5 day itinerary for Bulgaria

Itinerary

Bulgaria is a beautiful country with a rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. Here’s a fun and engaging 5-day itinerary that will let you experience the best of what Bulgaria has to offer!

## Day 1: Sofia – The Heart of Bulgaria

Morning:
Start your adventure in Sofia, the capital city. After a hearty breakfast, head to Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, one of the largest Eastern Orthodox cathedrals in the world. The architecture is simply breathtaking!

Afternoon:
Stroll through Vitosha Boulevard, a lively street filled with shops, cafes, and street performers. Grab lunch at a local eatery and try some traditional Bulgarian dishes like banitsa (a pastry filled with cheese) or shopska salad.

Evening:
Visit the National Palace of Culture and enjoy a leisurely walk in the surrounding park. For dinner, check out a local restaurant for some kebapche (grilled minced meat) and a glass of rakia (a traditional Bulgarian spirit).

## Day 2: Plovdiv – The City of Seven Hills

Morning:
After breakfast, take a short drive or train ride to Plovdiv (about 1.5 hours). Start your day at the Old Town, where you can wander through cobblestone streets and admire the colorful houses. Don’t miss the Roman Theatre, which is still used for performances today!

Afternoon:
Have lunch at a charming café in the Old Town. Afterward, visit the Ethnographic Museum to learn about Bulgarian culture and traditions.

Evening:
As the sun sets, head to the Kapana District, known for its artsy vibe and vibrant nightlife. Enjoy dinner at one of the trendy restaurants and maybe catch some live music!

## Day 3: Rila Monastery and Nature

Morning:
Get an early start and take a day trip to the Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site (about 2 hours from Plovdiv). The monastery is stunning, with its colorful frescoes and beautiful architecture.

Afternoon:
Explore the monastery grounds and then enjoy a picnic lunch in the surrounding nature. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a short hike in the nearby Rila National Park.

Evening:
Return to Plovdiv for a relaxed evening. Treat yourself to a nice dinner and perhaps a stroll along the Maritsa River.

## Day 4: Veliko Tarnovo – The Medieval Capital

Morning:
Travel to Veliko Tarnovo (about 3 hours from Plovdiv). Once you arrive, head straight to the Tsarevets Fortress. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the city and the Yantra River.

Afternoon:
Explore the charming streets of the old town and have lunch at a local tavern. Try some moussaka or sarmi (cabbage rolls).

Evening:
As night falls, enjoy the Sound and Light Show at Tsarevets Fortress, which tells the story of Bulgaria’s history through lights and music. It’s a magical experience!

## Day 5: Varna – The Black Sea Gem

Morning:
Head to Varna (about 3 hours from Veliko Tarnovo). Start your day at the Sea Garden, a beautiful park along the coast. Take a leisurely walk and enjoy the sea breeze.

Afternoon:
Visit the Varna Archaeological Museum to see the Gold of Varna, the oldest gold treasure in the world. For lunch, indulge in some fresh seafood at a seaside restaurant.

Evening:
Spend your last evening relaxing on the beach or exploring the vibrant nightlife in Varna. Enjoy a farewell dinner with a view of the Black Sea, and maybe even catch a sunset!

Tips for Your Trip:

• Transportation: Renting a car can be a great way to explore at your own pace, but public transport is also reliable.
• Language: While many Bulgarians speak English, learning a few basic phrases in Bulgarian can be helpful and appreciated!
• Currency: The currency is the Bulgarian Lev (BGN), so make sure to have some cash on hand for smaller establishments.

I hope this itinerary gets you excited for your trip to Bulgaria! Each day is packed with history, culture, and delicious food. Enjoy your adventure! 🌍✈️