monastery in Sofia

Near Sofia you can see the main shrine of Bulgaria - the Rila Monastery. It is masculine and is located in the mountains. Orthodox monks have found solace in prayers here since the 10th century. The founder of the monastery was John of Rylsky. Having settled in one of the crevices, he attracted many of his students here, who gradually began to settle in these rocks.

At various times, earthquakes and fires destroyed the monastery almost to the ground. It also suffered greatly from Turkish raids. But the inhabitants of Bulgaria are sensitive to Orthodox shrines, so the monastery was restored to its pristine beauty every time.

If you have not yet decided what to visit in Bulgaria, be sure to pay attention to this object. The relics of John of Rila are kept here. In addition, the miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary Guide (Hodegetria) is also kept in the archives of the monastery.

Travelers will also be interested in the unique Raphael Cross. It is engraved with 650 figures, united by religious themes. The wall frescoes of the monastery are amazing! All of them are handmade and made with the greatest love and with the same great skill.

For a detailed acquaintance with the monastery, you can visit the museum located nearby. Several decades ago, the Rila Monastery was included in the list of UNESCO sites.

3. Old town of Nessebar (Nessebar)

The old town of Nessebar is a Bulgarian pearl

The city of Nessebar is called the architectural pearl of the country. It is located on a peninsula whose length is only 850 m. The city's closest neighbor is Burgas.

The history of Nessebar goes back more than one thousand years. In the archaeological surveys that were carried out here at different times, there are reports of finds from various civilizations and cultures. The city is a UNESCO heritage site, and since 1956 Nessebar has officially received the status of a museum city.

Its unique feature is the fact that tourists can see part of the city that went under water several centuries ago. Modern Nessebar is located on a small piece of land, but almost 50 Orthodox churches are concentrated on it. And the underwater part of the city is clearly visible in clear weather.

4. Tsarevets Fortress (Veliko Tarnovo)

Medieval fortress Tsarevets on a rocky hill

Thinking about what to visit in Bulgaria? Rest assured, the Tsarevets fortress is open to visitors all year round. In different reference books, the Tsarevets fortress is designated differently. Somewhere you can see mentions that this is an architectural and historical monument. Somewhere it is indicated as a high-class hotel with excellent service.

But this boutique hotel, which is located in Veliko Tarnovo, is worth a visit, if only to enjoy the magnificent audiovisual show “Light and Sound”.

Hotel service begins with accommodation in comfortable compact rooms. All the benefits of civilization are provided to those who come to see the sights of Bulgaria. Tourists will be greeted by private parking next to the hotel, for which they will not have to pay.

The hotel has only 3 floors. A staircase made of yellow sandstone leads to them. The hotel has been restored in an elegant style and is a pleasant place to stay at any time of the year.

5. Palace of Queen Maria (Balchik)

Queen Mary's summer residence with minaret and Botanical Garden

Those who value aesthetics and harmony in architecture strive to visit the beautiful palace of Queen Mary. This is one of the most famous historical monuments of the Black Sea coast of Bulgaria. Now it has been restored and is protected by the state.

The palace is the summer residence of Queen Mary. This is an amazingly beautiful place, surrounded by fabulous flowers and evergreen vines. The greenhouses surrounding the palace are laid out with scientific precision. There are many elegant compositions of living plants, as well as architectural ensembles.

Tourists are always surprised at how the modest decoration of the palace does not correspond to its name. This is a two-story building with several rooms. Mary's throne is made of stone. According to legend, it was from here that the queen loved to admire the sunrise and sunset. Interestingly, tourists are always given the opportunity to sit on this throne.

Be sure to watch this beautiful video about Bulgaria!

6. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral (Sofia)

Temple-monument of St. Alexander Nevsky in Sofia

What to see in Bulgaria? Of course, on your trip you cannot ignore the main St. Sophia Cathedral named after Alexander Nevsky. Our contemporaries find the complex architecture of the structure amazing. The impressive and majestic cathedral can accommodate 5,000 believers at a time.

The foundation of the cathedral is associated with the 19th century. In 1882, the first stone was solemnly laid on the site of the future building. The event was timed to coincide with the liberation of Bulgaria in the Russian-Turkish war. But construction work began only at the beginning of the 20th century. The consecration of the cathedral took place in 1912.

