11 Day Discover Bulgaria

Step into a land where time flows through mountains and valleys, where rose-scented breezes carry echoes of empires, and ancient stones speak of saints, kings, and revolutionaries. This journey through Bulgaria is an invitation to wander beyond the ordinary…into a world where culture, history, and nature intertwine in beautiful harmony.

Begin in Sofia, Bulgaria’s vibrant capital, where Roman ruins, Orthodox domes, and socialist relics blend into a mosaic of the past and present. Journey to the majestic Rila Monastery, a sanctuary nestled in forested peaks, and stroll through Bansko’s cobbled Old Town before soaking in the mineral springs of Banya.

Witness the heartwarming stories of rescued bears at the Belitsa Sanctuary, then savour the wines of the Thracian Valley before immersing yourself in the ancient allure of Plovdiv;Europe’s oldest living city. Here, Roman theatres, colourful art districts, and timeless charm await.

From the mural-lined streets of Staro Zhelezare to the rose fields of Karlovo, each stop tells its own story. Explore Hisarya’s Roman gates, sip tea in sun-drenched towns, and breathe in the essence of Bulgaria’s “liquid gold”rose oil, crafted from thousands of petals.

Stand in awe before the haunting Buzludzha Monument, the golden domes of Shipka Church, and the artisan world of Etara’s open-air museum. In Veliko Tarnovo, the medieval capital, discover fortress ruins and hillside homes that overlook winding rivers. Then, step into Arbanassi’s hidden churches, their modest façades concealing centuries of sacred art.

Finally, gaze skyward through the Eyes of God in Prohodna Cave, where light pours through stone in a moment of quiet wonder.

This is more than a holiday. It’s a soul-stirring journey through Bulgaria’s most treasured landscapes and legends-a path through history, nature, and the warmth of its people.

Your Itinerary

Day 1 : Arrival

Welcome to Sofia! Upon arrival at Sofia Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your local tour guide and transferred to your centrally located hotel. After check-in and some time to rest, the afternoon introduces you to the captivating capital of Bulgaria. Join a guided walking tour through Sofia’s city centre, where ancient Thracian foundations, Roman ruins, and Orthodox cathedrals sit beside austere communist-era architecture and graceful European facades. Wander through the Square of Religious Tolerance and discover how this city reflects its rich position at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. In the evening, enjoy a traditional welcome dinner at a folklore restaurant, complete with live Bulgarian music and dancing—perhaps even try the spirited “Horo” dance yourself.
Overnight in Sofia.

Day 2: Explore Sofia and its Hidden Stories

After breakfast, the day continues your exploration of Sofia. Depending on your previous day’s arrival time, there may be a walking tour of the city’s highlights, or free time. Later, visit the National History Museum, home to thousands of artefacts that chronicle Bulgaria’s extensive past. Then journey to the outskirts of the city to explore Boyana Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its remarkably preserved medieval frescoes. If you’re keen to learn more about Bulgaria’s recent history, an optional visit to the Museum of Socialist Art can be arranged (closed on Mondays), as well as a stop at the evocative Bells Park near the Vitosha Mountains. For a unique and nostalgic experience, you may also enjoy a ride in an authentic Chaika GAZ-13—a vintage vehicle used by communist leaders.
Overnight in Sofia.

Day 3: Rila Monastery, Bansko and the Mountains

Today, travel south into the heart of the Rila Mountains to visit one of Bulgaria’s spiritual treasures—the UNESCO-listed Rila Monastery. Founded in the 10th century and considered the holiest place in the country, its colourful frescoes, stone arches, and peaceful cloisters offer a moment of awe and reflection. Weather permitting, enjoy a short hike through the forest to the cave of St. John of Rila, the monastery’s founder, or visit the nearby Stob Pyramids—curious rock formations carved by nature. Afterward, continue to the charming mountain town of Bansko, nestled at the foot of the Pirin Mountains. Explore its cobbled Old Town, traditional stone houses, and the Holy Trinity Church with its tall bell tower and iconic artwork. Your day concludes with a restful evening in the neighbouring village of Banya, renowned for its healing mineral springs.
Overnight in Banya.

