The Top 5 Cities in Bulgaria

Explore Bulgaria’s Top 5 Cities in 5 Days with Expert Guidance

This 5-day Bulgaria tour from Sofia offers a thorough small-group experience, covering Sofia, Plovdiv, Nessebar, Varna, and Veliko Tarnovo. Priced at $1,044.15 per person, it includes hotels, breakfasts, transfers, and guided excursions, providing excellent value for travelers seeking a rundown. The tour emphasizes personalized attention, with a maximum group size of 8, and features round-trip air-conditioned vehicle transfers that make traveling between cities smooth and relaxing.

While the tour is well-organized and packed with highlights, it’s important to note that food and drinks are not included, so additional meals are optional expenses. Travelers should be prepared for a busy pace, with many stops each day focused on cultural, historic, and scenic sites. This tour suits those interested in history, architecture, and scenic landscapes, and who prefer a well-planned, all-inclusive itinerary with a knowledgeable guide.

Key Points

• Five cities in Bulgaria covered: Sofia, Plovdiv, Nessebar, Varna, and Veliko Tarnovo
• All accommodation, breakfasts, and transfers included for hassle-free travel
• Visits to Bachkovo Monastery, Assenova krepost, Tsarevets, and caves
• Small-group size ensures personalized attention from your professional guide
• Day trips include Black Sea coast highlights like Nessebar and Varna
• Tour duration is approximately 5 days, with a well-paced schedule

Visiting Bachkovo Monastery: Bulgaria’s Second Oldest Religious Site

The tour starts with a visit to Bachkovo Monastery, founded in 1083. Located just outside Plovdiv, this second oldest monastery in Bulgaria offers a glance into Bulgaria’s religious traditions and history. The guided exploration takes less than an hour, allowing visitors to appreciate the monastery’s architecture, icons, and tranquil atmosphere. The admission ticket is included in the package, making it a seamless start to your journey.

Exploring Asen’s Fortress for Scenic Views and Historic Ruins

A short 20-minute drive from Bachkovo leads to Asenova krepost (Asen’s Fortress). This stunning fortress sits atop a hill, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding nature. The site features ruins from Bulgaria’s medieval era, perfect for photos and imagining the past. Visitors have access to the admission ticket included, which helps to keep the experience straightforward and enjoyable.

Discovering Old Plovdiv: Roman, Revival, and Modern Charm

Arriving in Plovdiv, the European Capital of Culture in 2019, you explore its Old Town. The guided walk includes visits to revival-style house museums, the Roman theatre, and the Roman stadium—each showcasing Bulgaria’s layered history. The 19th-century churches and the old mosque add to the diverse cultural heritage. After checking into a carefully selected hotel, the evening is free for visitors to enjoy the buzzing Capana district with its restaurants, bars, and pubs.

Black Sea Coast Highlights: From Kabile to Nessebar

On Day 2, the tour heads to the Black Sea coast, starting with a stop at NAR “Kabile”, an archaeological reserve and former Roman military outpost. The museum at Kabile offers insights into the Thracian civilization and Roman military presence. Later, the group visits Old Nessebar, a UNESCO-listed town with origins dating back to the VI century BC. Walking through its streets reveals ancient ruins, Byzantine churches, and historic architecture. The overnight stay happens in Nessebar’s Old Town, giving time to soak in the sea atmosphere and enjoy optional nightlife.

Experiencing Varna’s Cultural and Historical Treasures

Day 3 focuses on Varna, known as Bulgaria’s Sea Capital. The highlight is the Archaeological Museum, home to the world’s oldest gold treasure, which showcases Bulgaria’s ancient craftsmanship. The Retro Museum offers a glimpse into Bulgaria’s Communist era, with a collection of cars and memorabilia. The afternoon includes a walk around Varna city center, culminating with a visit to the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin. The evening at the Sea Garden features options for relaxed dining at a pirate ship restaurant or lively beach bars.

From the Medieval Tsarevets Fortress to Veliko Tarnovo’s Charm

The journey continues on Day 4 to Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria’s medieval capital. After a lunch in Arbanassi village, known for its 17th-century church with a zodiac wheel and iconostasis, the tour explores the Tsarevets Fortress. This imposing medieval fortress offers sweeping views of the town and a vivid sense of Bulgaria’s royal past. The day concludes with an overnight stay in a cozy hotel in Veliko Tarnovo’s city center.

Visiting Prohodna and Saeva Dupka Caves: Natural Wonders

The final day begins with visits to Prohodna Cave, famous for its “Eyes of God” formations—two large holes in the ceiling that resemble eyes. Nearby, Saeva Dupka cave features 400 meters of corridors and five galleries, including Bulgaria’s largest stalacton, 60 meters in diameter. These natural caves provide a fascinating contrast to the historic sites visited earlier. The tour then returns to Sofia for dinner, with the option to explore the city’s nightlife. The transfer to the airport or train station is included, ending the trip on a practical note.

Practical Details and Logistics

The tour departs daily at 9:00 am from Borovets or Sofia, with pickup options from hotels, airports, or stations. The group size is limited to 8 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience. The air-conditioned vehicle takes guests comfortably between stops. The hotels used are 3-star, with breakfasts included on 4 mornings, while lunches and dinners are at guests’ expense.

Unique Aspects and Notable Strengths

The small-group format and professional English-speaking guide are highly praised for their personalized attention and expert insights. The tour offers a balanced mix of cultural, historic, and natural attractions, making it suitable for those interested in Bulgaria’s diverse heritage. The inclusion of hotels, breakfasts, and transfers helps travelers avoid hidden costs, providing good value for a multi-day experience. The admission tickets for major sites are included, streamlining the visit without surprises.

Considerations and Limitations

While the tour provides a rundown, it involves a busy schedule with multiple stops each day. Travelers should be prepared for moderate walking and a full itinerary. Food and drinks are not included, so additional expenses should be accounted for. Also, the tour is suitable for most travelers, but those seeking a more relaxed pace might find the schedule somewhat packed.

Final Thoughts on Bulgaria’s Top 5 Cities Tour

This well-organized 5-day tour from BulTrips delivers an informative, scenic, and culturally rich experience of Bulgaria’s most notable cities. It offers excellent value with all essential inclusions and a personalized small-group setting. Ideal for history enthusiasts and those eager to see Bulgaria’s highlights in a manageable timeframe, this tour balances sightseeing, culture, and natural beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of $1,044.15?
The price covers all fees and taxes, hotels (3-star) with breakfasts, air-conditioned vehicle transfers, and guided excursions with admission tickets to key sites. Food and drinks outside of breakfast are not included.

How many people are in the group?
The tour is limited to up to 8 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience and less crowded visits to popular sites.

Is the tour suitable for families or travelers with mobility issues?
The itinerary mainly involves walking around historic sites and some moderate activity, but no specific accessibility information is provided. Travelers should be prepared for some walking and steps at sites.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are possible up to 3 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 3 days are non-refundable.

What type of guide leads the tour?
A professional English-speaking guide with knowledge of Bulgaria’s history and culture leads the tour, ensuring both informative commentary and engaging storytelling.