Here is where to stay in Bulgaria. This is a detailed list of the best hotels in Bulgaria for you. We’ve covered all the bases, from luxurious 5-star Bulgaria hotels to the more budget-friendly.
We are not sure we have ever traveled to a country so diverse as Bulgaria – and in a constant state of surprise!
Whether it was the centuries-old monasteries, the historical centers filled with kind-hearted and helpful locals, or stunning beaches and mountain tops in the heart of the Balkans, it seemed everywhere we went; we kept asking ourselves, “Why do more people not travel here?”
Being one of our favorite places we have ever been, we wanted to make sure everyone else can have the type of experiences we have had in this great country, so we have compiled a collection of our favorite hotels, resorts, and guest homes for one reason or another.
Below, you will find a mix of budget-friendly stays, luxurious palaces, beachside resorts, and even clay houses, which should lead you to find the perfect place for your vacation.
Along with the rest of the Balkans countries, Bulgaria has gained a negative reputation over the decades because of strict communist regimes that have never prioritized international tourism.
However, those days are well gone, and a new wave of tourism has reached this stellar country. Below, we have compiled a list of some of our favorite hotels in Bulgaria for your vacation. Consider staying at any of these places to ensure you have a quality stay in an ever-improving tourism scene in Bulgaria.
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1. Hotel Gurko
Gurko Hotel is located on Gurko Street, in the historical center of Veliko Tarnovo, where you can see many traditional Bulgarian buildings of the 18th and 19th centuries. The houses surrounding the hotel create a breathtaking image of the heart of the city. Gurko Hotel is a staple part of the area and offers an ambiance and comfort on the river’s banks towering over Sveta Gora Hill and the Four-Horseman monument that can’t be beaten.
It is undoubtedly one of the highlights if you have never been to Bulgaria. Veliko Tarnovo, one of the oldest towns in Bulgaria, has a five-thousand-year history. This picturesque town is home to one of the most significant medieval monuments in Europe – Tsaravets Fortress.
2. City Boutique Inn
Located a few minutes walk from Varna Opera House, City Boutique Inn is in a prime location in the center of Varna for excellent sightseeing and a great spot to take in a day in the life of a local.
Built in 1925, the property is within a short distance from several main attractions in the city, such as the Varna Cathedral, and just a bit further is the Varna City Hall.
The hotel offers a sauna, fitness center, and free WiFi, among other amenities. The rooms have air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a toaster, a kettle, and a work desk. Also, a buffet breakfast can be enjoyed each morning.
City Boutique Inn makes an excellent place for those looking to stay in a central location, so they rarely have to use public transport or pay for private taxi services. This is an excellent hotel if you don’t plan to travel outside the city during your vacation.
3. Sol Marina Palace
This modern hotel is a convenient starting point to explore the charm of the old UNESCO World Heritage Site of Nessebar. Many rooms offer panoramic views and a roof with a swimming pool, terraces, and multiple bars. With all that is to offer at Sol Marina Palace, you would be better opting for this bed and breakfast rather than an all-inclusive resort.
4. Helena Park
Helena Park is located on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast, right on the beach and within walking distance of Sunny Beach Luna Park. The hotel is part of the Helena Resort, including the Helena Sands Hotel, Helena VIP, and cozy apartments.
Previous guests have had nothing but nice things to say on review boards about the hotel staff for accommodating and inviting guests to participate in events such as darts, beach volleyball, and Zumba.
If group activities aren’t your thing, you can take advantage of other amenities such as two indoor and outdoor pools, a gym, and a solarium. Two types of saunas (a Brechel sauna and a Finnish sauna), a steam bath and a stone bath, are especially appreciated by those looking for the complete relaxation package – don’t forget to take advantage of those while you are at Sunny Beach.
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5. Clay House
This, by far, is the most unique stay on our list. It is a modest house in Leshten village made entirely of clay. It has no square or sharp shapes. The whole house is soft and round and homey. Although it seems simple and primitive, when you first see it, it might remind you of the Flintstones, but you will be surprised at the luxury it can offer.
It is a small house with a unique architectural style but is spacious and equipped with all the necessary services to live one of the most beautiful moments of your life.
