Bulgaria in 8 Days: A Journey Through Heritage & Nature

Upon arrival at Sofia Airport, you will be greeted by the TSG team, who will assist with transferring you to your hotel in Sofia. After checking in, you will have some free time to explore the city on your own. You will spend the night in Sofia.

(Breakfast included)

After breakfast, you will embark on a 2-hour guided tour of the city center, where you will learn about the rich history and heritage of Sofia. The tour will include visits to some of the city's most notable landmarks, such as the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the largest in Bulgaria, the Saint Sofia Basilica, which is a symbol of the city; the old Parliament Building, the Presidency, Saint George Rotunda – one of the oldest churches in Europe; and Roman Remains. You will also see other important historical buildings and sites. Once the tour ends, you will have some free time to explore the city on your own. Overnight in Sofia. 

(Breakfast included)

Start your day with breakfast, then embark on a day trip to visit two UNESCO World Heritage sites. Your first stop will be the Boyana Church, where you'll marvel at the incredibly well-preserved and unique frescoes from the 13th century. Afterward, you'll head to the Rila Monastery. It is the largest monastery in Bulgaria and will leave you enchanted with its beauty. Your guide will share the history of the monastery's emergence and the story of Saint John of Rila, the most important Bulgarian saint. You will also have the opportunity to visit the monastery museum and an authentic monk's room. Enjoy some free time for lunch before transferring back to Sofia. Overnight in Sofia. 

(Breakfast included)

Begin your day with breakfast, then head out on a day trip to Plovdiv, considered to be the oldest existing town in Europe, Plovdiv was the European Capital of Culture in 2019. The Roman Forum, the Stadium, the Theater, the main pedestrian street—the longest in Europe—the revival old town with its lovely homes and cobblestone streets, the ruins of the old fortress, and the breathtaking panoramic views from there—are just a few examples of the city's well-preserved and restored heritage that you will learn about during guided tour. Additionally, you will discover more about the city's earlier history. After that, take advantage of your free time to eat lunch and shop. Overnight in Plovdiv.

(Breakfast included)

Start the day with breakfast. Head to Kazanlak, the center of the Rose Valley, where you will see a UNESCO heritage site; the Thracian Tombs, which depict the lives of the Thracians. You will visit a local rose garden as well. Then, ride to the Etar Ethnographic Museum, which displays the lifestyle of a Balkan village from the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Enjoy the opportunity to explore the various crafts that are left from that period. You will have some free time for lunch before departing for Veliko Tarnovo, the medieval capital of Bulgaria. Overnight in Veliko Tarnovo.

(Breakfast included)

Begin the day with breakfast. Veliko Tarnovo served as the capital of the Second Bulgarian Kingdom between the 12th and 14th centuries, it was a formidable fortress on three hills. You'll have a 2-hour guided tour of the city, visiting the Tsarevets hill to see the ancient fortress and medieval churches. Then, explore the old merchant street where traditional crafts are on display. Take some free time for lunch and shopping. Afterward, you will have free time and overnight in Veliko Tarnovo.

(Breakfast included)

Koprivshtitsa is our destination today. A small, vibrant village nestled in the "Sredna Gora" mountain, it was the site of the 19th-century "April Uprising," which, though ultimately unsuccessful, was an important step toward liberation. It also played a significant role in the period of the Bulgarian National Revival. Here, you'll find traditional houses belonging to wealthy local merchants that have been converted into museums, showcasing authentic furniture and decor, and providing insight into the lives of merchants during that time. You'll visit a few house museums and learn about the important events that took place there with a guide. Enjoy free time for lunch before returning to Sofia. Overnight in Sofia. 

(Breakfast included)

One of TSG's adventures comes to an end after breakfast. However, you can sign up to take advantage of TSG credits, and this is the best way to snag credits and use them for your next trips as a discount, as well as to hear about the hot deals according to your interests.