Bulgaria’s geographic location
Bulgaria, a European country situated in the southeastern part of the continent, has a strategic geographic location, bordering five countries and the Black Sea. The country’s total land area is approximately 111,000 square kilometers, and its population of around 7 million people makes it one of the most densely populated countries in Europe. Bulgaria’s location has contributed to its history and national identity, as well as its economy and geopolitics.
Neighbors to the north: Romania
To the north, Bulgaria shares a land border of 608 km with Romania, which is the country’s longest border. The Danube River forms a significant portion of this border, and it is the second-longest river in Europe. The two countries have a shared history and cultural heritage, reflected in the similar architecture and traditions in the regions along the border. There are several crossing points for vehicles and pedestrians, facilitating trade and tourism between the two countries.
Neighbors to the south: Turkey
Bulgaria’s southern border stretches over 259 km with Turkey, another country with a rich history and cultural diversity. The border is defined by the Maritsa River, which flows into the Aegean Sea. The two countries cooperate in various fields, such as trade, energy, and tourism. The border crossing points are located in strategic places, such as the Kapitan Andreevo-Svilengrad and Lesovo-Hamzabeyli checkpoints, which are among the busiest in the Balkans. The border region is also home to several protected natural areas, such as the Strandzha Nature Park and the Mesta River Valley, attracting visitors from both countries and beyond.
Neighbors to the east: Black Sea
Bulgaria’s coastline along the Black Sea is 378 km long, forming the country’s eastern border. The sea provides a vital connection to other countries in the region, such as Russia, Ukraine, and Georgia. The Black Sea region is rich in natural resources, including oil and gas reserves, fisheries, and tourism. Bulgaria’s coastal cities and resorts, such as Varna, Burgas, and Sunny Beach, attract millions of tourists each year, contributing significantly to the country’s economy.
Neighbors to the west: Serbia
To the west, Bulgaria shares a 318 km-long border with Serbia, another Balkan country with a shared history and cultural heritage. The two countries cooperate in various areas, such as energy, infrastructure, and tourism. The border crossing points, such as the Kalotina-Petrohan and Bregovo-Equilateral checkpoints, facilitate the movement of people and goods between the two countries. The border region is also home to several natural and cultural landmarks, such as the Belogradchik Rocks and the Magura Cave.
Bulgaria’s northernmost point
Bulgaria’s northernmost point is located at the tripoint with Romania and Ukraine, near the village of Koshnitsa. The point is situated at an altitude of 272 meters above sea level, and it is marked by a stone monument.
Bulgaria’s southernmost point
Bulgaria’s southernmost point is located at the border with Greece and Turkey, near the village of Rezovo. The point is situated at an altitude of 0 meters above sea level, and it is marked by a concrete pillar.
Bulgaria’s easternmost point
Bulgaria’s easternmost point is located at the Black Sea coast, near the city of Burgas. The point is situated at an altitude of 0 meters above sea level, and it is marked by a metal plaque.
Bulgaria’s westernmost point
Bulgaria’s westernmost point is located at the tripoint with Serbia and North Macedonia, near the village of Tumba. The point is situated at an altitude of 248 meters above sea level, and it is marked by a stone monument.
Land border length: Romania
Bulgaria’s land border with Romania is 608 km long, making it the country’s longest land border. The border is defined by the Danube River and includes several crossing points for vehicles and pedestrians.
Land border length: Turkey
Bulgaria’s land border with Turkey is 259 km long, forming the country’s southern border. The border is defined by the Maritsa River and includes several busy crossing points, facilitating trade and tourism between the two countries.
Land border length: Serbia
Bulgaria’s land border with Serbia is 318 km long, forming the country’s western border. The border includes several crossing points, such as the Kalotina-Petrohan and Bregovo-Equilateral checkpoints, which are important for the movement of goods and people between the two countries.
