Make the most of your time in Bulgaria.
Situated at a major cultural intersection between Turkey and Southeast Europe, Bulgaria has managed to keep its singular folklore and tradition alive. This is a country all its own, and its spectacular forested landscape and interesting local cuisine—including wine and yogurt found nowhere else in the world—continues to draw visitors.

When is the best time to visit?
Bulgaria enjoys four defined Northern Hemisphere seasons. Many tourists head to Bulgaria in the summer when the weather is dependably hot and dry, but the other seasons can be excellent times to visit depending on your interests. In the spring, nature awakens—quite a sight, given that 30% of the country is covered in forest. Autumn is typically still pleasant with brilliant fall foliage, and winter brings a snowy landscape, lower prices, and a peaceful quiet away from the crowds.

Where should you go?
Traces of the oldest human presence in Europe have been discovered here—the Thracians, ancient Greeks and Romans, Celtics, Byzantines, and Ottoman Turks all left a footprint. You can retrace history at sites in Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria; Plovdiv, voted the 2019 European Capital of Culture; and Veliko Tarnovo, the medieval capital.

Bulgaria's many national parks and protected areas are worth a visit of their own. South of Sofia, the Rila Mountains are home to the UNESCO-listed Rila Monastery, the Seven Rila Lakes and the highest peak on the Balkan Peninsula—Musala, from the Turkish name ‘Near the Prophet.' Pirin Mountains National Park is all lakes and granite, while the southeastern Rhodope Range boasts beautiful sub-alpine scenery. You should also stop in the Central Balkans, an extension of the Julian Alps that runs for 400 miles through the middle of the country, ending at the Black Sea. 

How many days do you need?
A weeklong trip will cover the highlights. Spend at least two if you want a deep dive into Bulgarian culture or take your time exploring the national parks—your specialist can recommend the perfect itinerary for your travel goals.