Bulgaria is home to a beguiling mix of culture, history and nature. From gold-domed churches and religious art, to picturesque old towns and ancient ruins, to stunning beaches and incredible national parks.
On this 8-day tour, embark on an in-depth journey of cultural discovery across Bulgaria. Begin in the capital, Sofia, then head to the city of Plovdiv, famed for its cobbled old town and crumbling ancient theatre. Move on to Burgas where you can visit UNESCO-listed Kazanlak Tomb and pretty harbour side towns along the way. Visit the old capital Pliska and the "Throne City" Veliko Tarnovo before heading back to Sofia. End your trip with a walking tour of the capital to see the main highlights.
Our “Cultural Landscapes” holidays are tailor-made holidays offering greater in-depth explorations with highly qualified experienced private driver and guide throughout.
Arrive in Sofia and transfer to the hotel.
After breakfast, journey to the iconic Rila Monastery, Bulgaria’s largest and the second-largest in the Balkans. Founded in the 10th century by St John of Rila, this spiritual haven has been a cornerstone of Bulgarian medieval culture. Explore its fresco-adorned churches and serene courtyards. Continue to Plovdiv, one of Europe’s oldest cities. Discover the remnants of a 5th-century BC Thracian fortress and remarkably preserved Roman structures, including the ancient theatre. Stroll through the Old Town, admiring Revival-era houses, picturesque churches, and the striking Ottoman-era mosque. (B)
Start the day at the Kazanlak Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its ancient Thracian royal burial chambers. Continue to Sozopol, one of Bulgaria’s oldest coastal towns, with a rich maritime history and charming streets. Visit St Cyril and St Methodius Church, which houses relics of Saint John the Baptist, discovered during excavations on Saint Ivan Island in 2010. These holy relics have become an important pilgrimage site. Explore Sozopol’s historic harbour before heading to Burgas, a lively city on the Black Sea coast and the perfect base for exploring Bulgaria’s southern seaside treasures. (B)
Begin with a visit to the old walled city of Nesebar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich history and charming streets. Continue to Aladzha Monastery, a unique rock monastery carved into cliffs. Explore the Palace in Balchik, the former summer residence of Queen Maria of Romania, beautifully set between rocky cliffs and the sea. End the day in Varna, Bulgaria’s vibrant Black Sea port city. (B)
Begin the day in Pliska, Bulgaria’s first capital, before visiting the Madara Reserve to see the Madara Rider, a striking stone relief depicting a horseman. Next, explore Preslav, a former spiritual and literary hub during the Golden Age of Bulgaria under King Simeon I (893–927). Continue to the historic village of Arbanasi, perched on a plateau near Veliko Tarnovo. Known for its connection to the Second Bulgarian State, Arbanasi was a summer retreat for Tarnovo’s nobles and is steeped in fascinating legends, including coin minting by the King of Tarnovo. Arrive in Veliko Tarnovo to conclude the day. (B)
Start with a tour of Veliko Tarnovo, exploring its rich history and iconic highlights, including the Tsarevets Fortress, the Palace, the Patriarch’s complex, and Baldwin’s Tower, all offering panoramic views of the “Throne City.” Stop at the open-air Etar Museum near Gabrovo to see traditional Bulgarian craftsmanship. Continue your journey to Sofia, Bulgaria’s vibrant capital. (B)
Enjoy a walking tour of Sofia, Bulgaria’s vibrant capital. Admire the stunning Alexander Nevski Cathedral, an iconic symbol of Sofia. See the Parliament building, a testament to the country’s political history. Visit the Banya Bashi Mosque, showcasing Sofia’s Ottoman past, and stop by the National Theatre, a masterpiece of Bulgarian architecture. (B)
Transfer to the airport and fly back to the UK. (B)
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Price Notes
This is an example itinerary staying at our preferred three & four-star hotels, accompanied by a guide price. If you have a higher or lower budget than the guide price, please ring one of our travel specialists on 0207 666 1244 and we can tailor this trip to suit your precise requirements.