#plovdiv my little istanbul

[iamthetruenhaz]

So I'm on a work visit to Plovdiv again and therefore, cats of Plovdiv vol. 3 begins NOW!

This little boi was sunbathing in on my dorm grounds, I'm sorry for disturbing his morning nap but he was just too cute.

This lady helped preserve my sanity on the way from work after a failed experiment.

Follow for more CATS!

[airnsun]

Bulgaria

Bulgaria has one of the peak experiences from my travels, but also one of the lowest. 

My time in Bulgaria did not start off very well. In order to cross the border, I’d asked for a friend’s help in finding an inexpensive route from Istanbul, and luckily found one. I’m pretty sure I was the only non Bulgarian or Turkish passport on the bus, though, which made for an awkward bit crossing the border. I seemed very out of place on a bus that definitely did not speak English, so border security was wary seeing me. They scanned my passport over and over, then eventually asked me to stand to one side to wait further questioning, while they held my passport. Not a comfortable feeling. To their credit, an employee of the bus company came out after about 20 minutes and insisted, so after a few questions in basic English, the border security did let me through. 

It was an uncomfortable moment, but worse was yet to come.

I arrived in Plovdiv at a little after 5 AM. I got a bit confused on my walk to my hostel, so it took me a bit of time to get it figured out. Once I got close,  a couple came up to me and were trying to communicate, though they didn’t have much English, and I speak no Bulgarian. They seemed concerned, and were asking about where I was going. I showed them on my phone, which was a mistake. 

The man seemed interested in seeing the map more closely.  Once he’d moved in closer, he grabbed the phone and passed it to the woman of the two, moving to block the space between us. My immediate reaction, weary and burdened as I was, is that I can not allow this to happen. I lunge at them. I must have shoved him out of the way, as I recall tackling her and myself to the ground, and reaching for her hands, to get my phone back. However, he was still up, and pulled me away. 

I’d just arrived in town, and I was carrying everything I’m travelling with. In this moment, I remembered very suddenly that this could get so much worse than just a phone; a fact that he reinforced by pulling a knife and waving it in my direction. I decided that yeah, you know what, I can get another phone, and they took a run for it as I backed off. 

It took me a bit of time to recover from that one. The adrenaline in the moment took a minute or two to wear off, but I didn’t really feel right, or safe, for some time afterwards. Luckily, it didn’t take too long before I made some new friends in the hostel, who helped me figure out how to replace the phone, and later, took me on one of my favorite ventures so far.

A group of people from my hostel, led by a Canadian man with a plan, drove a few hours outside of Plovdiv. What we were looking to find was a remote, abandoned Soviet structure on top of a distant mountain peak. Completed in 1981, the Buzludzha monument was only used through 1989, when the fall of communism in Bulgaria rendered the building unneeded and politically difficult. That political awkwardness has meant it had become quite ignored by the Bulgarian people. To destroy it or to restore it would both cost a lot of money, and would be sending messages about their history with communism that no one is ready to endorse, so the building stands, in increasing disrepair, as local and visiting artists do their own work on it. 

While it is illegal to enter, and apparently the police regularly come by to reinforce barriers to entry, their fortifications are regularly removed, and you can usually find a way to sneak inside. While I was there, there was a slightly dangerous approach involving climbing into the basement through a small hole in the ground. I definitely could not have made it in and out without the group of people I was with, although once we entered, other tourists around the monument decided it would also be worth a try.

Destination in the background

Kinda looks like a UFO.

Our point of entry

Point of entry, as viewed from inside

Comfortable things to find written in the darkness underground

The front door

Up towards the light

The UFO inside

Where communist mosaics fall apart, street artists fill in

Break in the windows

Better view of the roof.

Some other after-market art

It was pretty awesome getting to explore it, and a definite highlight. 

Sofia was also a great time, but less dramatic in every regard, so I’ll drop you a couple of pictures and leave it at that

and I’ll end with this self portrait:

Thanks for waiting for my slow butt. I’m back in the USA, visiting family before I finish making it to California, but I’ll be home home in about a week, making the full trip a full year. I’m hoping to drop some more stories on you about my travels in the near future, and hopefully, even 6 months after the fact, it’ll prove somewhat interesting!

[bulinews-blog]

Learn more about RB Leipzig's promising young striker Timo Werner.

At the age of 22, Timo Werner has established himself as one of the best strikers in the Bundesliga and as an essential part of the German national team. Here are 10 facts about the promising striker.

1. Scored goals for fun at youth level Werner represented Stuttgart and Germany at various youth levels and scored tons of goals. After netting 32 times in 37 matches for Stuttgart's U-17 side, he was promoted to the U-19 team before the 2012-13 season at the age of just 16. Werner continued his great form for the U-19 side, and after scoring 24 goals in just as many matches, he was handed the Fritz Walter gold medal – an annual award handed out to the country's finest talent – in the Under-17 category. In 2015, he was awarded the Fritz Walter silver medal in the Under-19 Category. 2. Finished high school as a Bundesliga player Werner started playing regularly for Stuttgart's first team during the 2013-14 season. By that time, he was just 17 years old and still in high school, but despite his status as a Bundesliga player, he decided to finish school. "I could have focused solely on football, but my mother really wanted me to finish school. I never considered not doing it to be honest. That wouldn't have been smart. In hindsight I'm quite proud that I managed to finish school and kick on with my professional football career," he told Bundesliga.com. 3. Record breaker Werner made his debut for Stuttgart's first team in a Europa League qualifier against PFC Botev Plovdiv at the age of just 17 years, four months and five days, becoming the youngest player to ever appear in an official match for Stuttgart. Later, he also became Stuttgart's youngest player to appear in the DFB Pokal and the club's youngest goalscorer as he scored his first senior goal in a match against Eintracht Frankfurt. He is also the youngest player to reach 50, 100 and 150 Bundesliga appearances and the youngest player to score two goals in a Bundesliga match. 4. Instant impact at RB Leipzig Stuttgart was relegated in the 2015-16 season, and after spending three seasons at the club, Werner made the move on to RB Leipzig for a reported price of €10 million. He made an instant impact at his new club, scoring 21 times in 31 matches during his first season at Leipzig. 5. National team call-up After having played 45 matches and scored 33 times for Germany's various youth national teams, Werner was handed his debut for the senior national team in March 2017 when he played 77 minutes in a friendly against England. He scored his first goal in the national team shirt as he netted twice in Germany's 3-1 win over Cameroun during the Confederations Cup last year. 6. The dive Werner received a lot of negative attention after a dive that won 'Die Rote Bullen' a penalty in a 2-1 win over Schalke 04 in December 2016 and was subsequently helped by RB Leipzig's psychologist . Werner afterwards said that it wasn't his intention to dive and that he even told the referee that the Schalke keeper Ralf Fährmann didn't touch him, but he was still booed and abused from the stands for many matches to come. Werner was even booed by the German fans during his international debut in March because of the dive. 7. Circulation problems in Turkey Werner was substituted after just 32 minutes of RB Leipzig's Champions League game against Besiktas at the Vodafone Arena in Istanbul earlier this season. The striker, who was pictured with ear plugs and holding his hands to his ears during the game, reportedly couldn't cope with the noise and hostile atmosphere at the stadium. After the match, RB Leipzig said that he was suffering from 'circulation problems'. 8. Turbo Timo Werner has been clocked at 11.11 seconds over 100 meters and has been named 'Turbo Timo' by the German media due to his blistering pace. "I like to knock the ball three or four meters ahead of me when I'm on the counter or have space in front of me. That way I can increase the distance between a defender and myself," he told Bundesliga.com about his pace. 9. Mario Gomez fan Werner has admitted he looked up to Mario Gomez - now one of his competitors in the national team - while growing up. "When I was 11, 12, I used to have posters of Mario on my wall. Suddenly, there I was with Mario giving me high-fives and wishing me good luck on playing for Germany instead of him," he told Bundesliga.com. 10. Dreams of the Premier League Werner has a contract with RB Leipzig until 2020 and has said that he wants to stay at the club for now. However, he has revealed that he dreams of a move to the Premier League and that he is particularly fond of Manchester United. "Yes, playing in the Premier League is a dream for me. I would like to play for two or three clubs, and Manchester United are one of those clubs. But probably not in the next few years – later, when my English is a little bit better! I’m very comfortable at RB Leipzig, though," he told FourFourTwo.

