Sofia is Bulgaria's capital, a vibrant and historic city full of culture, art, and beautiful architecture. Explore famous sights like the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and the National Palace of Culture, or wander through the many parks and gardens scattered around the city. For incredible views of Sofia, take a trip up Mount Vitosha.
Plovdiv is one of Europe's oldest continuously inhabited cities and was named the European Capital of Culture in 2019. The city's Old Town is a stunning mix of Roman ruins, Ottoman architecture, and Bulgarian Renaissance houses. Grab lunch at one of the quaint street cafes or visit the ancient Roman Amphitheatre.
The Rila Monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Bulgaria's most iconic attractions. Founded in the 10th century by Saint Ivan of Rila, the monastery is home to beautiful frescoes and ancient artifacts. Don't miss the incredible views of the surrounding mountains from the courtyard.
Varna is Bulgaria's third-largest city and a popular tourist destination on the Black Sea coast. Relax on the city's award-winning beaches, or take a tour of the impressive Roman Baths. For a glimpse of Bulgaria's Communist past, visit the Park-Museum of the Bulgarian-Soviet Friendship.
Veliko Tarnovo is a charming medieval town with a rich history and stunning views over the Yantra River. Visit Tsarevets Fortress and the 12th-century Baldwin's Tower for a taste of Bulgaria's ancient history. Wander through the cobbled streets of the Old Town for souvenirs and traditional Bulgarian cuisine.
Koprivshtitsa is a small, picturesque town rich in Bulgarian history and architecture. Walk along the stone streets and marvel at the traditional houses and unique facades. Visit the Oslekov House Museum and learn about Bulgarian literature at the Todor Kableshkov House Museum.
Bansko is a charming alpine town located at the foot of the Pirin Mountains. It's famous for its skiing and snowboarding resorts, but it's also a great destination for hiking and exploring Bulgaria's natural beauty. Visit the Bansko City Museum for a glimpse into the town's rich history.
Most of Bulgaria's major cities and attractions can be reached by train or bus. Travel by taxi or private car is also an option, but it's often more expensive. Transportation costs for this itinerary are estimated at around $120 for a week.
If you have more time, consider visiting the Belogradchik Rocks or the Devetashka Cave. If pressed for time, consider cutting a destination from your itinerary, such as Rila Monastery or Koprivshtitsa.
Sofia Airport (SOF) is the main airport in Bulgaria and is located about 10 minutes (5km) from the city center.