Cityscape

Varna is the ultimate Bulgarian destination for culture vultures. Featuring a history of magnificent architecture, combined with trendy international arts festivals and authentic street side café’s, you’re spoilt for choice.

Landscape

Plovdiv, the second city is a joy for the eyes. Crammed with bright 18th-19th century houses, the landscape is a vibrant one with fantastic old buildings lining the streets. Take the train through Bulgaria to visit the churches of Sofia and the nine World Heritage Sites, featuring must-see Thracian tombs and isolated monasteries.

Take Home

Savour a glass of local fine wine from Melnik, and buy the bottle for the folk at home, or why not just get the whole case? Along the Black Sea Coast designer labels are everywhere, and at a fraction of the price they’d be in the UK.

Eat & Drink

Bulgaria’s vibrant capital Sofia provides many opportunities to sample the traditional meaty Balkan cuisine. The homemade sausages are a must, especially with a meat Bulgarian soup for starters. If you prefer to keep things cheap and simple take a train ride to the beach resorts, they cater for all tastes.

New Perspective

A first-class sleeper train with BDZ across Bulgaria is a wonderful way to travel long distances, you’ll arrive at your destination refreshed and ready to explore.

• Plovdiv
• Sofia