Most travelers are familiar with the beautiful and iconic cities of Western and Eastern Europe. However, the beautiful nation of Bulgaria and Romania remains relatively unexplored.
These are the best kept secrets in Europe!
Balkan Trails is a travel agency with first-hand knowledge of the countries and has been in the travel business and offering tours to these countries for over 20 years. They are a trusted source in the industry and can offer you an experience unlike any other in the Balkans, and contributed to this article.
Romania and Bulgaria are two countries, nestled in the heart of the Balkans, with their unique history and culture, offering many experiences to travelers interested in visiting them.
Diverse landscapes and natural wonders
Bulgaria and Romania are known for their breathtaking historical sites, but apart from that, they are home to some of Europe’s most beautiful natural wonders in the world.
In Bulgaria we have the Seven Rila Lakes, a group of glacial lakes located in the Rila Mountains, which offer the most beautiful views, especially in summer, when they shimmer in beautiful shades of blue and green.
The Belogradchik Rocks, which are a collection of sandstone and conglomerate rock formations, have inspired people with legends and memorable tales.
Romania is another nation that cannot be left out when talking about nations blessed with magnificent natural beauty. It includes the Carpathian Mountains, often called the “Transylvanian Alps”. It is a home for hikers and nature lovers.
The Danube Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the second largest river delta in Europe and is popular for its unique ecosystem and different bird species.
Festivals and traditions
Now, looking at the magnificent festivals and traditions of Bulgaria and Romania, travelers can get the chance to witness the living history and unique culture of these nations.
In Bulgaria, we have the popular Rose Festival which celebrates the rose picking season, and visitors can witness the entire process of turning roses into rose oil, a Bulgarian specialty.
In Romania we have the Merry Cemetery. Even though it is not a festival, it is a unique cultural experience that travelers can witness. During this event, headstones are painted with vivid scenes and witty poems, to provide a humorous perspective on life and death.
They also organize the Winter Traditions Festival in Maramureș, which features breathtaking dances, traditional costumes and rituals,
A culinary expedition
Today, one of the best ways to gain an in-depth understanding of culture is to experience a country’s different cuisines, and both Romania and Bulgaria have an exceptional culinary journey like no other.
In Bulgaria, we offer some of the most exquisite dishes influenced by Greek, Slavic, Ottoman and Persian cuisines, which offer a delicious taste of different irresistible flavors. Bulgaria has the popular “Banitsa” (a cheese-filled pastry), the refreshing cold yogurt soup “Tarator” and many more. Bulgarian cuisine is proof of the country’s rich agricultural heritage.
Romanian cuisine has its roots in its rich pastoral traditions, which emphasize meats, especially pork.
This rich culture offers staples like “Mămăligă” (cornmeal porridge) and the delicious “Mămăligă cu brânză și smântână” (polenta with cheese and sour cream), which is one of the highlights of the rustic country charm.
And yes, this article wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the country’s wine routes and the fact that it is known as one of the largest wine producers in all of Europe.
The beauty of small towns and villages
Big cities have their charm because of the beautiful landscapes, and if you really want to enjoy your visit, you should visit the smaller towns and villages because many of the ancient traditions are still maintained with a high level of commitment and of love for culture.
In Romania, there is the city of Sighișoara, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has been delicately preserved as a medieval town and birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, the inspiration for the legend of Dracula.
As a traveler in Bulgaria, you can visit cities like Veliko Tarnovo. It was once the ancient capital, which gives you a glimpse of the nation’s glorious past.
We have only shared a glimpse of what you can get as a tourist in Bulgaria and Romania, but the best way to enjoy your stay in these countries is to intentionally become part of its rich history, culture and its natural beauty. The beautiful nation, the delicious cuisine or the warm welcome of the locals offer a memorable stay in Europe.