The 7 Best Destinations In Bulgaria For Fall

Bulgaria is lucky to have four very distinct seasons. When September arrives, nature’s colors shift from green to yellow and red, the cultural scene wakes up, and nights become cozier by the fireplace. If you plan to visit in fall, here are our picks of the best destinations to make the most of the season.

The Rhodope Mountains and Stara Planina (Balkan) Mountain

Colored foliage in fall is a heartwarming sight on any mountainside, but for the best panoramas, head to Stara Planina Mountain and the Rhodope Mountains any time in October when the rain and cold are not as severe. Even November is good for a photo day out. Pirin and Rila are perfect hiking destinations in the cooler months, though they are more rocky and don’t have as many trees to display those glorious autumnal shades.

The forests, to see the cyclamen blooming

From August until October, you can come across wild cyclamen blooming if you go for a stroll in the forest (usually under 600 metres (2,000 feet) altitude). Look carefully in the shady areas for the light violet blossoms of the flower.

The Black Sea Coast, for fewer crowds

The Bulgarian Black Sea coast tends to get overcrowded in summer, but plan a seaside escape in mid-September and you can enjoy the beautiful beaches without the throngs and the fuss. Some of the beach bars will be closed, and the water will be a few degrees colder, but it’s a perfect time for families to enjoy the sights with fewer people around.

Sofia, for the festivals and culture

After the summer, when everybody takes their holidays and swaps the fuss of the capital for a beach view, the end of September marks the new season of the cultural scene in Sofia, when theaters, the Opera House, concerts, and festivals open once more. If you’re a cinema lover, be sure to check out the selection of international movies at the Sofia International Film Festival, or choose a documentary from the Sofia Biting Docs film festival.

Bulgaria’s wineries, for vineyard and wine tasting tours

Grapes are harvested in September (until October in some areas), making this the perfect time to visit a winery and join a vineyard and wine tasting tour. Be sure to try Bulgarian grape varietals as well as taste different wines and learn how to distinguish the difference between scents and flavors.