DAY 1 |
Arrival in Sofia. Transfer to the hotel and accommodation. Overnight in Sofia.
DAY 2 |
Breakfast. Visit to the National History Museum and the mediaeval Boyana Church, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Visit to Alexander Nevski Cathedral - one of the largest Eastern Orthodox cathedrals in Europe, as well as one of Sofia’s symbols and a primary tourist attraction; St. George Rotunda, Banya Bashi Mosque, Central Halls (covered market), St. Sophia Basilica, National Theatre. Free time in the city centre and main shopping area around Vitosha Boulevard. Overnight in Sofia.
DAY 3 |
Breakfast. Drive to Rila Monastery - largest and most famous Eastern Orthodox monastery in Bulgaria, built in the 10th century. Visit to the monastery Church of the Nativity of the Virgin. Among its greatest treasures are the wooden iconostasis, some 14th and 15th century icons, wall paintings, made by the famous artist Zahari Zograph. Drive back to Sofia. Optional dinner at traditional restaurant with folklore music and dances. Overnight in Sofia.
DAY 4 |
After breakfast, drive to Veliko Tarnovo. Sightseeing tour of Veliko Tarnovo - visit to the historical Tsarevets Hill, which served as a primary fortress of the capital town during the Second Bulgarian Kingdom. Drive to the village of Arbanassi, famous for its well preserved 17th and 18th century churches and the typical Revival architecture of its houses, and sightseeing tour. Overnight in Veliko Tarnovo.
DAY 5 |
Breakfast. Departure for Plovdiv. On the way visit to the ethnographic open-air museum Etara, representing the Bulgarian customs, culture and craftsmanship. Drive to the town of Kazanlak via Shipka Pass. Visit to Kazanlak Thracian Tomb, which dates back to the 4th century BC and is included in the UNESCO World Heritage list. Its murals and paintings are Bulgaria’s best preserved artistic masterpieces from the Hellenistic period. Drive to Plovdiv. Accommodation. Overnight in Plovdiv.
DAY 6 |
Breakfast. Sightseeing tour of Plovdiv - European capital of culture 2019. Visit to the Old town - Ethnographic Museum, Roman theatre, Roman Stadium, St. Constantine and Helena Church, etc. Free time in Kapana art district, main shopping street and city garden. Overnight in Plovdiv.
DAY 8 |
Breakfast. If time permits - shopping tour in the city centre. Transfer to the airport and departure.