Classical Bulgaria Tour: Sofia, Plovdiv, Veliko Tarnovo+Nessebar

8 days (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: German and 4 more

This carefully designed Classical Bulgaria itinerary highlights the country’s rich history, diverse landscapes, and living traditions.
Walk through Sofia’s historical heart, including Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.
- Visit Rila Monastery, Bulgaria’s spiritual jewel.
- Explore Plovdiv’s Roman amphitheater, old town, and trendy Kapana district.
- Taste fine Bulgarian wines in the Thracian Valley.
- Step back in time at the Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak and the medieval capital Veliko Tarnovo.
- Wander the preserved cobbled streets of Arbanasi Village.
- Relax by the Black Sea coast and discover Nessebar’s UNESCO-listed old town.

With a mix of guided tours, free time, and authentic cultural touches, this trip is ideal for couples, families, and cultural travelers.

What's Included

Private transportation
WiFi on board
Breakfast (Optional[8])
Breakfast
Air-conditioned vehicle
Guide
Personal expenses
✘ Lunches & dinners (except farewell dinner)

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

Pickup Information Pick-up is included from all centrally located hotels in Sofia. Please be ready in the hotel lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled time. If your accommodation is outside the central area, we will confirm the nearest convenient meeting point. Sofia Airport pick-up on Day 1 and drop-off on Day 8 are also included. After booking, you will receive a confirmation email with your exact pickup time and details.

Itinerary

Duration: 8 days (approximately)
    Day 1

    Day 1: Arrival in Sofia, city walk, overnight Sofia.

    1 stop
  • 1
    St. Alexander Nevski Cathedral

    Upon arrival at Sofia Airport, you’ll be warmly greeted by your guide and transferred to your centrally located 4* hotel. After time to freshen up, we’ll begin our journey with a guided evening walk through the heart of Sofia. Stroll along the elegant boulevards and discover the city’s most iconic landmarks: the majestic Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the serene St. Sophia Basilica, and the Roman ruins that whisper the story of Serdica, Sofia’s ancient past. As daylight softens into evening, the city comes alive with cozy cafés, lively squares, and the charm of Vitosha Boulevard, where locals gather for their evening stroll.

    4 hours Admission ticket included
  • Day 2

    Day 2: Sofia → Rila Monastery → Plovdiv

    1 stop
  • 2
    Rila Monastery

    After breakfast, travel south to the UNESCO-listed Rila Monastery, nestled high in the Rila Mountains. Explore its richly painted frescoes, vibrant courtyards, and centuries-old monastic traditions — a true spiritual treasure of Bulgaria. In the afternoon, continue to Plovdiv, one of the world’s oldest cities, older than Rome and Athens. Stroll through its cobbled streets, colorful 19th-century houses, and art-filled Kapana District. Overnight in Plovdiv.

    8 hours Admission ticket included
  • Day 3

    Day 3: Plovdiv – Ancient Wonders & Wine Tasting

    1 stop
  • 3
    Plovdiv Old Town

    This morning, embark on a guided walking tour of Plovdiv’s Old Town. Discover the remarkably preserved Roman Amphitheatre, the Ethnographic Museum, and charming merchant houses from the National Revival era. In the afternoon, experience Bulgaria’s wine heritage with a visit to a boutique Thracian Valley winery. Enjoy a guided tasting of local varietals, paired with regional snacks. Evening free to soak in the city’s lively café and art scene. Overnight in Plovdiv.

    8 hours Admission ticket included
  • Day 4

    Day 4: Plovdiv → Kazanlak (Valley of Roses & Thracian Tomb) → Veliko Tarnovo

    2 stops
  • 4

    Today’s route takes you through the Valley of Roses, famous for Bulgaria’s world-renowned rose oil. Visit the Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak (UNESCO), a masterpiece of ancient frescoes and burial traditions. Continue through the scenic Balkan Mountains and arrive in Veliko Tarnovo, the medieval capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire. Evening walk to admire the floodlit Tsarevets Fortress overlooking the Yantra River. Overnight in Veliko Tarnovo.

    8 hours Admission ticket free
  • 5
    Museum of Roses

    The only museum in the world, dedicated to the oil-yielding plant – rose, is situated in the town of Kazanlak.

    1 hour Admission ticket included
  • Day 5

    Day 5: Veliko Tarnovo & Arbanasi Village

    1 stop
  • 6
    Veliko Tarnovo

    Discover the fascinating history of Veliko Tarnovo on a morning tour: explore the mighty Tsarevets Fortress, stroll the traditional Samovodska Charshia (Crafts Street), and enjoy panoramic views of this picturesque city clinging to the hills. In the afternoon, visit nearby Arbanasi Village, where stone houses and richly decorated churches transport you back in time. Optional tasting of local pastries or rakia (fruit brandy). Overnight in Veliko Tarnovo.

    8 hours Admission ticket free
  • Day 6

    Day 6: Veliko Tarnovo → Nessebar (Black Sea Coast)

    1 stop
  • 7
    Nessebar

    After breakfast, journey east to the Black Sea coast. Arrive in Nessebar, a UNESCO World Heritage town known as the “Pearl of the Black Sea.” Walk through its winding cobblestone streets, lined with ancient churches, wooden houses, and seaside views. Evening free to relax by the sea, enjoy fresh seafood, or simply soak in the coastal atmosphere. Overnight in Nessebar or Sunny Beach.

    8 hours Admission ticket free
  • Day 7

    Day 7: Nessebar → Sofia – Farewell Dinner

    1 stop
  • 8
    Sofia

    Enjoy a leisurely morning by the Black Sea before returning to Sofia. Upon arrival, settle into your hotel and prepare for a memorable farewell dinner with traditional Bulgarian cuisine and a lively folklore show featuring music and dance. The perfect ending to your journey through Bulgaria’s history, culture, and landscapes. Overnight in Sofia.

    8 hours Admission ticket free
  • Day 8

    Day 8: Departure from Sofia

    1 stop
  • 9
    Sofia

    After breakfast, transfer to Sofia Airport for your departure. Say goodbye to Bulgaria, taking home unforgettable memories of its ancient wonders, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality.

    1 hour Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Specialized infant seats are available
Supplied by Radfesta Travel and Tours

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Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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