HISTORIC CITIES. TIMELESS STORIES.
Bulgaria
Explore ancient cities, medieval fortresses and spectacular Orthodox monasteries. From Sofia’s Roman ruins and Plovdiv’s old town to the Black Sea coast and the Rila Mountains, Bulgaria reveals centuries of Thracian, Byzantine, Bulgarian and Ottoman heritage.
A LAND OF ANCIENT KINGDOMS AND CULTURES
Discover Bulgaria Through the Ages
From Thracian tombs and Roman theatres to medieval capitals, Orthodox monasteries and Black Sea trading towns, Bulgaria’s layered history is visible across the country. Discover the remarkable places and stories that shaped its cultural identity.
EXPLORE BY DESTINATION
Discover Bulgaria’s Destinations
Sofia
Explore Bulgaria’s capital through ancient Serdica, the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, historic churches, Ottoman-era traces and museums of the modern nation.
Plovdiv
Walk through one of Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, from the Roman theatre and stadium to colourful Bulgarian Revival houses in the Old Town.
Veliko Tarnovo
Discover the medieval capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire, with Tsarevets Fortress, dramatic hilltop streets and historic churches overlooking the Yantra River.
Nessebar
Discover the UNESCO-listed old town on the Black Sea, where ancient Greek foundations, Byzantine churches and traditional wooden houses stand side by side.
Rila Monastery
Visit Bulgaria’s celebrated Orthodox monastery in the Rila Mountains, renowned for its colourful frescoes, arcaded courtyard and centuries of religious and cultural heritage.
BULGARIA THROUGH THE AGES
A Brief History of Bulgaria
From the medieval Bulgarian empires and Byzantine rule to Ottoman centuries, national revival and modern democracy, Bulgaria’s history lives on in its cities, fortresses and monasteries.
681
First Bulgarian Empire
A treaty with Byzantium marks the establishment of the First Bulgarian Empire under Khan Asparuh.
864–865
Christianisation
Ruler Boris I adopts Christianity, helping transform the religious and cultural life of medieval Bulgaria.
1185
Second Bulgarian Empire
A successful uprising begins the Second Bulgarian Empire, with Tarnovo emerging as its capital.
1396
Ottoman Conquest
The conquest of Vidin completes the Ottoman takeover of the principal medieval Bulgarian territories.
1878
Liberation and Autonomy
After the Russo-Turkish War, the Treaty of Berlin establishes an autonomous Principality of Bulgaria.
1989
Democratic Transition
The end of Todor Zhivkov’s rule opens the way to Bulgaria’s transition away from communist one-party government.
Ancient Heritage
Thracian treasures, Roman cities and early Christian sites reveal the region’s long and diverse cultural history.
Medieval Kingdoms
Fortresses, churches and former capitals recall Bulgaria’s medieval empires and their lasting cultural influence.
Orthodox Traditions
Sites such as Rila Monastery preserve religious art, manuscripts and the legacy of Bulgaria’s national revival.
PLAN YOUR BULGARIA TRIP
Everything You Need for Bulgaria
Plan your journey across Bulgaria, from historic cities and monastery visits to accommodation, excursions and transport.
Hotels
Find places to stay, from characterful historic-centre hotels to mountain guesthouses and Black Sea retreats.
Tours & Activities
Discover guided walking tours, archaeological sites, medieval castles and cultural experiences across Bulgaria.
Car Hire
Explore Bulgaria at your own pace, from mountain monasteries to ancient towns and Black Sea coastal roads.
Flights
Compare flights to Sofia, Varna and Burgas and find a convenient route for your Bulgarian adventure.
Trains & Buses
Plan trains and buses between Bulgaria’s cities, historic towns and major attractions.