Bulgaria: A Compact Country with Diverse Property Opportunities
Where to Buy Property in Bulgaria in 2025
Bulgaria is a surprisingly diverse country that offers mountains, sea, forests, lakes, cozy villages, and developed cities—all within a compact area. Despite its small size, each region presents unique advantages for living, vacationing, or investing. Based on Episode #146 of our YouTube channel "OASIS. Real Estate in Bulgaria," this article provides a structured overview to help you choose the right location based on your goals and budget.
Mountain Properties: Peace, Wellness, and Nature
Top Mountain Locations:
Bansko – The most popular winter resort in Bulgaria, located 160 km from Sofia. With a population of around 10,000, Bansko offers over 70 km of ski slopes, lifts, rental facilities, and a lively summer season with hiking trails, eco-paths, golf courses, and festivals.
Studio prices from €25,000
One-bedroom apartments from €35,000
Velingrad – Known as the spa capital of the Balkans, Velingrad boasts over 80 mineral springs with therapeutic properties. Located 130 km from Sofia and 80 km from Plovdiv, this town of 25,000 residents is surrounded by pine forests and offers a mild mountain climate.
Studios from €25,000–30,000
One-bedroom apartments from €40,000
Smolyan & Pamporovo – Ideal for solitude and relaxation in the heart of the Rhodope Mountains. Smolyan has a population of about 30,000, while Pamporovo is a ski resort village 15 km away. Pamporovo features 20 ski slopes totaling 37 km and 7 ski lifts.
Studio prices from €22,000
One-bedroom apartments from €35,000
Pros:
Affordable prices compared to coastal areas
Wellness centers and winter sports infrastructure
Quiet, nature-friendly environment
Cons:
Cold and snowy winters
A car is often essential
Limited activities during off-season
Rural Homes: Space and Affordability
Village properties are perfect for those seeking space, nature, and a more traditional lifestyle.
Where to Look:
Villages within 30–50 km of Varna or Burgas
Prices start from €30,000–50,000 for a house with a 1000–2000 m² plot.
Pros:
Large land plots
Lower cost of ownership
Great for farming or homesteading
Cons:
Often require full renovation
Sparse infrastructure
A car is usually needed
Important: To qualify for Bulgarian residency, the home must be residential and the land must be zoned for construction.
Forest and Eco-Friendly Regions: Digital Nomads & Retreats
For nature lovers and remote workers, Bulgaria’s forest zones offer peace, greenery, and connection with the environment.
Best Areas:
Panitsovo – Small village 25 km from the coast, surrounded by pine forests. Approx. 200 residents.
Kamchia – A protected natural reserve where the river meets the sea. Around 300 people live here year-round.
Strandzha – Bulgaria’s largest protected nature park. Home to remote villages like Brosh, Mladezhko, and Gramatikovo, known for their authentic Bulgarian lifestyle. Ideal for retreats and ecotourism.
Prices: €20,000–€30,000 (most homes are seasonal or need repair)
Pros:
Eco-friendly environment
Ideal for retreats, yoga, meditation, digital nomads
Cons:
Minimal infrastructure
Strict building regulations due to nature zones
Mosquitoes in summer
Lakes and Rivers: Quiet and Waterfront Living
If you dream of a house by the water without the hustle of beach resorts, consider:
Top Locations:
Lake Iskar – Bulgaria’s largest artificial lake, just 20 km from Sofia. Ideal for city dwellers seeking a weekend retreat. Forests, fishing, and boating.
Lake Zhrebchevo – Located between Stara Zagora and Sliven. A 15 km-long reservoir popular with anglers and nature enthusiasts. Surrounding villages offer inexpensive homes.
Important:
Prices from €25,000
Most homes require renovation
Always check the zoning regulations before buying
Near-Sea Properties (2–5 km from the Beach)
A great compromise between price and location.
Best Areas:
Kosharitsa, Aheloy, Tynkovo
Studio prices from €25,000
One-bedroom apartments from €35,000
Pros:
Quiet complexes, less tourism
Often gated with pools and parking
Cons:
Long walk to the beach
A car is usually necessary
Close-to-Sea Properties (1–3 km from the Beach)
For those who want to walk to the sea.
Best Areas:
Nessebar, Sveti Vlas, Ravda
Studios from €35,000
One-bedroom apartments from €45,000–60,000
Sea-View Apartments: Investment & Lifestyle
Properties with sea views are not only beautiful but also profitable.
Prices:
Studios from €55,000
One-bedroom apartments from €80,000
Benefits:
High rental income potential
Stable prices and high liquidity
How to Choose the Right Location
Ask yourself these three questions:
Will you live, rent, or vacation here?
Do you prefer peace or infrastructure?
What is your real budget and what can you get for it?
Why Work with Professionals
Our team at "OASIS. Real Estate in Bulgaria" offers:
Free consultations
Tailored area and property recommendations
Document verification
Full transaction support from start to finish