Bulgaria 4 Day Itinerary

Here is a 4-day itinerary for traveling in Bulgaria, formatted in Markdown:

Day 1: Sofia Exploration

Places to Go

  1. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral - one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world and a symbol of Sofia’s rich history.
  2. Vitosha Boulevard - the main shopping street, with a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes.
  3. Boyana Church - a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved frescoes from the medieval period.

Activities

  1. Visit the National Historical Museum to learn about Bulgaria’s past.
  2. Take a stroll in Vitosha Park, which offers beautiful views of Sofia and is perfect for nature lovers.
  3. Enjoy traditional Bulgarian cuisine at one of the local restaurants.

Things to Know

  • Bulgarian currency: Lev (BGN)
  • Language: Bulgarian, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
  • Tipping: It’s customary to tip around 10% in restaurants.

Visa Requirements

Citizens of most countries do not require a visa for stays under 90 days. However, it is best to check the latest requirements on Bulgaria’s official website before your trip.

Transportation

Sofia has an efficient public transportation system, with buses, trams, and a metro. Tickets can be purchased at kiosks or on the bus/tram. Taxis are also widely available.

Day 2: Rila Monastery & Seven Rila Lakes

Places to Go

  1. Rila Monastery - a UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of the most famous Orthodox monasteries in Bulgaria.
  2. Seven Rila Lakes - a series of glacial lakes situated high in the Rila Mountains, offering stunning views and hiking opportunities.

Activities

  1. Explore the Rila Monastery’s museum and take a tour of its richly decorated interior.
  2. Hike to the Seven Rila Lakes, which takes around 5 hours round trip.
  3. Enjoy a traditional Bulgarian lunch at a local restaurant near the lakes.

Things to Know

  • The weather can be unpredictable and cooler, even in summer, so pack accordingly.
  • There is no public transportation to the Seven Rila Lakes, so it’s best to rent a car or join a tour.

Day 3: Plovdiv & Bachkovo Monastery

Places to Go

  1. Old Town Plovdiv - with its cobblestone streets, ancient ruins, and colorful houses, this is one of Europe’s oldest cities.
  2. Bachkovo Monastery - the second largest and oldest monastery in Bulgaria, famous for its beautiful architecture and frescoes.

Activities

  1. Stroll through the picturesque streets of the Old Town and visit its numerous museums and art galleries.
  2. Take a tour of Bachkovo Monastery and learn about its history and significance in Bulgarian Orthodoxy.
  3. Enjoy local cuisine at one of the many restaurants in Plovdiv’s Old Town.

Things to Know

  • Plovdiv is Bulgaria’s second-largest city, but it has a more relaxed and laid-back atmosphere compared to Sofia.
  • The best way to explore the Old Town is on foot.

Day 4: Nesebar & Sunny Beach

Places to Go

  1. Nesebar - an ancient city located on a peninsula, with a wealth of historical sites and beautiful beaches.
  2. Sunny Beach - one of the most popular resorts on Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast, known for its sandy beaches and vibrant nightlife.

Activities

  1. Explore Nesebar’s ancient ruins, including churches, fortifications, and the remains of a Thracian settlement.
  2. Relax on Sunny Beach and enjoy water sports or simply soak up the sun.
  3. Visit the Aqua Paradise water park in Sunny Beach for a fun day out with the family.

Things to Know

  • The best time to visit Nesebar and the Black Sea coast is from May to September, when the weather is warm and sunny.
  • There are regular buses and trains between Sofia and the Black Sea coast. Alternatively, you can rent a car for greater flexibility.