Bulgaria Emerges as the Ultimate Affordable Travel Destination for Brits, Offering Rich History, Stunning Landscapes, and Unmatched Value in 2025

Published on March 22, 2025

Bulgaria stands out as the top affordable destination for Brits in 2025, offering rich history, stunning landscapes, and unbeatable value for your travels.

A new report from Mintel and eurochange has named Bulgaria as the top-value holiday destination for British travelers.

According to the experts at Mintel and eurochange, they analyzed the costs of flights, three-course meals, and beverages to determine the most affordable travel spots for Brits.

Bulgaria emerged as the best choice for those seeking to make their pounds go further this year. Flights can be found for as little as £28, and once you’re there, you can enjoy a pint starting at just £1.42.

Despite its affordability and natural beauty, Bulgaria is often overlooked as a travel destination. This means you can enjoy fewer crowds and a wealth of low-cost activities.

The country boasts a rich history, with ancient Neolithic settlements, enigmatic Thracian tombs, and fortresses from the era of powerful tsars scattered across the land.

For nature enthusiasts, Bulgaria is a haven. The country is home to several mountain ranges offering breathtaking hikes.

Whether you’re planning a short weekend getaway or a longer stay filled with hiking, beach relaxation, or sightseeing, Bulgaria has something to offer.

Start your adventure in Sofia, the vibrant capital, where you’ll find a fascinating mix of cultural heritage, lively markets, and modern architecture.

Sofia also offers a lively food-market scene, with organic and fresh produce stalls scattered throughout the city, ensuring high-quality eats. Be sure to visit the Women’s Market, one of Sofia’s best outdoor spots for everything from fresh produce to spices and meats.

To explore Sofia’s rich history, head to the Sofia History Museum, located in the stunning former Central Mineral Baths. The museum covers the city’s past in depth.

Another essential stop is Plovdiv, the second-largest city in Bulgaria and the oldest continuously inhabited city in Europe. Don’t miss the ancient Amphitheatre in the Old Town, an iconic venue for summer concerts or a relaxing stroll around the cobblestone streets, where you’ll meet the many cats that roam the area.

For the adventurous, lace up your hiking boots and head to Musala Peak in the Rila Mountains, the highest range in the Balkans. Musala rises to over 3,000 meters (10,000 feet), offering some of Bulgaria’s most scenic hiking trails.

The UNESCO-listed Rila Monastery, with its stunning architecture and rich history, is another must-see in the area.

Finally, for a truly unique experience, visit the Buzludzha Monument in central Bulgaria. This UFO-shaped, former communist headquarters is undergoing revival, although local authorities have resisted the projects. Despite its deteriorating state since the fall of communism, the futuristic silhouette remains a fascinating stop for any traveler.