[topfygad]

All You Need to Know – Wild Junket Adventure Travel Blog

This post contains affiliate links. I will earn a commission when you purchase through my links, at NO extra cost for you.

Bulgaria is just a three-hour flight from most parts of Europe and it’s incredibly affordable. Yet it remains an under-visited destination in Eastern Europe. 

After my first Balkan trip almost 10 years ago, I was so pleasantly surprised to find such an interesting region that has seemingly slipped under the radar. The Balkan states, spanning across southeastern Europe, are easy on the pocket, and are chocked full of history and Soviet architecture. 

I finally returned to Bulgaria this summer, and rekindled my love for the underrated Balkan state. Bulgaria is a beautiful country packed to the brim with rich history and culture, and a tinge of Soviet edginess that you just can’t find in western Europe.

Cost of Travel in Bulgaria

Bulgaria is an incredibly cheap destination and it’s much more affordable than other parts of Europe. You’ll get a bang for your buck, going on Bulgaria day tours for as cheap as $50 and staying at decent hotels for $50/night.

Food in Bulgaria is really affordable, fresh and delicious. A meal in a standard restaurant is usually around US$5-10 including drinks. A pint of beer costs around $1-2.

Expect to pay around $30-50 for a midrange hotel with air conditioning, private bathroom and WiFi. Hotels on the beach are definitely much more expensive, at $70-150 for a four-star hotel.

  How to Get to Bulgaria

By Plane

Sofia International Airport is the main gateway to Bulgaria. It’s a small airport but it’s served by most major cities in Europe.

You can get cheap flights to Sofia from London, Amsterdam and Paris for around $100 return (three-hour journey). Airlines that serve Sofia include British Airways, Air France, Lufthansa, Wizz Air and Ryanair.

Aeroflot and LOT Polish Airlines fly from New York to Sofia for around US$700-1000 return. You’ll most likely need to transit via Moscow or Warsaw.

Search for Cheap Flights to Bulgaria

By Train

As a landlocked country surrounded by five countries, Bulgaria is easy to get to overland. But most trains tend to be old and shabby, and journey times are usually slower than buses. 

From Serbia, the Balkan Express runs daily between Sofia and Belgrade (11 hours) from June to September. Trains depart from both cities in the mornings. Check out Serbian Railways’ website for details.

From Romania, you can catch a train from Bucharest (10-hour journey) to Ruse or Veliko Tarnovo. From Turkey, the daily Bosfor (Bosphorous Express) goes from Istanbul to Sofia and continues onto Bucharest. The journey takes 9 hours and there are sleeper cabins on the train. Check the Turkish State Railways website.

By Bus

It is even cheaper to travel to Bulgaria by the international buses from the surrounding countries and they’re relatively comfortable. On my first trip to Bulgaria, I took an overnight bus from Istanbul to Plovdiv and it was easy and smooth-sailing.

When traveling out of Bulgaria by bus, the cost of entry visas for the countries concerned are not included in the prices of the bus tickets. A good timetable for international connections can be found here. 

Plovdiv is the main gateway for those traveling overland from Greece, Turkey and Macedonia. Sofia is the nearest city for those traveling overland from Serbia and Romania. Here’s more info for each travel route:

International Bus Routes to Bulgaria

Country

Departure

Arrival

Duration

  Greece

Thessaloniki

Sofia

5-6 hours

  Greece

Thessaloniki

Plovdiv

8-9 hours

  Macedonia

Skopje

Sofia

6 hours

  Macedonia

Ohrid

Sofia

9 hours

  Romania

Bucharest

Sofia

9 hours

  Romania

Bucharest

Ruse

3 hours

  Serbia

Niš

Sofia

3 hours

  Serbia

Dimitrovgrad 

Sofia

1-2 hours

  Turkey

Istanbul

Sofia

10 hours

  Turkey

Istanbul

Plovdiv

7 hours

  When to Travel Bulgaria

The best time to travel Bulgaria is during the shoulder season, from April to June, and September to October. The weather will be more pleasant, and the prices are lower. I went to Bulgaria in April on my first trip and it was perfect.

It can get really hot in summer, from June to August, with temperatures rising to 40+ degrees Celsius. Summer is also the peak tourism season, when the beaches on the Black Sea are packed to the brim.

Winter is mostly low season across the country, and most of the smaller towns will shut down. But Bulgaria is one of the best budget ski destinations in Europe, with affordable and excellent ski conditions. Bansko is the most popular ski resort.

How Long to Travel Bulgaria?

This depends on your interest of course, but two weeks are enough to explore Bulgaria properly and get to know its culture and people.

I spent around a week in Bulgaria on my first trip and 10 days this time. I felt that I actually got to know it really well on my second trip and saw a lot more than on my first trip.

If you’re an intrepid traveler, I recommend the following itinerary as it’ll allow you to see the best of the country at a relaxing pace. You probably want to skip the beaches, but I suggest keeping Varna in your itinerary as it’s a cool coastal city.

Two-Week Bulgaria Itinerary:

Days 1-3: Sofia

Day 4: Day trip to Seven Rila Lakes & Monastery

Days 5-7: Veliko Tarnovo

Day 8: Day trip to Etara Ethnological Centre

Days 9-10: Varna

Day 11: Day trip to Nessebar

Days 12-13: Plovdiv

Day 14: Sofia

How to Get Around Bulgaria

By Car

It is relatively cheap and easy to drive in Bulgaria. The main highways are well built and signs are in both Bulgarian and English. You can rent a compact car in Sofia for US$78 per week or $130 for two weeks.

In order to drive on Bulgarian roads, you will need to display a vignette sold at petrol stations and post offices. Rental cars hired within Bulgaria should already have a vignette.

Bulgarian drivers can be aggressive and most don’t stick to the speed limit, so just be aware.

Search for Car Rental in Bulgaria!

By Bus

Bus is the fastest and most popular way to get around Bulgaria. There’s a great bus network across the country and distances aren’t that long. You can find many bus and train schedules here.

Here are the main bus companies in Bulgaria:

Biomet — Runs between Sofia and Veliko Târnovo, Varna and Burgas.

Etap-Grup — Another extensive intercity network, with buses between Sofia, Burgas, Varna, Ruse and Veliko Târnovo.

Union-Ivkoni — Links most major towns and many smaller ones, including Sofia, Burgas, Varna, and Plovdiv.

By Train

Traveling by train is the cheapest way to explore the country, even cheaper than taking the bus.

For example, a train ticket from Sofia to Plovdiv costs just US$5 for a two-hour train ride. Although the trains are sometimes old and slow, some of the rail journeys offer beautiful views.

All trains are run by the Bulgarian State Railroad Company. You can buy train tickets online.

