Who would have thought that entering the Schengen Area would earn Bulgaria a spot on The New York Times’ Top Places to Visit in 2025 list?
The restriction-free travel means boundless opportunities to explore its ancient culture, picturesque scenery, and warm hospitality.
For future and current AUBG students, this removes yet another barrier to pack your bags and experience everything this country has to offer.
Why Bulgaria should be on your radar
The New York Times has already done the homework, spotlighting some of Bulgaria’s top destinations – the lively capital city Sofia; the ancient cultural hotspot Plovdiv, perfect for history fans and art lovers alike; and of course, the serene Black Sea coastline.
Closer to Blagoevgrad, our home, you’ll find the Rila treasures. Both Rila National Park and the legendary Rila Monastery are just a 30-minute drive from campus, making them ideal for day trips.
Sofia, another top spot for our students, offers a mix of history, nightlife, and architectural beauty. Not only is our Executive MBA program based in Sofia, but the city is also just an hour drive from Blagoevgrad. There, you can explore landmarks such as the Triangle of Religious Tolerance, the St. Sofia Statue, and immerse yourself in its vibrant lifestyle. It’s no wonder our students often split their time between Blago and the capital.
Your gateway to Europe
Thanks to its prime location and new Schengen status, the rest of Europe is easily accessible. From here, the sun-kissed Mediterranean, Western Europe’s finest spots, and the Nordic gems of Iceland and Norway, are only an arm’s reach away.
So, if a Europe road trip is on your bucket list, Bulgaria definitely deserves a spot on your itinerary. The New York Times agrees. And while you’re at it, consider adding Aix-en-Provence in France, Coimbra in Portugal, and Norway’s Lofoten Islands – they’re all featured on the NYT’s 2025 list too.
A safe destination
If safety is a concern, you’ll be pleased to know that Bulgaria ranks 26th worldwide for peacefulness, according to the Global Peace Index 2024. This makes it one of the safest countries to visit or live in as a student.
With a peace of mind, you can explore, enjoy, and grow in one of the best places on the map.
