Self Drive tour: Explore the Best of Bulgaria
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on a captivating multi-day tour through Bulgaria, a land where history, culture, and nature intertwine seamlessly. From the vibrant streets of Sofia to the serene landscapes of Rila Mountain National Park, each day promises a new adventure. Discover ancient monasteries, explore charming towns, and immerse yourself in the rich heritage of this enchanting country. With comfortable accommodations and expert guidance, this tour offers an unforgettable journey through Bulgaria's most iconic destinations and hidden gems.
Included
Breakfast included
vegetarian, meat
6 days rent-a-car type Ford Fiesta, VW Polo or similar
Rent-a-car pick up and drop off charges, navigation
Private arrival and departure transfer Sofia Airport
accommodation at family- run 3* and traditional guesthouses with private facilities
all breakfastss
Rates are based per person in double/ twin room, based on minimum 2 persons
In case you are a solo traveller - single supplement is additionally charged!
hotel: 8 night(s);
Local tour guide in English – 3 hours private tour of Sofia
Local guide in Veliko Turnovo for a visit of Tsarevets Hill with the Citadel – entrance tickets included
Local guide in Plovdiv with entrance to the Ethnographic museum
Arrival transfer Sofia Airport
Entrance to Damascena ethnographic complex
Tasting of traditional rose products
Info pack for Bulgaria
Map
Attractions
Rozhen Monastery
Villa Melnik
Karadzhov kamak
Rila Monastery
City Park
Shipka Memorial ChurchDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival in Sofia
- Sofia - Arrival day
- More
Begin your Bulgarian adventure as you arrive at Sofia Airport, where a private transfer will whisk you away to your hotel (or similar). Settle in and take the rest of the day to relax and acclimate to the vibrant city atmosphere.
Day 2 – Day 2: Exploring Sofia's Rich Heritage
- Sofia
- More
- National Art Gallery
- Vassil Levski Monument
- Russian Monument Square
- Ivan Vazov" National Theater
- Dragalevski Monastery
- Vrana Park & Museum
- St Mina Monastery
- Knyazheska Garden
- More
After a hearty breakfast, embark on a half-day private tour of Sofia with a knowledgeable local guide. Discover the grandeur of St. Alexander Nevski Memorial Cathedral and the ancient charm of St. Sofia Basilica. Stroll through Parliament Square, admire the National Theatre, and unwind in the Old City Garden. Visit the National Art Gallery housed in the former Royal Palace, and explore the historical St. George Rotunda and Arena di Serdica ruins. Spend the afternoon at leisure, perhaps uncovering more of Sofia's hidden gems, before returning to your hotel for the night.
Day 3 – Day 3: Journey to Rila and Bansko
- Rila
- Bansko
- Sofia
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- Rila Monastery
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Start your day with the delivery of your rental car, then set off southward to the breathtaking Rila Mountain National Park. Visit the awe-inspiring Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and take time to explore its main yard and church. After a leisurely lunch, continue your journey to the picturesque museum town of Bansko, nestled at the base of Pirin Mountain National Park. Spend the evening exploring Bansko's charming old town or enjoy a scenic hike in the surrounding area before settling in for the night at your hotel.
Day 4 – Day 4: Discovering Southwestern Bulgaria
- Bansko
- Melnik
- More
- Rozhen Monastery
- Villa Melnik
- Monument of Gotse Delchev
- Church "St. St. Theodore Tyron and Theodore Stratilat "
- Popina Luka
- Bezbog Lake
- City Park
- More
Today, delve into the wonders of southwestern Bulgaria. Drive to the quaint museum town of Melnik, the smallest town in Bulgaria, renowned for its sandstone pyramids and wine cellars. Visit the serene Rojen Monastery nearby. Alternatively, head to Dobrinishte and take a lift to Gotse Delchev and Bezbog huts, exploring the stunning landscapes around Popovo Lake. Don't miss the chance to visit Dobursko village, home to the famous St. St. Theodore Tyron and Theodore Stratilat Church, and the Dancing Bears Park in Belitsa. Return to Bansko for another restful night.
Day 5 – Day 5: From Bansko to Plovdiv
- Plovdiv
- More
- Karadzhov kamak
- Lepenitsa Cave
- Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis
- Pazardzhik History Museum
- Roman aqueduct
- More
Depart Bansko and make your way to Plovdiv, Bulgaria's second-largest city and a former European Capital of Culture. En route, consider a stop in Velingrad to visit the tranquil Kleptuza Lake. Upon arrival in Plovdiv, immerse yourself in the Old Plovdiv Historical Reserve, a UNESCO-awarded site known for its stunning architecture. Wander through Kapana, the city's artistic hub, and explore the Roman Forum, Ancient Amphitheatre, and Kuyumdzhioglu House. Spend the night in a comfortable hotel, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of this historic city.
Day 6 – Day 6: The Fragrance of Roses in Kazanluk
- Plovdiv
- Kazanlak
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- Damascena Ethnographic Complex
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After breakfast, enjoy some free time in Plovdiv before heading north to explore Central Bulgaria. Stop at the Damascena Ethnographic Complex to witness the art of rose oil extraction and sample some delightful rose products. Continue to Kazanluk, the heart of Bulgaria's rose oil industry, and explore the Kazanluk Thracian Tomb, a UNESCO site. Discover the town's rich history and culture before settling into your hotel for the night.
Day 7 – Day 7: Scenic Routes to Veliko Turnovo
- Veliko Tarnovo
- Shipka
- More
- Tsarevets Fortress
- Batoshevski Monastery
- Damascena Ethnographic Complex
- Museum of Education
- Shipka Memorial Church
- More
Embark on a scenic journey through the Shipka mountain pass, stopping to admire the Shipka Memorial Church. In Gabrovo, visit the Etura Open Air Ethnographic Complex and the Museum of Humor and Satire. Consider a detour to the serene Dryanovo Monastery before arriving in Veliko Turnovo. Check into your hotel and meet your guide at Tsarevets Royal Hill to delve into the medieval history of the Second Bulgarian Empire. Enjoy an evening stroll along Samovodska Charshia Street, lined with traditional crafts and cozy cafes, before retiring for the night.
Day 8 – Day 8: From Veliko Turnovo to Sofia
- Sofia
- Veliko Tarnovo
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- Lyaskovets Monastery "Sv. Sv. Peter and Paul"
- Tryavna Iconography School
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Spend the morning exploring Veliko Turnovo, with optional visits to the nearby Arbanassi Museum Village, Transfiguration Monastery, or Liaskovski Monastery. After lunch, journey back to Sofia, where you'll check into your hotel and return your rental car. Enjoy a final evening in the capital, reflecting on the unforgettable experiences of your Bulgarian tour.
Day 9 – Day 9: Departure from Sofia
- Sofia - Departure day
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Conclude your Bulgarian journey with a hearty breakfast before departing from Sofia. Carry with you the memories of a rich cultural tapestry and the warm hospitality of Bulgaria.
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