Duration for Main Travel Routes in Bulgaria Departure Arrival By Bus By Car By Train Sofia Veliko Tarnovo 3.30-4 hours 3 hours – Veliko Tarnovo Varna 3-4 hours 2h45min – Varna Plovdiv 7 hours 4.5 hours 5-6 hours Plovdiv Sofia 2 hours 1.5 hours 2 hours

Where to Stay in Bulgaria

There is a wide variety of accommodation to choose from in most parts of Bulgaria and they’re much cheaper than in other parts of Europe.

Sofia: Rosslyn Thracia Hotel Sofia

As one of the best hotels in Sofia, this elegant hotel is located just a few minutes from Vitosha Street, a pedestrianized street right in the heart of the city. Room rates are reasonable, decor is modern and the breakfast spread is excellent! Check rates here.

Veliko Tarnovo: Park Hotel Sevastokrator

This hotel has exceptional views of Veliko Tarnovo from above as well as a nice swimming pool. It’s technically located in Arbanasi, a hilltop town just 10 minutes away from Veliko Tarnovo. Check rates here.

Varna: Rosslyn Dimyat Hotel Varna

This upscale modern hotel is located in the heart of Varna next to the Sea Garden, 500 m from the Varna Beach. You can’t get a better location that that. Prices are affordable for a 4-star quality hotel. Check rates here.

Plovdiv: The Stay Hotel Central Square Plovdiv

An incredibly stylish hotel located right in the heart of old town Plovdiv, the Stay Hotel offers excellent value for money. Rooms are spacious and have lots of facilities. Attractions are all within walking distance from here. Check rates here.

Food in Bulgaria

I’m a big fan of Bulgarian food, especially the barbecued meats that are ubiquitous here. 

Bulgarian cuisine shares characteristics with other Balkan cuisines — it’s like a blend of Greek and Turkish food. Meat is the main staple, along with fresh ingredients like tomatoes, dill and onions.

It’s actually quite easy to find vegetarian Bulgarian dishes on nearly every menu, though due to Bulgaria’s love affair with its cheese and dairy products, vegans won’t be so lucky.

There are some Bulgarian staples you need to try:

Shopska salad — A mix of tomatoes, cucumber, sirene cheese

Tarator — A cold yogurt soup made of cucumber and garlic

Kebapche — Known as Kebab in most places, grilled meat with spices

Meshana skara — Mixed grill that typically includes kebapche, kufte, and a skewer of pork meat similar to a souvlaki

Where to Eat in Bulgaria

There are lots of Bulgarian restaurants everywhere, as well as more international offerings in the big cities. I’ve found food to be really food wherever I went.

Here are some of the best places I ate at:

Hadjidraganov’s Cellars, Sofia — This traditional Bulgarian restaurant can be a little touristy, but it’s the best place to go for a feel of Bulgarian traditions. Portions are big, and food is served on wooden Medieval-style platters. Read reviews.

Restaurant Shtastliveca Old Town, Veliko Tarnovo — Rated as the best restaurant in Veliko Tarnovo, this place has excellent views of the old town and offers a well-rounded variety of traditional and modern cuisine. Be sure to make a booking in advance! Read reviews.

Park Hotel Sevastokrator, Arbanasi — The restaurant at this hotel in Arbanasi not only has great views, but also an affordable and good menu. They use fresh products and meat and I highly recommend the grilled trout.

Things to Do in Bulgaria

Explore Sofia’s Old Town

Bulgaria’s capital Sofia makes an excellent base to get an introduction to Bulgarian culture and history. The city has an eclectic mix of Roman buildings, Ottoman mosques and Soviet blocs. You’ll need at least three days to see them all.

Start with St. Alexander Nevski Cathedral, the second largest cathedral in the Balkan region. Then head on St George Rotunda, the oldest building in modern Sofia that dates back to the 300s. Don’t miss the Central Bath, one of the most photographed buildings in Bulgaria.

This bike tour is a great way to see all of Sofia’s sights on wheels.

Hike around the Seven Rila Lakes

Outdoor lovers would love the Seven Rila Lakes, a group of glacial lakes situated in the northwestern Rila Mountains close to Sofia. Hiking trails weave their way around the lakes that are perched 2,500 meters above sea level.

Each lake carries a name associated with its most characteristic feature. The highest one is called Salzata (“The Teardrop”) due to its clear waters that allow visibility in depth.

If you’re tight on time, you can book a day trip to the Seven Rila Lakes from Sofia.

Visit the Famous Rila Monastery

Rila Monastery is the largest and most famous Eastern Orthodox monastery in Bulgaria. The iconic landmark is located close to the Seven Rila Lakes, at 117km (73 miles) from Sofia.

Founded in the 10th century, the monastery is named after its founder, the hermit Ivan of Rila (876 – 946 AD), and houses around 60 monks.

You can also combine a visit there with the Seven Rila Lakes. This day tour is affordable and comes with great reviews.

Wander around Veliko Tarnovo

Of all the places I’ve visited in Bulgaria, Veliko Tarnovo is probably my favorite. This small town was once the medieval capital of the Bulgarian empire, and now has a special charm thanks to its long history.

Veliko Tarnovov is a hodgepodge of impressive castles, museums and historical sites. Stroll along the cobblestoned Gurko Street and admire well-preserved old houses, and watch craftsmen hard at work in the Samodovska Chashia Market.

You can also visit Veliko Tarnovo on a day trip from Plovdiv. Get more info here.

Explore the Tsarevets Fortress

The iconic symbol of Veliko Tarnovo is the Tsarevets, an impressive fortress that dominates its skyline. With only pedestrian access, you can walk along the breathtaking fortress walls and take in views onto the surrounding hills of Sveta Gora.

Children are free to run, clamber and discover, the only place where caution is advised is at Execution Rock at the northern end of the fortress. As the name suggests a fall from here down to the Yantra River would be nothing less than fatal. 

Immerse in the Open Air Etara Ethnographic Museum

Located close to Veliko Tarnovo in the town of Gabrovo is this beautiful open air museum that transports you back in time. The ethnographic centre spans over 7 hectares of area, showcasing how life used to be during the Bulgarian National Revival.

The park has replicas of traditional houses during that period, as well as water installations and craftsmen workshops. There are also stores selling sweets and artwork from yesteryears.

Visit the new Neofit Rilski Historical Park

Just a few kilometers outside of Varna is the newly opened Neofit Rilski Historical Park. It’s yet to be fully completed, but already offers some exciting activities. I was rather impressed by the scale of the park.

For curious travelers, the historical park is a great place to learn about Bulgarian history, from the Neolithic period to the Thracian Civilization and Second Bulgarian Empire.

The park gives the sensation that you’re stepping back in time, into a medieval complex with archery demonstrations and horse-riding displays. There are numerous replicas of archaeological site and historical monuments as well as homes that people used to live in.

Relax on Varna’s Beaches

As a vibrant coastal city, Varna is the main gateway for tourists that are heading to the Black Sea coast. Intrepid travelers will probably choose to skip the beaches, but don’t miss out on the charm of Varna.

The city is packed with history yet it’s thoroughly modern, with a lush and green seafront park to amble on. Its beach is not too bad to while away a lazy afternoon and enjoy some fresh seafood.

In the city centre you’ll find Bulgaria’s largest Roman baths complex and its finest archaeological museum, as well as a lively cultural and restaurant scene.

Get Lost in the Charming Old Town of Nesebar

The ancient part of Nesebar is located on a peninsula that juts out from the Black Sea coast (previously an island).

Nesebar has on several occasions found itself on the frontier of a threatened empire, and as such it is a town with a rich history. Due to the city’s abundance of historic buildings, Nesebar became a UNESCO Site  in 1983.

Today it’s really popular with tourists especially in summer, so get there early if you want to get lost in its narrow cobblestoned streets.