The events of World War II almost destroyed the cathedral, but today it has been restored to its original historical form. The reconstruction work was headed by the architect Pomerantsev, who is a professor at the Academy of Arts.

The main altar of the temple is named after Alexander Nevsky. The museum fund of the cathedral is very rich. In it, in particular, you can see over 270 frescoes and almost 100 icons. The scale of the structure is indicated by the fact that the height of the dome of the temple reaches 45 m. And the crosses on the domes reach a height of 5 meters. The total weight of the domes is 23 tons, so their sound seems especially impressive.

7. Bachkovo Monastery (Bachkovo)

General view of the Bachkovo Monastery

The Bachkovo monastery has a second name - Petritsonsky. This landmark of Bulgaria is included in the list of national monuments protected by the state. This monastery united several cultures. It was founded in the 11th century by Gregory Bakuriani, a Byzantine military leader. His brother led the project with him.

Since both brothers were Georgians, the temple was initially visited by monks from this country. Bulgarian monks began to appear here only in the 14th century. The monastery, like many sights in Bulgaria, was destroyed by the Ottomans in the fifteenth century. It took as many as 100 years for the Bachkovo Monastery to be completely restored.

Representatives of different cultures fought for a long time for the right to own the monastery. The Greek-Bulgarian debate lasted almost the entire 19th century. And as a result, the temple became the property of Bulgaria. In its very center the Church of the Holy Trinity was erected. Next to the monastery there is a cemetery where the family of the founder rests.

8. Roman Amphitheater (Plovdiv)

The Roman Amphitheater is on the list of must-see attractions in Bulgaria. Plovdiv is a city of contrasts. Modern high-rise buildings peacefully coexist here with ancient buildings, which have long been classified as historical monuments. There are approximately 200 such iconic objects in Plovdiv. The Roman amphitheater is one of them.

The structure of the city is interesting. It is divided into New and Old. At the same time, Old is like a city within a city. It was restored with donations from Bulgarians with the participation of the state. Currently it is an open-air museum.

Among the attractions of Bulgaria that are available here are the basilica, the theater, and the Roman amphitheater. According to legend, the amphitheater was built by Emperor Trajan, and the period of its construction dates back to the middle of the 2nd century AD. The amphitheater is still operational.

9. Wine Museum (Pleven)

Wine Museum in the city of Pleven in the Kailaka park

To visit Bulgaria and not see the wine museum means not to see all the sights in Bulgaria. It is located next to an artificial reservoir in Pleven. The entrance to the museum is designed in a colorful manner. It's like he was carved out of a cave.

Stylish, heavy bars protect windows in the style of a medieval castle. The arch leading inside seems to be made of unhewn rough stones. But in fact, the structure meets all modern engineering and technical requirements.

In 1902, the National Wine Institute began to function in Pleven. Professional viticultural art is fully represented in the museum's exhibition. It would be strange, when presenting the sights of Bulgaria to tourists, to ignore the wines, which are rightfully considered national masterpieces. The generous southern sun of Bulgaria allows the vines to ripen fully, which is why Bulgarian wines are famous for their particularly rich taste.

The museum has two tasting rooms and an exhibition pavilion. Those who are interested in the history of Bulgarian winemaking can visit the historical hall. The richness of the assortment is evidenced by the fact that the museum’s collection contains 12,000 brands of wine.

10. St. Sophia Cathedral (Sofia)

Hagia Sophia - the symbol of the Bulgarian capital

St. Sophia Cathedral is a landmark not only in Bulgaria, but also a notable phenomenon in world art. This is a functioning Orthodox Church. This cathedral is valued and revered in Bulgaria. He is depicted on the coat of arms of Sofia.

St. Sophia Cathedral was built in the 4th century. Initially, it was a modest and nondescript church, but, at the behest of the Roman Emperor Constantine 1, a luxurious cathedral was later built on the site of the small church.

The monumentality of the structure arouses constant admiration among tourists. If you are wondering what to see in Bulgaria, St. Sophia Cathedral should be the first point of your trip. The barbarians almost completely destroyed the cathedral, but it was restored during the reign of Justinian 1.

The composition of the temple is a cross. The unusual structure lies in the fact that the domes are sloping and flat. Periodically, reconstruction events were carried out in the cathedral. At the end of the 20th century, regular restoration work was done on the territory of the cathedral and ancient Roman catacombs were found.

On the territory of the cathedral today there is a beautiful monument to the doctor. It is dedicated to Russian doctors who died during the Russian-Turkish war.

Sights of Bulgaria: what else to visit while in Bulgaria

Studying the historical and natural monuments of the country will bring great pleasure to both children and adults, especially since you can create a route that will suit the duration and fit into your budget. The places presented in the list below will be no less memorable.

11. Bulgarian city-reserve (Veliko Tarnovo)

A picturesque corner of the city-reserve Veliko Tarnovo

Veliko Tarnovo is a small town, but it plays a big role in the cultural life of Bulgaria. It is a universally recognized center of literature and architecture. At different stages of time, the city was ruled by Ivan Shishman, Ivan Alexander, Ivan Asen 2. By the 14th century, the city was actively developed, there were many beautiful monuments of architecture and architecture. But in 1393, the Ottomans almost completely burned Veliko Tarnovo.

During the long Ottoman rule, Bulgarian authenticity was practically exterminated. In 1878, the Turkish yoke fell, and the city began to gradually revive. Currently, there are many iconic objects here, because it is not for nothing that Veliko Tarnovo is considered a city-reserve. The townspeople are especially proud of the Patriarchal Cathedral of the Ascension and the Church of Saints Paul and Peter.

12. Gabrovo

Sunny summer day in Gabrovo

On the northern slope of Mount Stara is the amazing city of Gabrovo, one of the most striking attractions in Bulgaria. Since the 14th century, Gabrovo has been steadily gaining economic weight, crafts are developing here and trade is actively conducted. But Gabrovo received city status only in 1860. The city entered a period of intense economic development from 1878, when Bulgaria was liberated from the Ottoman yoke.

Currently, mechanical engineering is quite well developed in Gabrovo. The mischievous spirit of Gabrovo residents and their sparkling jokes are known all over the world. The city is traditionally considered not only the economic capital of Bulgaria, but also the capital of humor. Here, for example, there is the House of Satire and Humor.

One of its exhibits was a copy of the Certificate of Honor naming asteroid (minor planet) No. 2206 after Gabrovo. The casuistry of this event is that asteroid number 2206 was discovered on World April Fool's Day.

The city has the same reputation as Odessa in Ukraine. Every year it hosts humor festivals. Russian cartoonists Mikhail Zlatkovsky and Vitaly Peskov became laureates of the Gabrov festivals at different times.

13. Dzhumaya Mosque (Plovdiv)

Dzhumaya Mosque on Dzhumayata Square in Plovdiv

Bulgaria is not only full of Christian monuments and cathedrals. In the city of Plovdiv there is the Dzhumaya Mosque. It will be of interest to those who are wondering what to see in Bulgaria. The mosque was built in 1364, almost immediately after the conquest of Plovdiv by the Ottomans. It is significant that previously on the site of the mosque there was the Cathedral of St. Petka of Tarnovskaya. That is, the mosque had indicative religious significance.

In its original form, the mosque existed for 60 years. Sultan Murad 2 ordered to destroy the building and erect a new, more monumental and majestic one. Currently, the Dzhumaya Mosque exists in this form. This is one of the old religious symbols. The building was built in 2 rows of bricks. In addition, there is a row of wild stone in the brickwork. The domes are covered with lead, and the minaret rises above the north-eastern part of the mosque.

The interior of the mosque is richly decorated with sculptures on the theme of floristry. In addition, according to Muslim tradition, the mosque is decorated with quotes from the Koran carved in stone. Currently, entry into the prayer hall is subject to a strict dress code, which includes no shoes and full-body clothing. A headscarf is required for women. This is explained by the fact that the mosque remains operational.

14. Varna

Varna - the sea capital of Bulgaria

Varna is a port city and at the same time one of the largest Bulgarian resorts. Since the 6th century BC, Varna was considered a Greek colony of Odessos. In the twelfth century, the name Varna in its modern form was first determined. The city is named after the flowing Varna River.

Hotel service in Varna has been brought to the highest European level. Tourists are offered both five-star and budget hotels. Among the attractions of Bulgaria, you should definitely visit the Assumption Cathedral, the Archaeological Museum, and the Aladzha Monastery.

