7 Best Bulgarian Souvenirs

Bulgarians are proud of their rich historical and cultural heritage. Therefore, some of the most widespread souvenir options in Bulgaria are indeed linked to the country’s folklore and traditions. These are our suggestions for the best souvenirs you could bring back home and remember your trip to Bulgaria forever.

1. Wine

Winemaking in Bulgaria dates back to the time of the ancient Thracians. With its 5 main wine regions Bulgaria is the hidden paradise for all wine-lovers. A classic gift for someone special – a bottle of Bulgarian wine. You could find good Bulgarian wine in every supermarket. For a wider variety of local wines we suggest a visit to EnjoyWine.

2. Pottery

If you’ve already dined at a traditional Bulgarian restaurant during your trip to to Bulgaria you have most probably seen great local pottery. Bulgarian ceramics and pottery could be found in various types of stores all around the country. In fact, every Bulgarian household would still use those, especially when preparing traditional bulgarian dishes such as bob, gyuveche and others. Bringing one of them home will always remind you of the country’s great local cuisine.

3. Bulgarian Rose

Bulgaria is also known as “The Land of Roses“. Home to “The Valley of Roses”, Bulgaria is the world’s biggest producer of rose oil. The tradition of rose oil production has been around for centuries and has influenced various types of products and souvenirs.  Everything from cosmetics to gourmet. That includes rose soap, rose shampoo, rose jam, rose chocolate, rose tea and everything rose!

4. Bulgarian Textile/Folklore Costumes

The richness of Bulgarian folklore will surprise you. We are not only talking about traditional music, dances and food. Incredible variety and beauty are also present in bulgarian textile. For centuries beautiful bulgarian textile patterns were a permenant feature in floklore costumes as well as on carpets, covers, blankets and others. Luckily, this beautiful tradition lives on and is now becoming more and more popular among young Bulgarians. Many local designers are now giving these traditional patterns a modern twist. Shevitza is one of several Bulgarian companies that offer a piece of this unique blend. A great idea for a gift that is both practical and beautiful, traditional yet modern.

Some of their products as well as other modern Bulgarian souvenirs could be found in Gifted Sofia.

5. Rakia

Bulgaria’s strong national drink is a must-try during every trip to Bulgaria.There has hardly been a single guest of Bulgaria to remain neutral after the first sip. Why not bring a few bottles back home with you?

Photo by: Irina Ignatova | freeimages.com

6.#SoSofia Souvenirs

Why not bring back something that is uniquely Sofia? Bulgaria’s largest city and capital is full of many symbols some might consider unusual. Everything from its socialist-era trams, to the wide variety of pavements, street signs in cyrillic that are sometimes oh so confusing. All of this is #SoSofia.

7. Martenitsa

Baba Marta (Grandma March) is one the most widespread traditions in Bulgaria. Bulgarians exchange Martenitsas on every 1st of March. The red and white colors of these special decorations are associated with the desire for health and fertility during the new cycle of life that is starting with every coming spring. However, Martenitsas could be found in souvenir shops all year long.

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