MICHELIN Guide Hotels is a selection made by the Michelin inspectors - the same experts who award stars to restaurants, here applying their standards to hotels. They assess properties anonymously against 5 criteria: architecture and design, quality of service, character and personality, value for the experience, and connection with the place. The most outstanding properties receive a MICHELIN Key (1 to 3 keys) - a separate, higher distinction than simply being included in the selection.
A total of 12 hotels in Bulgaria are included in the selection. Of these, Blu Bay Hotel Sozopol received a MICHELIN Key for 2026 - Michelin highlights its boutique atmosphere, elegant design, panoramic views of the sea and the marina in the heart of Old Sozopol, the rooftop pool and the personalised service.
The other 3 hotels above are part of the wider selection (recommended, but without a key): Kempinski Grand Arena (Bansko) - for architecture that is unusual for a ski resort and an exceptional balance of luxury and price right next to the gondola; Thracian Cliffs (Balchik) - for the Gary Player golf course along the cliffs above the sea and the restaurants with panoramic views; Ensana Aquahouse (St. Constantine and Helena) - for one of the largest spa complexes in Northern Bulgaria, with 46°C thermal water.