Those traveling with children will be interested in visiting the Dolphinarium and the Sea Garden Park. The dolphinarium regularly hosts dolphin shows; here you can see these beautiful animals in all their splendor. The Sea Garden, which stretches for several kilometers along the Black Sea coast, was founded more than a century ago. It contains the rarest exhibits of local flora.

Having close ties with Russia, Varna takes great care of the monuments to Russian soldiers. In addition, the city has streets named Alexander Pushkin, Gavriil Derzhavin, Vladimir Vysotsky, as well as Tsar Liberator Square.

15. Kamchia Nature Reserve (Kamchia)

View of the unique Kamchia nature reserve

The reserve is located 25 kilometers from Varna and crowns the natural attractions of Bulgaria. This territory received the status of a nature reserve in 1951. The reserve became a UNESCO site in 1977 under the “Man and the Biosphere” program. This is a unique biosphere reserve, the purpose of which is to preserve the ecological purity and originality of the flora and fauna of this area.

The forests along the Kamchia River are preserved in pristine integrity. Tree cutting is strictly prohibited here, and all plants are protected by the state. Since 1984, the area of ​​the reserve has been 842 hectares.

A total of 245 species of various plants have been recorded here. Amazingly beautiful panoramic landscapes attract tourists from all over the world. Excursions are always accompanied by professional guides. The Kamchia Nature Reserve is located on the territory of the Avren and Dolni Chiflik communities.

As for the fauna, it is also under state protection. In particular, the reserve has a great ornithological diversity. More than 250 species of birds live here. Rare birds have been registered on the territory of the reserve, for which all conditions have been created to maintain the population.

These include, for example, the black stork, the lesser spotted eagle, and the hobby. The reserve is of interest to many tourists, and it is included in popular tourist routes. It is especially often visited by vacationers in the nearby resorts of Kamchia and Shkorpilovtsi.

Visits to the reserve are strictly regulated, since it is one of those attractions of Bulgaria that are carefully protected by the state. Of course, hunting is prohibited here at any time.

The climatic conditions here are very favorable for recreation. For example, this region has high humidity, and the average temperature in summer does not exceed 23 degrees Celsius. Despite the fact that coastal forests are sometimes flooded during the meltwater season, local authorities try to maintain an optimal ecological balance.

Next to Bulgaria is a country of friendly and warm-hearted people - Serbia. While in Bulgaria, think about visiting this country. Explore and be inspired for your further journey through Eastern Europe!

Bulgaria is a country in Eastern Europe located on the Balkan Peninsula. The capital is Sofia. Other large and popular cities are Varna, Burgas, Plovdiv. The state borrowed its name from the Bulgarians, who arose in the early Middle Ages.

The country's population is more than 7 million people. The official language is Bulgarian, although many use Russian, English and German for conversational purposes. More than 70% of the population professes Orthodoxy. The climate in Bulgaria is temperate continental, in some places Mediterranean. In the south the country is washed by the Black Sea. The beach season lasts from May to October.

According to the administrative division in Bulgaria there are 28 regions, which in turn are divided into numerous regions. The accepted form of government is a parliamentary republic. Member of the EU since 2007.

The first mention of the Bulgarians dates back to the middle of the 4th century. At the end of the 7th century, the First Bulgarian Khanate was formed. At the end of the 19th century, the Principality of Bulgaria was formed on the territory of the country with its capital in Sofia. Since 1990, Bulgaria has been a republic.

Both winter and summer tourism are well developed. In winter, people come to ski resorts in Bulgaria - Bansko, Borovets, etc. In summer, the resorts of Golden Sands and Albena are popular.

Russian citizens require either a national visa or a Schengen visa to enter. The official currency is the Bulgarian Lev.

Places and attractions of Bulgaria by rating:

Aladzha Monastery

Queen Mary's Palace and Botanical Gardens

Pirin Mountains

Cathedral of the Holy Week

Vitosha Boulevard

Varna city beach

Banya Bashi Mosque

National Gallery of Foreign Art

Archaeological Museum of Varna

Rotunda of St. George

National Theater of Ivan Vazov

Dolphinarium Varna

Bulgarian Parliament

Primorsky (Marine) Park

Opera House in Varna

Photos of Bulgaria: