Bulgaria comprises portions of the classical regions of Thrace, Moesia, and Macedonia. The southwest of the country is mountainous with two alpine ranges - Rila and Pirin and further east are the lower but more extensive Rhodope Mountains. Rila mountain includes the highest peak of the Balkan Peninsula, peak Musala at 2925 meters (9,596 ft); the long range of the Balkan mountains runs west-east through the middle of the country, north of the famous Rose Valley.

Hilly country and plains are found in the southeast, along the Black Sea coast in the east, and along Bulgaria's main river, the Danube in the north. Other major rivers include the Struma and the Maritsa river in the south.

The Bulgarian climate is temperate, with cold, damp winters and hot, dry summers.

The Balkan peninsula derives its name from the Balkan or Stara Planina mountain range which runs through the center of Bulgaria into eastern Serbia.

The largest cities in the country are Sofia (1,203,680), Plovdiv (376,918), Varna (345,522), Burgas (259,985), Rousse (177,538), Stara Zagora (163,193), Pleven (121,700), Dobrich (115,861), Sliven (100,300).

Since 1999 Bulgaria consists of 28 provinces (oblasti, singular - oblast), after having been subdivided into 9 provinces since 1987. All are named after the provincial capital, with the national capital itself forming a separate province:

Blagoevgrad Burgas Dobrich Gabrovo Haskovo Kardzhali Kyustendil Lovech Montana Pazardzhik Pernik Pleven Plovdiv Razgrad Ruse Shumen Silistra Sliven Smolyan Sofia Sofia Province Stara Zagora Targovishte Varna Veliko Tarnovo Vidin Vratsa Yambol.

Hotels in Bulgaria

The Maria Luisa Hotel occupies an exquisite building, built at the beginning of the century and proclaimed us a cultural monuments of national significance. It is situated at the very heart of Sofia in close proximity to the city s main business, administrative and trade centers. The hotel offers a perfect combination of high quality and luxury services and the privacy and cosiness of the own home.

The modern and exclusive Orbita Hotel is situated in the central part of the city of Varna, Bulgary, at a distance of 500 meters from the beach. The structure offers accomodation in tastefully furnished rooms , at guests disposal too: an Internet Point and a 24-hour restaurant where you can enjoy the best gastronomic specialities. Nearby attractions in the surroundings includes the Archeological Museum, Naval Academy; Naval Museum, and the Delfinarium. The hospitality, plus the quality of the service, comforts and conveniences, make it ideal for who is looking for a relaxing and peaceful holidays in a magic place.

The exclusive and elegant hotel Lion is situated in the heart of the cultural and administrative center of Sofia, in Bulgary, at just few minutes walking distance from the downtown, the shopping area and the famous Church Alexander Nevski with easy connections to the airport and the main train station. The hotel offers comfortable and tastefully furnished rooms and public areas, additional services also available includes: room service, laundry services, rent a car, playground area for childrens and business center. The combination of warm hospitality, high comfort and accessible stylishness makes it attractive for guests.

Hotel Lorenetz is just steps off few minutes away from the heart of Sofia. You will be within walking distance to the finest shopping, dinner and entertainment that Sofia has to offer. The hotel is located near the National Palace of Culture and Vitosha blvd. and approximately 20 minutes from Sofia International Airport. Luxury and comfort are combined with impeccable service in order to make your stay unforgettable! The hotel offers an underground garage and internet access free of charge.

The Harmony hotel is an excellent property located in Sofia, perfect for business travellers as well as for those who prefer a bit of recreation and sport. It is located in a quiet and tranquil part of the city, in the immediate vicinity of the South Park, 800 metres from the National Palace of Culture and the shopping zone of the Vitosha Blvd. and only 15 minutes away by car from the airport. The hotel is situated next to the Spartak Sports Centre, where guests are welcome to use the indoor and outdoor swimming pools, sauna, fitness centre, and sports facilities.