Bulgaria 5 Day Itinerary

Bulgaria 5-Day Travel Itinerary

Day 1: Sofia (Capital City)

  • Arrival at Sofia Airport. Know that the official language is Bulgarian, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
  • Visit Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, a stunning Orthodox church built in the late 19th century.
  • Explore Vitosha Boulevard, Sofia’s main shopping street with numerous cafes and restaurants.
  • Take a stroll in South Park, offering beautiful views of the city.
  • Evening: Enjoy local cuisine at Halite, a popular restaurant serving traditional Bulgarian dishes.

Day 2: Rila Monastery & Boyana Church

  • Depart early for Rila Monastery, one of Eastern Orthodox Christianity’s most important monasteries.
  • Admire the unique architecture and learn about its rich history.
  • Continue to Boyana Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved frescoes from the Middle Ages.
  • Return to Sofia for the evening.

Day 3: Plovdiv (Second Largest City)

  • Travel to Plovdiv by train or bus. Explore the Old Town, known for its ancient Roman ruins and vibrant arts scene.
  • Visit the Ancient Theatre, one of the best-preserved theatres from the time of the Roman Empire.
  • Explore Kapana District, a creative neighborhood filled with street art, boutique shops, and trendy cafes.
  • Evening: Dine at one of the many traditional restaurants in the Old Town.

Day 4: Seven Rila Lakes & Bansko

  • Early departure for Seven Rila Lakes, a group of glacial lakes located in the heart of the Rila Mountains.
  • Enjoy the breathtaking views and hike around the lakes (hiking shoes recommended).
  • Continue to Bansko, a popular ski resort town known for its well-preserved architecture and vibrant nightlife.
  • Evening: Relax in one of the traditional thermal spas or enjoy a meal at a local restaurant.

Day 5: Veliko Tarnovo & Tsarevets Fortress

  • Travel to Veliko Tarnovo, the historical capital of Bulgaria during the Second Bulgarian Empire.
  • Visit Tsarevets Fortress and learn about the country’s medieval history.
  • Explore the Samovodska Charshiya, a traditional crafts street with shops selling souvenirs, folk art, and local food.
  • Depart for Sofia or continue your journey in Bulgaria.

Visa Requirements: Citizens of many countries can enter Bulgaria for up to 90 days without a visa if they are from the EU, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and several other countries. Check the Bulgarian embassy’s website for the most accurate information regarding your specific circumstances.

Transportation: Trains and buses are affordable and efficient ways to travel within Bulgaria. Renting a car is also an option, but keep in mind that roads outside of major cities may be less well-maintained.

Other Tips: Bring comfortable shoes as you’ll do quite a bit of walking. Be respectful when visiting religious sites and wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Enjoy local cuisine like Shopska salad, Meshana salad, Banitsa, and Baklava.