Welcome to Bulgaria, a country of captivating landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture waiting to be explored! Join me on a thrilling 5-day road trip through this Balkan gem, where we’ll discover ancient ruins, charming towns, breathtaking coastlines and indulge in delicious cuisine along the way. From the bustling capital city of Sofia to the historic marvels of Plovdiv and Veliko Tarnovo, and finally to the picturesque shores of Varna on the Black Sea, each stop on this journey promises to unveil a different facet of Bulgaria’s beauty and heritage. So buckle up and get ready for an unforgettable adventure as we traverse this fascinating country and immerse ourselves in its traditions and treasures!
Table of Contents
Introduction
Bulgaria is a country located in Southeastern Europe, bordered by Romania, Serbia, North Macedonia, Greece, and Turkey. With a population of about 7 million people, Bulgaria’s capital and largest city is Sofia. Bulgaria has a rich history dating back to antiquity and is home to one of the oldest civilizations in Europe.
Some quick facts about Bulgaria
Bulgaria, a parliamentary republic and member of the European Union since 2007, boasts a rich cultural heritage and diverse industries. The official language, Bulgarian, is a Slavic tongue written in Cyrillic script. The economy thrives on agriculture, mining, metallurgy, machine building, and tourism, the latter fueled by the stunning Black Sea coastline with its renowned beach resorts.
Bulgaria’s contributions to world heritage are significant, with nine UNESCO sites, including the awe-inspiring Rila Monastery and ancient Thracian tombs. The country is famed for its rose oil, exported for use in perfumes and cosmetics, primarily harvested in the Valley of Roses. Bulgarian cuisine, a delightful fusion of Mediterranean and Balkan flavors, features iconic dishes like shopska salad, banitsa pastry, kebapche meatballs, and tangy yogurt. With such a blend of history, nature, and culinary delights, Bulgaria offers an enticing destination ripe for exploration.
With beautiful nature, ancient history, unique traditions, affordable prices, and warm hospitality, Bulgaria is an exciting country to discover in Southeastern Europe. The varied landscape ranges from high mountains to lush valleys, allowing for outdoor adventures through all four seasons. Whether you want to relax on the beach, party at a lively resort, or explore medieval towns, Bulgaria offers something for every traveler.
Let’s Start in Sofia, Day#1
Sofia is Bulgaria’s charming capital city, with lots to see and do. Start your first day by visiting some of Sofia’s top attractions in the city center.
Begin at Aleksander Nevski Cathedral, a beautiful Eastern Orthodox church. Admire the gold domes and frescoes inside. Then head to Saint Sofia Church, after which the city is named. The church dates back to the 6th century.
Next, walk through the ancient ruins of Serdica. This was the center of Roman Sofia. See the remains of streets, buildings, and plumbing.
Not far away is the famous Saint George Rotunda. This is considered the oldest building in Sofia, originally built in the 4th century.
For a dose of culture, stop by the National Gallery of Art and the National Museum of History.
Afterwards, head down Vitosha Boulevard, Sofia’s main shopping street. Grab lunch at one of the many restaurants and cafés. Bulgarian cuisine features influences from Greek, Turkish, and Slavic culinary traditions.
Spend the afternoon exploring Sofia’s parks and gardens. The Borisova Gradina is a nice spot to rest.
As evening approaches, join a free walking tour to see more of Sofia’s landmarks. Good budget accommodation options include Hostel Mostel and Art Hostel. And for dinner, try traditional Bulgarian fare at Made in Home restaurant.
Sofia to Plovdiv, Day#2
One of the top day trips from Sofia is to Plovdiv, Bulgaria’s second-largest city. Here’s how to make the most of your day getting there and what to see:
How to Get to Plovdiv from Sofia
The easiest way to travel between Sofia and Plovdiv is by train or bus. There are regular direct trains that take around 2 hours, as well as buses that can be slightly faster. Tickets can be purchased at the station on the day of travel.
Another option is to rent a car for more flexibility exploring places along the way. The drive takes around 1.5-2 hours depending on traffic.
Top Things To See Along the Way
On the route between Sofia and Plovdiv, consider stopping at:
– The medieval town of Koprivshtitsa – wander the cobbled streets and see Bulgarian Revival architecture.
– Bachkovo Monastery – tour this historic monastery founded in 1083.
– Buzludzha Monument – view the unique flying-saucer shaped communist monument.
Recommended Route
A recommended route is to start early and visit Koprivshtitsa in the morning for a few hours. Then continue to Bachkovo Monastery before arriving in Plovdiv in the early afternoon.
Alternatively, visit Buzludzha in the morning before continuing to Plovdiv.
Where to Eat and Sleep in Plovdiv
Plovdiv has a great dining scene. For authentic local food, try a mehana (tavern) like Hebros or Rahat Tepe. Stylish modern options include The Cocoa Social Club or Quince.
For accommodations, hotels like the boutique Leipzig Hotel are centrally located. Or check out unique stays like the Avocado Boutique Hotel.
Spend the afternoon and evening wandering Plovdiv’s cobbled old town streets, and soaking up the atmosphere in Kapana, the city’s bohemian quarter.
Spend a day in Plovdiv, Day#3
Plovdiv is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe and has a fascinating history. Spend the morning exploring the Old Town’s cobblestone streets lined with colorful 19th century houses.
Morning Walking Route
Start in the main square, where you’ll find the Ancient Roman Theatre and the Ethnographic Museum. Wander up Saborna Street to see the Dzhumaya Mosque and the 15th century Imaret Mosque. Stop by the Roman Stadium and the ruins of the Roman Forum.
Head up Tsanko Lavrenov Street to see the Balabanov House, an example of Bulgaria’s National Revival architecture. Turn onto Yoakim Gruev Street to see the house of Georgi Mamarchev, renowned for its lavish exterior.
Free Time Suggestions
– Spend time at the Regional Historical Museum to learn about the Thracian, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman history of Plovdiv.
– Check out the art exhibits at the Philippopolis Art Gallery or the Nedkovich House.
– Relax in Tsar Simeon’s Garden in the heart of the Old Town.
Best Views
Climb up Nebet Tepe hill for panoramic views over Plovdiv’s red-tiled roofs. Watch the sunset from Danov Hill on the northern side of town for beautiful golden hour colors reflecting off the Maritsa River.
Plovdiv to Veliko Tarnovo, Day#4
After enjoying Plovdiv, it’s time to head to the medieval capital of Bulgaria – Veliko Tarnovo. It’s about a 2.5 hour drive northeast from Plovdiv.
The most direct route is to take the A4 highway north out of Plovdiv towards Veliko Tarnovo. Along the way, consider stopping at the Krushuna Waterfalls. The waterfalls are located just off the highway and offer a nice leg-stretching break during the drive.
The Krushuna Waterfalls are about 30 meters high and quite picturesque. There is a short hiking trail that goes behind the waterfalls, allowing you to experience the refreshing mist. Spend 30-60 minutes walking the trails and taking photos before continuing on towards Veliko Tarnovo.
Once back on the highway, it’s another hour drive northeast before reaching Veliko Tarnovo. The city is known for its medieval fortress, winding cobblestone streets, and dramatic natural setting along the Yantra River valley. Get ready to step back in time to Bulgaria’s medieval heyday.
In Veliko Tarnovo
Veliko Tarnovo is a historic city in central northern Bulgaria and the capital of the Veliko Tarnovo Province. It is one of the oldest cities in Bulgaria, with more than five millennia of documented urban history. Veliko Tarnovo is an important tourist center, boasting many sites of historical significance.
Top Sites in Veliko Tarnovo
– Tsarevets Hill – This fortified stronghold is surrounded on three sides by the Yantra River and is home to the ruins of the medieval Bulgarian capital. Key sights include the restored Baldwin’s Tower and the Patriarch’s Church.
– Samovodska Charshiya – This picturesque cobblestone street lined with workshops and galleries was the center of medieval Tarnovo’s artisan quarter.
– Asenevtsi Monument – This monument honors the Asen dynasty, which established the Second Bulgarian Empire in the 12th century. The 30-meter concrete sculpture depicts five horsemen.
– Archaeological Museum – Housed in a former mosque, this museum displays Thracian, Roman and medieval artifacts. Highlights include a mural of the Madara Rider.
Walking Route
A great way to explore Veliko Tarnovo’s top sites is to start on Samovodska Charshiya, strolling along as you browse the artisan shops. Then make your way up the steps to Tsarevets Hill, spending time exploring the fortress ruins and taking in the views of the Yantra River below. After visiting the sites on Tsarevets Hill, walk back down and spend some time at the Asenevtsi Monument before finishing your route at the Archaeological Museum.
Shopping Areas
– Samovodska Charshiya – As mentioned above, this cobblestone street lined with artisan workshops is the best place to shop for handicrafts, antiques, jewelry, pottery, and more.
– Tsarevets Hill – Within the fortress complex, you’ll find a medieval-style open-air market selling traditional Bulgarian handicrafts, souvenirs and food.
– Mall Veliko Tarnovo – For more modern shopping, this mall located a couple of kilometers southeast of the city center offers stores like H&M and Intersport.
Day 5 travel to Varna
The journey from Veliko Tarnovo to Varna takes around 3 hours by car or bus. This scenic route winds through the beautiful Bulgarian countryside, with rolling green hills and small villages along the way.
The most direct route is to take the main E772 highway east from Veliko Tarnovo directly to Varna. This is the fastest way to make the trip. You can take a bus from the Veliko Tarnovo bus station, which departs several times per day.
Another option is to stop along the way in the medieval town of Shumen. This adds just 30 minutes or so to the journey. Shumen has a historic fortress and monastery that are worth exploring.
The final stretch of the drive from Shumen to Varna reveals breathtaking views of the coast as you descend from the hills. You’ll start to see sandy beaches dotted with colorful beach resorts.
Soon the shimmering blue waters of the Black Sea come into view. Get ready for some seaside relaxation in Varna after the scenic journey from Veliko Tarnovo!
Day 5 afternoon/evening in Varna
Varna is a port city on the Black Sea known for its beautiful beaches, seafood cuisine, and fascinating museums. Spend your late afternoon and evening in Varna enjoying the sights.
Top Attractions
– Sea Garden – This gorgeous park along the Black Sea coastline contains restaurants, playgrounds, sports fields. It’s a beautiful place to stroll at sunset.
– Archaeological Museum – With over 50,000 artifacts, this is one of Bulgaria’s largest museums. See ancient treasures like gold jewelry, Roman statues, and medieval icons.
– Naval Museum – Located in an old Communist monument, this museum covers Bulgaria’s naval history with ship models, paintings, and uniforms. Climb the tower for panoramic sea views.
– Dolphinarium – For family fun, visit the dolphin shows to see the intelligent mammals perform tricks and dances.
– Primorski Park – Ride the Ferris wheel at this amusement park filled with rollercoasters, carousels, go-karts, and other rides.
Seafood Dining
Enjoy fresh seafood along the coast as the sun sets over the Black Sea. Recommended restaurants include:
– The Captain Cook – Elegant restaurant specializing in fish and seafood. Try the mussels in white wine sauce.
– Dalboka Winery – Charming winery with sea views and a menu of locally caught fish.
– Happy Bar & Grill – Laidback spot to enjoy burgers, salads, and grilled seafood on an outdoor patio.
Spend the evening strolling Varna’s seaside promenade and relaxing after your busy itinerary. Varna is the perfect place to unwind at the end of your trip.
For some final Bulgaria travel tips:
– Make time to get out into nature – there are lots of great hiking opportunities in places like Rila National Park and the Pirin Mountains
– Don’t be afraid to try local dishes like banitsa, shopska salad, kebapche, and tarator
– Bring some warm layers – evenings can be chilly even in summer in the mountains
– Travel by rental car if possible for maximum flexibility for getting off the beaten path
– Be prepared for some language difficulties outside main tourist areas – learn a few key Bulgarian phrases
– Visit during shoulder season in spring or fall to avoid crowds and have pleasant weather
Bulgaria has so much to offer visitors beyond what you can see in just 5 days. Hopefully this itinerary has you eager to return to explore more of this beautiful and fascinating country. Enjoy your time there!
Conclusion
A 5-day road trip exploring Sofia, Plovdiv, Veliko Tarnovo, and Varna offers a comprehensive and enriching experience of Bulgaria’s diverse landscapes, history, and culture. Beginning in Sofia, the capital city reveals its blend of ancient and modern attractions, setting the stage for the journey ahead. Moving on to Plovdiv, the city of seven hills captivates with its well-preserved Roman amphitheater and charming Old Town. Veliko Tarnovo then beckons with its medieval fortress perched dramatically on cliffs, narrating tales of Bulgaria’s royal past.
Finally, reaching Varna on the Black Sea coast provides a delightful contrast, offering relaxation on beautiful beaches along with visits to historical sites like the Roman Baths and the Cathedral of the Assumption. This road trip encapsulates Bulgaria’s essence—its rich history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. Each destination contributes uniquely to the narrative of Bulgaria’s heritage, leaving travelers with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for this captivating country in the heart of the Balkans.
Hopefully, this has provided a great overview and first taste of this wonderful but overlooked country.
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