Bulgaria

warm springs and high lakes

6 places to stay · 8 destinations

Bulgaria is a quiet surprise: mineral springs that have been bathed in since Roman times, glacial lakes in the Rila mountains, caves with skylights, and forests in the Rhodope. It rewards people who like to go slowly.

( our suggestions )

If you have time for Bulgaria

three ways to begin

( the lay of the land )

Bulgaria, on the map

every place, numbered

Belogradchik1Devetashka Cave2Eyes of God — Prohodna Cave3Hisarya4Melnik & Rozhen5Rila Monastery6Sapareva Banya7Seven Rila Lakes8Dengri Eco Resort9Forest Lux Boutique Villas10RisingSoul Retreat11Thracian Cliffs Golf & Beach Resort12Villa Hills13Villa Rossa14

( the regions )

Where to go

choose a corner

( the places )

Where to stay

booked directly with each place

( the seasons )

When to go

pick a month

  • best
  • good
  • cool
  • hot
  • wet

Tap a month to see how it feels, and what we would suggest.

May, June and September are the easiest months: warm, green or golden, and unhurried. Summer is hot in the lowlands but ideal for the high lakes; winter is cold, and the thermal springs are at their best.

( the practical part )

Getting there

Arriving
Sofia is the main airport; Varna and Burgas serve the Black Sea coast. Sofia is the usual starting point for Rila and the Rhodope.
Getting around
A hired car is the simplest way to reach the mountains and caves; some places will arrange a transfer.
Before you book
Check your own government's travel advice and the official entry sources, and each place's page for its directions.

Seasons and journeys are approximate. We point to official sources for fares and entry rules, because they change. Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bulgaria ↗

( from person to person )

People and gatherings in Bulgaria

( good to know )

Questions about Bulgaria

When is the best time to go?

May, June and September are the easiest: warm, green or golden, and unhurried. Summer suits the high lakes; winter is cold, and the thermal springs are at their best.

How long should I plan?

A long weekend is enough for the thermal springs; a week for Rila and the Rhodope; ten days to add the caves and the north-west. Distances are manageable, but the mountain roads are slow.

Do I book through HAWA?

No. You contact and book each place directly. HAWA takes no commission and does not take payment.

Do I need a car?

For the mountains and caves, a hired car is the simplest, and some places will arrange a transfer. Sofia is the usual starting point.

Where do I start?

With the suggestions above. If you want water and warmth, begin with the springs; if you want height and quiet, with Rila.

( need a hand? )

Not sure which place is right for you?

Take the four-minute reflection, or ask a real person to help you choose.

Start with youWrite to us

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