population: 70,881 million

extension: 628.19 square kilometers

Museums

If you're in Blagoevgrad, Bulgaria and interested in visiting museums, I suggest you visit the "Southwestern University Neofit Rilski" Museum of History and Archaeology, which displays artifacts and exhibits related to the history of southwestern Bulgaria. Alternatively, you can also visit the "Nikola Vaptsarov" Museum-House, dedicated to the life and work of the famous Bulgarian poet Nikola Vaptsarov.

If you're interested in visiting other museums of a similar type near Blagoevgrad, you might want to consider visiting the National Historical Museum in Sofia or the Plovdiv Regional Ethnographic Museum in Plovdiv.

Food

Some of the most recommended, popular and typical dishes to eat according to local people in Blagoevgrad, Bulgaria include:

1. Banitsa - a traditional Bulgarian pastry made with layers of filo dough and filled with cheese, spinach, or onions.

2. Shopska Salata - a salad made with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and peppers, topped with crumbled feta cheese.

3. Kavarma - a meat stew made with pork or chicken, onions, peppers, mushrooms, and tomatoes.

4. Kebapche - grilled minced meat rolls made with beef or pork, seasoned with paprika and cumin.

5. Shishcheta - skewered meat (usually pork or chicken) that has been marinated and grilled.

6. Sarmi - stuffed cabbage leaves filled with a mixture of rice, ground meat, and spices.

7. Lyutenitsa - a thick vegetable spread made with roasted red peppers, tomatoes, and garlic.

8. Tarator - a cold soup made with yogurt, cucumbers, dill, and garlic.

9. Mekitsi - fried dough similar to doughnuts, usually served with jam, honey, or cheese.

10. Baklava - a sweet pastry made with layers of filo dough, honey, and chopped nuts.

Activities

There are many fun activities that locals enjoy in Blagoevgrad, Bulgaria. Here are some suggestions:

1. Visit the Varosha district: Take a stroll through the charming Varosha district of Blagoevgrad and explore its narrow streets, traditional architecture, and historical landmarks.

2. Hike in the Rila Mountains: Locals love to hike in the nearby Rila Mountains, which offer stunning views and challenging trails for all levels of hikers.

3. Relax at Aqua Club Kotvata: Spend a day at Aqua Club Kotvata, a popular water park and spa complex just outside Blagoevgrad, with pools, slides, saunas, and massage services.

4. Attend cultural events: Check out local cultural events, such as music concerts, theater performances, and art exhibitions, at venues like the Stoyan Bachvarov Dramatic Theatre or the Maritsa Drama Theatre.

5. Visit nearby historical sites: Explore nearby historical landmarks, such as the Rila Monastery, the Boyana Church, or the ancient Roman ruins in Plovdiv.

6. Enjoy Bulgarian cuisine: Sample traditional Bulgarian cuisine at local restaurants, such as the cozy Mehana Chuchura or the stylish Ethno Restaurant & Wine Bar.

7. Shop at the bazaar: Browse the lively bazaar in the center of Blagoevgrad and shop for souvenirs, fresh produce, and handmade crafts from local artisans.