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Bordering Romania to the north, Serbia to the northwest, and Greece and Turkey to the South, the country once considered one of the dreariest of USSR satellite nations is today enjoying a booming revival.

As one of the EU's newest members (January 2007), Bulgaria is now attracting visitors from around the continent to its major cities offering a vibrant shopping scene and happening nightlife.

In addition, Bulgarian Black Sea coast is also currently enjoying an investment boom by Europeans who have suddenly discovered a cheap summer home away from home in Bulgaria's growing seaside resort communities.

With breathtaking scenery and world class ski resorts in its mountainous western regions — leading down to the sunny 232-mile-long Bulgarian Black Sea coast — visitors to Bulgaria often choose the capital city of Sofia as their main point of entry.

While here, taken in the pubs and discos, but also don't overlook the rich history and culture that one of the oldest cities in all of Europe has to offer, capped by St. Sofia church - the oldest in the city, dating to the 5th century.

(L to R) More memorable trips around Bulgaria await in quaint Old Nessebar town, which has been
charming visitors for 9,000 years -- followed by a tour of Rila Monastery, the largest in Bulgaria with
its ornate architecture and 60 monks who still call it home. With more time to spare, head to
higher elevations for a stunning view of unique pyramid-shaped mountains in Pirin National Park.

Those who want to go straight for the beach will head for Bulgaria's sea capital, Varna, and the country's second largest city boasting a mix of Baroque, 20th century and contemporary architecture.

Today, Varnia also happens to have the best resorts and the wildest nightlife, but by day, also don't overlook the Varna Archaelogical Museum with one of Bulgaria's richest collections of historical artifacts.

also see in Wines of the World -> Bulgarian Wineries

More Bulgaria tourist information around the Web:

Welcome to Bulgaria - Excellent guide to the entire Bulgarian travel scene with information on top attractions including an interactive map, photos, videos, weather info and practical travel tips.

Introducing Bulgaria - Lonely Planet World Guide - Fast facts, when to go, how to get there plus maps, typical travel costs, photo galleries, with informative overviews of Sofia, the Rila Monastery, Plovdiv, Koprivshtitsa, and the Bansko ski resort.