Soak Up History in Plovdiv

As Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited city, Plovdiv is Bulgaria’s heartthrob with a romantic old town. The city is packed with colorful and creaky 19th-century mansions that are now house-museums, galleries and guesthouses.

As the European Capital of Culture 2019, Plovdiv is quickly drawing more music and art lovers. Once an amiable waystation between Bulgaria and Greece or Turkey, the city has flowered into a destination in its own right – and one that should be on any itinerary through central Bulgaria.

For those short on time, this day tour leads you around Plovdiv, Asen Fortress and Bachkovo Fortress in 1 day.

Language in Bulgaria

Bulgarian is the country’s only official language. Bulgarian is written with Cyrillic, which makes trying to read Bulgarian words quite difficult for most of us.

English isn’t widely spoken in Bulgaria, especially among the older generation. But younger Bulgarians in the big cities tend to speak a bit of English.

Safety in Bulgaria

Most parts of Bulgaria are very safe and I never felt unsafe on both trips there. I traveled solo on my first trip and with my four-year-old daughter on this recent trip.   

The only danger that travelers face is theft, primarily from pickpockets. In general, try not to stand out and avoid dark alleys at night if traveling solo.

Practical Tips for Traveling Bulgaria

Within cities, minibuses called marshroutki act like shared taxis and are common in many ex-Soviet countries. You just need to flag them down and buy tickets from the driver.

One thing to note for those traveling with kids, it is allowed to smoke in most places in Bulgaria, even indoors. It can be annoying for non-smokers.

As an ex-Soviet country, Bulgaria still shares a relationship with Russia and many Bulgarians still speak Russian.

I think of Bulgarians as quite similar to Russians. They may not smile a lot and can come across as rude. But give them some time, show that you’re friendly and they’ll eventually warm up to you.

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[mymusicaljourneyuniverse]

The CEV WOMEN CHAMPIONS LEAGUE 2018-2019 is finally starting its group stage. So the wait is over. This year there will be a great competition as there are some of the best players in world involved in all the matches. I will try to make a short review of each group and also a prediction of who the winner of the competition will be. 

The first thing you have to know is that the format of the competition has dramatically changed. No more Final Four Tournament. More about the new format you can find on the CEV WEB SITE.

Let’s start by taking a quick look at the groups. But before that I have to express my sadness that last year’s vice champions, CSM Volei Alba Blaj didn’t manage to qualify for the group stages. As a friend of mine so poetically put it: “this was the night when the vice champions of Europe returned at being the vice champions of Romania“. Sad but true but it is also true that in the second leg played in Germany, the Romanian team played extremely poor . With no further ado, let’s see each group.

Group A is dominated by Vakifbank Istanbul, the winner of the past season’s Champions League. With a team very similar to last year’s roster, Vakifbank is one of the main contenders for this season’s trophy too. I see no problem for them as the group also includes Beziers VB from France, Maritza Plovdiv from Bulgaria and Allianz MTV Stuttgart from Germany. For the second position I believe there will be a hard fought battle between Beziers and Stuttgart.

Serbia’s Tijana Boskovic spikes

Group B is the one where we find another important team: Eczacibasi Vitra Istanbul. Having a very strong roster, featuring the best player in the world right now (at least in my opinion) Tijana Boskovic (the MVP of the recent World Championship) and also the USA national team members Lauren Gibbemeyer and Jordan Larson plus the incredible Kim Yeon-Koung, guided by Marco Motta as head coach, Eczacibasi is one of the most important contenders for this year’s Champions League trophy. The other teams in the group are Uralochka Ekaterinburg, Dinamo Kazan and Hameenlinna from Finland. I believe the two Russian teams will fight for the second place.

Group C is a very close one in my opinion as all of the teams have a good chance of going further in the competition. Of course, at first glance, Igor Gorgonzola Novara seem to be the big favorites of this group and I also think they will win it as their roster is better. But there is also a question mark as in my opinion, Novara is dependent on the form of Paola Egonu and this amazing player has moments when she is not present in the match. RC Cannes, Minchanka Minsk and Budowlani Lodz are the other teams and I really cannot put my finger on any of them right now. There will be a very interesting fight in this group.

Group D is the pool where my favorite team is. And I am sure they will be the winners of the group. Imoco Volley Conegliano, the Champions of Italy and the fresh winners of the Italian SuperCup are the main contenders of this group. The incredible italian team is also one of the main contenders for winning the CEV Champions League as they have an incredible roster this year also. They will have a tough opponent in Savino Del Bene Scandicci, the other italian team in this pool but there will also be some challenges when playing the poles of LKS Commercecons Lodz and the strong german side of SSC Palmberg Schwerin. But my bet is that the beautiful Imoco will win the group and Lodz and Scandicci will fight for the second place.

Group E is the one that Romanians expect very, very much because the Romanian Champions of CSM Bucharest play in this pool. Unfortunately for them, the group is a very tough one and I am afraid that CSM’s first Champions League experience will be a little bit tricky. Dinamo Moscow and Fenerbahce Istanbul are the main contenders, having the money and the rosters to back this statement. Fenerbahce is led by Zoran Terzic, the head coach of the European and World champions, Serbia. In Fenerbahce plays one of my favorite players, the mexican Samantha Bricio and I am really looking forward for the match in Bucharest so I can see her in action again. Dinamo Moscow have some great players also as the Maja Ognjenovic, the setter of the world champions, plays there. Chemik Police from Poland will also have something to say in this group as they are also a strong squad. But, let’s yet say that CSM is hopeless as they also have some interesting players, with some of them playing in the Final Six round of the World Championships in Japan and being coached by an incredible manager, Ferhat Akbas. All in one, the group will be very interesting with Fenerbahce and Dinamo strong contenders for the first two places.

*photo credit: CEV Offical Website

THE CEV CHAMPIONS LEAGUE IS FINALLY HERE The CEV WOMEN CHAMPIONS LEAGUE 2018-2019

[topfygad]

All You Need to Know – Wild Junket Adventure Travel Blog

This post contains affiliate links. I will earn a commission when you purchase through my links, at NO extra cost for you.

Bulgaria is just a three-hour flight from most parts of Europe and it’s incredibly affordable. Yet it remains an under-visited destination in Eastern Europe. 

After my first Balkan trip almost 10 years ago, I was so pleasantly surprised to find such an interesting region that has seemingly slipped under the radar. The Balkan states, spanning across southeastern Europe, are easy on the pocket, and are chocked full of history and Soviet architecture. 

I finally returned to Bulgaria this summer, and rekindled my love for the underrated Balkan state. Bulgaria is a beautiful country packed to the brim with rich history and culture, and a tinge of Soviet edginess that you just can’t find in western Europe.

Cost of Travel in Bulgaria

Bulgaria is an incredibly cheap destination and it’s much more affordable than other parts of Europe. You’ll get a bang for your buck, going on Bulgaria day tours for as cheap as $50 and staying at decent hotels for $50/night.

Food in Bulgaria is really affordable, fresh and delicious. A meal in a standard restaurant is usually around US$5-10 including drinks. A pint of beer costs around $1-2.

Expect to pay around $30-50 for a midrange hotel with air conditioning, private bathroom and WiFi. Hotels on the beach are definitely much more expensive, at $70-150 for a four-star hotel.

  How to Get to Bulgaria

By Plane

Sofia International Airport is the main gateway to Bulgaria. It’s a small airport but it’s served by most major cities in Europe.

You can get cheap flights to Sofia from London, Amsterdam and Paris for around $100 return (three-hour journey). Airlines that serve Sofia include British Airways, Air France, Lufthansa, Wizz Air and Ryanair.

Aeroflot and LOT Polish Airlines fly from New York to Sofia for around US$700-1000 return. You’ll most likely need to transit via Moscow or Warsaw.

Search for Cheap Flights to Bulgaria

By Train

As a landlocked country surrounded by five countries, Bulgaria is easy to get to overland. But most trains tend to be old and shabby, and journey times are usually slower than buses. 

From Serbia, the Balkan Express runs daily between Sofia and Belgrade (11 hours) from June to September. Trains depart from both cities in the mornings. Check out Serbian Railways’ website for details.

From Romania, you can catch a train from Bucharest (10-hour journey) to Ruse or Veliko Tarnovo. From Turkey, the daily Bosfor (Bosphorous Express) goes from Istanbul to Sofia and continues onto Bucharest. The journey takes 9 hours and there are sleeper cabins on the train. Check the Turkish State Railways website.

By Bus

It is even cheaper to travel to Bulgaria by the international buses from the surrounding countries and they’re relatively comfortable. On my first trip to Bulgaria, I took an overnight bus from Istanbul to Plovdiv and it was easy and smooth-sailing.

When traveling out of Bulgaria by bus, the cost of entry visas for the countries concerned are not included in the prices of the bus tickets. A good timetable for international connections can be found here. 

Plovdiv is the main gateway for those traveling overland from Greece, Turkey and Macedonia. Sofia is the nearest city for those traveling overland from Serbia and Romania. Here’s more info for each travel route:

International Bus Routes to Bulgaria

Country

Departure

Arrival

Duration

  Greece

Thessaloniki

Sofia

5-6 hours

  Greece

Thessaloniki

Plovdiv

8-9 hours

  Macedonia

Skopje

Sofia

6 hours

  Macedonia

Ohrid

Sofia

9 hours

  Romania

Bucharest

Sofia

9 hours

  Romania

Bucharest

Ruse

3 hours

  Serbia

Niš

Sofia

3 hours

  Serbia

Dimitrovgrad 

Sofia

1-2 hours

  Turkey

Istanbul

Sofia

10 hours

  Turkey

Istanbul

Plovdiv

7 hours

  When to Travel Bulgaria

The best time to travel Bulgaria is during the shoulder season, from April to June, and September to October. The weather will be more pleasant, and the prices are lower. I went to Bulgaria in April on my first trip and it was perfect.

It can get really hot in summer, from June to August, with temperatures rising to 40+ degrees Celsius. Summer is also the peak tourism season, when the beaches on the Black Sea are packed to the brim.

Winter is mostly low season across the country, and most of the smaller towns will shut down. But Bulgaria is one of the best budget ski destinations in Europe, with affordable and excellent ski conditions. Bansko is the most popular ski resort.

How Long to Travel Bulgaria?

This depends on your interest of course, but two weeks are enough to explore Bulgaria properly and get to know its culture and people.

I spent around a week in Bulgaria on my first trip and 10 days this time. I felt that I actually got to know it really well on my second trip and saw a lot more than on my first trip.

If you’re an intrepid traveler, I recommend the following itinerary as it’ll allow you to see the best of the country at a relaxing pace. You probably want to skip the beaches, but I suggest keeping Varna in your itinerary as it’s a cool coastal city.

Two-Week Bulgaria Itinerary:

Days 1-3: Sofia

Day 4: Day trip to Seven Rila Lakes & Monastery

Days 5-7: Veliko Tarnovo

Day 8: Day trip to Etara Ethnological Centre

Days 9-10: Varna

Day 11: Day trip to Nessebar

Days 12-13: Plovdiv

Day 14: Sofia

How to Get Around Bulgaria

By Car

It is relatively cheap and easy to drive in Bulgaria. The main highways are well built and signs are in both Bulgarian and English. You can rent a compact car in Sofia for US$78 per week or $130 for two weeks.

In order to drive on Bulgarian roads, you will need to display a vignette sold at petrol stations and post offices. Rental cars hired within Bulgaria should already have a vignette.

Bulgarian drivers can be aggressive and most don’t stick to the speed limit, so just be aware.

Search for Car Rental in Bulgaria!

By Bus

Bus is the fastest and most popular way to get around Bulgaria. There’s a great bus network across the country and distances aren’t that long. You can find many bus and train schedules here.

Here are the main bus companies in Bulgaria:

Biomet — Runs between Sofia and Veliko Târnovo, Varna and Burgas.

Etap-Grup — Another extensive intercity network, with buses between Sofia, Burgas, Varna, Ruse and Veliko Târnovo.

Union-Ivkoni — Links most major towns and many smaller ones, including Sofia, Burgas, Varna, and Plovdiv.

By Train

Traveling by train is the cheapest way to explore the country, even cheaper than taking the bus.

For example, a train ticket from Sofia to Plovdiv costs just US$5 for a two-hour train ride. Although the trains are sometimes old and slow, some of the rail journeys offer beautiful views.

All trains are run by the Bulgarian State Railroad Company. You can buy train tickets online.

Duration for Main Travel Routes in Bulgaria Departure Arrival By Bus By Car By Train Sofia Veliko Tarnovo 3.30-4 hours 3 hours – Veliko Tarnovo Varna 3-4 hours 2h45min – Varna Plovdiv 7 hours 4.5 hours 5-6 hours Plovdiv Sofia 2 hours 1.5 hours 2 hours

Where to Stay in Bulgaria

There is a wide variety of accommodation to choose from in most parts of Bulgaria and they’re much cheaper than in other parts of Europe.

Sofia: Rosslyn Thracia Hotel Sofia

As one of the best hotels in Sofia, this elegant hotel is located just a few minutes from Vitosha Street, a pedestrianized street right in the heart of the city. Room rates are reasonable, decor is modern and the breakfast spread is excellent! Check rates here.

Veliko Tarnovo: Park Hotel Sevastokrator

This hotel has exceptional views of Veliko Tarnovo from above as well as a nice swimming pool. It’s technically located in Arbanasi, a hilltop town just 10 minutes away from Veliko Tarnovo. Check rates here.

Varna: Rosslyn Dimyat Hotel Varna

This upscale modern hotel is located in the heart of Varna next to the Sea Garden, 500 m from the Varna Beach. You can’t get a better location that that. Prices are affordable for a 4-star quality hotel. Check rates here.

Plovdiv: The Stay Hotel Central Square Plovdiv

An incredibly stylish hotel located right in the heart of old town Plovdiv, the Stay Hotel offers excellent value for money. Rooms are spacious and have lots of facilities. Attractions are all within walking distance from here. Check rates here.

Food in Bulgaria

I’m a big fan of Bulgarian food, especially the barbecued meats that are ubiquitous here. 

Bulgarian cuisine shares characteristics with other Balkan cuisines — it’s like a blend of Greek and Turkish food. Meat is the main staple, along with fresh ingredients like tomatoes, dill and onions.

It’s actually quite easy to find vegetarian Bulgarian dishes on nearly every menu, though due to Bulgaria’s love affair with its cheese and dairy products, vegans won’t be so lucky.

There are some Bulgarian staples you need to try:

Shopska salad — A mix of tomatoes, cucumber, sirene cheese

Tarator — A cold yogurt soup made of cucumber and garlic

Kebapche — Known as Kebab in most places, grilled meat with spices

Meshana skara — Mixed grill that typically includes kebapche, kufte, and a skewer of pork meat similar to a souvlaki

Where to Eat in Bulgaria

There are lots of Bulgarian restaurants everywhere, as well as more international offerings in the big cities. I’ve found food to be really food wherever I went.

Here are some of the best places I ate at:

Hadjidraganov’s Cellars, Sofia — This traditional Bulgarian restaurant can be a little touristy, but it’s the best place to go for a feel of Bulgarian traditions. Portions are big, and food is served on wooden Medieval-style platters. Read reviews.

