Best of Bulgaria Roundtrip

Begin your adventure with a morning departure from Sofia, journeying through the scenic Bulgarian countryside to the awe-inspiring Rila Monastery, a spiritual and architectural marvel nestled in the mountains. Explore its centuries-old frescoes and tranquil courtyards before continuing to Rupite, a mystical site revered for its healing springs and the legacy of the famed prophetess Vanga. Wander the serene park, visit the museum and church, and soak in the unique atmosphere. The day concludes in Melnik, Bulgaria’s smallest town, renowned for its striking sandstone pyramids and robust local wines. Stroll along cobbled lanes, admire the traditional architecture, and enjoy a tasting of the region’s celebrated vintages. Accommodation in Melnik (or similar). Meals: Breakfast.

After breakfast, delve into Melnik’s rich heritage with a visit to the Kordopul House, an exquisite example of Bulgarian Revival architecture and a testament to the region’s winemaking legacy. Continue your journey through the dramatic Pirin and Rhodope Mountains, where ancient Thracian legends come alive. Arrive in Ribnovo, a remote village famed for its vibrant traditions and unique wedding customs, offering a rare glimpse into Bulgaria’s living folklore. Experience local hospitality, sample traditional cuisine, and witness the intricate rituals that define Ribnovo’s cultural identity. The day ends in the mountain resort town of Bansko, where you’ll unwind in a comfortable hotel (or similar). Meals: Breakfast.

Embark on a memorable journey aboard the highest railway in the Balkans, winding through picturesque mountain landscapes and remote villages. Share the ride with locals in traditional attire, immersing yourself in the authentic rhythms of rural Bulgaria. Disembark in the village of Varvara, where your driver awaits, and continue to Plovdiv, a city renowned for its vibrant history and cultural charm. Settle into your hotel in Plovdiv (or similar) for a restful evening. Meals: Breakfast.

Discover the layers of history in Plovdiv, Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited city. Wander the enchanting Old Town, where ornate houses, ancient fortress walls, and Roman ruins tell stories of empires past. Marvel at the Roman Theater, explore the atmospheric St. Konstantine and Helena Church, and visit the interactive Old Basilica museum. Enjoy the city’s lively ambiance and spend the night in Plovdiv (or similar). Meals: Breakfast.

Set off early for a day brimming with history and breathtaking vistas. Traverse the legendary Valley of the Thracian Kings, where ancient burial mounds and rituals echo the mysteries of the past. Ascend to the summit of Buzludzha to view the iconic, spaceship-like monument, a striking symbol of Bulgaria’s socialist era. Weather permitting, continue along the mountain ridge, passing the storied Shipka Monument, a tribute to Bulgaria’s fight for freedom. Conclude with a visit to the Etara Open Air Ethnographic Museum, where traditional crafts and lifestyles are vividly brought to life. Arrive in Veliko Tarnovo for an overnight stay (or similar). Meals: Breakfast.

Immerse yourself in the medieval grandeur of Veliko Tarnovo, once the proud capital of the Second Bulgarian Kingdom. Explore the formidable Tsarevets Hill, crowned by the Patriarch Church of the Holy Ascending of God, and visit the historic St. Peter and Paul Church. The afternoon is yours to wander the city’s charming streets, discovering its vibrant atmosphere and storied past. Overnight in Veliko Tarnovo (or similar). Meals: Breakfast.

Conclude your Bulgarian odyssey with a scenic drive back to Sofia, arriving in the early afternoon. Reflect on the unforgettable experiences and cultural treasures discovered throughout your journey. Meals: Breakfast.