Hotels in Bulgaria

Whether you prefer winter sports or summer adventures, Bansko is a great year-round holiday spot. The stone houses and old streets of this quaint town are surrounded by the snow-topped mountains of Pirin National Park.  Best known as a ski and snowboard wonderland, Bansko has hosted several skiing and biathlon World Cups, so you can be sure the facilities are top notch. 

Things to do

Glide down one of the many ski runs, or pull on a pair of skates and zoom around the open-air rink in the town centre. When it’s time to kick back and relax after a hard day on the slopes, visit the spa town of Dobrinishte, just 6km away from Bansko. Have your aches and pains soothed in an open-air natural mineral water pool. Come to Bansko in the summer time to explore the mountains, lake and forests of Pirin National Park.

Stunning scenery

Venture off the beaten track with a jeep safari like no other, just remember to bring your camera as you race across the unspoilt Bansko countryside. Meet the friendly locals that live in the area with a visit to the rustic villages and stop off for a picnic on the mountainside. It’s a bumpy ride, but it’ll be worth it when you see the majestic waterfalls and panoramic landscapes.

Snow sports galore

It’s non-stop fun on the mountains around Bansko with all the thrilling snow sports. If you’re new to skiing or snowboarding you can enrol in the snow schools in Bansko and start racing down the slopes in no time. If you’re looking for something more relaxing why not slip on some snowshoes and walk down the mountain in your own time.

Explore the countryside

Saddle up and explore the beautiful Bansko countryside on horseback. Follow your guide on a journey you’ll never forget as you explore the mountains and their natural beauty. Don’t forget to bring your camera and stop for lunch at one of the medieval villages on the way.

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We also have travel guides available for destinations, including: Borovets | Bulgaria | Duni | Golden Sands Resort | Nessebar | Sunny Beach Resort

About 90 minutes' drive from Bulgaria’s capital, Sofia, Borovets was the country’s first major ski resort. If you’re into adrenalin-pumping winter sports, you’re in for a treat. Borovets has more than 20 ski runs and the Borosport Snow Park, one of the best places in Eastern Europe for snowboarding. Summer is no less exciting, with hiking trails across the mountains and perfect conditions for mountain biking and horse riding.

Things to do

Before you hit the slopes, spend some time brushing up on your technique at the Borosport Ski School. When you’re ready for some action, take your pick from over 20 runs, with something to suit every skill level.  Come to Borovets in the summer and try one of the great hiking routes into the wilds of Rila National Park. If you’re feeling adventurous, join a guided one-day tour to Musala Peak, Bulgaria’s highest mountain. An SUV safari through the mountains is a great way to see the local wildlife. Keep an eye out for bears, eagles and wild boar.

Natural beauty

The destination is not only popular for its snow sports but tourists are also drawn to the area for the beauty of the national forest. There are lots of routes and trails to spend the afternoon hiking, even in summer. Impressive lakes can be found hidden among the trees; a stunning sight to see is the Seven Rila Lakes that are an amazing azure colour. If you’re lucky you’ll be able to see the different species of animals in and among the trees, including red deer, wild boar and a small number of bears, foxes and wolves.

History and traditions

Borovets is located in the northern part of the Rila Mountains, in a picturesque valley at the foot of Mount Musala. The highest peak has an altitude of 1350 meters. The resort was founded over 100 years ago by past Bulgarian kings who liked the area so much they built a traditional hunting lodge and beautiful palace.

The resort is favourable among holidaymakers for the customs and rich Bulgarian traditions. Bulgaria is made up of beautiful villages hidden in cosy valleys. It’s not uncommon to be welcomed by the locals to join in an evening fuelled by hearty local food and delicious wine before participating in dances that are driven by lively, centuries-old music.

Vibrant nightlife

The buzzing resort of Borovets has an exceptional party atmosphere and loads of activities to keep you busy when the slopes are closed. Some call it ‘Ibiza on snow’ as a feel-good vibe flows from the illuminated valley when night falls. Most of the bars and pubs have a theme, so you can easily tailor your nightlife accordingly. For casual après drinks, head over to Harp Bar or Mamacitas where you can unwind in the wooden lodge and listen to live music. If you want to escape the chilly weather, warm up in The Titanic bar where you can enjoy a reasonably priced meal and a quick drink in a traditional log cabin.

For a wilder affair, gather your friends and sing your heart out at Black Tiger, whose extensive karaoke list will be sure to get you laughing. End your evening in Buzz Bar where you’ll be able to take to the floor and dance to the latest club classics.

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We also have travel guides available for destinations, including: Bansko | Bulgaria | Duni | Golden Sands Resort | Nessebar | Sunny Beach Resort

Golden Sands is one of Bulgaria’s biggest resorts on the Black Sea, and it’s easy to see why it grows more popular every year. The 4-kilometre long beach offers clean, warm sand, crystal-clear water, and a beachfront promenade that is packed with bars and shops. The seaside resort in northern Bulgaria enjoys a mild year-round climate, and there are a number of activities – in and out of the waves – for children and adults.

Things to do

Golden Sands Bulgaria is known for its mineral pools and baths, and everyone should take a dip at least once. Said to have healing powers, these hot springs definitely make you feel wonderfully relaxed! When you’re not chilling in a mineral pool, try out some of the many water sports on offer. From windsurfing and water-skiing to diving and boating, if you can do it on the water, you can do it at Golden Sands.

Children will love the waterpark Aquapolis as well as the mini-golf and pony rides on the beach. Day trips to Varna show you the historic architecture of the ancient region, and wine tours of the area are a fun day out for couples on a romantic getaway. There are so many things to do in and around Golden Sands that you’ll really have the holiday of a lifetime.

Excellent beaches

Golden Sands lives up to its name with attractive Blue Flag beaches. The 4km stretch of golden sand is said to be ‘the purest along the Black Sea’s shores’. The warm waters are clear and gentle, which is why the area is a hotspot for swimming and water sports. Lush, green forests are a picturesque backdrop against the glistening coastline.

At the beach there’s a host of sports to get involved in, including beach volleyball, tennis and football, simply relax on the sun loungers that line the beach or take a walk up the promenade that is packed with shops, bars and restaurants. With the shallow waves and organised kids’ entertainment such as games and puppet shows, there’s more than enough for families to enjoy.

History and culture

Legend has it that the resort was created by ancient pirates that sailed north of Varna to dig for treasure. Today Golden Sands is famous for its stunning scenery, warm climate and nearby therapeutic hot springs. There’s a delightful, feel-good atmosphere on the shores of Golden Sands, with lots of entertainment to enjoy both day and night.

Vibrant nightlife

Golden Sands is renowned for being the ultimate host when it comes to having a great night out. Start off with an early evening cocktail then head for the main strip for live music, karaoke and cabaret. If you are in the dancing mood, grab your friends and head down to a disco and party till the early hours, or if you’re feeling lucky, try your hand at one of the glitzy casinos. With its wide range of bars, restaurants and nightclubs you’ll be spoilt for choice.

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We also have travel guides available for destinations, including: Bansko | Borovets | Bulgaria | Duni | Nessebar | Sunny Beach Resort

With miles of golden sand on Bulgaria's Black Sea coast, Sunny Beach is a popular beach holiday destination for everyone from single travellers to families. The lively resort offers numerous water-sport activities by day, and live music and discos at night. Sunny Beach also has an amusement park, a water park and a small zoo.

Things to do

Sunny Beach has become one of Europe’s most popular beach resorts. Holidays to Sunny Beach are all about fun in the sun for everybody from families, couples, groups of friends, and even solo travellers.

With water sports in the sea, diving excursions, and family fun at Action Aquapark, holidays to Sunny Beach are perfect for those who love to splash around. Go horseback riding, quad biking, or try water-skiing for an adrenaline rush before lunch.

There are lots of beach bars and restaurants to choose from; they’ll serve local cuisine as well as treats like hamburgers and fries. Nightlife options in this party town are endless with world-class DJs, huge clubs, and boutique cocktail bars. 

Excellent beaches

It’s not just the buzzing nightlife that drawswarm the holidaymakers to Sunny Beach, the long stretch of soft, golden sand and the warm waters of Bulgaria’s Black Sea attracts many visitors to its shores year on year. The beach is the ideal location for relaxing after those late nights , 8 kilometres of soft sand gradually shelves into warm, calm waves perfect for paddling and swimming in. The mini-train allows you to travel along the promenade, exploring one end of the beach to the other. There are lots of activities to do down by the beach from volleyball, football and an array of water sports.

History and culture

Sunny beach is the Black Sea’s biggest seaside resort. Holidaymakers flock to its shores for the undisturbed months of sunshine, between May and September. The resort began its days in 1958, it was more of a well kept secret than the press it gets today. In the last ten years the area has developed massively with more and more hotels, bars and restaurants lining the streets, giving you everything you may need while you’re on holiday.

Although the area is quite commercialised, you can still find touches of tradition, explore the small harbour town of Nessebar to see beautiful ruins of old churches and buildings. Dine at Khan’s Tent for stunning views of the coast and where legend has it the fearsome Khan Krum had a military camp in the first century.

Vibrant nightlife

Sunny Beach is famous for its lively nightlife, which is extremely popular among younger holidaymakers. The main strip, by day is the place to enjoy a tasty meal, at night it’s illuminated by an abundance of neon-lit bars.

Whether you want to dance until the early hours or have a cocktail or two by the beach, the nightlife here has it all. The upbeat atmosphere of the strip will put you in the party mood and if you are unsure of where to go, book onto one of the bar crawls available to you and meet likeminded people all wanting to have a good time.

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We also have travel guides available for destinations, including: Bansko | Borovets | Bulgaria | Duni | Golden Sands Resort | Nessebar

Sitting pretty on Bulgaria’s sun-soaked Black Sea coast, Nessebar holidays will whisk you away to a true Baltic beauty spot. You’ll be free to discover the spectacular UNESCO-protected Old Town, before relaxing on the Blue Flag beaches and heading for a seafood special at a waterfront restaurant. Whether you want to soak up the sunshine or be surrounded by history, holidays to Nessebar are just the ticket. No wonder it’s known as the ‘Pearl of the Black Sea’.

Things to do

When it comes to sun, sea and culture on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast, Nessebar is a firm favourite. From the UNESCO-listed Old Town to the sun-soaked coastline and beyond, this place has plenty to offer. Let’s take a closer look at things to see and do in and around Nessebar.

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We also have travel guides available for destinations, including: Bansko | Borovets | Bulgaria | Duni | Golden Sands Resort | Sunny Beach Resort

Whether you want to relax on a sun-bleached beach, explore modern cities, watch the world go by from a harbour-side café or get to grips with some of Europe’s most spectacular scenery, Croatia holidays are packed with amazing experiences. 

Families who want to enjoy some time together will find plenty to see and do, from river-kayaking in the mountains of Gorski Kotar to exploring cascading waterfalls at Plitvice Lakes. Couples can step back in time and visit the palatial Roman ruins of Split, the medieval cathedral of Sibenik or sit in a sleepy bar and enjoy homemade rakia. With so much to see and do, holidays to Croatia are whatever you want them to be.

There is nothing like Croatia's pristine islands adorned with fragrant pines and shingle beaches. Go island-hopping to Brac where you’ll enjoy turquoise waters and a shape-shifting beach of white pebbles at Zlatni Rat. Wild and windswept, with ancient villages dotted around the coast, Brac island is the perfect getaway for beach lovers and outdoorsy families.

Holidays to Croatia are just as varied as its many gorgeous landscapes. In the northwest region of Istria, close to Italy, is the compact city of Rovinj. Here holidaymakers are greeted with charming cobbled streets, pastel-coloured townhouses, and a vibrant foodie scene. An alfresco meal in the old town promises to be one of the most memorable moments of your trip. 

When you’ve had your share of sun lounging on islands, hop on a boat to the historic city of Dubrovnik, located south of the country. Dubrovnik is no doubt Croatia's most impressive city, and it's no wonder it's known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic”. Not only does this UNESCO-protected town host a lively summer festival, but it is also home to some of the best-preserved ancient city walls in the world. During any other time of year, just strolling through the old town and admiring its medieval architecture is a delight.

Travel back in time

Around 229BC, Romans crossed the Adriatic and took control. Today, their influence can be seen almost everywhere you go. Roman architecture, buildings and artefacts are some of the most popular attractions in Croatia and an absolute must for anyone with an interest in history. Head to the city of Split to see Emperor Diocletian’s Palace. Over 2,000 years old, it still cuts an imposing figure and attracts thousands of visitors each year. The Cathedral of St Domnius is conveniently close and gives a fascinating insight into early Roman beliefs. Pula is home to a huge Roman amphitheatre, which seats over 20,000 people and is still used today.

Explore ancient history 

With such a rich history and spectacular countryside, it should come as no surprise that Croatia has acted as the backdrop to an impressive list of films and TV shows. Most recently, Dubrovnik has doubled as King’s Landing in the TV series Game of Thrones, while sci-fi fans might recognise parts of it from the Star Wars franchise. Croatia also has its share of unusual and totally unique attractions.

Zadar is home to 'The Greeting to the Sun', an interactive art installation: a giant, circular arrangement of solar panels that soak up the sunshine by day, turning the energy stored into a mesmerising light show by night. The main attraction has to be the underground sea organ, which uses the motion of the waves to create a range of eerie and soothing sounds.

What should I pack?

What you pack for your trip will depend largely on which part of Croatia you’re visiting, so it’s a great idea to check the weather forecast before you set off. If you’re heading here for a beach break in the summer months, don’t forget to pack plenty of sun cream, a hat and a cover-up for the beach, as the sun can be pretty fierce.

If you’re planning a trip to Croatia in the winter, you’ll need cosy layers, comfortable shoes and a warm, waterproof jacket, as well as winter accessories such as a hat and gloves to ensure you don’t feel the cold when the temperature drops.

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We also have travel guides available for destinations, including: Brac Island | Dalmatian Coast | Dubrovnik | Hvar | Korcula | Makarska | Rovinj | Split | Zadar | Zagreb

Luring you in with Blue Flag awarded beaches made for lazy sunbathing stints, ancient ruins dating back as far as the 3rd century and an electric nightlife attracting world-renowned DJs, Cyprus holidays are one-of-a-kind. And that’s just the beginning, think waterfront restaurants combining the flavours of Greece and Turkey, splash-filled waterparks perfect for families and most importantly, a sizzling summer climate. 

Things to do

Whether you’re a history buff seeking out UNESCO-listed hotspots or a hardcore reveller looking for the best cocktail venues in Ayia Napa, holidays to Cyprus are action-packed. And if you’re just wanting to lounge around on one of its 160 beaches, relaxing getaways are aplenty too.

For starters, Coral Bay oozes tranquility with a swathe of golden sand calling you to top up your tan. Meanwhile, Nissi Beach is known as the beach that never sleeps thanks to its live music and thrilling watersports. As for Lara Bay, well that’s an isolated sand spot dedicated to protecting loggerhead turtles. 

For those with kids, the Mediterranean coastline is best explored via horseback (especially at sunset). And when the ocean doesn’t cut it, WaterWorld is a must! It’s the largest themed waterpark in Cyprus, daring you to slide down its freefall kamikaze and float along its lazy river. Not to mention the splash zones for tinier tots, inflatable obstacle courses and bubbling hot tubs. 

When you want to get wet and wild among nature's finest, Adonis Baths promises cascading waterfalls. Or,  you can always check out the largest rock formation Petra tou Romiou, the birthplace of the goddess Aphrodite. Legend has it that if you swim around the rock three times, you’ll be granted eternal beauty.

No trip is complete without visiting the archaeological marvel, Tomb of the Kings. Around 100 Ptolemaic aristocrats are estimated to have been buried there, along with a substantial trove of jewels and personal effects! Trek up the Troodos Mountains and you’ll be greeted by another phenomenon, Kykkos Monastery founded in the 11th century. Here alongside timeless manuscripts and antiques lies the silver-gilded icon of the Virgin Mary. 

Places to stay

Cyprus is an island of contrast! Head to the rustic fishing village of Latchi for quaint tavernas and a relaxed welcome. Or, check out our Ayia Napa holidays if you want to party until sunrise. When it comes to sands that resemble the Caribbean, Nissi Bay holidays and Protaras are firm family favourites.

And when you want to be next door to some of the world’s most important archaeological sites, Paphos should be your go-to. There’s no shortage of luxury either thanks to the superyachts decorating the coastline of Limassol. This cosmopolitan resort has a fantastic mix of award-winning beaches, designer stores and historical relics; the ruined city Kourion, in particular, will lure you in with its cocktail of cultures. 

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We also have travel guides available for destinations, including Ayia Napa | Larnarca | Limassol | Nissi Bay | Paphos | Protaras

Holidays to Italy are sure to capture your imagination. Whether you’re seeking a break in a bustling city hopping from one ancient landmark to another, planning a remote island getaway among glitzy yachts and Michelin-starred restaurants, or simply want to kick back and relax on one of the country’s beautiful beaches. It’s no surprise that this idyllic hotspot is one of Europe’s top destinations.

Discover timeless architecture, Roman ruins, rustic villages, fortified wines, and world-renowned food around every corner. Grab a gelato as you wander through cobbled alleyways before checking out designer stores in Italy’s big-name cities. And if you’re guaranteed one thing, it’s romance! From cocktails in front of the Colosseum to gondola rides in Venice and breathtaking ocean vistas along the Amalfi Coast - there’s no better place to pop the question than a holiday to Italy.

Don’t worry, party-goers are covered too. Milan and Sicily are top players in the nightlife world being home to some of the swankiest clubs in Europe.

Things to do

With so many bucket-list adventures and famous landmarks it can be hard to know where to begin. However, few Italy holidays are complete without paying a visit to the impressive Vatican City, where the iconic Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica showcases some of the best High Renaissance art in the world. And when you’ve had your history fix, pigging out on pizza in the birthplace of the Italian crust, Naples, is a given. Or, you can always tour Tuscany’s winding roads and Sardinia’s vibrant vineyards.

For natural marvels, a trip to Pompeii will have you reaching for your camera with Mount Vesuvius as your backdrop. But if the coast is more your scene, Capri and Tropea are teeming with sun-kissed stretches. Holidaying with the kids in tow? Check out Italy’s largest waterpark featuring a 42-metre-tall drop slide and pirate ship! Or for little daredevils, Gardaland Park features some impressive rollercoasters. And Shrek fans can unleash their inner Sir Lancelot with a visit to one of the country’s medieval castles. 

Places to stay

Cities like Rome, Naples and Florence in central Italy habitat some of the country’s best cultural attractions. Further south, the picturesque towns of Sorrento and the Bay of Naples, offer a piece of traditional Italian life with authentic experiences, excellent food and fresh locally grown produce. Sardinia’s wild coastlines and secluded coves make it the perfect spot for sightseeing by car. If you’re after awe-inspiring architecture, then Sicily is packed with must-see marvels, such as the original Greek settlement of Ortigia in Syracuse, breathtaking baroque towns like Modica and Ragusa Ibla, as well as beautiful natural landscapes.

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We also have travel guides available for destinations, including: Amalfi | Ischia Porto | Florence | Lake Garda | Limone | Malcesine | Milan | Rome | Sant'Agnello | Sardinia | Sicily | Sorrento | Venetian Riviera | Venice