Bulgaria was a place we knew almost nothing about before visiting. Like most people, we’d only ever heard about its up-and-coming, budget-friendly ski resorts, so we had no idea just how much history, culture, and luxury was waiting for us.

We quickly realised it’s one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. Places like Varna blew us away, from seeing one of the most stunning cathedrals we’ve ever visited and learning about the oldest processed gold in the world, to relaxing in natural thermal and healing mineral waters scattered all across the country. 

It turns out Bulgaria actually ranks second in all of Europe for hot springs right behind Iceland, except here you can soak in heated pools without the eye-watering price tag.

Add in mouthwatering local food (seriously, we still crave it) and luxury stays at a fraction of Western European prices, and it easily became one of our favourite hidden gems.

Because Bulgaria is still somewhat under the radar, finding up-to-date travel advice, figuring out local transport, and navigating regional routes can take a bit of extra digging.

That’s why we put together these guides: to give you practical itineraries, realistic hacks, and real-world recommendations based on our own travels across Bulgaria.

Pick a post below and start planning your trip!