Bulgaria Highlights: Sofia, Rila, Plovdiv & Veliko Tarnovo – 9-Day Private Tour

Breakfast included.

Begin your discovery of Bulgaria with an approximately two-hour guided walking tour of Sofia’s historic centre.

See Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Saint Sofia Basilica and Saint George Rotunda. Continue past the historic Parliament Building and the Presidency as your guide introduces the city’s history and architectural heritage.

After the tour, enjoy free time for lunch, shopping or further sightseeing at your own pace.

Overnight in Sofia.

Breakfast included.

Leave the city behind for a day exploring two of Bulgaria’s outstanding cultural landmarks.

Your first stop is Boyana Church, celebrated for its beautifully preserved medieval frescoes. Continue to Rila Monastery, where colourful arcades, a spacious courtyard and surrounding mountains create a memorable setting.

Learn about the monastery’s history and its connection to Saint John of Rila. Museum visits may be available depending on opening arrangements and the confirmed package.

Enjoy free time for lunch before returning to Sofia.

Overnight in Sofia.

Breakfast included.

After breakfast, travel to Plovdiv for an approximately two-hour guided city tour.

Discover its Roman heritage, including the Forum, Stadium and Ancient Theatre, before exploring the Old Town’s cobblestone streets and distinctive historic houses. Enjoy views from the hill area and stroll through the lively pedestrian centre.

Following the guided tour, spend some time having lunch, browsing shops or exploring independently before checking into your hotel.

Overnight in Plovdiv.

Breakfast included.

Spend the day discovering Plovdiv at your own pace.

Explore the Old Town, visit a museum or browse the galleries and small shops of the Kapana neighbourhood. Take a break at a local café and sample Bulgarian dishes at one of the city’s restaurants.

Optional visits and activities are payable locally.

Overnight in Plovdiv.

Breakfast included.

Depart for Kazanlak in the Rose Valley, a region associated with rose cultivation and Thracian heritage.

Discover the story of the Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak through a visit to the original tomb or its replica, according to the confirmed access arrangements. A local rose-themed visit is planned, subject to seasonal availability.

Continue to Etar Ethnographic Museum, where historic buildings and traditional workshops offer an insight into Bulgarian crafts and village life.

Enjoy free time for lunch during the day before travelling onward to Veliko Tarnovo.

Overnight in Veliko Tarnovo.

Breakfast included.

Explore Bulgaria’s medieval capital on an approximately two-hour guided tour.

Visit Tsarevets Hill and its fortress complex while learning about the Second Bulgarian Kingdom. Continue to the historic merchant street, where small workshops and shops keep traditional craftsmanship alive.

The remainder of the day is free for lunch, shopping and independent exploration.

Overnight in Veliko Tarnovo.

Breakfast included.

Today, travel to Koprivshtitsa, a historic town in the Sredna Gora Mountains.

Walk among colourful houses and visit selected house museums displaying period furnishings and personal stories. Your guide will explain the town’s connection to the Bulgarian National Revival and the April Uprising.

After free time for lunch, continue to Sofia for your final night in Bulgaria.

Overnight in Sofia.

Breakfast included.

Enjoy breakfast before checking out of your hotel. Your tour concludes in Sofia.

Airport departure transfers should be arranged according to your flight schedule and confirmed booking.