When Americans travel to Europe, whether to visit or retire, they usually settle on countries with a large influx of tourists (people like themselves). Although these countries have their obvious charm, I want to get away from the cookie cutter cities and have fallen in love with Bulgaria. Let’s discuss Living in Bulgaria.
If you go through Paris and Barcelona, of course you will see the sights that made these top destinations. But, you’ll also see many museums, restaurants, tours, etc. that are catered to the American tourist. Basically tourist traps, KFCs and Pizza Huts ruining the vibe.
This might be fine for some, but there are some hidden gems in Europe that might surprise you. If you like adventure and local flair, get away from the common and give Bulgaria a shot.
Bulgaria might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Europe, but it is quickly becoming a haven for retirees from all over the world and experienced travelers. This has been especially true since Bulgaria introduced their fast track citizenship and second passport program.
One of the first things that will make Bulgaria a great option to visit is the proximity it has with other countries. As it is well known, traveling in Europe is cheap and flying from Bulgaria to Berlin or Amsterdam is ridiculously cheap.
The capital Sofia is without a doubt the most important city, but there are a lot of other options that will mesmerize you. Banksoleshten and Leshten Plovdiv being two of them. Below I’ll describe why you should live in Bulgaria.
Another detail that can’t be overlooked when you plan your visit or retirement to Bulgaria is that the government wants you to stay there. Bulgaria has been experiencing a shortage of population for the last years.
Due to many residents of Bulgaria leaving the country after they entered the European Union and the low natality rates the population of Bulgaria is slowly decreasing. The government of Bulgaria has installed many visa programs for the foreign tourist or retirees.
Here are some of the most interesting landmarks that you will see if you wish to visit or retire in Bulgaria:
NATURAL LANDSCAPES
The country of Bulgaria might be one of the smallest in Europe, but with its tiny size you can explore and see many gorgeous natural landscapes that are just a roadtrip away. You can experience everything from challenging mountain hikes to gorgeous coastlines to dazzling natural landscapes that are inviting to all.
BABA VIDA
Baba Vida is one of the best preserved medieval defense facilities in Bulgaria and, not coincidentally, it is often used as a stage for films. In the fortress there is the Vidin summer theater, where concerts, plays and others are held. You will feel like you are in an actual medieval castle.
BELOGRADCHIK FORTRESS
Located on the northern slope of the Balkan Mountains, near the northwestern Bulgarian city of Belogradchik, lies the Belogradchik Fortress, also known as Kaleto Fortress. The fortress is at the base of a spectacular rock formation belonging to the Belogradchik massif, consisting of sandstone and conglomerate rock formations in strange shapes, which are believed to resemble people or objects. Some of the rocks reach up to 200 meters high.
BOYANA CHURCH
The Boyana church, famous architectural monument, preserves unique building structures from the 13th century (1259). In 1979 it was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. It is located in the foothills of the Vitosha mountain, in the neighborhood of Boyana, an old town on the outskirts of the capital. When visiting the site one would realize that it is a special place.
KALIAKRA
Cape Kaliakra is one of the most picturesque places on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast. It goes two kilometers into the sea, and the waves have dug into its cliffs of 60 – 70 meters high, deep niches and caves, in which until 1981 monk seals took refuge. Cape Kaliakra is among the first protected areas in Bulgaria. In 1941 it was declared a nature reserve.
PERPERIKON
The sacred city is unique in its archaeological, historical, natural and multi-religious aspect. It is one of the wonders of the world. Many of the artifacts found during the Perperikon archaeological excavations can now be seen in the Kardzhali History Museum. Perperikon can be reached by a well-maintained road, and there is a car park at the foot of the hill.
RILA MONASTERY
The Rila Monastery is one of the symbols of Bulgaria and a very popular tourist destination. The monastery is located in the depths of the Rila mountains, between the Drushlyavitsa and Rilska rivers, at 1147 m. of altitude The monastery is located about 120 km from Sofia and 41 km from Blagoevgrad.
I hope you’ve found this article on Bulgaria to be helpful. For more information, or for assistance with Bulgaria’s second passport program, please contact us below by filling out the form. Thank you. We’ll be happy to assist you with a second passport from any country in Europe or elsewhere.
I hope you’ve found this article on Living in Bulgaria to be helpful. For more information, or for assistance with residency in Bulgaria or elsewhere, please contact us HERE today!
Here are a few articles on Bulgaria that you may enjoy reading!
10 Places To Explore in Bulgaria
Where Are Expats Living In Bulgaria
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