Restaurant Shtastliveca Old Town, Veliko Tarnovo — Rated as the best restaurant in Veliko Tarnovo, this place has excellent views of the old town and offers a well-rounded variety of traditional and modern cuisine. Be sure to make a booking in advance! Read reviews.

Park Hotel Sevastokrator, Arbanasi — The restaurant at this hotel in Arbanasi not only has great views, but also an affordable and good menu. They use fresh products and meat and I highly recommend the grilled trout.

Things to Do in Bulgaria

Explore Sofia’s Old Town

Bulgaria’s capital Sofia makes an excellent base to get an introduction to Bulgarian culture and history. The city has an eclectic mix of Roman buildings, Ottoman mosques and Soviet blocs. You’ll need at least three days to see them all.

Start with St. Alexander Nevski Cathedral, the second largest cathedral in the Balkan region. Then head on St George Rotunda, the oldest building in modern Sofia that dates back to the 300s. Don’t miss the Central Bath, one of the most photographed buildings in Bulgaria.

This bike tour is a great way to see all of Sofia’s sights on wheels.

Hike around the Seven Rila Lakes

Outdoor lovers would love the Seven Rila Lakes, a group of glacial lakes situated in the northwestern Rila Mountains close to Sofia. Hiking trails weave their way around the lakes that are perched 2,500 meters above sea level.

Each lake carries a name associated with its most characteristic feature. The highest one is called Salzata (“The Teardrop”) due to its clear waters that allow visibility in depth.

If you’re tight on time, you can book a day trip to the Seven Rila Lakes from Sofia.

Visit the Famous Rila Monastery

Rila Monastery is the largest and most famous Eastern Orthodox monastery in Bulgaria. The iconic landmark is located close to the Seven Rila Lakes, at 117km (73 miles) from Sofia.

Founded in the 10th century, the monastery is named after its founder, the hermit Ivan of Rila (876 – 946 AD), and houses around 60 monks.

You can also combine a visit there with the Seven Rila Lakes. This day tour is affordable and comes with great reviews.

Wander around Veliko Tarnovo

Of all the places I’ve visited in Bulgaria, Veliko Tarnovo is probably my favorite. This small town was once the medieval capital of the Bulgarian empire, and now has a special charm thanks to its long history.

Veliko Tarnovov is a hodgepodge of impressive castles, museums and historical sites. Stroll along the cobblestoned Gurko Street and admire well-preserved old houses, and watch craftsmen hard at work in the Samodovska Chashia Market.

You can also visit Veliko Tarnovo on a day trip from Plovdiv. Get more info here.

Explore the Tsarevets Fortress

The iconic symbol of Veliko Tarnovo is the Tsarevets, an impressive fortress that dominates its skyline. With only pedestrian access, you can walk along the breathtaking fortress walls and take in views onto the surrounding hills of Sveta Gora.

Children are free to run, clamber and discover, the only place where caution is advised is at Execution Rock at the northern end of the fortress. As the name suggests a fall from here down to the Yantra River would be nothing less than fatal. 

Immerse in the Open Air Etara Ethnographic Museum

Located close to Veliko Tarnovo in the town of Gabrovo is this beautiful open air museum that transports you back in time. The ethnographic centre spans over 7 hectares of area, showcasing how life used to be during the Bulgarian National Revival.

The park has replicas of traditional houses during that period, as well as water installations and craftsmen workshops. There are also stores selling sweets and artwork from yesteryears.

Visit the new Neofit Rilski Historical Park

Just a few kilometers outside of Varna is the newly opened Neofit Rilski Historical Park. It’s yet to be fully completed, but already offers some exciting activities. I was rather impressed by the scale of the park.

For curious travelers, the historical park is a great place to learn about Bulgarian history, from the Neolithic period to the Thracian Civilization and Second Bulgarian Empire.

The park gives the sensation that you’re stepping back in time, into a medieval complex with archery demonstrations and horse-riding displays. There are numerous replicas of archaeological site and historical monuments as well as homes that people used to live in.

Relax on Varna’s Beaches

As a vibrant coastal city, Varna is the main gateway for tourists that are heading to the Black Sea coast. Intrepid travelers will probably choose to skip the beaches, but don’t miss out on the charm of Varna.

The city is packed with history yet it’s thoroughly modern, with a lush and green seafront park to amble on. Its beach is not too bad to while away a lazy afternoon and enjoy some fresh seafood.

In the city centre you’ll find Bulgaria’s largest Roman baths complex and its finest archaeological museum, as well as a lively cultural and restaurant scene.

Get Lost in the Charming Old Town of Nesebar

The ancient part of Nesebar is located on a peninsula that juts out from the Black Sea coast (previously an island).

Nesebar has on several occasions found itself on the frontier of a threatened empire, and as such it is a town with a rich history. Due to the city’s abundance of historic buildings, Nesebar became a UNESCO Site  in 1983.

Today it’s really popular with tourists especially in summer, so get there early if you want to get lost in its narrow cobblestoned streets.

Soak Up History in Plovdiv

As Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited city, Plovdiv is Bulgaria’s heartthrob with a romantic old town. The city is packed with colorful and creaky 19th-century mansions that are now house-museums, galleries and guesthouses.

As the European Capital of Culture 2019, Plovdiv is quickly drawing more music and art lovers. Once an amiable waystation between Bulgaria and Greece or Turkey, the city has flowered into a destination in its own right – and one that should be on any itinerary through central Bulgaria.

For those short on time, this day tour leads you around Plovdiv, Asen Fortress and Bachkovo Fortress in 1 day.

Language in Bulgaria

Bulgarian is the country’s only official language. Bulgarian is written with Cyrillic, which makes trying to read Bulgarian words quite difficult for most of us.

English isn’t widely spoken in Bulgaria, especially among the older generation. But younger Bulgarians in the big cities tend to speak a bit of English.

Safety in Bulgaria

Most parts of Bulgaria are very safe and I never felt unsafe on both trips there. I traveled solo on my first trip and with my four-year-old daughter on this recent trip.   

The only danger that travelers face is theft, primarily from pickpockets. In general, try not to stand out and avoid dark alleys at night if traveling solo.

Practical Tips for Traveling Bulgaria

Within cities, minibuses called marshroutki act like shared taxis and are common in many ex-Soviet countries. You just need to flag them down and buy tickets from the driver.

One thing to note for those traveling with kids, it is allowed to smoke in most places in Bulgaria, even indoors. It can be annoying for non-smokers.

As an ex-Soviet country, Bulgaria still shares a relationship with Russia and many Bulgarians still speak Russian.

I think of Bulgarians as quite similar to Russians. They may not smile a lot and can come across as rude. But give them some time, show that you’re friendly and they’ll eventually warm up to you.

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All You Need to Know – Wild Junket Adventure Travel Blog

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Bulgaria is just a three-hour flight from most parts of Europe and it’s incredibly affordable. Yet it remains an under-visited destination in Eastern Europe. 

After my first Balkan trip almost 10 years ago, I was so pleasantly surprised to find such an interesting region that has seemingly slipped under the radar. The Balkan states, spanning across southeastern Europe, are easy on the pocket, and are chocked full of history and Soviet architecture. 

I finally returned to Bulgaria this summer, and rekindled my love for the underrated Balkan state. Bulgaria is a beautiful country packed to the brim with rich history and culture, and a tinge of Soviet edginess that you just can’t find in western Europe.

Cost of Travel in Bulgaria

Bulgaria is an incredibly cheap destination and it’s much more affordable than other parts of Europe. You’ll get a bang for your buck, going on Bulgaria day tours for as cheap as $50 and staying at decent hotels for $50/night.

