Bulgaria Explorer 8 Days Self Guided 20-27 SEP 2025
Explore Bulgaria – Europe’s hidden gem at your now pace. From majestic mountains to sun kissed beaches, ancient towns to vibrant culture - discover a land where every path leads to wonder.
HAVE QUESTIONS, FIND OUT AVAILABILITY - CONTACT US
Day 1-3: Sofia
Day 1: Arrival in the afternoon or evening at Sofia International Airport
Arrival and start of your Bulgarian adventure with diving into the heart of Sofia, Bulgaria’s capital, where history and modern energy collide. From ancient Roman ruins to colorful street art, bustling markets, and cozy cafes, every corner has a story to tell.
Getting Around:
Taxis and public transportation including subway from the airport to the city center are widely available and convenient. The city center is wonderfully walkable, making it easy to explore and enjoy all the local attractions on foot.
Accommodation:
Juno Hotel Sofia – modern boutique hotel, around the corner form Vitosha Boulevard – a vibrant promenade with restaurants and cafes (recommended).
Days 2-3 Explore Sofia and its surroundings
Must see and do:
Try a traditional Bulgarian Breakfast – Banitsa with yogurt.
Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, one of the largest Eastern Orthodox cathedrals in the world, the Rotunda Church of St. George, the ancient Cerdica Archeological Complex, numerous museums and galleries are steps from each other, along with the National Assembly, the Bulgarian Since Academy, Sofia Monument amongst many other attractions.
Vitosha Boulevard popular shopping and dining street.
Explore local markets with food and crafts - Central Sofia Hall, 3 floors of little shops with different food, bakeries, jewelry etc. Combine with the nearby Zhenski Pazar (Women’s Market) – a local market with mostly fruits and vegetables and local everyday items.
Boyana Church, nestled in the foothills of Vitosha Mountain is famous with its medieval frescoes, and can be combined with a hike.
Day trip options (full day):
7 Rila Lakes and The Rila Monastery natural attraction of a group of glacial lakes in the Rila Mountain Park, accessible by a gondola, activity – hiking, scenic walk. Combine with Rila Monastery visit – Bulgaria’s most famous monastery, nestled in the Rila Mountains Belogradchik Rock Formation and Fortress – offers majestic views of the Stara Planina mountains with an optional cave visit.
Day 4-6: Plovdiv
Day 4 Arrive in the ancient city of Plovdiv
Getting around:
Direct Fast or Intercity Train takes about 2h 40 min (Sofia - Plovdiv, Train timetable | BDZ Passengers) or private transfer. Transportation within the city if at all needed is best by taxi.
Accommodation:
Villa Flavia – heritage boutique hotel with remarkable piece of history - ancient Roman baths, beautify preserved in the basement (recommended).
Days 4-6 Discover the vibrant blend of art, culture, and history that this city and its surroundings have to offer
Stroll through the timeless streets of this 8 thousand years old city. Explore the ancient Roman theatre, charming cobblestone streets, hidden courtyards, and artistic spirit.
Things to See and Do:
Follow the traces of Bulgarian history in Europe's oldest town, enjoy a leisurely stroll in the historic quarter with its impressive Roman Ruins and stunning Bulgarian revival architecture. Experience, known for its vibrant art scene and cafes.
Wine tasting in the heart of Plovdiv,
Day trip options (half or full day):
Wonderful Bridges and Assen's Fortress - ancient history and stunning nature of the Rhodope Mountains are within an hour drive from Plovdiv, where the majestic Assen Fortress is perched on ahill. After diving deeper into the mountains, discover the natural majestic phenomenon of the Wonderful Bridges.
Kazanlak-Rose Valley and Valley of the Thracian Kings - Explore the Rose Valley to discover the fascinating process of rose oil production. Damascena Ethnographic Complex is devoted to the ancient art of distilling rose oil and rosewater. Taste traditional rose products, including jam and rose liquor. Then, head over to the Valley of the Thracian Kings to visit the ancient Thracian Tombs.
Wine Tasting in the Thracian Valley - an exclusive enclave for wineries, offering a refined selection of wines that flourish in the region's unique climate and are celebrated globally.
Day 7-8: Varna
Day 7 Depart in the morning form Plovdiv and drive to Nessebar on the Black Sea Coast, explore and depart for Varna
Getting Around:
Private Transfer (included) is the fastest means of transportation for this leg to Varna. Taxies and public transportation are very accessible in the city.
Accommodation:
Ensana Aquahouse Spa Hotel – located in the same complex as the Astor Garden, a relaxing spa property with a very wide variety on site and off-site spa facilities and activities. On the way to Varna explore and have lunch in Nessebar, picturesque UNESCO heritage site, locatedon a rocky peninsula. Ropotamo River Nature Reserve is another stop option, where you can enjoy a boat ride. Varna, the Sea capital of Bulgaria with a variety of resort on the North Black Sea. It's famous for the "Gold of Varna," 6,000-year-old Thracian jewelry discovered in a necropolis, which is displayed inside the Archaeological Museum, along with Greek, Roman and Ottoman antiquities. Enjoy an evening on the Black Sea shore or a beach with a glass of local wine and seafood.
Day 8 Relax and explore the beautiful Northern Black Sea Coast
Things to See and Do:
Relax ain the Aquahouse Spa Comlex or at your hotel spa. Visit the Archeological Museum and Roman Baths.
Stroll through the Sea Garden, a beautiful park along the coast with cafes and restaurants.
Tour or wine tasting at nearby Evksinograd Palace - a former royal summer palace.
Day Trip Options (full day):
Cape Kaliakra, Blachik Botanical Gardens and Summer Palace - Embark on a day trip to the enchanting marvels of the Northern Black Sea. Enjoy breathtaking coastal views, explore charming seaside towns, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Day 9 Depart from Varna International Airport
This itinerary covers a mix of historical landmarks, natural beauty, and cultural experiences. Enjoy
your trip to Bulgaria!
Explore Bulgaria – Europe’s hidden gem at your now pace. From majestic mountains to sun kissed beaches, ancient towns to vibrant culture - discover a land where every path leads to wonder.
HAVE QUESTIONS, FIND OUT AVAILABILITY - CONTACT US
Day 1-3: Sofia
Day 1: Arrival in the afternoon or evening at Sofia International Airport
Arrival and start of your Bulgarian adventure with diving into the heart of Sofia, Bulgaria’s capital, where history and modern energy collide. From ancient Roman ruins to colorful street art, bustling markets, and cozy cafes, every corner has a story to tell.
Getting Around:
Taxis and public transportation including subway from the airport to the city center are widely available and convenient. The city center is wonderfully walkable, making it easy to explore and enjoy all the local attractions on foot.
Accommodation:
Juno Hotel Sofia – modern boutique hotel, around the corner form Vitosha Boulevard – a vibrant promenade with restaurants and cafes (recommended).
Days 2-3 Explore Sofia and its surroundings
Must see and do:
Try a traditional Bulgarian Breakfast – Banitsa with yogurt.
Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, one of the largest Eastern Orthodox cathedrals in the world, the Rotunda Church of St. George, the ancient Cerdica Archeological Complex, numerous museums and galleries are steps from each other, along with the National Assembly, the Bulgarian Since Academy, Sofia Monument amongst many other attractions.
Vitosha Boulevard popular shopping and dining street.
Explore local markets with food and crafts - Central Sofia Hall, 3 floors of little shops with different food, bakeries, jewelry etc. Combine with the nearby Zhenski Pazar (Women’s Market) – a local market with mostly fruits and vegetables and local everyday items.
Boyana Church, nestled in the foothills of Vitosha Mountain is famous with its medieval frescoes, and can be combined with a hike.
Day trip options (full day):
7 Rila Lakes and The Rila Monastery natural attraction of a group of glacial lakes in the Rila Mountain Park, accessible by a gondola, activity – hiking, scenic walk. Combine with Rila Monastery visit – Bulgaria’s most famous monastery, nestled in the Rila Mountains Belogradchik Rock Formation and Fortress – offers majestic views of the Stara Planina mountains with an optional cave visit.
Day 4-6: Plovdiv
Day 4 Arrive in the ancient city of Plovdiv
Getting around:
Direct Fast or Intercity Train takes about 2h 40 min (Sofia - Plovdiv, Train timetable | BDZ Passengers) or private transfer. Transportation within the city if at all needed is best by taxi.
Accommodation:
Villa Flavia – heritage boutique hotel with remarkable piece of history - ancient Roman baths, beautify preserved in the basement (recommended).
Days 4-6 Discover the vibrant blend of art, culture, and history that this city and its surroundings have to offer
Stroll through the timeless streets of this 8 thousand years old city. Explore the ancient Roman theatre, charming cobblestone streets, hidden courtyards, and artistic spirit.
Things to See and Do:
Follow the traces of Bulgarian history in Europe's oldest town, enjoy a leisurely stroll in the historic quarter with its impressive Roman Ruins and stunning Bulgarian revival architecture. Experience, known for its vibrant art scene and cafes.
