Bulgaria: A Star Destination in 2025 – Discover 52 Reasons Why!

The majestic Tsarevets, in Bulgaria’s old capital, Veliko Tarnovo

The New York Times’s prestigious 52 Places to Go in 2025 has shone its global spotlight on Bulgaria this year, naming the entire country as one of its must-visit destinations. This rare and extraordinary honor places Bulgaria alongside icons like “Jane Austen’s England,” celebrating the incredible diversity of experiences this corner of the Balkans offers.

To mark the occasion, we’re launching our own yearlong adventure: 52 Ways to Fall in Love with Bulgaria. From ancient traditions to contemporary wonders, we’ll uncover everything that makes this land unforgettable!

52 reasons to stay local—or choose Bulgaria if you are abroad

Over the next 12 months, we’ll share hidden gems, unmissable events, and memorable experiences across Bulgaria:

Are you ready to be surprised? Photo: Dunav Ultra
  • Ancient equestrian traditions: Did you know Bulgaria’s mastery of horse breeding and riding dates back to its earliest settlers? These skills have influenced the country’s culture and traditions for millennia, and we’ll take you to places where this heritage comes alive today.
  • Sunset spectacles: Bulgaria features some truly breathtaking spots to witness the sky’s daily transformation. And there’s one magical town that celebrates both sunrise and sunset with unique festivals—stay tuned to find out where!
  • Weekend wonders: Looking for quick getaways? We’ve got itineraries for every schedule—whether it’s a short weekend escape or a more leisurely multi-day adventure.
Meet the horse whisperer from the village of Karpachevo.
  • New hiking trails: Fresh paths are waiting for you to discover Bulgaria’s spectacular natural beauty. Lace up your boots, and let’s hit the trails!
  • Adventure in the open: Experience the thrill of Bulgaria’s great outdoors with mountain and road cycling, kayaking, and rafting along its beautiful rivers. Whether you’re navigating the rapids or cycling through majestic mountain passes, adventure is calling!
  • Celebrating St. Valentine’s Day the Bulgarian way: Whether you’re raising a glass for Wine Day or marking the day of love, we’ve got ideas to make February 14th unforgettable.
The fourteenth-century Cherepish Monastery on the banks of the Iskar River


A musical stop on the rails

One of this year’s highlights will be Concerts at the Station, a groundbreaking series that transforms Bulgaria’s railway stations into stages for live music. Inspired by global train-themed classics by Johann Strauss, The Beatles, and Bulgarian legends like Lili Ivanova and Wickeda, these concerts celebrate the timeless romance of train journeys and promote train travel as an environment-friendly way of moving around.

What makes the 2025 program extra special? It marks the 200th anniversary of the world’s first passenger railway line (Stockton to Darlington, UK) and celebrates 140 years since Bulgaria’s first railway law. Thanks to a partnership between Bulgarian band X-R@Y and the America for Bulgaria Foundation, the concerts will bring new energy to stations across Northwest Bulgaria, spotlighting train travel as a green and inspiring way to explore the country.

Join Bulgarian band X-R@Y for a Concert at the Station!

Follow the journey

From ancient practices to fresh discoveries, weekend escapes to inspiring concerts, there are 52 ways to fall in love with Bulgaria in 2025.

Whether you’re lucky enough to call Bulgaria home or planning your first visit, follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn for our travel series 52 Ways to Fall in Love with Bulgaria. Dive deeper into these incredible destinations through our newsletter. Pack your bags (and your calendars)—and let’s explore Bulgaria together!

Adventure awaits in Europe’s oldest city…

 

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