Bulgaria-7-day-itinerary

7 Day Itinerary: Exploring the Beauty of Bulgaria

Visa Requirements:

  • Citizens of many countries (including the EU, US, Canada) can enter Bulgaria visa-free for up to 90 days. Check https://www.mfa.bg/en/entry-requirements for specific details based on your nationality.

Transportation:

  • Flights: Sofia Airport (SOF) is the main international hub.
  • Buses: Extensive and affordable bus network connects major cities and towns.
  • Trains: Comfortable but slower option for longer journeys.
  • Taxis: Readily available in cities, negotiate fares beforehand.
  • Car Rental: Offers flexibility for exploring rural areas, but roads can be challenging in mountainous regions.

Currency: Bulgarian Lev (BGN). Cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash is advisable.

Language: Bulgarian. English is spoken in tourist areas. Learning a few basic phrases will be appreciated by locals.

Day 1: Sofia - History and Culture

  • Morning: Explore Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, a stunning example of Neo-Byzantine architecture.
  • Afternoon: Visit the National Archaeological Museum for insights into Bulgaria’s ancient past.
  • Evening: Enjoy traditional Bulgarian cuisine at a restaurant in the charming Old Town.

Day 2: Rila Monastery - Spiritual Retreat

  • Morning: Take a bus from Sofia to the Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled in the Rila Mountains.
  • Afternoon: Explore the monastery complex with its impressive churches, murals, and historic artifacts.
  • Evening: Return to Sofia or stay overnight in a nearby guesthouse for a tranquil experience.

Day 3: Plovdiv - Ancient City Charm

  • Morning: Travel by bus from Sofia to Plovdiv, the oldest continuously inhabited city in Europe.
  • Afternoon: Stroll through the cobblestone streets of the Old Town, visit the Roman Amphitheatre, and admire the colorful houses.
  • Evening: Indulge in a delicious dinner at one of Plovdiv’s many restaurants offering traditional Bulgarian or international cuisine.

Day 4: Kazanlak - Rose Valley and Thracian Treasures

  • Morning: Take a day trip from Plovdiv to Kazanlak, the heart of the Bulgarian Rose Valley.
  • Afternoon: Visit a rose oil distillery and learn about the process of extracting rose essence. Explore the Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak, a UNESCO World Heritage Site adorned with intricate frescoes.
  • Evening: Return to Plovdiv.

Day 5: Veliko Tarnovo - Medieval Majesty

  • Morning: Travel by bus from Plovdiv to Veliko Tarnovo, the former capital of Bulgaria during the Second Bulgarian Empire.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Tsarevets Fortress with its impressive walls, towers, and panoramic views over the city. Visit the Samovodsk neighbourhood with its traditional craftsmen workshops.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner overlooking the Yantra River in Veliko Tarnovo.

Day 6: Shipka - Freedom’s Legacy

  • Morning: Take a bus from Veliko Tarnovo to Shipka Pass, a mountain pass and site of a decisive battle during the Russo-Turkish War (1877-78).
  • Afternoon: Visit the impressive Shipka Monument dedicated to the fallen Bulgarian soldiers. Hike through the surrounding mountains for breathtaking views.
  • Evening: Return to Veliko Tarnovo.

Day 7: Departure from Sofia

  • Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and last minute souvenir shopping in Veliko Tarnovo.
  • Take a bus back to Sofia (approx. 3 hours) for your onward journey.

Things of Interest to Tourists:

  • Nature and Hiking: Bulgaria boasts stunning mountains, forests, and beaches perfect for hiking, skiing, and exploring nature.
  • History and Culture: Rich in history with ancient Thracian tombs, Roman ruins, medieval fortresses, and Ottoman architecture.
  • Food and Wine: Indulge in delicious traditional cuisine like banitsa (cheese pastry), shopska salad, and grilled meats. Sample Bulgarian wines, renowned for their quality and variety.
  • Hot Springs: Relax and rejuvenate at Bulgaria’s numerous thermal springs known for their healing properties.

Enjoy your unforgettable journey through the fascinating landscapes and vibrant culture of Bulgaria!