Bulgaria 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Sofia

Places to Go:

  1. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral: One of the largest Eastern Orthodox cathedrals in the world, its beautiful architecture and golden domes make it a must-see.
  2. Sofia’s Landmarks Walking Tour: Visit key sites such as the Rotonda St. George, the Roman Theater, the Banya Bashi Mosque, and the Sofia Synagogue.
  3. Vitosha Boulevard: This is Sofia’s main shopping street with a mix of international brands, local boutiques, and cafes.
  4. Boyana Church: A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its exceptional frescoes from the 13th century.

Activities:

  1. Lunch at Central Halls Market: Try traditional Bulgarian cuisine like Shopska Salad, Meshana Skara (mixed grill), and Banitsa.
  2. Visit the National Museum of History: Learn about Bulgaria’s rich history, from Thracian times to the modern era.
  3. Evening at Rakovski Street: Enjoy local music at a bar or restaurant.

Things to Know:

  • Bulgaria uses the euro (it switched from the lev in January 2026). Credit cards are widely accepted in cities, but it’s always good to have cash for smaller shops and restaurants.
  • The official language is Bulgarian, but many people speak English, especially in tourist areas.
  • Tap water is safe to drink throughout the country.

Day 2: Plovdiv

Transportation:

  • Take a train from Sofia Central Station to Plovdiv (about 1.5 hours). Alternatively, you can book a day tour if you prefer not to travel independently.

Places to Go:

  1. Old Town Plovdiv: Wander through the cobblestone streets, visit ancient ruins, and enjoy panoramic views from the hills above the city.
  2. Philosophers’ Forum: This unique architectural complex features ancient Roman buildings and is a great spot for photos.
  3. Episcopal Basilica: A beautifully preserved early Christian basilica with impressive mosaics.
  4. Plovdiv Archaeological Museum: Learn about the city’s history dating back to the 6th century BC.

Activities:

  1. Lunch at Kapana District: Known as the Trap neighborhood, this artistic quarter is full of hip eateries and cafes.
  2. Visit Plovdiv Art Gallery: Showcasing works by Bulgarian artists, it’s a great place to learn about contemporary art in Bulgaria.
  3. Evening at Dzhumaya Mosque: This active mosque is one of the oldest in the country and offers evening prayers that are open to visitors.

Things to Know:

  • Plovdiv has a rich calendar of cultural events, including festivals for music, theater, and film. Check what’s on during your visit.
  • Bulgaria is part of the Schengen Area, so EU citizens do not need a visa. Non-EU citizens should check the latest visa requirements.