Bulgaria has been named the cheapest country in Europe for Brits to visit in 2025 – with pints for less than £2 and return flights for under £30
Holidaymakers on the hunt for bargains, listen up. Industry experts from Mintel and eurochange have done the maths on flights, three-course meals and a cheeky beer to find where your quid gets you the most bang for your buck.
And it turns out Bulgaria is the bees’ knees for Brits when it comes to getting more bounce for the ounce this year. You can buyflights for as low as £28, and when you land, the price of a refreshing pint can be as measly as £1.42.
Laura Evans Fisk, head of digital and engagement at eurochange, said: “Bulgaria is slowly becoming a holiday hotspot for UK travellers. Research shows an 8.8 per cent year-on-year increase in British tourists visiting Bulgaria in 2024.
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“With incredibly reasonable prices and utterly stunning views, it’s easy to see why. Here you’ll find terracotta-tiled rooftops and beaches very reminiscent of Croatia, with a much smaller price tag.”
Despite its sterling offerings, Bulgaria often slips under the travel radar, which means fewer crowds for those savvy enough to visit. Its history is a smorgasbord of eras, with everything from ancient Neolithic digs to enigmatic Thracian tombs and remnants of mighty tsars.
Outdoor enthusiasts are in for a treat, too. With sweeping mountain ranges, Bulgaria offers hikes that’ll knock your socks off. Whether you fancy a mini-break or a proper fortnight soaking up sun and sights or conquering peaks, Bulgaria might just be your cup of tea.
Kick off your Bulgarian adventure in the capital, Sofia, a lively mix of culture, history, bustling markets and modern architecture. The city boasts a vibrant food market scene with organic and fresh produce stores scattered around, offering top-notch grub.
Don’t miss out on the Women’s Market, one of the best outdoor spots to find everything from regional fruits and vegetables to spices, meats and even everyday household items.
For a deeper understanding of the city’s past, visit the Sofia History Museum, located in the stunning former Central Mineral Baths, which covers the city’s history extensively. Plovdiv, Bulgaria’s second largest city and Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited city, is another must-see.
Be sure to visit the Amphitheatre in the Old Town – a perfect spot for summer concerts or simply strolling around and meeting its feline residents who roam the cobbled streets.
Known as “the City of Seven Hills”, the best place to watch a sunset is at the local favourite, Danov Hill. For those seeking adventure, lace up your hiking boots and head to Musala Peak in the Rila Mountains.
The Rila Mountains are the highest in the Balkans, with Mount Musala standing over 3,000 meters (10,000 feet) tall. Here, you’ll discover some of the country’s most stunning hikes. Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a visual and architectural marvel that draws in countless tourists.
For a truly one-of-a-kind experience, make your way to the heart of Bulgaria to see the UFO-esque Buzludzah Monument. This deserted former communist headquarters is currently the focus of numerous restoration projects, which have faced significant opposition from local authorities.
Despite falling into disrepair following the collapse of communism, the remaining futuristic silhouette is an unmissable attraction for travellers.
