Experience in Blagoevgrad, Bulgaria by Ilda

What is it like to live in Blagoevgrad? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Blagoevgrad is your typical student city which is located in the heart of Eastern Europe. It is very small and you can get around by walking or biking. There are not so many entertaining spots but the nature around is beautiful and also the nightlife is alive. The city is very convenient and you can buy anything you want within a walking distance. Blagoevgrad is very close to Greece and it's also close to a lot of European countries that's why students usually take a lot of road trips fro the weekend. This is a video about Blagoevgard: https://www.facebook.com/3MinuteBulgaria/videos/907247766095235/

What is the student lifestyle like in Blagoevgrad?

The city has two Universities: the American one and another Bulgarian University. Since the city is small, the students make up most of the population. The American University has students from almost 40 countries which means that you can meet a lot of cultures and learn a lot! The students organize awesome events and go out every Tuesday, Thursday and sometimes Friday.

How much does it cost to live in Blagoevgrad?

The living is Blagoevgrad is very cheap.Bulgaria is part of the EU, but it has kept its currency leva. 1 lev is almost half a euro, which leaves you with a handful of cash after you exchange them. Food is delicious and not expensive. Alcohol is cheap too. One taxi can take you anywhere for 2 leva (~1 euro).

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Blagoevgrad? Is there any advice you can give?

I live on campus so I don't know how housing would work.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

The food is typical Balkan food, with a variety of meat and dairy products. Bulgarians are proud of their yougurt, since a specific bacteria that makes it, is found only in Bulgaria. Banitsa (some kind of salty pie) is one of the most traditional food and it fills your stomach when you are trying to study or after a wild party. My favorite dish would be these kind of potatoes that contain 3 kinds of cheese.

What places would you recommend visiting in Blagoevgrad?

I would recommend to visit the old town called Vitosha. I would also recommend to visit Bachinovo which is a beautiful park with a lake and also to hike to the Cross. If you come to Blagoevgrad you should definitely check out the 7 Rila Lakes which are wonderful.

Is it good to eat out in Blagoevgrad? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

I think it's good and affordable to eat out. My favorite place is Paparazzi located near the center where you can even get Tequila shots for as cheap as 30 cent (wink, wink). Another good place is Raffy Bar but it is a little bit on the expensive side (awesome cocktails). I would definitely not miss the "2am Banitsa" place which is a small shop that opens at 2am and has homemade baked goods.

Is the nightlife good in Blagoevgrad? Where is good to go?

There are not many clubs in town but the existing ones are full of life and energy. Club "Underground" is one of the best and most of the times students organize themed parties there (Halloween, Pajama parties, Truth or Dare etc). Other good clubs are "Piano Bar" which organizes beerpong and Karaoke events and also "Elysium" which is more of a bedroom-style club.

What advice would you give future students heading to Blagoevgrad?

If you are looking for a big city with awesome museums and beautiful architecture, maybe Blagoevgard is not the place for you. However, if you are looking for a small cozy city, with beautiful nature and diverse people than give it go! Come with an open mind, and an empty stomach and be prepared to be amazed by merging with the local culture. You are going to have tons of fun!