Leshten is located west of the Rhodope Mountains, about five miles from Garmen and ten miles from Gotse Delchev. A beautiful panoramic view of the Pirin Mountains from Leshten is worth the trip alone! Nearby are two other popular destinations for rural tourism – the Kovachevitsa Architectural Reserve and the Dolen.
6. Green Hill Boutique Hotel
Green Hill Boutique Hotel is one of the most prestigious places in the city. The area is very popular with tourists.
It offers a restaurant, bar, lounge, and garden in Berkovitsa. All rooms have a flat-screen satellite TV and air-conditioning views of the gorgeous garden.
A continental breakfast is served daily, and there is a barbecue area if you feel up to preparing your feast. Also, bicycles can be rented from the front desk, which we highly recommend for at least a day.
7. Barcelo Royal Beach
Barcelo Royal Beach is a stronghold for one of the nicest places to stay in Sunny Beach. It is one of the most beautiful resorts in Bulgaria, and, if you don’t mind splurging, a ton of things are offered for entertainment inside the resort.
It is a great place to bring the children as there is no shortage of amenities Barcelo Royal Beach offers for the kiddos. It also has a spa which is to die for.
8. Hotel Residence City Garden
The Hotel Residence City Garden is an elegant and modern hotel combining traditional Bulgarian architecture and a modern style that lacks no amenities. The relaxed garden restaurant is an ideal place to escape the sun in the summertime and an even better place to warm up in the wintertime with a fireplace that many gather around.
There is a wide selection of rooms to fit every budget.
9. Rachev Hotel Residence
Rachev Hotel Residence is located in the western part of the village of Arbanasi, near the Assumption monastery, only three miles from Veliko Tarnovo on the road to Gorna Oryahovitsa.
If you are traveling on the main road from the capital city to Varna, turn to the village of Sheremetya in the direction of Arbanassi (in the north-central part of the country). It is a relatively easy drive and easy to find Arbanasi. It is so beautiful; it is a wonder why more people don’t visit – at least for the day!
It is known for its rich history and several historical monuments, such as churches of the 17th and 18th centuries and the Bulgarian National Revival buildings.
10. Sea Sense Boutique Hotel
Sea Sense Boutique Hotel is located in Sozopol, only a short walk from Bamboo Beach. It offers modern rooms, an on-site restaurant, free parking, an outdoor pool, and a quaint garden terrace.
The Sea Sense Boutique Hotel offers a daily breakfast buffet, which is excellent for the wallet on an extended vacation. We try to find hotels that offer a complimentary breakfast so you can fill up on the day’s first meal for free.
Though it is not within walking distance to nearby attractions, it is not a far ride from them. The Apollo Amphitheater is only five miles away, and the Sozopol Port is nearly the same distance. It may not be the perfect location, but it is hard to complain once you see how close you are to a beautiful Black Sea beach.
11. Sense Hotel
The Sense Hotel is a sophisticated place with an elegant design in the historical center of Sofia. You will notice subtle minimalism throughout the hotel, which feels very cozy.
Enjoy the wonderful rooms and the Mediterranean-infused restaurant, which is done so well. Also, the rooftop and spa are popular hits among guests staying at Sense Hotel.
12. Lavanda
The classic B&B, Lavenda, is located in the quiet Rhodope Mountains (like several others on this list) in southern Bulgaria. It is a place where time stands still, and the spirit is restored by simply enjoying the fresh air, the peaceful rhythmic life in the countryside, the tasty local cuisine, the warmth of people’s laughter, and the friendly atmosphere that makes you feel at home.
Lavender is located in the important architectural village of Kovatchevitsa and is only a few hours’ drive from the main cities but completely removed from the cities’ fast-paced life.
13. Hotel Evmolpia
The boutique Hotel Evmolpia is located in a traditional Bulgarian Renaissance house in the heart of Plovdiv’s historical center, just a two-minute walk from the Kapana district. Make sure you take advantage of the free cheese and wine offered at the hotel’s bar. You might even strike up a conversation with fellow travelers and get a few good travel tips for the rest of your vacation.
You will be centrally located near the Roman Theatre in Plovdiv and Plovdiv International Fair, which are no more than a ten-minute walk from the hotel.
If you are traveling by car, you will be glad to know free parking is available at Hotel Evmolpia.
14. Blu Bay Hotel Sozopol
Blu Bay Hotel Sozopol is located in the historical center of Sozopol, near the marina, just a five-minute walk from the nearest sandy beach. It features an outdoor pool and a sunny terrace with beautiful sea views.
The spacious rooms are air-conditioned and feature a flat-screen TV with LED and satellite channels. A laptop-size safe, a personal coffee maker, various minibar choices, and elegant bathrooms are offered to every guest. In addition, most rooms offer panoramic ocean views.
A delicious breakfast buffet is served each morning until late. You can also enjoy Spanish cuisine and relax over a glass of Soho Club wine in the modern Boca Grande a la carte restaurant.
15. Kempinski Hotel Grand Arena
Discover the beauty of untouched nature, beautiful landscapes, and endless peace on the trails of the majestic Pirin Mountains (a UNESCO World Heritage site). Spend your vacation in an oasis of luxury, comfort, and freedom in the mountains of Bansko.
Hotel Kempinski Grand Arena is the only ski hotel in Bansko and is located in the heart of the mountain village, opposite the cable car station. So, if you are traveling in the wintertime, you will be just about as well situated as possible to maximize the time on the slopes. As a matter of fact, it is straightforward to take a break from skiing to go warm up in the comfort of your own private space before hitting the slopes for an afternoon session.
The luxurious 5-star hotel offers 157 Alpine-style rooms, including 25 dedicated suites and an exclusive presidential suite. Great for business and pleasure! The premise was recently fully renovated to offer four meeting rooms and dining rooms with magnificent views of the majestic Pirin Mountains.
16. Spa Complex Panorama
Hotel Panorama is located in a quiet area just below the Orpheus mountain peak, with a beautiful view of Snezhanka (Pamporovo).
Built nearly a hundred years ago, it underwent a complete makeover in 2014 but perfectly preserved the cultural and timeless aspects of the old hotel.
The small village of Rhodope in Gela is over 3,300 years old, with so much history you can’t even imagine. In ancient times, it was inhabited by wealthy members of the Thracian Bessi tribe, as evidenced by the ancient Thracian fortress, located two-and-a-half miles southwest of the village.
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17. Alexandrov’s Guesthouse And Spa Center
Alexandrov’s Guesthouse and Spa Center is a new accommodation in a unique ethnographic complex of the region. “Alexandrov House” buildings consist of two houses with facades representing Zlatograd architecture from the National Revival period. Though the rooms are modeled after an earlier time, all amenities and facilities meet and exceed modern standards.
For many years, Zlatograd has combined different cultures that have left their mark on local customs and lifestyles. The city has always been seen as the “gateway to the world.” Locals of the tiny town insist that Bulgaria begins at Zlatograd.
Today, this beautiful part of the Rhodopean mountains, with its traditional homes and Revivalist atmosphere, is to the delight of backpackers and vacationers alike. Everyone can enjoy their stay in this well-kept secret.
18. Reverence Boutique Hotel
The Boutique Reverence Hotel is located in the heart of Varna. It offers air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi in all facilities and a 24-hour front desk. Secure parking spaces are available nearby for an additional fee.
It offers modern rooms with a flat-screen TV, minibar, and kettles, and each room has its own balcony.
A buffet breakfast is served each morning. You can also enjoy a variety of drinks at the bar. A spa with a sauna, a Turkish bath, and a hot tub are available at an additional cost for those who want to soak in ultimate relaxation.
The Reverence Boutique Hotel is only a short walk from a beautiful beachfront promenade, where many restaurants and bars can be found. Major tourist attractions and the city’s shopping center are also within easy reach.
The 409 bus stop in front of the hotel takes you to Varna Airport, which is only a short, convenient trip. Everything about Reverence Boutique Hotel is convenient and makes your stay in Bulgaria that much more enjoyable.
Stay At These Hotels In Bulgaria For Your Holidays!
Bulgaria is a fantastic place to stay at any time of the year and an excellent place for this year’s family vacation destination. Whether you are looking for a relaxing stay on the Black Sea’s underappreciated beaches or a place to shred down lush snowy mountains, Bulgaria can serve both desires.
Bulgaria is one of the most popular destinations in the Balkans region. However, it is still vastly unexplored compared to western Europe. Take a chance and vacation to the Balkans before the rest of Europe discovers they are missing a real gem!
If you have any questions regarding your vacation to Bulgaria or where you should stay during your trip, do not hesitate to reach out, and we will do our best to answer your questions.