The top things to do in Bulgaria is a hodgepodge of activities you can never imagine finding in one place.  This Balkan country west of the Black Sea and surrounded by other equally beautiful countries, Romania, Serbia, Macedonia, Greece and Turkey is one of the most exotic countries you’ll find in Europe.

From beautiful architectures, ski resorts and lovely beaches, Bulgaria is indeed a one-stop-shop for exciting outdoor activities and is definitely one of the ultimate holiday gems of Europe.

Here are some of the top things to do in Bulgaria:

Collect stamps.  Part of the Bulgarian government’s initiative to promote the country’s tourism is to give away reward schemes to tourists who are able to amass a great number of stamps from the tourist spots they have visited.  So, it’s a definite win-win situation:  you get to explore the wonders of Bulgaria while earning a chance to win great rewards!

Hiking.  Bulgaria offers a great number of walking and hiking trails all over the country, each offering a great view of some of the country’s most beautiful landscapes.  From late June to September, places like the Balkan Mountains, Rila Mountains and the Pirin Mountains offer excellent opportunities for hiking and climbing trips as well as walking tours.  Along the way, you can be treated to great sceneries as well as a chance to discover hidden historical and natural wonders such as the Rila Monastery and the glacier lakes.

But in winter, ski trips and snowshoeing are some of the top things to do in Bulgaria, especially in this area.

Hit the beach – You’ll never think it’s possible to be able to ski and enjoy the sun, sea and surf in one country.  But in Bulgaria, you most certainly can!  Sea tourism has been one of the country’s biggest lures since 1960’s.  And we can’t blame them.  Beaches like Sunny Beach, Golden Sands and Albena have earned the country the moniker the “Red Riviera”.

Thanks to the country’s lack of dangerous wildlife, long summer season and a mildly warm climate, Bulgaria is fast becoming one of the most popular beach destinations in Europe.