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Exploring Bulgaria's Ancient Heritage and Varna Highlights in Two Days

Viewed by 153 travelers

Day 1: Varna and Surroundings

Varna, Bulgaria on October 15, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at The Sea Terrace

Start your day with a delicious breakfast by the sea at The Sea Terrace, known for its fresh pastries and coffee, open from 7:00am.
BGL15, 1h0m

8:00am

Varna Cathedral – The Assumption of Mother of God

Visit Varna's iconic cathedral, a beautiful basilica with impressive murals and architecture, open from 8:00am to 8:00pm.
BGL5, 1h0m

9:30am

Aladzha Monastery

Explore the medieval rock-hewn Aladzha Monastery located about 17 km from Varna, featuring fascinating cave cells and small chapels, open 9:00am to 6:00pm.
BGL10, 1h30m

11:30am

Stone Forest (Pobiti Kamani)

Discover the natural wonder of the Stone Forest, a mystical rock formation and unique geological site just outside Varna, accessible all day.
BGL0, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Happy Bar & Grill Varna

Enjoy traditional Bulgarian and European cuisine at Happy Bar & Grill, a lively spot near the city center, open 12:00pm to 11:00pm.
BGL25, 1h0m

2:30pm

Free Time for Optional Beach Walk or Museum

Relax with a leisurely walk along the Varna Beach promenade or visit the Archaeological Museum to see relics of Bulgarian history, open 9:00am–6:00pm.
BGL10, 1h30m

5:00pm

Return to hotel and rest

Take a short rest at your accommodation to prepare for the evening activities.
BGL0, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Staria Chinar

Dine at Staria Chinar, a traditional Bulgarian restaurant famous for its authentic dishes and cozy atmosphere, open until 11:00pm.
BGL30, 1h30m

9:00pm

Nightlife at Fabrika Club Varna

Experience Varna's nightlife at Fabrika Club, a popular venue offering music, drinks, and a vibrant crowd, open until 3:00am.
BGL20, 2h0m
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Day 2: Historic Sites Tour

Shumen region, Bulgaria on October 16, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Have a quick and energizing breakfast at your hotel to prepare for the day’s excursions.
Included, 0h30m

7:30am

Drive to Madara Horseman

Travel approximately 60 km to the Madara Horseman, a UNESCO World Heritage rock relief symbolizing Bulgarian medieval history, best visited early to avoid crowds.
BGL10, 1h0m

8:30am

Madara Horseman Visit

Explore the monumental Madara Horseman carving and surrounding archaeological area, open daylight hours.
BGL8, 1h0m

9:30am

Pliska Archaeological Reserve

Visit Pliska, the first capital of Bulgaria, to see ruins of the ancient city and impressive fortifications, open 9:00am to 5:00pm.
BGL12, 1h30m

11:00am

Drive to Sveshtari Thracian Tomb

Travel about 25 km to the UNESCO-listed Sveshtari Tomb, known for its exceptional Thracian art and architecture.
BGL15, 0h45m

11:45am

Sveshtari Thracian Tomb Visit

Visit the Sveshtari Tomb with guided explanations of its unique sculptural decorations and history, last entry at noon.
BGL10, 0h45m

12:30pm

Drive towards Osmar Rocky Sanctuaries

Head to the Osmar area near Shumen to explore the famous rocky sanctuaries and medieval monasteries nestled in the cliffs, a 30-minute drive.
BGL0, 0h30m

1:00pm

Lunch near Shumen town

Stop for a quick lunch with local specialties at Bistro Osmar, offering fresh dishes and friendly service, open till 3:00pm.
BGL20, 0h45m

1:45pm

Osmar Rocky Sanctuaries Exploration

Walk among the mystical rock monasteries and caves, a peaceful place highlighting Bulgaria's spiritual heritage.
BGL0, 0h45m

2:30pm

Return to Varna

Drive back to Varna for departure, approximately 70 km, ensuring arrival before 12:30pm on next day is not needed since your flight is today at noon, so continue directly to airport or your accommodation.
BGL0, 1h30m
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