Sofia – Bulgaria’s Capital and a Dynamic Student Hub

Sofia is the capital and largest city of Bulgaria – a fast-growing, modern city filled with young people and opportunities. It hosts some of the country’s most prestigious universities, including the Medical University of Sofia, Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski”, and the Technical University of Sofia, making it a natural academic and career centre for students from around the world. The city blends rich history – Roman ruins, Orthodox churches and 19th–20th-century architecture – with contemporary urban life, including shopping malls, business parks, a modern metro system and extensive public transport. For students, the “Studentski Grad” (Student City) district is especially popular, offering dormitories, private apartments, cafés, gyms, 24/7 shops and vibrant nightlife. Sofia also provides excellent internship and job opportunities, with many hospitals, private clinics and international companies based in the capital.

Plovdiv – History, Art and a Strong Medical Student Community

Plovdiv is Bulgaria’s second-largest city and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe. Students enjoy its charming Old Town, Roman theatre and the creative Kapana district, known for cafés, bars, galleries and small artisan shops. Plovdiv is a major university city, home to the Medical University of Plovdiv, which offers Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmacy in English and attracts thousands of international students each year. Compared to Sofia, Plovdiv has a more relaxed pace with lower rents and living costs, while still offering plenty of culture, concerts, festivals and an active social scene. Many students feel Plovdiv strikes the ideal balance between a “big city” lifestyle and a comfortable, affordable place to live.

Varna – The Sea Capital of Bulgaria and a Modern Medical University

Varna is widely known as the “sea capital of Bulgaria”. Located on the Black Sea coast, it offers sandy beaches, a long green Sea Garden park, a lively city centre and a great mix of relaxation and urban life. The city is home to the Medical University of Varna, one of the country’s most modern medical institutions, famous for its advanced facilities, simulation centres and dynamic student environment. Varna offers a unique lifestyle for students who enjoy the seaside and a vibrant community. The city stands out for its water sports for much of the year, active nightlife, and affordable coastal living compared to many other European beach cities. This blend of quality medical education and seaside comfort makes Varna a favourite choice among international students.

Pleven – A Calm and Affordable City for Medical Students

Pleven is located in central northern Bulgaria and is best known for the Medical University of Pleven, the first university in Bulgaria to offer a full Medicine programme in English. The city is quieter and more compact than Sofia, Plovdiv or Varna, providing an ideal environment for focused study. Students benefit from lower rent and living costs (often 20–30% cheaper than Sofia), fewer distractions, and a city centre that is easy to navigate on foot. Pleven is a modern regional city with hospitals, shopping centres, parks and cultural venues, while avoiding the heavy traffic and noise of a major city. For many future doctors, Pleven is a place where they can concentrate deeply on their studies and still enjoy a comfortable lifestyle.

Stara Zagora – A Peaceful, Well-Organised City in the Heart of Bulgaria

Stara Zagora is located in central Bulgaria and is known for being one of the country’s most organised, green and student-friendly cities. It is home to Trakia University, which offers English-taught Medicine and Veterinary Medicine. The city combines modern amenities with historical charm, featuring Roman ruins, pedestrian boulevards, leafy parks, cafés and cultural spaces. With its affordable living costs, calm environment and safe streets, Stara Zagora is an excellent choice for students seeking a peaceful study atmosphere while still having easy access to everything they need.

Burgas – A Modern Coastal City With a Growing Medical Community

Burgas is a vibrant coastal city on the Black Sea, known for its long beaches, seaside promenades, green parks and relaxed lifestyle. It hosts Prof. Dr. Asen Zlatarov University, which recently launched an English-taught Medicine programme that is rapidly attracting international students. Burgas offers an appealing mix of urban comfort and natural beauty – cycling paths, spacious green areas, cultural events and modern shopping centres. Students enjoy affordable living, friendly locals and a peaceful environment perfect for study. With its growing medical community and seaside charm, Burgas is becoming an increasingly popular choice among future medical students.