New Year in Bulgaria: 5-Day Sofia & Plovdiv Celebration

Discover an authentic way to ring in the New Year with the “New Year in Bulgaria: 5-Day Sofia & Plovdiv Celebration” tour offered by Radfesta Travel and Tours Ltd. Spanning five days, this private experience combines Bulgaria’s festive city life, historic landmarks, and tranquil mountain monasteries. Starting in Sofia, the tour features a lavish New Year’s Eve gala dinner with live music and a midnight celebration, making it perfect for those looking to combine culture with joyful celebrations.

Throughout the trip, travelers explore Sofia’s key sights, visit the UNESCO-listed Rila Monastery in a snowy mountain setting, and wander through Plovdiv’s charming Old Town. The tour includes private transfers, 4 comfortable hotels, and guided tours, ensuring a smooth and flexible holiday experience. While this tour offers a packed itinerary and authentic Bulgarian festivities, it’s especially suited for those who appreciate a balance of cultural exploration and lively New Year’s celebrations.

Key Points

• Five-day private tour covering Sofia, Rila Monastery, and Plovdiv in Bulgaria
• Includes a lavish New Year’s Eve gala dinner with traditional food and live music
• Guided tours of Sofia’s landmarks, UNESCO Rila Monastery, and Plovdiv’s Old Town and Roman sites
• Private transfers and 4 centrally located hotels for maximum comfort and convenience
• Perfect for couples, friends, or small groups seeking a cultural yet festive start to the year
• Flexible payment options: reserve now & pay later with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

You can check availability for your dates here:

Sofia: The Starting Point of Festive Bulgaria

The tour begins in Sofia, Bulgaria’s lively capital, where pick-up occurs at Sofia Airport. Upon arrival, travelers are transferred to a central 4-star hotel, placing them close to illuminated streets and Christmas markets. In the evening, visitors have free time to wander Sofia’s festive atmosphere, enjoy local markets, and soak up the winter ambiance.

The first day sets a relaxed tone, allowing everyone to acclimate and explore Sofia’s illuminated landmarks at leisure before the upcoming guided tour. The city’s historic core is perfect for a gentle introduction to Bulgarian culture, and the hotels’ central locations make it easy to enjoy Sofia’s festive lights and cozy cafés.

Sofia Highlights: Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and National Theater

The second day features a guided tour of Sofia’s most notable landmarks. The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral impresses with its golden domes and intricate mosaics, while the St. George Rotunda offers a glimpse into Bulgaria’s early Christian past. The National Theater stands as a symbol of Bulgaria’s vibrant arts scene.

We like how the guide explains each site’s history and significance, making the sightseeing engaging and accessible. In the evening, the highlight is the New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner and party, held at a carefully selected venue. The celebration includes traditional Bulgarian food, live music, and a midnight toast — a lively way to welcome the new year in Bulgaria’s cultural capitals.

Exploring Rila Monastery in Winter

On day three, the tour ventures out to Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famed for its snow-dusted mountain setting. The monastery’s exterior and interior are particularly striking in winter, providing scenic photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate Bulgaria’s spiritual heritage.

The visit is well timed to allow travelers to enjoy the tranquil beauty of the monastery under a blanket of snow. After the monastery tour, the group continues to Plovdiv, where they stay overnight at a 4-star hotel nearby the Old Town and main attractions.

Discovering Plovdiv’s Old Town and Roman Heritage

Day four is dedicated to exploring Plovdiv, Bulgaria’s second-largest city. The guided tour includes Plovdiv’s Old Town, famous for its cobbled streets, colorful Revival-era houses, and the Roman Theater, which still hosts performances and events.

A walk through the Kapana Creative District reveals trendy cafés, shops, and artistic spaces, creating a lively winter atmosphere. Visitors have free time to browse local shops, enjoy cozy cafés, and experience Plovdiv’s festive spirit. This day balances sightseeing with leisure, giving a genuine feel of the city’s charm.

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Seamless Departure from Sofia

On the final day, private transfers take travelers back to Sofia Airport for departure. The tour’s logistics are straightforward, with convenient pickup and drop-off, making the end of the trip smooth and stress-free.

What Sets This Tour Apart: Authentic Bulgarian Celebrations

This tour truly stands out by combining a lively New Year’s Eve celebration with cultural explorations. The gala dinner features authentic Bulgarian flavors and music, creating a memorable start to the year. Visiting Rila Monastery in winter offers a peaceful contrast to the bustling cities, and Plovdiv’s Old Town provides a picturesque backdrop for New Year festivities.

The inclusion of 4 hotels near main attractions enhances comfort, while private guided tours ensure personalized attention. The flexible payment options and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance** add to the tour’s practicality.

Practical Considerations

Travelers should bring comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and essentials like a hat and sunscreen. The tour is accessible for those in a private group and can accommodate wheelchair users, making it inclusive.

While the tour offers a packed itinerary, it’s important to note that some sites, like Rila Monastery, might be more visually stunning in winter but could involve walking on snow or uneven surfaces. The pace balances guided tours with free time, ideal for those who want both structure and leisure.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

The “New Year in Bulgaria” tour provides a well-rounded experience of Bulgaria’s historical sites, festive city life, and spiritual sites, with the added excitement of celebrating New Year’s Eve in Sofia. The combination of guided sightseeing, culture, and lively celebrations makes it a meaningful way to start the year.

Ideal for small groups, couples, or friends seeking a unique holiday, the tour’s focus on comfort and authenticity ensures a memorable and smoothly organized trip. Travelers looking to enjoy Bulgaria’s underrated winter charm while ringing in the New Year find this tour particularly appealing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included throughout the tour?
Yes, private transfers are included for airport pickups, hotel stays, and sightseeing excursions, ensuring convenience and comfort.

What is the price of this 5-day tour?
Pricing details are not specified here, but the tour includes 4 hotels, guided tours, and a gala dinner, offering good value for a private, fully organized experience.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund through the flexible booking options offered.

Is the tour suitable for all ages and mobility levels?
The tour is wheelchair accessible and designed for private groups, making it adaptable for various mobility needs.

What should I bring for the winter weather?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a hat, and sunscreen are recommended to enjoy the outdoor sites comfortably.

Does the tour include any other cultural experiences besides sightseeing?
The highlight is the New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner with traditional Bulgarian food and live music, providing an authentic local celebration.

This 5-day Bulgaria celebration tour offers a balanced mix of cultural discovery and festive cheer, with thoughtfully arranged logistics and memorable highlights. It suits travelers eager to explore Bulgaria’s beauty and history while welcoming the New Year with warmth and tradition.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby