Sights of Bulgaria. Republic of Bulgaria: attractions, their photos. Tours to Bulgaria: prices, reviews Famous Bulgaria


A Bulgarian fairy tale says that when God is in a good mood, he paints the world with three colors - yellow, blue and green. Undoubtedly, the country of Bulgaria is one of the masterpieces of the Almighty, here there is an abundance of all three colors. Blue sea and cloudless sky, endless yellow sandy beaches. And how much greenery there is in Bulgaria!

Another Bulgarian tale tells that when God was distributing natural treasures to people, the Bulgarians came last. They were very busy, because they worked a lot, and they no longer got anything. (We can also add that the Bulgarians are very leisurely by nature.) God praised the Bulgarians for their diligence and gave them a little bit of everything from heaven.

Beautiful fairy tales that are very similar to the truth. Bulgaria - real paradise A wonderful corner on our Planet!

Bulgaria is located on the Balkan Peninsula and borders on the north with Romania, on the west with Serbia and Macedonia, on the south on Greece and Turkey. But historians say that Bulgaria is the only country in the world that borders itself on all sides. The country lost many of its lands as a result of the aggressive wars of its neighbors. This fact only confirms the idea that Bulgaria is a real paradise on Earth, which many have dreamed of owning, and also that the Bulgarians are peace-loving and good-natured people.

Bulgaria is one of the few countries in Europe where such a variety of natural landscapes can be found. About 30% of the country's territory is occupied by plains, 30% is also mountainous, and the rest is foothills. The Balkan Mountains (Stara Planina), Rhodope, Rila and Pirin give Bulgaria the reputation of a real mountain power.

Even if there is a completely flat landscape outside the car window, then there is definitely a Mountain peaks. The most high point Bulgaria - peak Musala, mountain height 2925 meters above sea level.

There are many rivers in Bulgaria, but they are all small and shallow (we do not take into account the spring period, when they can turn into giant streams and sweep away everything in their path.) Many rivers have reservoirs. The only navigable river flowing along the northern border of Bulgaria is the Danube. Mountain rivers surrounded by canyons, some of them equipped with ecological trails with bridges and stairs for tourists. There are hundreds of waterfalls in Bulgaria, the highest of which falls from a height of 124.5 meters.

260 lakes in Bulgaria are one more beautiful than the other.

Bulgaria is famous for its wide variety of summer and winter resorts; holidays in this hospitable country attract tourists from all over Europe.

Bulgaria has magnificent sandy beaches; for their cleanliness, they are awarded the famous “blue flag” every year. Healthy temperature conditions, low salinity of water in the Black Sea, and the absence of dangerous flora and fauna make the Bulgarian coast one of the most attractive places for recreation and permanent residence.

Winter lovers ski types sports are invited by the comfortable slopes of well-equipped resorts.

In modern Bulgaria, many cities have appeared that can compete with the leading resorts in Europe in terms of comfort and service. One of these places is the town and largest yacht port on the Black Sea, Marina Dinevi.

In the mountainous regions of Bulgaria there are many medicinal and mineral springs. Currently there are 110 officially operating in the country various resorts. A network of 3 national parks, 10 natural parks and 97 nature reserves has been created. There are 260 lakes and a huge number of small rivers in Bulgaria. The air of Bulgaria is impossible to describe; you have to breathe it to understand how clean and fresh it can be!

Who in the world has not heard about the famous Bulgarian roses? There are few of these. But few people know that thousands of white swans winter on the Bulgarian coast in winter! Swans from the northern regions fly to Bulgaria for the winter European countries and...retired people.

For lovers of cultural treasures, Bulgaria offers a huge number of monuments to see. Of the 911 cultural monuments and natural phenomena protected by UNESCO, nine are located on the territory of Bulgaria.

Most Big city Bulgaria is the capital of Sofia with a population of about 1,400,000. The second largest is Plovdiv, the number of inhabitants is about 350,000. Third place went to the seaside capital of Varna, the number of residents of Varna is approaching 350,000. The fourth is Burgas with a population of 305,000 people.

The numbers make Muscovites smile. Not many people live in Bulgaria at all. Deer and bears often inhabit large areas of huge reserves. In Bulgaria, they try not to build residential buildings higher than 5 floors - they save on elevators, and there is enough territory for development in this country. This is probably why Bulgaria is good - the full power of civilization has not yet reached here. Small quiet cities, and a calm, quiet life in them.

But the most important wealth of the country is the Bulgarians themselves, amazingly cheerful and hospitable people. The country of Bulgaria is considered one of the poorest in the European Union, but this is fully compensated by the generosity of the Bulgarian soul and low prices for absolutely everything.

Bulgaria surprisingly carefully preserves its rich national traditions. On holidays, everyone, young and old, sings and dances in the streets and squares! In Bulgaria, there are ancient monuments at every step, they harmoniously coexist with modern resorts and hotels. Folk music plays in restaurants, tourists who come on vacation enthusiastically learn to dance horo and go to the village to watch dancing on the coals.

Bulgaria: feel at home!

​Perhaps it is difficult to imagine a more welcoming and hospitable country than Bulgaria. Here they will always support the conversation, smile at the child, and tell you where to go. The almost complete absence of a language barrier helps you quickly establish contact and enjoy your vacation, day after day discovering new facets of this amazing country. By the way, Bulgaria suits any season: it is beautiful both on a July day, when the sea sparkles in the sun, and on a January morning, when the snow glistens on the peaks... All that remains is to find out which Bulgaria is right for you.

Beach

The main summer advantage of the country is its golden sandy beaches. At all resorts they are free and public, and you have to pay to rent sun loungers and umbrellas (with the exception of some hotels). The length of the beaches is 130 km, with a division into north coast(resorts Varna, Albena, Golden Sands, St. Constantine and Helena) and hotter southern ones (Sunny Beach, Burgas, Sozopol, Nessebar).

Holidays with children in Bulgaria are ideal - there is a convenient shallow entrance to the sea almost everywhere. The large resorts of Sunny Beach and Golden Sands are suitable for both families and youth groups - there are plenty of opportunities for active pastime and nightlife. For those who count on relaxing holiday in Bulgaria, you will probably like it in Sozopol, democratic Obzor, romantic Nessebar, cozy Tsarevo, as well as in hotels All Inclusive in Albena.

Thanks to the unique mineral springs on Black Sea resorts There are opportunities for balneological treatment. Wellness baths, relaxation treatments, mud therapy, SPA treatments await you in first-class hotels in Pomorie, Burgas, Golden Sands, and the resort of St. Constantine and Helena.

Climate

The main territory of Bulgaria has a continental climate with cold winters and hot summers. Closer to the Black Sea it becomes Mediterranean, so it is always warmer here. In summer seaside resorts Bulgaria will enjoy sunny days and temperatures around 25-30°C. The swimming season begins in June and ends in September, the water temperature at this time is 22-28°C.

What the weather is like in Bulgaria in winter depends on the region. If the coast at this time is damp and there are frequent storms, then mountainous area There is snow and many sunny days. Air temperatures from December to February in the mountains range from 0 to -10°C, although fluctuations in one direction or another are possible.

Ski slopes

Winter resorts in Bulgaria are suitable for family tourists and skiers with different levels skiing, and affordable prices and hospitality local residents make them one of best options For active rest. Ski season lasts from early December to April.

There are three main skiing regions in the country - Borovets, Bansko, Pamporovo. Borovets is located at the highest peak in the Balkans, Musala, and its pistes (58 km) are located at an altitude of 1350-2560 m. This Bulgarian resort is distinguished by its attention to snowboarders: there is a snowboard park and 18 km of pistes for board skiing.

In Bansko, the total length of the tracks is 75 km, they are located at an altitude of 990-2600 m. Ski competitions are often held here alpine skiing and snowboarding, and this puts Bansko on a par with the best European resorts. Pamporovo, in turn, boasts a large number of sunny days. There are 37 km of slopes here, as well as the best fan park in Bulgaria, which is maintained at the state level.

Each resort offers skiing and snowboarding classes, and the ski school in Pamporovo is recognized as one of the best in Europe. Mineral springs near the resorts allow you to supplement winter holidays in Bulgaria with SPA treatments and wellness holidays and make it truly unforgettable.

Currency

Bulgarian Lev. If you are planning a holiday in Bulgaria, take euros with you - this currency is more convenient to exchange for levs. It is better to do this in banks, since exchange offices may charge additional fees, so check the final amount in advance. There are ATMs at the resorts, and many establishments accept payments bank cards. But you can’t do it without cash: you will need cash, for example, to leave a tip in a cafe (10% of the bill) or to thank the hotel staff for their services (1-2 leva).

The shops

Bulgarian resorts offer traditional tourist assortment - accessories for beach holiday, bright ceramic bowls and plates, local wine and Kashkaval cheese, as well as leather goods. Cosmetics based on rose oil are very popular - from handmade soaps to creams and oil perfumes. Also, jam is also made from the petals of the Bulgarian rose, and this delicacy can also be an excellent gift. Have free time: shops at resorts and large shopping centers are usually open from 9.00 to 22.00.

Kitchen

When you come to Bulgaria on vacation, you should try the famous Shopska salad with fresh vegetables and feta cheese, hot bean soup and cold “tarator” soup, layer cake “banitsa” with various fillings, meat stew “gyuvech”, dolma, stuffed peppers with rice, traditional raw smoked sausage and, of course, fermented milk products. Restaurants that serve Bulgarian cuisine in an authentic setting are called “mekhana”.

Among the popular alcoholic drinks in Bulgaria are different variations of rakia, liqueur with a refreshing taste “Menta Cave”, anise “mastic” and local wines. Among the sweets, Turkish delight, sweets made in Plovdiv, ice cream and frozen yogurt with local honey or jam are especially good.

Transport

In Bulgaria, you can get from one city to another by train or, cheaper, by bus. You can buy tickets at the bus station and on the bus itself. Timetables are usually available at stops. To avoid being scammed in a taxi, it is better to use official services (as a rule, they have yellow cars) and monitor the meter from the moment you board. IN major cities and the resorts also have indoor bus routes. The fare is 0.6-1 Bulgarian lev.

To rent a car, you need an international driving license. The driver must be over 21 years of age. Drunk driving carries serious penalties.

Lifehacks

  • A side to side nod means “yes” in Bulgaria, and an up and down nod means “no”. Indigenous people have been communicating with each other this way for 5 centuries.
  • Many restaurants and small supermarkets do not accept bank cards, so change your rubles to Bulgarian levs in advance.
  • You can buy a SIM card with 3 GB of Internet for 1 month in the baggage claim area at Burgas Airport. In the city, a SIM card will cost more.

Bulgaria is famous for its various resorts. There are in the country like long promoted, so very young, but small picturesque villages are rapidly conquering their potential tourists. They also go to Bulgaria improve your health, relax both soul and body. Attract seaside resorts a country not only of young people, but also of more mature holidaymakers who remember the hospitable, brotherly Bulgaria.

Nessebar is the oldest city in Europe

Burgas is one of largest cities Bulgaria

- quite attractive and inexpensive resort. There is a large seaport here, international Airport, railway and bus stations.

Burgas has beautiful clean beaches, large seaside park (about 7 km) with, Opera theatre and several museums. All this attracts many tourists to the city every year.

Despite the fact that the Internet actively promises cheap shopping in Burgas, in fact prices there's very much rather big, Truth good choice. The city itself, although large, is very beautiful.

Sunny Beach is the most expensive resort in Bulgaria

- one of most popular and famous tourist complexes countries. A city of non-stop discos, built up with rows of countless hotels. Everything is expensive here. Prices in shops, restaurants, on beaches, by taxi - several times higher than in Pomorie. And at the same time the resort is literally packed with people. The beaches, although clean, can often be seen seaweed on the shore (and in the evening they are thrown back into the water).

The resort was awarded for the environmental benefits of water and sand Blue flag.

On Sunny Beach there is a bus station. In the city you can easily order many excursions.

Balchik - city-botanical garden

Balchik - inexpensive, but not too much beautiful resort. We wouldn't want to spend all 14 days here.

What makes Balchik popular is its fabulously beautiful summer residence of the Romanian queen in him. This is one of the main attractions of all of Bulgaria, especially its coastal region.

The city is located in the north of the country and is the third largest seaport. We've been looking for a long time bus station in Balchik, but it turned out that he not anymore. There is a regular bus stop next to the old and abandoned building. There is a bus schedule on it, which you can take to leave the city.

The main disadvantage, is that get there from Balchik directly to the same Nessebar or Burgas impossible. Necessarily need to change seats in Varna.

Golden Sands - a hot resort in Bulgaria

Golden Sands is one of the the largest resorts of the country. Prices Here a little lower than on Sunny Beach, but the weather is usually very hot. The sun is simply incredibly hot, because the mountains do not allow fresh air to get through, so it is often stuffy here.

Great fit for young people and nightlife lovers. This resort will not let you get bored - music and fun do not stop around the clock. But there is one minus here - descent to the beach and entrance to the sea not so flat, like in Sunny Beach or Nessebar due to the mountainous terrain.

Varna - the cultural and historical heritage of Bulgaria

Varna is also popular resort Bulgaria. This is a huge, lively city with a lot of parks, shops and squares. It’s impossible to say that everything here is very cheap, but it’s also especially high prices you can't name it either.

Varna is an important economic and Cultural Center with its own airport and established ferry service. This the biggest port city of Bulgaria.

Varna has large bus station, from which you can leave in any direction - both within Bulgaria itself and to other countries of the world.

Obzor - a young resort village

We were only passing through this town, but it seemed to us cute And inexpensive, even if a little boring. Obzor is developing rapidly and soon promises a luxurious holiday for any category of tourists.

Prices On him much lower than on popular resorts countries. In the town there is a bus station.

Sea a little warmer than in neighboring Golden Sands. Great for holidays with children. Works in Obzor Kid `s camp with a water park and an amusement park.

Ravda is a resort for relaxed tourists

small village, which is located next to Nessebar and is actively being built. This is a developing resort, so prices Here a little lower, but there's not much to see. In the central part of the town in front of the municipal building, there is a nice fountain.

There is a water park and a luna park in Ravda. Beaches clean, well-groomed, with all conviniences. Ravda is coming For budget holiday and holidays with children.

Aheloy - a city of expensive hotels

Aheloy - small a cozy resort town on the Bulgarian coast. Despite the fact that it itself is located quite far from the sea, in its seaside part a lot of expensive hotels, besides which there is nothing at all.

Coasts Aheloy clean And well-groomed, there are also balneological resorts. Suitable for family vacation, because the resort is located in an ecologically clean and quiet region of Bulgaria.

From the authors

Bulgaria In fact very contrasting country. Cheap resorts here are no worse than expensive ones, we like them even better. They just haven't been promoted yet. For example, Pomorie is cozy and beautiful, the prices are extremely low, and Sunny Beach is intended exclusively for people who want to spend money quickly - a slightly ugly jumble of hotels and nightclubs. List Not expensive resorts , compiled solely from our experience and impressions, is approximately as follows: Pomorie, Balchik, Varna, Burgas, Obzor.

A lot of in Bulgaria and expensive resorts. And if some charge for beautiful landscapes, the antiquity of the city and the Bulgarian flavor (which is understandable), then others simply suck money out of you, like a vacuum cleaner. TO promoted And not even very cheap we would include: Sunny Beach, Golden Sands, Nessebar, Ravda, Aheloy.

The Republic of Bulgaria is located in the east of the Balkan Peninsula. It has become a favorite holiday destination for tourists from different countries. The country is known not only for its beautiful beaches and ski resorts, but also a huge number of natural, cultural and historical monuments.

Description of the country

Until November 15, 1990, the country was called People's Republic Bulgaria. Today the word “folk” has disappeared from the name. Population - 7.5 million people. The capital is the city of Sofia. Bulgaria's closest neighbors are Greece, Serbia, Türkiye, Romania, Macedonia.

In the east, the country's territory is washed by the waters of the Black Sea, which connects it with Ukraine, and the Dardanelles and Bosphorus straits with Mediterranean countries. Bulgaria is one of the smallest countries located in Europe, its area does not exceed 111 thousand square kilometers.

Climatic conditions

The Republic of Bulgaria has a mild temperate continental climate. It clearly defines four seasons. The Mediterranean influence is especially felt in the southern regions. Average annual temperature does not exceed +10.5 °C. In January average temperature- about 0 °C. In summer the thermometer does not rise above +30 °C.

Religion

Orthodox Christians make up 86.7% of the population, 13% are Muslims. The Church of Bulgaria is autonomous, headed by a patriarch.

Saints of Bulgaria

Residents of Bulgaria venerate saints canonized by the church. Among them:

  • Saint Vlas is the patron saint of cattle breeders and merchants.
  • Saints Constantine and Helen are mother and son. Constantine was the emperor of the Roman Empire, who made the state a Christian monastery.
  • Enravota (Boyan, Warrior) - the first martyr of Bulgaria.
  • Nahum, who together with Cyril and Methodius promoted writing and religious culture.
  • Clement of Ohrid is a follower and like-minded person of Cyril and Methodius.
  • Boris I proclaimed Christianity in 865 state religion, known as the baptist of Bulgaria.
  • Peter I made the Bulgarian church independent of Constantinople.
  • Gorazd Ohridski was a student of Methodius; after the death of his teacher, he became the archbishop in Moravia in his place.
  • Dimitry Basarbovsky is revered as a monk who is capable of healing.
  • Anastasy Strumitsky is a martyr. Bulgaria celebrates his memorial day on August 29.
  • Paraskeva of Serbia is known and revered due to her ascetic lifestyle.

Bulgaria: language

The official language in the country is Bulgarian. It belongs to the Slavic group. The ancient writings of the Slavs are written in Cyrillic, which was created by Cyril and Methodius. Its letters and signs are borrowed mainly from the Greek alphabet. It is this Cyrillic alphabet, with minor changes, that has existed from ancient times to the present day among the entire Orthodox Slavic community. Bulgarian Cyrillic is easy to read. Neither phonetics nor pronunciation causes any difficulties.

Capital of Bulgaria

Huge cultural heritage stores the center of Bulgaria. First of all, this is the ancient capital of Bulgaria - Veliko Tarnovo - and the current capital. This city amazes tourists with its originality and beauty.

The city of Sofia is one of the oldest in Europe. Since ancient times it has been famous for its thermal and mineral springs. Experts date the founding of the city to the 1st century AD. At first it was called Serdika. He was a major administrative and shopping center The Roman Empire and then Byzantium. In 447, Serdica was destroyed by the Huns.

The second birth of the city occurred a hundred years later. By the beginning of 809, it was part of and for the first time was renamed Sredets. It received its modern name at the end of the 14th century.

When Sofia was captured by the Turks (1382), it became the second major craft, trade and cultural center on the Balkan Peninsula after Constantinople. In December 1877, the city was liberated by Russian troops from the Turkish yoke and since 1879 it has become the permanent capital of Bulgaria.

This magnificent city is famous for its attractions. Many of them are monuments of national significance. For example, the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, which is located on the capital square of the same name. A magnificent structure made of white stone and granite was built in honor of the liberation of Bulgaria. In addition, everyone coming to the country should visit the rotunda of St. George, the Cathedral of the Holy Resurrection, the Church of St. Nicholas, the luxurious Banya Bashi mosque, and the archaeological museum.

Varna

The city of Varna (Bulgaria), together with its surrounding areas, is located on the shores of the Black Sea. This is not only a popular Bulgarian resort, but also the cultural center of the country.

Unique historical monuments The Republic of Bulgaria is famous. The sights of Varna include many museums that store historical exhibits and documents.

The Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary is considered to be the symbol of the city. In Varna you can visit the Seaside Park. It houses the Palace of Sports and Culture, a dolphinarium, a zoo, a planetarium, a nature museum and an aquarium. The archaeological museum is of great interest to tourists. Its pride is a large collection of gold items, which dates back to the 6th millennium BC.

The sights of the suburbs of Varna are no less interesting. Here you can visit the Euxinograd Palace, which is surrounded by a luxurious park, and a beautiful valley. They call her " stone forest“Because of the huge (up to 6 m in height) columns, the age of which, according to experts, is fifty million years.

The Republic of Bulgaria, whose sights cannot be explored in one trip, treats its history very carefully. We will try to present to you the sights of the country that arouse the greatest interest among tourists.

City of Nessebar

This is a real museum city, which is located on a picturesque peninsula. Its sights will not leave anyone indifferent. The area of ​​Nessebar is about one square kilometer. Nevertheless, more than 40 churches were built on this territory at different times. However, today tourists will only be able to see the churches of St. Savior and St. Stephen, which have been perfectly preserved to this day

Plovdiv

The Republic of Bulgaria is known for many very ancient cities all over the world. For example, the city of Plovdiv, located on a hill. It was founded six thousand years ago. Walking around the city, you can see ancient towers, built at different times, a large Roman amphitheater, many monuments and museums.

Rupite area

Those who wish can visit the Rozhen Monastery, which was founded in 1220. This is one of the oldest monasteries in the country. The shrine of the monastery is the icon of the Mother of God of Eleus, which parishioners consider miraculous.

Village Dobarsko

This small alpine village, located at the foot of the Rila Mountains, seventeen kilometers from Bansko, represents the natural attractions of Bulgaria. Century-old pine forests, picturesque meadows, high mountain plateaus, mountain streams. Here you will be invited to country house and treat national dishes and homemade rakia. A visit to this protected village makes a strong impression.

Seven Rila Lakes

Another unique one natural monument, which the Republic of Bulgaria is proud of. This is a group of glacial lakes. Even in July they are often covered with ice and snow, and are surrounded by flowering meadows. The lakes are located one above the other. They are connected by beautiful waterfalls.

Aladzha Monastery

We are sure that the mysterious rock monastery will surprise many. The monastery was founded in the 14th century and today is one of the main attractions of Bulgaria. The monastery is located 14 km north of Varna, near the Golden Sands resort. This rock monastery, in which the functions of different rooms are clearly visible, is perfect place for pilgrimage, environmental and

Which beach to choose?

The beaches of Bulgaria at all resorts are municipal. But the shore is rented out to private owners. Therefore, equipment on the beaches is paid: umbrellas, sun loungers, mattresses, folding tables and chairs, catamarans, etc. In this article we will present you the most popular

Golden Sands - largest resort countries. It is located in the north Black Sea coast. This is a real Mecca, where lovers of active tourism prefer to relax.

The beaches of Albena are 150 meters wide and stretch for seven kilometers. The sea in this area is very warm and calm, and it is not too deep: at a distance of two hundred meters from the shore, the depth is no more than one and a half meters. The climate is quite comfortable: summer air temperature is not higher than +28 °C, and water temperature is +25 °C.

The beaches of Sveti Vlas are located to the north Sunny Beach, they are deservedly called a piece of paradise. Magnificent landscapes, impeccably clean air, slopes mountain range, covered with dense vegetation, the unique aromas of roses - all this creates an extraordinary atmosphere. Those who want to retire from the hustle and bustle will feel comfortable here. modern city. In addition, this place is perfect for a relaxing family holiday. The coast is divided into several beaches, which are covered with fine golden sand.

The central beach of Sozopol is very nice and cozy. It's free. According to vacationers, this is a corner of peace and privacy. Tourists are pleased with the local pure water, the sea protects the peninsula of the old city from the waves.

The beaches of the St. Helena and Constantine complex, which are located on the shore of the bay between Golden Sands and Varna, are covered with fine quartz sand. The width of the beaches is not too large, and their length is about 3 km. The seabed is quite flat and there are no depth differences.

Duni resort has a beach 4500 meters long and more than a hundred meters wide. The sand is golden and fine, like most Bulgarian beaches. There are small dunes. The sea here is calm, with a flat bottom. The depth increases gradually, so it is comfortable to relax here with children.

Burgas Bay is known to tourists all over the world for its beautiful golden sands, gently sloping bottom, and impeccably clear water. The width of the beach reaches 100 meters.

The beach "Harmani Beach" is located in the new town of Sozopol. Unlike Central Beach, it is wider and longer, so it is much looser. There are numerous bars, restaurants and cafes nearby. Entrance to the beach is free, and renting sun loungers and umbrellas will cost you $2.

Tours

Today, many Russians are happy to purchase tours to Bulgaria. Their prices are quite reasonable. Holidays in a sunny and hospitable country meet European standards.

Before purchasing a trip, you should take care of a visa. Best time for visiting the country's resorts - June-September and January-March.

We inform those who are planning to buy tours to Bulgaria. Prices for trips to winter season 2016 starts from 23,602 rubles (seven nights, departure from Moscow). Price information for summer season not yet available.