Bulgaria Weeklong Exploration Self-Drive

Welcome to Bulgaria. Upon arrival at your chosen airport – Varna or Bourgas – collect your hire car and make your way to your hotel. After checking in, we will provide you with a special welcome package, including a map of Bulgaria, a detailed programme of suggested sights along your route, vouchers, and other useful information to help you make the most of your journey. Once settled, we recommend taking a stroll through the pedestrian centre to discover the town’s key landmarks. You will find lively promenades, the tranquil Sea Garden with its peaceful corners, and museums that showcase the region’s history from ancient times to the present day. If you prefer to unwind, you can simply head to one of the many beaches in and around the town. For a deeper insight, you may choose to book an optional private tour guide in Varna or Bourgas (English, French, German or Spanish available; not included – private service, 4 hours, guide only, no transfers or entrance fees). Overnight in Varna or Bourgas.

After breakfast, we set off early for a day filled with discovery. Our first stop is the historic Old Town of Nessebar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its cobbled streets and well-preserved churches dating from the 13th century. As we explore, you’ll notice traces of ancient Greek, Roman and Byzantine influence throughout the town’s wooden houses and winding lanes. Continuing south, we travel into the Rose Valley. We suggest a visit to Kazanlak, home to the UNESCO-listed Thracian Tomb, which dates back to the 4th century BC and features some of the finest examples of Hellenistic art in the region. While in the area, you can also experience the renowned Bulgarian rose production at the Rose Museum, where the unique fragrance and history of the local rose industry come to life. Our journey concludes in Plovdiv, celebrated as the European Capital of Culture in 2019 and included on the UNESCO tentative list. Overnight in Plovdiv.

Begin your day with a relaxed breakfast at the hotel as you consider your plans. We recommend exploring the Old Town of Plovdiv, where you can experience the distinctive character of this ancient city. Visit the Roman Amphitheatre, an impressive structure from the early 2nd century AD, and the Hindliyan House, renowned for its ornate interiors from the Bulgarian Revival period. You may also wish to discover the lively “Thursday” market, where you can meet local producers and sample fresh, locally grown fruit. Take time to wander through Kapana, the city’s creative quarter, known for its inviting cafés and artisan workshops. If you prefer a day in nature, you can venture into the Rhodopi Mountains. Here, you have the option to visit the Batchkovo Monastery, the second largest in Bulgaria, set amidst scenic surroundings. Admire the monastery’s remarkable architecture and sacred icons before returning to Plovdiv for the night. Overnight in Plovdiv.

After breakfast at your hotel, we set off towards Sofia, the capital. Along the way, you have the opportunity to discover more about Bulgarian culture. You may wish to visit an ethnographical centre in Karlovo, a town known for its role in the Bulgarian Revival Period. Here, you can enjoy coffee prepared on hot sand and sample traditional Bulgarian sweets. If you like, you can dress in local costumes for a memorable photo. Another option is to stop in Panagyurishte, a town nestled in the Sredna Gora valley with a history stretching back to antiquity. The area is rich in archaeological sites, including necropolises and ancient settlements. The History Museum in Panagyurishte houses the renowned golden treasure, which has been displayed at the Louvre. We continue our journey to Sofia, where you will spend the night.

After breakfast, we begin our exploration of Sofia at your own pace. Take a walk through the city centre and admire the impressive gold-plated dome and ornate interior of St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the largest Orthodox cathedral in Bulgaria. Continue to some of Sofia’s most notable landmarks, including the ancient St George Rotunda, the Russian Church of St Nikolay, and the National Theatre Ivan Vazov. Pause for a coffee along the lively Vitosha Boulevard to soak up the city’s vibrant atmosphere.We recommend a visit to the National History Museum, which presents a comprehensive overview of Bulgaria’s past through its extensive collections. You may also wish to see the Boyana Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its remarkable medieval frescoes.If you enjoy nature, Sofia’s location at the foot of Vitosha Mountain offers easy access to scenic walking trails – a peaceful escape from the city’s bustle.For deeper insight into Sofia’s history and culture, you can book an optional private tour guide for up to four hours (not included). Guides are available in English, French, German or Spanish.In the evening, you have the option to book a traditional Bulgarian dinner with a folklore show and the unique Nestinari fire-dancing ritual (not included). This experience includes a four-course meal with wine and a performance of songs and dances, including the UNESCO-listed barefoot dance on glowing embers, held from 20:00 to 23:00, weather permitting.Overnight in Sofia.

After breakfast at your hotel, set off for a scenic drive into the heart of the Balkan Mountains. If you are interested in Orthodox traditions, we recommend a stop at Troyan Monastery – the third largest in Bulgaria – nestled in the tranquil foothills. Continue your journey to Veliko Tarnovo, the medieval capital, where you can take in panoramic views from Tzarevetz Hill. Wander along the cobbled Samovodska Charshia, a street known for its traditional craftsmen. We invite you to join a demonstration at a pottery or woodcarving workshop, offering insight into local crafts (no guidance included). Afterwards, travel to the nearby village of Arbanassi to discover the lifestyle of wealthy merchants during the medieval period. Overnight in Veliko Tarnovo.

After a relaxed breakfast, check out from your hotel and set off on a scenic drive across the country towards the Black Sea coast. Today offers the opportunity to visit two remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Sites en route. The Thracian Tomb of Sveshtari stands out for its distinctive polychrome caryatids—half-human, half-plant figures—and its well-preserved murals. The Madara Rider, carved high into the cliffs near Shumen, is a unique rock relief dating from the early medieval period. Take time to explore the history and significance of these sites before continuing to the coastal towns of Varna or Bourgas. If you are staying in Varna, you may wish to book our optional dinner at one of the city’s top restaurants, featuring a carefully selected four-course menu and a glass of wine (transfer and guidance not included). Overnight in Varna.

After a leisurely breakfast, check out from your hotel and make your way to the airport for your return flight. If your schedule allows, you can choose to book an optional private tour guide in Varna or Bourgas to explore more of the city before you depart. Guided tours are available in English, French, German or Spanish and last approximately four hours. Please note that transfers and entrance fees are not included. Safe travels as you conclude your journey.