Food in Bulgaria is really affordable, fresh and delicious. A meal in a standard restaurant is usually around US$5-10 including drinks. A pint of beer costs around $1-2.

Expect to pay around $30-50 for a midrange hotel with air conditioning, private bathroom and WiFi. Hotels on the beach are definitely much more expensive, at $70-150 for a four-star hotel.

  How to Get to Bulgaria

By Plane

Sofia International Airport is the main gateway to Bulgaria. It’s a small airport but it’s served by most major cities in Europe.

You can get cheap flights to Sofia from London, Amsterdam and Paris for around $100 return (three-hour journey). Airlines that serve Sofia include British Airways, Air France, Lufthansa, Wizz Air and Ryanair.

Aeroflot and LOT Polish Airlines fly from New York to Sofia for around US$700-1000 return. You’ll most likely need to transit via Moscow or Warsaw.

Search for Cheap Flights to Bulgaria

By Train

As a landlocked country surrounded by five countries, Bulgaria is easy to get to overland. But most trains tend to be old and shabby, and journey times are usually slower than buses. 

From Serbia, the Balkan Express runs daily between Sofia and Belgrade (11 hours) from June to September. Trains depart from both cities in the mornings. Check out Serbian Railways’ website for details.

From Romania, you can catch a train from Bucharest (10-hour journey) to Ruse or Veliko Tarnovo. From Turkey, the daily Bosfor (Bosphorous Express) goes from Istanbul to Sofia and continues onto Bucharest. The journey takes 9 hours and there are sleeper cabins on the train. Check the Turkish State Railways website.

By Bus

It is even cheaper to travel to Bulgaria by the international buses from the surrounding countries and they’re relatively comfortable. On my first trip to Bulgaria, I took an overnight bus from Istanbul to Plovdiv and it was easy and smooth-sailing.

When traveling out of Bulgaria by bus, the cost of entry visas for the countries concerned are not included in the prices of the bus tickets. A good timetable for international connections can be found here. 

Plovdiv is the main gateway for those traveling overland from Greece, Turkey and Macedonia. Sofia is the nearest city for those traveling overland from Serbia and Romania. Here’s more info for each travel route:

International Bus Routes to Bulgaria

Country

Departure

Arrival

Duration

  Greece

Thessaloniki

Sofia

5-6 hours

  Greece

Thessaloniki

Plovdiv

8-9 hours

  Macedonia

Skopje

Sofia

6 hours

  Macedonia

Ohrid

Sofia

9 hours

  Romania

Bucharest

Sofia

9 hours

  Romania

Bucharest

Ruse

3 hours

  Serbia

Niš

Sofia

3 hours

  Serbia

Dimitrovgrad 

Sofia

1-2 hours

  Turkey

Istanbul

Sofia

10 hours

  Turkey

Istanbul

Plovdiv

7 hours

  When to Travel Bulgaria

The best time to travel Bulgaria is during the shoulder season, from April to June, and September to October. The weather will be more pleasant, and the prices are lower. I went to Bulgaria in April on my first trip and it was perfect.

It can get really hot in summer, from June to August, with temperatures rising to 40+ degrees Celsius. Summer is also the peak tourism season, when the beaches on the Black Sea are packed to the brim.

Winter is mostly low season across the country, and most of the smaller towns will shut down. But Bulgaria is one of the best budget ski destinations in Europe, with affordable and excellent ski conditions. Bansko is the most popular ski resort.

How Long to Travel Bulgaria?

This depends on your interest of course, but two weeks are enough to explore Bulgaria properly and get to know its culture and people.

I spent around a week in Bulgaria on my first trip and 10 days this time. I felt that I actually got to know it really well on my second trip and saw a lot more than on my first trip.

If you’re an intrepid traveler, I recommend the following itinerary as it’ll allow you to see the best of the country at a relaxing pace. You probably want to skip the beaches, but I suggest keeping Varna in your itinerary as it’s a cool coastal city.

Two-Week Bulgaria Itinerary:

Days 1-3: Sofia

Day 4: Day trip to Seven Rila Lakes & Monastery

Days 5-7: Veliko Tarnovo

Day 8: Day trip to Etara Ethnological Centre

Days 9-10: Varna

Day 11: Day trip to Nessebar

Days 12-13: Plovdiv

Day 14: Sofia

How to Get Around Bulgaria

By Car

It is relatively cheap and easy to drive in Bulgaria. The main highways are well built and signs are in both Bulgarian and English. You can rent a compact car in Sofia for US$78 per week or $130 for two weeks.

In order to drive on Bulgarian roads, you will need to display a vignette sold at petrol stations and post offices. Rental cars hired within Bulgaria should already have a vignette.

Bulgarian drivers can be aggressive and most don’t stick to the speed limit, so just be aware.

Search for Car Rental in Bulgaria!

By Bus

Bus is the fastest and most popular way to get around Bulgaria. There’s a great bus network across the country and distances aren’t that long. You can find many bus and train schedules here.

Here are the main bus companies in Bulgaria:

Biomet — Runs between Sofia and Veliko Târnovo, Varna and Burgas.

Etap-Grup — Another extensive intercity network, with buses between Sofia, Burgas, Varna, Ruse and Veliko Târnovo.

Union-Ivkoni — Links most major towns and many smaller ones, including Sofia, Burgas, Varna, and Plovdiv.

By Train

Traveling by train is the cheapest way to explore the country, even cheaper than taking the bus.

For example, a train ticket from Sofia to Plovdiv costs just US$5 for a two-hour train ride. Although the trains are sometimes old and slow, some of the rail journeys offer beautiful views.

All trains are run by the Bulgarian State Railroad Company. You can buy train tickets online.

Duration for Main Travel Routes in Bulgaria Departure Arrival By Bus By Car By Train Sofia Veliko Tarnovo 3.30-4 hours 3 hours – Veliko Tarnovo Varna 3-4 hours 2h45min – Varna Plovdiv 7 hours 4.5 hours 5-6 hours Plovdiv Sofia 2 hours 1.5 hours 2 hours

Where to Stay in Bulgaria

There is a wide variety of accommodation to choose from in most parts of Bulgaria and they’re much cheaper than in other parts of Europe.

Sofia: Rosslyn Thracia Hotel Sofia

As one of the best hotels in Sofia, this elegant hotel is located just a few minutes from Vitosha Street, a pedestrianized street right in the heart of the city. Room rates are reasonable, decor is modern and the breakfast spread is excellent! Check rates here.

Veliko Tarnovo: Park Hotel Sevastokrator

This hotel has exceptional views of Veliko Tarnovo from above as well as a nice swimming pool. It’s technically located in Arbanasi, a hilltop town just 10 minutes away from Veliko Tarnovo. Check rates here.

Varna: Rosslyn Dimyat Hotel Varna

This upscale modern hotel is located in the heart of Varna next to the Sea Garden, 500 m from the Varna Beach. You can’t get a better location that that. Prices are affordable for a 4-star quality hotel. Check rates here.

Plovdiv: The Stay Hotel Central Square Plovdiv

An incredibly stylish hotel located right in the heart of old town Plovdiv, the Stay Hotel offers excellent value for money. Rooms are spacious and have lots of facilities. Attractions are all within walking distance from here. Check rates here.

Food in Bulgaria

I’m a big fan of Bulgarian food, especially the barbecued meats that are ubiquitous here. 

Bulgarian cuisine shares characteristics with other Balkan cuisines — it’s like a blend of Greek and Turkish food. Meat is the main staple, along with fresh ingredients like tomatoes, dill and onions.