Day 4: Belitsa Bear Sanctuary and Village Life

Depart Banya and travel through the scenic Rhodope Mountains into the fertile lands of the Thracian Valley. Stop en route at a local winery for a tasting of distinctive Bulgarian wines, reflecting centuries of winemaking tradition passed down from Thracian times. Your journey continues to Plovdiv, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe. Explore the enchanting Old Town, where cobbled lanes wind past colourful Revival-era houses and Roman ruins, including a remarkably preserved amphitheatre. Then, immerse yourself in the bohemian atmosphere of the Kapana creative district, brimming with art studios, quirky shops, and cosy cafés.
Overnight in Plovdiv.

Day 6: A Day to Wander in Plovdiv

Enjoy a full day at leisure to further explore the magic of Plovdiv at your own pace. You may choose to visit the Bishop’s Basilica, famed for its intricate Roman mosaics, or simply relax in one of the city’s inviting parks or artisan cafés. The blend of ancient and modern makes Plovdiv a city where every stroll offers new discoveries, from hidden courtyards to local galleries.
Overnight in Plovdiv.

Day 7 : Art, Aromas and Ancient Towns

Begin your day with a visit to Staro Zhelezare, an extraordinary village where public walls are transformed into a living gallery. Created annually by an artist and his students from the University of Fine Arts in Poland, these murals feature international figures painted alongside local residents, creating a surreal and joyful open-air museum. Continue to Hisarya, a tranquil spa town famed for its Roman ruins and thermal springs-the well-preserved fortress walls and Roman gates still stand tall. Next, visit Karlovo in the Rose Valley, a sunlit town where traditional life is alive and fragrant. Here, you’ll visit a private rose farm to learn about the intricate distillation of rose oil,Bulgaria’s “liquid gold”,still used in world-famous perfumes and cosmetics.
Overnight in Kazanlak.

Day 8 : Monuments of Memory and Craftsmanship

Today you’ll travel through some of Bulgaria’s most iconic historical and cultural landmarks. First, visit the awe-inspiring Buzludzha Monument (viewed from the outside)a vast, abandoned structure once built to celebrate the founding of the Bulgarian Socialist movement, now one of the world’s most striking examples of brutalist architecture. Then visit the Shipka Memorial Church, with its dazzling golden domes, and the nearby Shipka Monument, dedicated to the heroes of Bulgaria’s liberation during the Russo-Turkish War. In the afternoon, step back in time at the Etara Open-Air Museum, where traditional crafts such as pottery, woodcarving and weaving are preserved in working workshops that recreate life during Bulgaria’s National Revival period.
Overnight in Veliko Tarnovo.

Day 9: Medieval Majestic and Village Traditions

Veliko Tarnovo, the medieval capital of Bulgaria, is a city of grandeur and legend. Explore the mighty Tsarevets Fortress, perched above the Yantra River, and visit the Church of Saints Peter and Paul, noted for its spiritual atmosphere and vibrant frescoes. Later, travel a short distance to the picturesque village of Arbanassi. Hidden behind modest stone exteriors lie churches rich in frescoes, including the Church of the Nativity of Jesus Christ, an exceptional example of Orthodox Christian art from the Ottoman era. Depending on availability, enjoy a hands-on cooking class in the village, learning the secrets of traditional Bulgarian cuisine in the company of locals.
Overnight in Veliko Tarnovo.

Day 10: The Eyes of God and Return to Sofia

As your journey nears its end, travel back toward Sofia with a magical stop at the Prohodna Cave,known poetically as “The Eyes of God.” This natural rock formation features two perfectly shaped openings in its roof that allow beams of light to stream into the cave, creating an otherworldly experience said to hold mystical energy. If the weather is fair, this awe-inspiring site offers a moment of peaceful reflection before your return to the capital.
Overnight in Sofia.

Day 11: Departure

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Sofia Airport for your departure. As you leave, you’ll carry with you not just souvenirs and photographs, but memories of Bulgaria’s sacred mountains, vibrant cities, and the heartfelt warmth of its people.