Have you come here because you’re thinking about visiting Bulgaria? We’re delighted to hear it. Although Bulgaria is becoming increasingly popular with international travellers, it still remains one of Europe’s lesser-known destinations. As a result, many first-time visitors aren’t quite sure what to expect.
The good news is that Bulgaria has a remarkable amount to offer. From UNESCO World Heritage Sites and spectacular mountain scenery to unique traditions, delicious food and the world-famous Rose Valley, the country combines extraordinary diversity with authentic experiences that are still largely undiscovered by mass tourism.
This guide introduces some of the things Bulgaria is best known for, helping you understand what makes the country unique and inspiring ideas for your own trip. If anything catches your imagination, we’d be delighted to help you experience it through one of our private Bulgaria day trips and tours.
Bulgaria is Famous for its Roses
The rose is the national flower of Bulgaria. But this beautiful flowering plant holds much more cultural and historical significance for Bulgaria than most other countries’ national flowers do. This is because rose oil is Bulgaria’s biggest export and a vital part of the country’s economy. The unique species of rose called Rosa Damascena grows well across much of the country, but it grows particularly well in The Rose Valley — an area south of the Balkan Mountains. The rose oil extracted from the roses is used in many perfumes and beauty products, and it has been produced in Bulgaria since the 16th century. There is a Rose Festival every June in Bulgaria. This is the best time to visit the Rose Valley as the roses are at their most beautiful and the atmosphere in the area is incredible.
Hiking and Mountain Climbing in Bulgaria
Bulgaria is one of Europe’s most mountainous countries, with almost a third of its territory covered by mountain ranges. Whether you’re looking for an easy walk through ancient forests, a rewarding day hike or a challenging multi-day adventure, you’ll find remarkable opportunities across the country.
From short excursions in Sofia’s Vitosha Nature Park to the world-famous Seven Rila Lakes in Rila National Park, Bulgaria offers hiking experiences for every level of ability. More experienced hikers can explore the dramatic landscapes of the Balkan, Pirin and Rhodope Mountains, many of which remain pleasantly uncrowded compared with other popular European destinations.
If exploring Bulgaria on foot appeals to you, we invite you to discover our guide to Why Hike in Bulgaria’s National Parks. If you’re looking for a greater challenge, you may also enjoy reading 5 reasons to climb in Bulgaria.
Bulgarian Food
For many travellers, discovering local food is one of the highlights of visiting a new country—and Bulgaria certainly won’t disappoint. Choosing a single dish that Bulgaria is best known for isn’t easy, as many visitors arrive without having heard of the country’s traditional cuisine.
Bulgarian food shares many influences with its South-Eastern European neighbours while maintaining its own distinctive character. You can look forward to dishes such as the Bulgarian version of moussaka, prepared with potatoes rather than aubergines, and the beloved banitsa.
Perhaps Bulgaria’s most iconic culinary speciality is kiselo mlyako. Bulgarians proudly consider it the original yoghurt, made using Lactobacillus bulgaricus.
If you’d like to discover another side of Bulgaria’s culinary heritage, don’t miss our Guide to Bulgarian Wine, where you’ll find indigenous grape varieties and one of Europe’s oldest winemaking traditions.
Boyana Church
Boyana Church is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Bulgaria, and the minute you step foot in this church you will understand why. Together with Rila Monastery, Boyana Church is one of Bulgaria’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites and an essential stop for anyone interested in the country’s medieval history and art.
Found just outside Sofia, this church dates back to the 10th century and is one of the earliest surviving examples of a Bulgarian Orthodox church. The frescoes found on many of the walls are intricately done and utterly sublime. Step into a different time at Boyana. Combine nature with this incredible building on our Boyana Church for Hikers tour from Sofia.
Rila Monastery
If Boyana Church isn’t enough, you might also like to visit the Rila Monastery. This is the largest Eastern Orthodox monastery in Bulgaria. Rila Monastery is a 2-hour drive south of Sofia, nestled in the southwestern section of the Rila Mountains. This impressive building began construction in the mid 19th century and has some of the most unique architecture and frescoes you’ll ever see. Its spectacular setting among the Rila Mountains makes it one of the most photographed landmarks in Bulgaria and a highlight of almost every visitor’s itinerary.
History & Culture
Bulgaria’s history stretches back thousands of years. Long before the Romans, the Thracians flourished here, leaving behind remarkable archaeological treasures, including the world’s oldest known processed gold, discovered in the Varna Necropolis. Bulgaria also played a crucial role in the development and spread of the Cyrillic alphabet, which is now used by hundreds of millions of people around the world. Visitors can experience this rich heritage through the country’s monasteries, medieval capitals and archaeological sites.
Hidden Natural Landscapes
Beyond its famous landmarks, Bulgaria is home to some of Europe’s most underrated natural landscapes. From the Belogradchik Rocks and the Rhodope Mountains to the Seven Rila Lakes and the Iskar Gorge, the country offers remarkable scenery throughout the year. While Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast attracts many visitors during the summer, some of the country’s most rewarding experiences can be found in its mountains, forests and protected landscapes, where nature can be enjoyed at a slower pace.
Nodding and Shaking your Head in Bulgaria
The last thing Bulgaria is famous for is its rather controversial head nodding and shaking customs… While most of the world seems to use a head nod (up and down) to mean yes and a head shake (side to side) to mean no, Bulgaria does it the opposite way. Hopefully knowing this before you visit will help you avoid some confusion…
FAQ
Absolutely. Bulgaria combines history, nature, excellent food and outstanding value for money while remaining far less crowded than many European destinations.
Rila Monastery, the Rose Valley, mountain landscapes, yoghurt, rose oil, Thracian heritage and warm hospitality are among the country’s best-known attractions.
Compared with many Western European destinations, Bulgaria offers excellent value for money, particularly when it comes to accommodation, dining and private guided experiences.
Whether you’re drawn by spectacular mountains, ancient history, traditional food or vibrant local culture, Bulgaria has far more to offer than many first-time visitors expect.
If you’re ready to continue planning your trip, explore our detailed guides to Rila Monastery, Bulgaria’s National Parks, Bulgarian Wine and Sofia. Together they’ll help you discover even more of what makes Bulgaria such a rewarding destination.
And if you’re visiting Sofia for Eurovision 2027, don’t forget to explore our Eurovision Survival Guide for practical local advice and ideas for making the most of your stay.
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