7 Day Bulgaria by Train & Bus: Sofia, Veliko Tarnovo, Plovdiv to Istanbul

Start your day with breakfast at your hotel before setting out on a half-day guided walking tour of Sofia, Bulgaria’s vibrant capital.

Accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, explore the city's historic streets and discover its rich cultural heritage, fascinating architecture, and unique blend of ancient and modern influences. Learn about Sofia's history and local traditions as you experience the atmosphere of the Bulgarian capital.

In the afternoon, enjoy free time to explore Sofia at your own pace. Discover local cafés, browse shops, visit attractions of your choice, or simply relax and soak up the city's atmosphere.

Return to your hotel for your second overnight stay in Sofia.

Overnight: Sofia
Meals: Breakfast

Start your day with breakfast at your hotel in Sofia before departing for Veliko Tarnovo, one of Bulgaria's most historic and picturesque cities, located in Central Bulgaria.

Travel by regular intercity coach or train, with a connection at Gorna Oryahovitsa Railway Station if travelling by rail. Enjoy the changing landscapes of Bulgaria as you make your way toward this charming medieval town.

Upon arrival in Veliko Tarnovo, check in at your hotel in the historic Old Town and take some time to settle in.

In the late afternoon, join a guided walking tour of Veliko Tarnovo with a knowledgeable local guide. Explore the town's winding cobblestone streets, admire its traditional architecture, and discover its fascinating history as the former capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire.

After the tour, enjoy the evening at your leisure before returning to your hotel.

Overnight: Veliko Tarnovo
Meals: Breakfast

Start your day with breakfast at your hotel before enjoying a full day of free time in Veliko Tarnovo, one of Bulgaria's most charming historic destinations.

Explore the city's picturesque streets, traditional architecture, and rich cultural heritage at your own pace. You may choose to visit the impressive Tsarevets Fortress, stroll through the historic Old Town, or discover local craft shops and cafés along Samovodska Charshiya Street.

For those interested in exploring beyond the city, the surrounding region offers additional sightseeing opportunities, including historic monasteries, scenic landscapes, and traditional Bulgarian villages.

Spend the day discovering Veliko Tarnovo and its surroundings according to your interests before returning to your hotel for your second overnight stay.

Overnight: Veliko Tarnovo
Meals: Breakfast

Start your day with breakfast at your hotel in Veliko Tarnovo before departing for Plovdiv, one of Bulgaria's oldest and most culturally rich cities.

Travel by train through the beautiful landscapes of Central Bulgaria, with a connection at Stara Zagora Railway Station. Enjoy a relaxing, scenic journey as the train passes through picturesque mountains, green valleys, and charming countryside.

Experience the slower pace of rail travel, offering a unique opportunity to admire Bulgaria's natural beauty and discover the countryside beyond its major cities.

Upon arrival in Plovdiv, transfer to your hotel independently and complete your check-in. Settle into your accommodation and prepare to discover the city's fascinating history and vibrant atmosphere.

Overnight: Plovdiv
Meals: Breakfast

Start your day with breakfast at your hotel before meeting your private local guide for a fascinating exploration of Plovdiv Old Town, one of Bulgaria's most remarkable historic and architectural areas.

Discover the charm of the Old Plovdiv Architectural Reserve, renowned for its beautifully preserved Bulgarian Revival-era houses, cobblestone streets, and rich cultural heritage. As you stroll through the historic quarter, your guide will share insights into Plovdiv's fascinating past, architectural traditions, and cultural significance.

In the afternoon, enjoy free time to explore Plovdiv at your own pace. Wander through the charming streets, discover local cafés and artisan shops, or visit additional historical attractions according to your interests.

After a day of cultural discovery and independent exploration, return to your hotel for your second overnight stay in Plovdiv.

Overnight: Plovdiv
Meals: Breakfast

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel in Plovdiv before checking out. Depending on your chosen departure schedule, take advantage of some free time to explore the city, enjoy a local café, or shop for souvenirs.

Continue your journey from Plovdiv to Istanbul, travelling by either daytime coach or overnight train.

Option 1 – Daytime Coach to Istanbul

Travel by regular intercity coach from Plovdiv to Istanbul. Daytime services are available, with scheduled arrivals before 6:00 PM, subject to the selected service and border crossing conditions.

Option 2 – Overnight Train to Istanbul

Alternatively, choose an overnight train journey. Depart from Plovdiv in the evening and change trains at Dimitrovgrad Railway Station before continuing toward Istanbul, with arrival scheduled for the following morning.

Your journey through Bulgaria concludes as you continue to Istanbul, Türkiye, connecting the country's historic cities with one of the world's most fascinating cultural destinations.

Meals: Breakfast
Departure: Plovdiv
Final Destination: Istanbul, Türkiye