Day 1: Sofia
Welcome to Sofia! Upon arrival at the airport, you’ll be transferred to your hotel, where you’ll receive information about the start of your tour. At approximately 3:00 p.m., we’ll begin a city tour of Bulgaria’s capital and get to know famous sights such as the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the Russian Church, the Mosque, and the city’s squares and avenues known for their Stalinist architecture. The rest of the day will be free for you to explore at your leisure.
Day 2: Sofia - Bachkovo - Plovdiv
In the morning, we’ll head to Bachkovo Monastery, Bulgaria’s second most significant monastery, established in the eleventh century. With its three churches, this monastery offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere. We’ll then proceed to Plovdiv, where lunch is included before going on a tour of this city, one of the oldest in Europe. Our tour includes admission to the Roman Amphitheatre, the Old Pharmacy, and the Armenian House.
Day 3: Plovdiv - Kazanlak - Shipka - Etar - Arbanasi - Veliko Tarnovo
Today’s journey will take us through the stunning landscapes of the Balkan Mountains. In the Rose Valley, we’ll visit Kazanlak, where admission is included to see the replica of the Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We’ll also learn about the local production of rose-based products. Amidst the mountains, we’ll stop at the Shipka Memorial Church, a memorial to the Russo-Turkish War. We’ll then explore Etar, a charming village and ethnographic museum. After lunch (included), we’ll travel to Arbanasi, an ancient trading city known for its fortress-like houses, where we’ll visit the Nativity Church (admission included). Our day will end in Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria’s former capital, renowned for its picturesque medieval center beside its canyon. Note: Occasionally, the visit to Arbanasi may take place on Sunday morning.
Day 4: Veliko Tarnovo - Tryavna - Troyan convent - Sofia
Through beautiful mountain scenery, we travel to TRYAVNA, a small town that has exceptionally preserved its historic center, with highlights such as the Clock Tower Square and the Stone Bridge. We will visit the Museum of the Old School (admission included), one of the first secular educational centers in BULGARIA, where you can see classrooms from a 19th-century school. We will also visit the Daskalov House (admission included), an excellent example of Bulgarian National Revival architecture.We continue to the Troyan Monastery, set in a picturesque landscape. Founded in the 16th century, it is the third largest monastery in Bulgaria. Afterwards, lunch is included.We then continue to SOFIA, arriving around 5:30 p.m. Accommodation and free time.
Day 5: Sofia
After breakfast, our journey will come to an end, leaving you with wonderful lasting memories.