Wine tasting in the heart of Plovdiv,
Day trip options (half or full day):
Wonderful Bridges and Assen's Fortress - ancient history and stunning nature of the Rhodope Mountains are within an hour drive from Plovdiv, where the majestic Assen Fortress is perched on ahill. After diving deeper into the mountains, discover the natural majestic phenomenon of the Wonderful Bridges.
Kazanlak-Rose Valley and Valley of the Thracian Kings - Explore the Rose Valley to discover the fascinating process of rose oil production. Damascena Ethnographic Complex is devoted to the ancient art of distilling rose oil and rosewater. Taste traditional rose products, including jam and rose liquor. Then, head over to the Valley of the Thracian Kings to visit the ancient Thracian Tombs.
Wine Tasting in the Thracian Valley - an exclusive enclave for wineries, offering a refined selection of wines that flourish in the region's unique climate and are celebrated globally.
Day 7-8: Varna
Day 7 Depart in the morning form Plovdiv and drive to Nessebar on the Black Sea Coast, explore and depart for Varna
Getting Around:
Private Transfer (included) is the fastest means of transportation for this leg to Varna. Taxies and public transportation are very accessible in the city.
Accommodation:
Ensana Aquahouse Spa Hotel – located in the same complex as the Astor Garden, a relaxing spa property with a very wide variety on site and off-site spa facilities and activities. On the way to Varna explore and have lunch in Nessebar, picturesque UNESCO heritage site, locatedon a rocky peninsula. Ropotamo River Nature Reserve is another stop option, where you can enjoy a boat ride. Varna, the Sea capital of Bulgaria with a variety of resort on the North Black Sea. It's famous for the "Gold of Varna," 6,000-year-old Thracian jewelry discovered in a necropolis, which is displayed inside the Archaeological Museum, along with Greek, Roman and Ottoman antiquities. Enjoy an evening on the Black Sea shore or a beach with a glass of local wine and seafood.
Day 8 Relax and explore the beautiful Northern Black Sea Coast
Things to See and Do:
Relax ain the Aquahouse Spa Comlex or at your hotel spa. Visit the Archeological Museum and Roman Baths.
Stroll through the Sea Garden, a beautiful park along the coast with cafes and restaurants.
Tour or wine tasting at nearby Evksinograd Palace - a former royal summer palace.
Day Trip Options (full day):
Cape Kaliakra, Blachik Botanical Gardens and Summer Palace - Embark on a day trip to the enchanting marvels of the Northern Black Sea. Enjoy breathtaking coastal views, explore charming seaside towns, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Day 9 Depart from Varna International Airport
This itinerary covers a mix of historical landmarks, natural beauty, and cultural experiences. Enjoy
your trip to Bulgaria!
Explore Bulgaria – Europe’s hidden gem at your now pace. From majestic mountains to sun kissed beaches, ancient towns to vibrant culture - discover a land where every path leads to wonder.
HAVE QUESTIONS, FIND OUT AVAILABILITY - CONTACT US
Day 1-3: Sofia
Day 1: Arrival in the afternoon or evening at Sofia International Airport
Arrival and start of your Bulgarian adventure with diving into the heart of Sofia, Bulgaria’s capital, where history and modern energy collide. From ancient Roman ruins to colorful street art, bustling markets, and cozy cafes, every corner has a story to tell.
Getting Around:
Taxis and public transportation including subway from the airport to the city center are widely available and convenient. The city center is wonderfully walkable, making it easy to explore and enjoy all the local attractions on foot.
Accommodation:
Juno Hotel Sofia – modern boutique hotel, around the corner form Vitosha Boulevard – a vibrant promenade with restaurants and cafes (recommended).
Days 2-3 Explore Sofia and its surroundings
Must see and do:
Try a traditional Bulgarian Breakfast – Banitsa with yogurt.
Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, one of the largest Eastern Orthodox cathedrals in the world, the Rotunda Church of St. George, the ancient Cerdica Archeological Complex, numerous museums and galleries are steps from each other, along with the National Assembly, the Bulgarian Since Academy, Sofia Monument amongst many other attractions.
Vitosha Boulevard popular shopping and dining street.
Explore local markets with food and crafts - Central Sofia Hall, 3 floors of little shops with different food, bakeries, jewelry etc. Combine with the nearby Zhenski Pazar (Women’s Market) – a local market with mostly fruits and vegetables and local everyday items.
Boyana Church, nestled in the foothills of Vitosha Mountain is famous with its medieval frescoes, and can be combined with a hike.
Day trip options (full day):
7 Rila Lakes and The Rila Monastery natural attraction of a group of glacial lakes in the Rila Mountain Park, accessible by a gondola, activity – hiking, scenic walk. Combine with Rila Monastery visit – Bulgaria’s most famous monastery, nestled in the Rila Mountains Belogradchik Rock Formation and Fortress – offers majestic views of the Stara Planina mountains with an optional cave visit.
Day 4-6: Plovdiv
Day 4 Arrive in the ancient city of Plovdiv
Getting around:
Direct Fast or Intercity Train takes about 2h 40 min (Sofia - Plovdiv, Train timetable | BDZ Passengers) or private transfer. Transportation within the city if at all needed is best by taxi.
Accommodation:
Villa Flavia – heritage boutique hotel with remarkable piece of history - ancient Roman baths, beautify preserved in the basement (recommended).
Days 4-6 Discover the vibrant blend of art, culture, and history that this city and its surroundings have to offer
Stroll through the timeless streets of this 8 thousand years old city. Explore the ancient Roman theatre, charming cobblestone streets, hidden courtyards, and artistic spirit.
Things to See and Do:
Follow the traces of Bulgarian history in Europe's oldest town, enjoy a leisurely stroll in the historic quarter with its impressive Roman Ruins and stunning Bulgarian revival architecture. Experience, known for its vibrant art scene and cafes.
Wine tasting in the heart of Plovdiv,
Day trip options (half or full day):
Wonderful Bridges and Assen's Fortress - ancient history and stunning nature of the Rhodope Mountains are within an hour drive from Plovdiv, where the majestic Assen Fortress is perched on ahill. After diving deeper into the mountains, discover the natural majestic phenomenon of the Wonderful Bridges.
Kazanlak-Rose Valley and Valley of the Thracian Kings - Explore the Rose Valley to discover the fascinating process of rose oil production. Damascena Ethnographic Complex is devoted to the ancient art of distilling rose oil and rosewater. Taste traditional rose products, including jam and rose liquor. Then, head over to the Valley of the Thracian Kings to visit the ancient Thracian Tombs.
Wine Tasting in the Thracian Valley - an exclusive enclave for wineries, offering a refined selection of wines that flourish in the region's unique climate and are celebrated globally.
Day 7-8: Varna
Day 7 Depart in the morning form Plovdiv and drive to Nessebar on the Black Sea Coast, explore and depart for Varna
Getting Around:
Private Transfer (included) is the fastest means of transportation for this leg to Varna. Taxies and public transportation are very accessible in the city.
Accommodation:
Ensana Aquahouse Spa Hotel – located in the same complex as the Astor Garden, a relaxing spa property with a very wide variety on site and off-site spa facilities and activities. On the way to Varna explore and have lunch in Nessebar, picturesque UNESCO heritage site, locatedon a rocky peninsula. Ropotamo River Nature Reserve is another stop option, where you can enjoy a boat ride. Varna, the Sea capital of Bulgaria with a variety of resort on the North Black Sea. It's famous for the "Gold of Varna," 6,000-year-old Thracian jewelry discovered in a necropolis, which is displayed inside the Archaeological Museum, along with Greek, Roman and Ottoman antiquities. Enjoy an evening on the Black Sea shore or a beach with a glass of local wine and seafood.
Day 8 Relax and explore the beautiful Northern Black Sea Coast
Things to See and Do:
Relax ain the Aquahouse Spa Comlex or at your hotel spa. Visit the Archeological Museum and Roman Baths.
Stroll through the Sea Garden, a beautiful park along the coast with cafes and restaurants.
Tour or wine tasting at nearby Evksinograd Palace - a former royal summer palace.
Day Trip Options (full day):
Cape Kaliakra, Blachik Botanical Gardens and Summer Palace - Embark on a day trip to the enchanting marvels of the Northern Black Sea. Enjoy breathtaking coastal views, explore charming seaside towns, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Day 9 Depart from Varna International Airport
This itinerary covers a mix of historical landmarks, natural beauty, and cultural experiences. Enjoy
your trip to Bulgaria!
Terms and conditions:
Total price is per person in single occupancy room
Price. includes 7 nights hotel accommodation for the dates specified and 1 private, sedan transfer Plovdiv to Varna (stops are at an additional hourly rate)
Hotel rates incldue buffet breakfast, VAT Tax, hotel insurance, wifi, some minibar use
50% deposit at time of booking
100% needed 4 weeks prior to arrival
Hotel Cancelation with full refund - 16 days prior to arrival day
Reseervation changes 14-7 days prior to arrival, depending on property
City tourism tax - about EUR 2 is not included for Sofia -Juno Hotel
Varna hotel includes spa facilities access
All prices are subject to availability at the time of booking
AIR/FLIGHTS ARE NOT INCLUDED
Transportation between Sofia and Plovdiv and tours are not included and are on request