Slide into Nessebar Aquapark
No one likes a boaster, but this place is so HUGE, it houses 10 million litres of water with all its pools, surf simulators and rocket tube slides. If you're looking for something to entertain the kiddos (or just yourselves!), then this aquapark won't disappoint. If you're feeling really daring, then check out the Black Hole ride (a twisting tube slide in complete darkness), or the Tsunami - think skateboard ramp, but 10x bigger and with water, and you're in an inflatable dinghy rather than on a skateboard. Just a heads up that height, weight and age restrictions apply to the rides here, so have a read on their website if you've got your eye on something in particular.
Peek through the eyes of God
Yep, it's as cool and dramatic as it sounds. Head to Prohodna Cave in northern Bulgaria to find two giant eye-shaped holes in the ceiling, known as 'The Eyes of God'. Not only can you look out through the 'eyes' to the open skies above, but the cave has two entrances, and when the sun hits just right, the light shines through these holes to cast two glowing pools of light onto the cave floor. Spooky or magical?
Marvel over the seven wonders (i.e. the seven lakes)
There are seven lakes within the Rila mountain range (which sits about 2 hours outside of Bulgaria's capital, Sofia), and we've got good news - you can see every single one of 'em! You can drive up the mountain and then either hike the full whack, or hop in a cable car (which is worth it for the views alone, FYI), to the start of the loop trail, where you can see all seven lakes in their scenic glory.
Get your history hat on at Historical Park
OK, so it's not the most exciting name in the world, but this place is the first and biggest cultural-historical complex of its kind. It's designed as a journey through the past, taking you from Neolithic times right through to the Middle Ages, with creative sculptures, temple replicas, and stages for live performances - all in a peaceful park location.
Drive by the Snail House
This one's as wacky as it sounds. If you find yourself driving or strolling through the Simeonovo neighbourhood in the outskirts of Sofia, keep your eyes peeled for the five-story Snail House. It's big, rainbow-coloured and shaped like a snail...so chances are you won't miss it. Even the windows and doors are designed to be part of the whole illusion (acting as the snail's eyes and mouth). It's also made up of eco-friendly, lightweight materials - giving it the big energy efficient tick. We're still not sure of the hows and whys, but it definitely looks cool!
Take some funky photos at the Museum of Illusions
If you catch yourself on a rainy day (although we seriously doubt that), then Museum of Illusions in Sofia is the perfect indoor activity. From crazy-sized furniture to laser beams, 3D artwork and unique shadow photo ops, there's something at every turn in this topsy-turvy museum of mind-bending fun.