Golden dome-topped cathedrals are just some of the tourist attractions in Bulgaria. The ancient Thracians were the first to mint gold coins. They fought in the Trojan War and are considered one of the original civilizations in Macedonia. Read on to learn about all the great things to do in Bulgaria.
History: Alexander the Great conquered the lands that would become Bulgaria. In the 7th century B.C., sea faring Hellenic merchants began settling on the Black Sea Coast. The Romans entered the area during the 1st century A.D. and built roads through the area. Many streets in Bulgaria follow the same routes they did centuries before.
Sofia: Bulgaria's capitol city, Sofia has many ancient architectural buildings to explore and is home to many tourist attractions in Bulgaria. Rila Monastery was built in the 10th century to honor the hermit St. John of Rila. His tomb and residence over the years became a focal point for medieval spirituality. Pillars, domes and amazing scenery provide a look into the mystical history of this town. Boyana Church is home to amazing frescos painted during the early 1200's.
St. Alexander Nevsky, SofiaRousse District: The district of Rousse has the Ivanovo Rock Monastery. It was carved out of the solid rock by hermit monks during the 11th and 14th century, and is now one of the many UNESCO sites in the area. Frescos adorning the walls of the chapels and churches are a tribute to the medieval skill of the artists of that era. The National Park of Roussenski Lom was formed when the Pliocene Era gave way to the glacial Pleistocene Era. The river cut deep into the rock and still feeds the Danube River. Tourists to the park can tour this natural wonder on horseback, bicycle and foot.
Borgas District: The soil and climate of this region encouraged viticulture to develop. Misket varieties grow well and it is in Varna where local vineyards offer tours and wine tasting. Visiting Varna in the summer will allow you to take in a ten hour day at the beach. Calm waters and cool breezes invite sightseeing tours of the many architectural buildings and monasteries.
Plodiv: Visitors can sit back in the ancient marble amphitheater and listen to music masterpieces during one of many scheduled performances. This town has known many occupants during its 3,000 year history. Stone marvels from the Roman occupation add flavor to the medieval artwork and the many religious monuments. Christmas is a special time in Plodiv, and the Plodiv International Trade Show held twice each year brings visitors from around the world.
Veliko Tarnovo: This town on four hills, each one looking down into the Yantra River Valley, was a major commercial and cultural city during the 13th century. Entire neighborhoods have been declared museum reserves. The Fortresses of Tsarevets and Trapezitsa, located high atop the hills, provided protection for the merchants and residents of the inner city.
Specialty Tours: Imagine racing through the Balkan forest with stops in local villages as you make your way to the beach. Jeep tours in Bulgaria provide adventurous visitors with the option to see the country from a resident's view. Vineyard tours can last for a day or a week and provide stops at the major wineries, historic monuments and sites. Architectural tours take tourists to the most important sites. There are walking tours of specific areas, or park and bicycle tours that will provide tourists with a less hurried view of the sights. Cruises aboard passenger ships, horseback excursions and helicopter tours provide a different view of the country.
Amusement Parks: Bulgaria is actively pursuing tourism, adding attractions and tours regularly. Action Aquapark is open from May until September and is located in Sunny Beach Black Sea Resort. Kokolandia blends nature with technology as the attractions are geared for hands on exploration. Physical challenges like walking across log ladders suspended in the air and jumping on inflated shapes are just a few of the fascinating things for young and old alike. A miniature golf course and refreshments round out this park's features. The Primorsko Sports Park with a waterpark and indoor football, basketball and tennis provide year round sporting fun. Maimunarnika Park will challenge your courage and physical prowess as you navigate the extreme rope adventures.
There are many tourist attractions in Bulgaria with many more to be added as the country moves forward into the future.
Visit often to learn more information about our updated Tourist Attractions in Bulgaria.
