Bulgaria Tours December 2023

Bulgaria Travel Guide

Bulgaria Tours Things To Do

• 
  Take a photo of the picturesque Seven Rila Lakes

  The Seven Rila Lakes are a beautiful set of lakes in Bulgaria that are glacial. They are right next to the Rila Mountain and are among the top-visited lakes in the whole country. Some of the best views of the lakes are from above, so bring your hiking shoes. If you aren't interested in hiking, then be sure to hop on the chair lift, which also offers some breathtaking views that you wouldn't be able to get elsewhere. For a fun experience, stay nearby in one of the local accommodations!

  You Should Know

  Because this is an outdoor landmark, make sure you check the weather before you go. This isn't a fun place to visit in the rain!  

• 
  Explore the historic Rila Monastery

  The Rila Monastery, also known as the Monastery of Saint Ivan of Rila, is one of the most-visited monasteries in the country. It's an Eastern Orthodox monastery and is located right in the mountains, making it an incredibly scenic spot to visit. The Rila Monastery is, in fact, best visited with a tour guide, so you're in luck if you're on a Bulgaria Tour. Make sure you grab a map before you visit so that you can get a feel for all that you're about to experience during your visit.

  You Should Know

  Because this is a top spot to visit in Bulgaria, expect it to be busy if you visit anytime besides when it first opens.  

• 
  Explore Plovdiv

  Plovdiv is a gorgeous city located in Bulgaria that dates back to ancient times. It's surrounded by seven different hills and is located in Bulgaria's southern region. Because this city dates back to ancient times, it's filled with many historical spots you'll want to visit during your trip. Some of the top sights to explore in Plovdiv include the Ancient Theater of Philippolis, the Ancient Stadium of Philippopolis, and Plovdiv's old town. Make sure you also take the time to try some local cuisines here, and perhaps even go on a food tour!

  You Should Know

  A lot of Plovdiv's must-visit spots are outside, so make sure you wear comfortable walking shoes. It's effortless to get around the city on foot, luckily!  

• 
  Walk along the cliffs at Cape Kaliakra

  Cape Kaliakra is a beautiful viewpoint in northern Bulgaria. It's located right along the Black Sea Coast and is made up of many gorgeous cliffs that are even more breathtaking around sunset or sunrise. Though it's a famous scenic spot today, it was historically a battle sight and was home to lots of other tragedies. Despite its turbulent history, you'll want to come at least and see the views at Cape Kaliakra once during your Bulgaria tour. Don't forget your camera; you're going to want it!

  You Should Know

  Be sure also to take the time to visit some of the ruins in this area, which are also worth exploring.  

• 
  Step back in history at the Tsarevets Fortress

  Tsarevets Fortress is a famous fortification dating back to medieval times in Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria. It stands upon a hill, giving it a great view down below. No matter where you are in the town, you can see it. While here, make sure you take the time to walk around the fortress walls, which offer breathtaking views. There are also many other spots, like a church, ruins, and even a cafe that you'll want to visit. Be sure to take the time to explore the rest of Veliko Tarnovo after your visit to the fortress.

  You Should Know

  Tsarevets Fortress is entirely family-friendly, even for younger kids!  

• 
  Have fun at Sunny Beach

  Sunny Beach is the most popular beach and resort in all of Bulgaria. It's located right along the Black Sea Coast and is filled with beautiful dunes, outdoor activities, clubs, bars, nightlife, and of course, water sports! This is a great spot to visit, no matter your age. Whether you're interested in relaxing, swimming, or boating, you'll have fun at Sunny Beach. Just don't forget your sunscreen and your swimsuit!

  You Should Know

  Sunny Beach is one of the most-visited spots in all of Bulgaria. It can get hectic, no matter the time of day, unfortunately.  

• 
  Hike up Vitosha

  Vitosha is a massive mountain in Bulgaria located right outside of Sofia. It has an elevation of just over 7,500 feet and can be seen almost everywhere in the surrounding area because of its height. It's most gorgeous during the winter when it gets snowcapped! This mountain is arguably the best place to go hiking in Sofia. There are quite a few routes, each with varying levels. Some of the more popular trails include Kamen Del, Cherni Vrah (The Black Peak), and the Aleko Hut. Some hikes here are a bit more complicated, but if you're a beginner hiker, hike the Aleko Hut trail.

  You Should Know

  You'll want to pack some snacks and water for this trek!  

• 
  Take a trip to the Maryan Winery

  The Maryan Winery is an often overlooked spot to visit in Bulgaria, but it's extraordinarily unique and worth stopping by if you have the time. The winery itself is named after the nearby town, Maryan. The winery was started by Svetla and Ilia Ivanov, who first started the company in 2012. They make around 50,000 bottles of wine each year, and they offer tours. While here, be sure also to check out the surrounding town of Elena and the Elena Mountain.

  You Should Know

  If you're interested in a tour, make sure you check tour times in advance.  

• 
  Relax in Pomorie

  Pomorie is a famous town in Bulgaria that's located right on the coast. It's also home to some of the country's best resorts outside of Sunny Beach. This is truly the place to go if you're looking to relax. There are quite a few stretches of sandy beach areas around Pomorie. Other fun activities here include going on walks along the water and visiting the view museums that the town has to offer. This place is truly a paradise on earth!

  You Should Know

  If you'd like to stay at the resort here, make sure you book it well in advance.  

Bulgaria Tour Packages

• Spring and Fall - September to November and March to May - Shoulder Season

  The spring and fall seasons are a great time to visit Bulgaria if you want to avoid the crowds that summer will bring. The average temperature in the spring is 57°F, while the fall averages around 61°F. It is a bit of a colder country, but it's still utterly fair weather to be outside with just a light layered jacket!

• Summer - June to August - High Season

  The summer months are the most popular time to visit Bulgaria since this is when the country is warm. The average temperature during this season is 78°F. Because so many people visit, you'll find that accommodation prices will be slightly higher, unfortunately. 

• Winter - December to February - Low Season

  The winter months in Bulgaria average around 37°F. It can get quite cold, but it's still a beautiful time to visit. Because so few people visit during this time of year, you'll get great deals on accommodation. 

Bulgaria Tours Frequently Asked Questions

• What are Bulgaria Tours?

  Bulgaria tours are the perfect way to get introduced to this magnificent country if you want to take the hassle out of travel planning. You won't have to worry about where to stay, where to go, or how to get from place to place because it'll all be planned out for you. All you have to do is pack your bag and get ready to go on the adventure of a lifetime!

• What’s included on a Bulgaria Tour?

  Bulgaria tours include a tour guide who will be with you along your journey through the country. They plan your itinerary and do all the other planning as well. Your main tour director will most likely also enlist the help of other local tour guides along your journey so that you can also tap into the knowledge of locals when you explore. Also, a lot of your meals are included, as well as your accommodation and transportation. It varies from tour to tour, though, so make sure you do your research.

• What’s the best Bulgaria Tour?

  Because each Bulgaria tour is so different, there isn't one that's better than another. You'll have to do your research to find the one that's best for you. If there is a particular place that you'd like to visit, make sure that your tour will stop there. Also, consider your budget and the length of time you have to go on a Bulgaria tour!

• How much do Bulgaria Tours cost?

  Bulgaria tours vary in price, depending on the tour operator, length, and stops on the itinerary. Some cost as little as $80 per day while others cost closer to $200 per day - it truly all depends. However, if you book through Affordable Tours, you can rest assured that you're saving up to 40% off what you would be if you were to book elsewhere!