Bulgaria is a gorgeous country, but it’s often forgotten on lists of the best travel destinations. The country has an incredibly rich history, beautiful architecture, and gorgeous landscapes, from sandy beaches to sprawling mountain ranges. As a Balkan country, the cultural influences include the Greeks, the Persians, and Ottoman. Over hundreds of years, Bulgaria has gained popularity among tourists, but it is still widely underappreciated. If you’re ready to see what Bulgaria has to offer, here are 6 tips to get the most out of your adventure overseas.
Hire a Car for Easier Travel
Bulgaria has a lot of culturally and environmentally rich areas. Instead of trying to figure out public transportation, which is limited in scope, you should hire a rental car prior to your trip. Hiring cars in Bulgaria is not as difficult as it may seem –it’s actually quite easy! As long as you are of age and have a UK license or an international driving permit, you will easily be able to rent a car. You’ll be able to plan your trip and travel on your own time.
Visit the Beach
The coastal region of this country lies along the Black Sea. The beaches here are absolutely stunning and they offer a lot of extra experiences. Many travelers say that one of the highlights of their trip to Bulgaria was scuba diving in the Black Sea.If you’re a strong swimmer and love the ocean, it is a must-see. Under the waves near the shore, you can find anything from hidden caves to sunken ships, including World War II battleships! It’s worth the trip.
Get Immersed in the Culture
People rarely put Bulgaria on their list of travel destinations, but those that do visit say it’s one of the best trips they have ever taken. One reason is the interesting culture that the country has created from its diverse influences.
You can find local markets, restaurants, shops, and even festivals all across the country. The local stake pride in their heritage and love to celebrate it. At any given festival, you may see dancers on embers, bagpipe performances, folklore parades, and so much more.
Get Out of the Cities
While the cities and oldest sites are certainly beautiful, the natural wonders of Bulgaria are the biggest part of its charm. This country is full of natural caves, only a handful of which are accessible for tourists. However, those sites are well-maintained, super safe, and absolutely stunning. The natural beauty of the caves and countryside of Bulgaria are the main attraction for this Balkan country.
Try to Stay in the Old Cities
When looking for lodging, look close to or within the limits of the older cities. These are more frequented spots and safe, but more importantly, they are the core history of Bulgaria. From the clean air of Rila Monastery in the mountains to the cultural center of Plovdiv Old Town, Bulgaria has a lot of areas with a lot of history. Put yourself as close as you can to get the most out of your time!
Convert Your Currency
This is more of a practical tip than anything else. The currency of Bulgaria is the Lev, which has a mostly fixed rate of 2 lev to 1 euro. There are plenty of areas to convert your pounds or euros to lev. The conversion rate also means this is a great country to visit to get the most out of your money!
Bottom Line
Bulgaria is a hidden travel gem. Those who visit always leave wanting to return knowing that it’s one of the best travel experiences they’ve ever had. Visit now and see for yourself!