3 Best Nightlife in Bulgaria

Looking more like a cozy tea room than a bar, the lobby at Arbanashki Hotel is a lovely place to unwind after sightseeing in town. A beamed ceiling, lace curtains, and floral-printed armchairs and loveseats lend the space a homey vibe, and it's warmed further by the oft-roaring fireplace. There are a few outdoor tables on a covered patio overlooking the well-tended garden. Coffee, tea, homemade and local wine, and beers like locally-brewed Boliarka and Zagorka–one of Bulgaria's most popular beers–are available. Tuck into a slice of the chocolate garash cake.

A British-style neighborhood pub with rock and roll and '80s tunes on the stereo, local beers on tap (try the dark Stolichno Bock), City Pub packs in a mix of friendly foreigners and locals. From the kitchen comes typical pub grub with a few exceptions; there's the Bulgarian version of bangers and mash (local sausages served with French fries and spicy ketchup), but there are also salads, including one with tomatoes, green peppers, olives, and sirene (a white brine cheese). Drinks are standard fare–locally brewed beer, well drinks, and even some local wine. This is a cash-only pub.

Designed by National Revival architect Kolyo Ficheto, Hadji Nikoli Inn dates to 1858 and today is a guest house, restaurant, and wine bar, and has a small gallery and museum. The inn produces its own wines, including a 2008 Cuvée, a 2007 Merlot, and a 2010 Sauvignon Blanc. Other domestic red, white, and sparkling wines and rakija are also available. In summer, the garden opens and musicians play guitar, piano, and the accordion.