Overview:
This expertly guided cultural tour of Bulgaria showcases the country’s rich history, UNESCO World Heritage Sites and diverse landscapes, from vibrant Sofia and ancient Plovdiv to Veliko Tarnovo, the Rose Valley and the Rila Mountains. Ideal for travellers seeking an in-depth Bulgaria itinerary, the journey blends archaeological treasures, monasteries, traditional cuisine and scenic mountain regions into a seamless and immersive experience.
Holiday price starts from £1,695 per person sharing a double/twin room. Single Supplement available on request.
Accommodation throughout the tour is in carefully selected, good-standard 3-star hotels, centrally located for easy sightseeing and chosen for their boutique character, comfort and excellent value. All stays include comfortable rooms with private facilities and breakfast.
By avoiding large chain hotels, we ensure a personal and genuine stay. Our guests consistently appreciate the warmth and character of these carefully chosen properties.
2026 Departure Dates: Weekly March - December
Tour Itinerary:
Day 1 – Arrival in Sofia
Upon arrival in Sofia, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. Relax after your journey or take a gentle stroll through the city’s boulevards and leafy squares. Enjoy the freedom to explore Sofia’s cafés, galleries or boutiques at your own pace before settling in for a peaceful evening.
Day 2 – Discovering Sofia with Your Guide
Your guided journey begins this morning as you meet your specialist guide and set out to explore Sofia’s cultural landmarks. Visit the magnificent Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the atmospheric Rotunda of Saint George and the fascinating Serdica archaeological complex hidden beneath the modern streets. Enjoy a curated lunch in a thematic local restaurant before continuing to the National Institute of Archaeology. The remainder of the evening is yours to relax in comfort.
Day 3 – Plovdiv and the Rhodope Mountains
After breakfast, travel to Plovdiv, one of Europe’s oldest cities and a vibrant centre of art and culture. A guided walking tour reveals Roman theatres, elegant Revival-era mansions and the charming Kapana creative district. Following lunch, your journey continues into the Rhodope Mountains, where you will visit Asen’s Fortress and the tranquil Bachkovo Monastery, known for its stunning frescoes. Return to Plovdiv for the evening.
Day 4 – Haskovo and Ancient Thracian History
This morning you depart for Haskovo, where the striking Monument of the Holy Mother of God dominates the skyline. Continue to the Alexandrovo Tomb and the Thracian Art Museum for an intimate glimpse into the beliefs, artistry and craft of the Thracian civilisation. After lunch, travel to Shumen, check in to your hotel and enjoy a quiet evening.
Day 5 – Shumen, the Madara Rider and Veliko Tarnovo
After breakfast, explore Shumen’s monumental tribute to Bulgarian history at the 1300 Years of Bulgaria Monument. Continue to the UNESCO-listed Madara Rider, an extraordinary medieval rock relief carved high into the cliffs. Later, arrive in Veliko Tarnovo, the former medieval capital, where you will be welcomed to your hotel for a restful evening.
Day 6 – Veliko Tarnovo, Arbanasi and the Rose Valley
This morning you will explore the dramatic Tsarevets Fortress with its commanding views over the winding Yantra River. Continue to the historic village of Arbanasi, known for its ornate houses and richly decorated churches. After a traditional lunch, journey into the Rose Valley, a region famed for its fragrant fields and deep-rooted traditions. Arrive in Kazanlak for an overnight stay.
Day 7 – Secrets of the Rose Valley
Visit the Thracian Tomb of Seuthes III, an astonishing archaeological discovery, before continuing to the Damascena Rose Valley and Ethnographic Complex. Here you will learn about Bulgaria’s world-renowned rose oil production and the centuries-old distillation techniques still used today. After lunch, return to Sofia for an evening at leisure.
Day 8 – Rila Monastery and the Stob Pyramids
Today’s journey takes you deep into the Rila Mountains to visit the iconic Rila Monastery, the spiritual heart of Bulgaria and a masterpiece of religious art. After lunch in a traditional local restaurant, visit the dramatic Stob Pyramids, a natural formation sculpted over thousands of years. Return to Sofia for your final night in the capital.
Day 9 – Departure
After breakfast, check out of your hotel and enjoy a seamless transfer to the airport or your preferred drop-off point. Your elegant discovery of Bulgaria comes to an end, leaving you with lasting memories of its culture, history and natural beauty.
Package Includes:
Holiday includes:
- Flights from UK to Sofia with 1 piece of checked luggage per traveller
- Return airport transfers for a stress-free arrival and departure
- Eight nights’ accommodation in specially selected hotels on half-board basis, including breakfast and dinner
- Eight days of guided tours with a professional English-speaking guide
- Entrance fees to all attractions and sightseeing mentioned in the Tour Highlights
Highlights of your tour include:
- Exploration of the historic City of Sofia
- Walking tours of Plovdiv, one of Europe’s oldest cities
- Visits to the Assen Fortress and the serene Bachkovo Monastery
- Discovering the medieval charm of Veliko Tarnovo
- Exploring the Thracian History
- Strolling the streets of Haskovo
- Uncover the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Madara Rider
- Visiting the City of Kazanlak and the fragrant Damascena Rose Complex
- Discovering the cultural and historical treasures of Shumen
- Experiencing the spiritual and artistic wonder of Rila Monastery
Additional benefits include:
- 24-hour emergency contact for peace of mind
- ATOL Certificate
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