Top 5 student cities in Bulgaria

Discover the favourite cities for university students in Bulgaria and what makes them unique.

If you’re evaluating options for your exchange programme or degree course, learning about the top 5 student cities in Bulgaria can help you choose a destination that suits your budget, academic expectations and lifestyle. This South-Eastern European country is gaining popularity among international students thanks to its university system, affordable cost of living and a cultural experience that’s different from that of Western Europe.

In this article, you’ll find practical information about each city: the pros and cons of studying there, the most prominent universities, and a reference to rental prices for students. In addition, as an online accommodation platform for students, we make it easy for you to search and compare rooms, flats, and residences so that you can organise your stay easily and securely.

Sofia

Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, is the country's main university city. It’s a dynamic city with an active student life, good transport links and a wide range of cultural activities, making it the most popular destination for international students arriving in the country.

Pros and cons of studying in Sofía

Sofia offers many academic opportunities, although it isn’t without certain drawbacks for students.

Pros of studying in Sofía

It has a good student atmosphere, with leisure, culture and an active nightlife.
It has the widest range of universities and programmes, including courses taught in English.
It’s more economical than other European capitals.

Cons of studying in Sofía

Pollution levels are higher than in other Bulgarian cities.
The pace of life is more fast-paced compared to smaller university towns.
Traffic and public transport are often congested during rush hour.

Top Universities in Sofía

Sofia is home to some of the country's most important universities.

Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski”

Sofia's St. Clement of Ohrid University is the oldest and most prestigious university in Bulgaria. It has several campuses and buildings in different locations throughout the Bulgarian capital. If you’re going to study there, don't miss our guide to accommodation near Sofia University..

Student housing in Sofia

Rent for students in Sofia is usually cheaper than in other European capitals, although it’s the highest in Bulgaria. For your reference, the monthly price of a room in a shared flat is usually between €300-400 per month.

Are you looking for accommodation in the capital of Bulgaria? Read our guide to student housing in Sofia, with the best neighbourhoods and approximate prices.

Plovdiv

Plovdiv is one of the oldest cities in Europe and an increasingly popular university destination for international students due to its charm. It stands out for its historic centre, cultural atmosphere and a pace of life that’s more relaxed than that of the capital.

Pros and cons of studying in Plovdiv

Student life in Plovdiv has many positive aspects, but also some disadvantages that may affect your daily life.

Pros of studying in Plovdiv

Lower cost of living and rent than in Sofia.
A very active cultural scene, with festivals, art and events throughout the year.
A more compact city that’s easy to get around on foot or by public transport.

Cons of studying in Plovdiv

More limited nightlife compared to Sofia.
Fewer universities and programmes in English than in the capital.
Fewer job opportunities for international students.

Top Universities in Plovdiv

One institution in particular stands out in Plovdiv.

University of Plovdiv "Paisii Hilendarski"

The Paisii Hilendarski University of Plovdiv is one of the most important universities in the country and the third largest institution in Bulgaria. Classes are held at various campuses and locations in the city of Plovdiv, such as in the central district or to the north-west of it.

Student housing in Plovdiv

Plovdiv usually has more affordable student rental prices than Sofia. For example, the cost of a single room in a shared flat or residence is usually between €180-300 per month, depending on the area and the amenities offered.

Varna

Varna is known as the capital of the Black Sea and is renowned for its coastal lifestyle. It’s an attractive university city for those looking to study in Bulgaria without sacrificing a relaxed atmosphere, beaches and a vibrant social life during the warmer months.

Pros and cons of studying in Varna

Choosing Varna to study brings with it great advantages, although certain disadvantages may affect the experience.

Pros of studying in Varna

Location by the sea, with beaches and green spaces.
It’s more affordable in terms of expenses compared to Sofia.
Good range of leisure activities.

Cons of studying in Varna

In summer, tourism can make some rentals more expensive and cause everything to be crowded with people.
Fewer programme options in English than in Sofia.
It’s further away from other major cities, so it’s more difficult to travel around Bulgaria.

