Welcome to Sofia, where ancient history and modern life intertwine beneath golden domes and Roman ruins. As you arrive at Sofia International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel in the heart of the city. Take a moment to settle in before stepping into the streets of Bulgaria’s vibrant capital for an unforgettable walking tour. Begin your journey at St. Nedelya Square, where Sofia’s past and present converge. Just steps away, the Serdica Ruins whisper tales of the Roman Empire, hidden beneath glass panels that reveal layers of history. Gaze up at the imposing St. Sofia Monument, then continue to the magnificent Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, whose golden domes glow in the afternoon light. Wander through the centuries at the Rotunda of St. George, one of Europe’s oldest churches, where ancient frescoes tell stories of early Christianity. Stroll through the vibrant City Garden, filled with laughter and music, and admire the neoclassical splendor of the National Theater alongside the enchanting charm of the Russian Church.

As the sun sets, allow Sofia’s café culture and traditional cuisine to welcome you. Whether you are sipping locally produced wine or indulging in a hearty Bulgarian meal, this first evening sets the tone for an extraordinary journey ahead.

Highlights of the Day: 

• Alexander Nevsky Memorial Church – A breathtaking masterpiece where golden domes glisten under the sky, and the echoes of choral hymns create a truly mystical ambiance. Step inside to witness awe-inspiring frescoes and an intricate iconostasis that capture Bulgaria’s deep Orthodox soul.
• Rotunda of St. George – Hidden amidst modern buildings, this 4th-century red-brick church stands as a silent witness to Sofia’s ancient past. Inside, centuries-old frescoes whisper forgotten prayers, infusing the air with a sense of timeless spirituality.
• Serdica Ruins – Beneath the bustling streets of Sofia lie the remnants of Roman Serdica, where emperors once walked. The contrast of ancient stone paths against Sofia’s modern skyline creates a striking connection between the past and the present.

Travel Details: Transfer from Sofia Airport; Overnight in Sofia (-/-/-)

Leave the bustling streets of Sofia behind and set off on a breathtaking journey into the Rila Mountains, where time appears to stand still. Nestled within this majestic landscape is the Rila Monastery (a UNESCO World Heritage site), a sanctuary of faith, art, and history. As you step through its grand gates, you’re greeted by vibrant frescoes, centuries-old manuscripts, and an overwhelming sense of serenity. The towering peaks surrounding the monastery enhance its mystical allure, making it a site of both spiritual and visual wonder.

After immersing yourself in the monastery’s sacred atmosphere, continue to Bansko, a town where tradition meets alpine beauty. Nestled at the foot of the Pirin Mountains, Bansko greets you with its cobblestone streets, stone-clad houses adorned with wooden balconies, and the enticing aroma of hearty local dishes. As the sun sets behind the rugged peaks, seek warmth in the town’s cozy taverns, where folklore and mountain legends come to life over a glass of homemade wine.

Highlights of the Day: 

• Rila Monastery (UNESCO) – Hidden deep in the Rila Mountains, this sacred sanctuary enchants with its vivid frescoes, towering arcades, and the quiet hum of centuries-old prayers echoing through its halls.
• Bansko Old Town: With its cobbled streets, stone houses, and historic landmarks, Bansko’s Old Town exudes charm and tradition. The warmth of its mehanas, the aroma of slow-cooked kapama, and the echoes of folklore music make it a true cultural and alpine retreat.

‍Travel Details: Expected Travel Distance ~200 km; Overnight in Bansko (B/-/-)

As you leave Bansko, the road winds into the heart of the Rhodope Mountains, where misty peaks and rolling green valleys form a landscape of pure enchantment. Your first stop is Leshten, a village that appears to be untouched by time. With its stone-roofed houses, flower-filled courtyards, and breathtaking mountain views, Leshten offers a glimpse into Bulgaria’s rich history. Engage with local artisans, savor homemade jams brimming with the flavors of wild forest fruits, and feel the slow, peaceful rhythm of mountain life. Continue deeper into the Rhodope wilderness until you reach Trigrad, a remote village steeped in mystery. Here, you will descend into the legendary Devil’s Throat Cave, where the roar of an underground waterfall fills the vast cavern, and local lore recounts Orpheus’s fateful journey into the underworld. The cave’s towering cliffs and haunting beauty make it one of Bulgaria’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders.

As evening falls, the crisp mountain air and the quiet charm of Trigrad evoke a sense of profound serenity. Enjoy a peaceful night, surrounded by nature and the whispers of ancient legends.

Highlights of the Day: 

• Leshten Village – A timeless mountain village featuring stone-clad houses, artisan crafts, and traditional flavors.
• Devil's Throat Cave – A mystical cavern with an underground waterfall, steeped in the legend of Orpheus.
• Rhodope Mountains – A breathtaking landscape of deep forests, rugged cliffs, and hidden villages that seem frozen in time.

Travel Details: Expected Travel Distance ~180 km; Overnight in Trigrad (B/-/-)

Wake up to the crisp mountain air of Trigrad, where mist drapes the towering cliffs in an ethereal veil, as if nature itself is whispering secrets of the past. The road ahead winds through the breathtaking Rhodope Mountains, revealing endless forests and deep gorges before leading you to one of Bulgaria’s holiest sanctuaries—Bachkovo Monastery. Nestled in a tranquil valley, this centuries-old monastery greets you with the scent of burning incense and the soft flicker of candlelight. Its vivid frescoes, masterpieces of faith and artistry, tell stories of devotion, while the peaceful courtyards invite quiet contemplation beneath the shade of ancient trees.

Leaving behind the spiritual embrace of the monastery, the journey continues to Plovdiv, one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, where history, culture, and creativity blend seamlessly. Stroll through the Old Town, where cobblestone streets weave past opulent Revival-era mansions, their ornate facades preserving centuries of Bulgarian heritage. Stand in awe of the Ancient Theatre, a Roman marvel where echoes of the past still resonate under the open sky. As dusk settles, Kapana (The Trap) awakens—a vibrant arts district teeming with bohemian cafés, artisan workshops, and street musicians, each corner pulsating with modern creativity. Conclude your day at Nebet Tepe, where the city’s rooftops shimmer in the fading sunlight, offering a breathtaking panorama—a perfect moment to reflect on the timeless beauty of Plovdiv.

Highlightsof the Day: 

• Bachkovo Monastery – A sacred retreat with stunning frescoes, nestled in the heart of the Rhodope Mountains.
• Plovdiv Old Town – One of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, serving as a living museum filled with cobblestone streets and vibrant Revival-era houses, rich in history and charm.
• Ancient Theatre – A magnificent Roman amphitheater where history and performance merge under the open sky.

Travel Details: Expected Travel Distance ~150 km; Overnight in Plovdiv (B/-/-)

Depart from Plovdiv and journey into the heart of Bulgaria’s revolutionary past as you arrive in Koprivshtitsa, a town where history resonates through every cobbled street and vividly painted Revival-era house. The town’s serene mountain backdrop and well-preserved 19th-century charm create an atmosphere where time seems to stand still.

After a leisurely lunch break, continue your journey toward Kazanlak, the heart of the Rose Valley, where the air is infused with the sweet scent of Bulgaria’s most cherished flower. Immerse yourself in the enigmatic world of the Thracians by visiting the Golyama Kosmatka Thracian tomb (UNESCO), an ancient burial site revealing the secrets of a lost civilization through its exquisite architecture and intricate artifacts.

End the day with a visit to a local rose oil distillery, where the delicate petals of the renowned Bulgarian rose are transformed into one of the world’s most valuable essential oils. As the sun sets over the rolling fields of roses, immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of this land, where history, culture, and nature weave together in perfect harmony.

Highlights of the Day: 

• Koprivshtitsa Village – A beautifully preserved town where colorful Revival-era houses and rich revolutionary history come to life.
• Thracian Tomb (UNESCO) – An awe-inspiring ancient burial site, revealing the artistry and legacy of the Thracian civilization.
• Rose Valley – The fragrant heart of Bulgaria, where delicate roses are harvested for their world-renowned essential oil.

Travel Details: Expected Travel Distance ~230 km; Overnight in the area of Kazanlak (B/-/-)

Depart from Kazanlak and ascend the winding roads of Shipka Pass, where breathtaking mountain views unfold at every turn. Make a stop at the Shipka Monument, a towering tribute to Bulgaria’s fight for independence. Standing atop the pass, surrounded by the echoes of history, you can almost hear the battle cries of the brave Bulgarian and Russian soldiers who defended this land in 1877.

A short drive away, step into a different era at the Buzludzha Monument, an abandoned relic of Bulgaria’s communist past. This futuristic, UFO-like structure looms over the landscape, its faded grandeur and eerie silence creating a hauntingly beautiful contrast with the natural surroundings. Once a grand communist meeting hall, it now stands as a powerful symbol of a bygone era.

Continue to Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria’s medieval capital, where history comes alive in every stone and fortress wall. Explore the legendary Tsarevets Fortress, perched high above the Yantra River, where Bulgarian kings once ruled. Stroll along its ancient pathways, imagining the grandeur of the medieval empire, and enjoy the panoramic views from the fortress walls. As the day winds down, wander through Samovodska Charshia, a charming street where traditional artisans keep centuries-old crafts. The aroma of freshly baked bread and the warm glow of lantern-lit workshops create an ambiance that feels like a step back in time.

Highlights of the Day:

• Shipka Monument – A proud symbol of Bulgaria's heroic struggle for independence, offering breathtaking views from the mountain pass.
• Buzludzha Monument – A striking and eerie relic of Bulgaria's communist past, serving as a testament to a bygone era.
• Tsarevets Fortress – A medieval stronghold that once served as the seat of the Bulgarian kings, offering sweeping views of the historic landscape of Veliko Tarnovo.

Travel Details: Expected Travel Distance ~180 km; Overnight in Veliko Tarnovo (B/-/-)

As your journey nears its end, set off towards Troyan, a town renowned for its centuries-old pottery traditions. Step into a local workshop, where artisans skillfully shape and paint vibrant ceramics, preserving a craft that has been passed down through generations. The earthy scent of clay fills the air as you observe delicate patterns coming to life, a testament to Bulgaria’s rich artistic heritage.

Take some time for lunch before venturing to the Devetashka Cave, a breathtaking natural wonder where towering rock arches and gaping skylights create an almost otherworldly scene. Sunlight streams through the massive openings in the cave’s ceiling, illuminating the vast chambers that once housed prehistoric civilizations. The echoes of dripping water and the fluttering of bats overhead make this ancient cavern feel alive with mystery.

As you return to Sofia, take a moment to reflect on the incredible journey through Bulgaria’s history, culture, and landscapes. Whether you spend one final night in the capital or head directly to the airport, the memories of majestic mountains, medieval fortresses, and timeless traditions will linger long after your travels end.

Highlights of the day:

• Troyan Pottery Workshop – A hands-on experience showcasing Bulgaria’s renowned ceramic artistry, rich in color and tradition.
• Devetashka Cave – A breathtaking natural wonder with colossal rock formations and ancient history.

Travel Details: Expected Travel Distance ~250 km; Overnight in Sofia or departure (B/-/-)

As your adventure through Bulgaria comes to an end, take one final stroll through the streets of Sofia, where ancient history and contemporary life intertwine. Perhaps you’ll savor a quiet morning coffee, reflecting on the memories created - the golden domes of Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the echoes of history in Plovdiv’s Old Town, the mystical depths of the Rhodope Mountains, and the fragrant roses in the valleys of Kazanlak.

At the designated time, you will be transferred to Sofia Airport, carrying not only souvenirs but also the spirit of Bulgaria—its legends, landscapes, and warm hospitality. As your journey home begins, Bulgaria’s mountains, valleys, and ancient cities fade into the horizon, yet their spirit and stories will remain with you, forever etched in your memories.

Until we meet again - сбогом и до нови срещи! (Goodbye and see you again!)

Travel Details: Transfer for departure from Sofia Airport (B/-/-)