The Top10 project visits BULGARIA

During last November, we had the opportunity to travel around Romania and Bulgaria and discover these two amazing countries.
 Now back home, we'll bring you our TOP10 picks of what not to miss in the two countries.

So here we start: THE "TOP10 PROJECT" BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN BULGARIA:

1. Veliko Tarnovo

The location of the town as a crossroad and crossing point of multiple roads and commercial connections and routes had helped for its economical and cultural development.

Veliko Tarnovo is one of the oldest towns in the country, as its history dates back to more than five thousand years ago, which is proven by archaeological excavations.

Don't miss the "Tsarevets", the old city of the Tzars, and have a walk around the main streets to discover all the artistic paintings and sculptures around the city.

In the evening, use the chance to enjoy some live music bars with cheap beer!!

Our tip: Music bar "Melon" and "Hostel Mostel" for accomodation.

2. Nessebar

Today the old and the new part of the town are connected by a narrow isthmus. The old town lies on a small peninsula.
Because of its exceptional cultural and historical value Nesebar was declared a museum, tourist, and resort complex of international importance.
In 1983 Old Nesebar was included in the List of World Cultural Heritage Sites of UNESCO.

Our tip: This is purely a summer destination. If your trip around Bulgaria is in winter-autumn, avoid it.


3. Kazanlak 

Kazanlak is the center of the Valley of the Roses, the home of the Thracian kings, and an attractive tourist destination. The country’s largest and best preserved Thracian tombs are found here, and they are included among the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, along with the Museum of Roses.
There are two nature reserves and five protected areas in the vicinity of Kazanlak, preserving natural wonders and age-old forests.

Our tip: Take home some Rose souvenirs (facemask, hands cream, etc...). Moms and girlfriends will appreciate....


4. Plovdiv

Plovdiv it's an ancient city with Roman ruins, historic buildings in the old town, wide tree-lined boulevards and plenty of sidewalk cafes.
It's the second biggest in the country, and by far one of the prettiest.

Our tip: Get lost in the old town and enjoy the tiny bars and cafés you can find everywhere.


5. Balchik

It raised again under the Ottoman Empire, and in 1913 it was given to Romania after the Balcan War.
It's not until 1940 when Balchik is back into Bulgaria.
40km far from Varna, this coastal village is one of the favourites summer destinations for bulgarians.
The combination of Black Sea, mountains and old architecture is terrific.

Our tip: The views of the shore from the hills around the city.


6. Trigrad

Trigrad is a place, which has been preserved intact for centuries, left far from the busy and noisy modern world.
The famous formation Trigrad Gorge is situated near the village. It is a protected area with numerous caves, the most famous of which are the Diavolsko Garlo (Devil’s Throat) and the Haramiyska Cave.

There is a legend about the cave called Diavolsko garlo. It tells the story of the Thracian hero Orpheus, who descended into the realm of the dead to seek for his beloved Eurydice. According to the beliefs, Orpheus reached the underground mansions only after entering the Devil’s Throat.

Our tip:  Follow the paths on Trigrad Gorge to get the best views and landscapes in Bulgaria.


7. Rila Monastery

The most famous sight in Bulgaria, and another UNESCO world heritage site.
You can visit it on day excursions from Sofia, either by public bus (Sofia-Rila and Rila-Monastery) or with a private company or with excursions arranged by hostels.
The beauty of the locations is stunning.

Our tip: To sit and enjoy the views. There is no hurry, so let all tourists run around and just take your time.


8. Ruse

After 1878, Ruse was the largest city in Bulgaria.
Its economy was developing very fast and this had its influence upon the entire appearance of the city. The connection which the city was having with Europe through the Danube river was favorable for its development.
Due to the beautiful architecture and the internal shaping of the buildings constructed by Italian, Austrian, German and Bulgarian architects, Ruse was also known as “The Small Vienna”.

Our tip: Cross the bulgarian-romanian border in this point by foot through the bridge over Danube River. In 15 minutes you'll be in Romania.


9. Melnik

The smallest town in Bulgaria (208 residents), it is situated in the Blagoevgrad county, 175 km north from Sofia, and it is only 30 km from the borderline with Greece.
In 1215 Melnik turned into a capital of an independent feudal principality, ruled by Despot Alexius Slav. The ruins of his fortress are preserved to the present days, near the town.

Our tip: Climb the peaks next to the village!!


10. Varna

Varna is the third largest city in Bulgaria and the largest one on the Black Sea shore with population of about 330 000 people. Because of its history and its economical and cultural significance, it is often called the Sea Capital of Bulgaria.
With its modern port, railway connection and international airport providing connection with 35 states and more than 100 world cities, Varna is one of the largest transport centers in Bulgaria.

Our tip: Enjoy the sunset in the breakwater surrounded by local fishermen.