Three things that attract tourists to Europe's 'least happy' country

As the "least happy" country in the European Union, Bulgaria still has a lot to offer visitors.

Eurostat, the official statistics agency of the European Union (EU), released its annual ranking of the happiest countries at the end of 2023 based on a score of 10. Bulgaria scored 6 points, the lowest in the bloc.

Although it doesn't make its people smile and score high on the happiness scale, the country is popular with tourists thanks to its ski resorts with cheap beer, just under $2, famous hot springs, many beautiful beaches on the Black Sea and rich history.

"Bulgaria should definitely be on your 2024 must-visit list," commented the Telegraph.

Here are travel experts' suggestions for impressive destinations in this "less happy" country.

Architecture in the capital Sofia

Three things that attract tourists to the least happy country in Europe — **A street in the capital Sofia.** Photo: Alamy

The capital city of Sofia boasts over 2,000 years of history, dating back to the famous Roman and Ottoman eras and nestled at the foot of Mount Vitosha. It is no surprise that many Bulgarian adventures begin in the capital, experts say.

When it comes to European capitals rich in heritage, Rome, Athens, and Paris are always the first names that come to mind. But Sofia is known as a city with a history of nearly 7,000 years, although it became the capital later than other cities, in 1879.

Traces of Sofia's past range from the neo-Byzantine architecture (typically featuring round domes) of Alexander Nevsky Cathedral to the Ottoman-era Banya Bashi Mosque and the Ancient Serdica Archaeological Park.

Must-see museums include the Sofia History Museum, housed in the city's old bathhouse, and the National Archaeological Institute and National Palace of Culture.

After a stroll in City Garden or Borisova Gradina Park, visitors can enjoy Sofia's current sophistication over a cup of coffee on Vitosha pedestrian street such as Made In Home Little Things. Popular eateries serving local flavors include Hadjidraganov's Cellars, Cosmos.

Art space in Plovdiv

Plovdiv is located about 140 km from the capital, easily accessible by train. In 2019, it was named the European Capital of Culture.

In the heart of Plovdiv lies the Old Town, a maze of cobblestone streets and immaculately restored 19th-century houses. For something even older, visit the first-century Philippopolis Theatre, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills.

For a taste of modern Plovdiv, head to the Kapana district, a vibrant area with an art scene, boutiques, cafes and some striking street art. Visit the City Art Gallery. When night falls, the Arsenal of Art is a great place to stop for a cold beer or two, surrounded by street performers.

Ski resorts Bansko and Borovets

Skiing is not a cheap experience. But if you skip the famous ski resorts of Verbier and Courchevel and head to the mountain resorts, your winter break will be much more affordable.

If you don't want to go too far from the capital Sofia, choose Borovets, which is only about an hour's drive from Sofia and has snow-covered pine forests. Here you can ski at the Borosport snow park and visit traditional Balkan taverns.

Another equally attractive destination is the Bansko ski resort, about a two-hour drive from Sofia and considered the region's top winter sports and skiing resort.

In addition, Bulgaria also has the Black Sea, the average temperature in July is about 23 degrees Celsius and is a great place for beach holidays.

According to vnexpress.net

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