Top Universities in Varna

Varna is home to renowned institutions.

Medical University-Varna

Varna Medical University is one of the most modern in the country, with innovative technology. Thanks to this, it attracts many international students every year. Its main buildings are located in the city centre.

Student housing in Varna

Rent for students in Varna is affordable, especially outside the peak tourist season. A room in a shared flat usually costs between €200 and €350 per month, depending on how close it’s to the city centre or the sea.

Are you planning to study in Bulgaria? Don't miss our guide to student accommodation in Varna, with up-to-date neighbourhoods and prices.

Veliko Tarnovo

Veliko Tarnovo is a small university town with a strong historical significance in the country and a very student-oriented atmosphere. It’s an ideal choice for those looking to study in Bulgaria in a quieter, more authentic environment with lower prices than in the big cities.

Pros and cons of studying in Veliko Tarnovo

Veliko Tarnovo stands out for its benefits for students, but it also has some weaknesses.

Pros of studying in Veliko Tarnovo

The university environment is friendly, and there are many foreign students.
It’s a compact city with a great deal of historical charm.
The cost of living and rents are very affordable.

Cons of studying in Veliko Tarnovo

Less nightlife and leisure options.
The academic offering is more limited than in Sofia or Varna.
It has fewer direct international connections, so it isn’t as easy to travel.

Top Universities in Veliko Tarnovo

There’s one university that stands out in this Bulgarian city.

"St. Cyril and St. Methodius" University of Veliko Tarnovo

The main institution is the University of Veliko Tarnovo St. Cyril and St. Methodius, known for its programmes in humanities, education, languages and social sciences, and for welcoming exchange students from different countries.

Find out everything about the university and its surroundings in our guide to housing close to the University of Veliko Tarnovo.

Student housing in Veliko Tarnovo

Veliko Tarnovo is one of the most affordable cities for students in Bulgaria. The most popular type of accommodation among students is a room in a shared flat, which usually costs between €150 and €250 per month, depending on the area and type of accommodation.

If you’re going to study in this Bulgarian city, check out our guide to student accommodation in Veliko Tarnovo, with information on prices and recommended neighbourhoods.

Blagoevgrad

Blagoevgrad is one of Bulgaria's most international university towns. Although small, it has a youthful atmosphere and is very focused on academic life, thanks to the presence of foreign students.

Pros and cons of studying in Blagoevgrad

The academic experience in Blagoevgrad has many advantages, but certain disadvantages could influence your stay.

Pros of studying in Blagoevgrad

Very strong and multicultural university atmosphere.
Living here is more affordable than in Sofia and other large cities in the country.
Close to nature, with mountains and green spaces all around.

Cons of studying in Blagoevgrad

It’s a small town, with more limited leisure options.
Less variety of universities and degree programmes.
Fewer job opportunities outside academia.

Top Universities in Blagoevgrad

Blagoevgrad is known for being the seat of a specific institution.

American University in Bulgaria

It’s one of the most international universities in the country, with programmes taught in English and an American-style educational approach. It has several buildings, all located in or very close to the city centre.

Student housing in Blagoevgrad

Rent for students in Blagoevgrad is very affordable, comparable to that in Veliko Tarnovo. In this city, a single room in a shared flat typically costs between €150 and €280 per month.

Find accommodation in Bulgaria with Erasmus Play

Choosing between the top 5 student cities in Bulgaria depends largely on your profile as a student and the experience you’re looking for. From large cities such as Sofia, with a wide range of academic opportunities and a vibrant social life, to quieter and more affordable options such as Veliko Tarnovo or Blagoevgrad, Bulgaria offers a wide variety of alternatives for international students.

Beyond the city, having good accommodation is key to enjoying the university experience. Through our online student accommodation platform, you can compare verified rooms, flats and residences, filter by price, location and dates, and book securely before your arrival, making your stay easier from day one.

Other guides on studying and living in Bulgaria

In this section, you’ll find links to other guides that may be useful for planning your exchange: