Once home to the leading Bulgarian figure Neofit Rilski, a monk, writer, and educator, this museum now shows visitors what a typical 18th-century house was like in the town of Bansko. Set behind high walls, the space is well-preserved, though the small exhibition in the barn about Rilski’s work is a modern addition.
Almost as high as Musala Peak in the Rila Mountains, Vihren Peak is Bulgaria’s second-tallest mountain at 9,560 feet (2,914 meters). This mountain within Pirin National Park sits above a series of small lakes among the Pirin Mountains. Lower down it, you’ll find the ski fields of Bansko. This is one of the best options in Bulgaria for hikers looking for a challenge.
Set in Primorski Park on Varna’s coast, Varna Zoo (Zoopark Varna) is a small zoo established in the 1960s. Perhaps the most interesting of the 70-odd species here are the birds, which include black swans, pelicans, and local curios. There are also larger creatures here, including llamas, a camel, lions, tigers, wolves, and kangaroos.
An enormous water park just outside Nessebar, Aqua Paradise is also home to a large resort hotel. The park, sometimes known as Aqua Park Nessebar, features over 20 water slides, multiple swimming pools, lazy rivers, and attractions including a surf simulator. There are also a range of bars and restaurants, plus themed live shows in season.