It’s actually quite easy to find vegetarian Bulgarian dishes on nearly every menu, though due to Bulgaria’s love affair with its cheese and dairy products, vegans won’t be so lucky.

There are some Bulgarian staples you need to try:

Shopska salad — A mix of tomatoes, cucumber, sirene cheese

Tarator — A cold yogurt soup made of cucumber and garlic

Kebapche — Known as Kebab in most places, grilled meat with spices

Meshana skara — Mixed grill that typically includes kebapche, kufte, and a skewer of pork meat similar to a souvlaki

Where to Eat in Bulgaria

There are lots of Bulgarian restaurants everywhere, as well as more international offerings in the big cities. I’ve found food to be really food wherever I went.

Here are some of the best places I ate at:

Hadjidraganov’s Cellars, Sofia — This traditional Bulgarian restaurant can be a little touristy, but it’s the best place to go for a feel of Bulgarian traditions. Portions are big, and food is served on wooden Medieval-style platters. Read reviews.

Restaurant Shtastliveca Old Town, Veliko Tarnovo — Rated as the best restaurant in Veliko Tarnovo, this place has excellent views of the old town and offers a well-rounded variety of traditional and modern cuisine. Be sure to make a booking in advance! Read reviews.

Park Hotel Sevastokrator, Arbanasi — The restaurant at this hotel in Arbanasi not only has great views, but also an affordable and good menu. They use fresh products and meat and I highly recommend the grilled trout.

Things to Do in Bulgaria

Explore Sofia’s Old Town

Bulgaria’s capital Sofia makes an excellent base to get an introduction to Bulgarian culture and history. The city has an eclectic mix of Roman buildings, Ottoman mosques and Soviet blocs. You’ll need at least three days to see them all.

Start with St. Alexander Nevski Cathedral, the second largest cathedral in the Balkan region. Then head on St George Rotunda, the oldest building in modern Sofia that dates back to the 300s. Don’t miss the Central Bath, one of the most photographed buildings in Bulgaria.

This bike tour is a great way to see all of Sofia’s sights on wheels.

Hike around the Seven Rila Lakes

Outdoor lovers would love the Seven Rila Lakes, a group of glacial lakes situated in the northwestern Rila Mountains close to Sofia. Hiking trails weave their way around the lakes that are perched 2,500 meters above sea level.

Each lake carries a name associated with its most characteristic feature. The highest one is called Salzata (“The Teardrop”) due to its clear waters that allow visibility in depth.

If you’re tight on time, you can book a day trip to the Seven Rila Lakes from Sofia.

Visit the Famous Rila Monastery

Rila Monastery is the largest and most famous Eastern Orthodox monastery in Bulgaria. The iconic landmark is located close to the Seven Rila Lakes, at 117km (73 miles) from Sofia.

Founded in the 10th century, the monastery is named after its founder, the hermit Ivan of Rila (876 – 946 AD), and houses around 60 monks.

You can also combine a visit there with the Seven Rila Lakes. This day tour is affordable and comes with great reviews.

Wander around Veliko Tarnovo

Of all the places I’ve visited in Bulgaria, Veliko Tarnovo is probably my favorite. This small town was once the medieval capital of the Bulgarian empire, and now has a special charm thanks to its long history.

Veliko Tarnovov is a hodgepodge of impressive castles, museums and historical sites. Stroll along the cobblestoned Gurko Street and admire well-preserved old houses, and watch craftsmen hard at work in the Samodovska Chashia Market.

You can also visit Veliko Tarnovo on a day trip from Plovdiv. Get more info here.

Explore the Tsarevets Fortress

The iconic symbol of Veliko Tarnovo is the Tsarevets, an impressive fortress that dominates its skyline. With only pedestrian access, you can walk along the breathtaking fortress walls and take in views onto the surrounding hills of Sveta Gora.

Children are free to run, clamber and discover, the only place where caution is advised is at Execution Rock at the northern end of the fortress. As the name suggests a fall from here down to the Yantra River would be nothing less than fatal. 

Immerse in the Open Air Etara Ethnographic Museum

Located close to Veliko Tarnovo in the town of Gabrovo is this beautiful open air museum that transports you back in time. The ethnographic centre spans over 7 hectares of area, showcasing how life used to be during the Bulgarian National Revival.

The park has replicas of traditional houses during that period, as well as water installations and craftsmen workshops. There are also stores selling sweets and artwork from yesteryears.

Visit the new Neofit Rilski Historical Park

Just a few kilometers outside of Varna is the newly opened Neofit Rilski Historical Park. It’s yet to be fully completed, but already offers some exciting activities. I was rather impressed by the scale of the park.

For curious travelers, the historical park is a great place to learn about Bulgarian history, from the Neolithic period to the Thracian Civilization and Second Bulgarian Empire.

The park gives the sensation that you’re stepping back in time, into a medieval complex with archery demonstrations and horse-riding displays. There are numerous replicas of archaeological site and historical monuments as well as homes that people used to live in.

Relax on Varna’s Beaches

As a vibrant coastal city, Varna is the main gateway for tourists that are heading to the Black Sea coast. Intrepid travelers will probably choose to skip the beaches, but don’t miss out on the charm of Varna.

The city is packed with history yet it’s thoroughly modern, with a lush and green seafront park to amble on. Its beach is not too bad to while away a lazy afternoon and enjoy some fresh seafood.

In the city centre you’ll find Bulgaria’s largest Roman baths complex and its finest archaeological museum, as well as a lively cultural and restaurant scene.

Get Lost in the Charming Old Town of Nesebar

The ancient part of Nesebar is located on a peninsula that juts out from the Black Sea coast (previously an island).

Nesebar has on several occasions found itself on the frontier of a threatened empire, and as such it is a town with a rich history. Due to the city’s abundance of historic buildings, Nesebar became a UNESCO Site  in 1983.

Today it’s really popular with tourists especially in summer, so get there early if you want to get lost in its narrow cobblestoned streets.

Soak Up History in Plovdiv

As Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited city, Plovdiv is Bulgaria’s heartthrob with a romantic old town. The city is packed with colorful and creaky 19th-century mansions that are now house-museums, galleries and guesthouses.

As the European Capital of Culture 2019, Plovdiv is quickly drawing more music and art lovers. Once an amiable waystation between Bulgaria and Greece or Turkey, the city has flowered into a destination in its own right – and one that should be on any itinerary through central Bulgaria.

For those short on time, this day tour leads you around Plovdiv, Asen Fortress and Bachkovo Fortress in 1 day.

Language in Bulgaria

Bulgarian is the country’s only official language. Bulgarian is written with Cyrillic, which makes trying to read Bulgarian words quite difficult for most of us.

English isn’t widely spoken in Bulgaria, especially among the older generation. But younger Bulgarians in the big cities tend to speak a bit of English.

Safety in Bulgaria

Most parts of Bulgaria are very safe and I never felt unsafe on both trips there. I traveled solo on my first trip and with my four-year-old daughter on this recent trip.   

The only danger that travelers face is theft, primarily from pickpockets. In general, try not to stand out and avoid dark alleys at night if traveling solo.

Practical Tips for Traveling Bulgaria

Within cities, minibuses called marshroutki act like shared taxis and are common in many ex-Soviet countries. You just need to flag them down and buy tickets from the driver.

One thing to note for those traveling with kids, it is allowed to smoke in most places in Bulgaria, even indoors. It can be annoying for non-smokers.

As an ex-Soviet country, Bulgaria still shares a relationship with Russia and many Bulgarians still speak Russian.

I think of Bulgarians as quite similar to Russians. They may not smile a lot and can come across as rude. But give them some time, show that you’re friendly and they’ll eventually warm up to you.

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