Bulgaria 5-Day Hidden Gem Journey Itinerary

Begin your second day with a tour from your wishlist: From Sofia: Rila Monastery and Boyana Church Day Trip. This full-day tour will take you to two UNESCO World Heritage sites: the Rila Monastery, known for its stunning frescoes and architecture, and the Boyana Church, famous for its medieval frescoes. Enjoy breakfast on-the-go or pack some snacks for the journey.

Continue exploring these cultural treasures as part of your tour. The Rila Monastery is nestled in the picturesque Rila Mountains, offering breathtaking views and serene surroundings. Don't forget to take plenty of photos! For lunch, you'll have options available during your tour.

Return to Sofia in the evening and unwind with dinner at Made in Home, a cozy restaurant offering delicious homemade-style dishes. If you're up for it, take a leisurely stroll along Vitosha Boulevard (Vitoshka) to experience Sofia's vibrant nightlife.

Kick off your third day with another wishlist tour: Sofia: Guided Walking Tour. This guided walking tour will provide you with fascinating insights into Sofia's history, culture, and architecture. You'll visit key landmarks such as St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral (if you missed it on Day 1), St. Sophia Church, and more. Start your morning with breakfast at The Little Things, known for its delightful pastries.

After your walking tour, head over to explore more historical sites like the Sofia Synagogue or relax at one of Sofia's charming cafes like Cafe Ma Baker for lunch. Take some time to soak in the local atmosphere.

In the evening, visit another wishlist attraction: Central Sofia Market Hall (Halite). This bustling market offers a variety of local products and souvenirs. End your day with dinner at Raketa Rakia Bar, where you can enjoy modern Bulgarian cuisine paired with traditional rakia.

Start your day with a visit to the Plovdiv Old Town (Stari Grad). This area is known for its well-preserved houses from the Bulgarian Revival period, cobblestone streets, and charming atmosphere. Enjoy breakfast at Hemingway, a cozy spot offering delicious morning treats.

In the afternoon, explore the Plovdiv Roman Theater (Ancient Theater of Philippopolis). This ancient theater is one of the best-preserved in the world and offers stunning views of the city. For lunch, head to Pavaj, a highly-rated restaurant known for its traditional Bulgarian dishes with a modern twist.

Conclude your day with a visit to the Bachkovo Monastery, located just outside Plovdiv. This monastery is one of Bulgaria's largest and oldest, offering beautiful frescoes and serene surroundings. Enjoy dinner at Sasa Asian Pub, where you can savor a fusion of Asian and Bulgarian flavors.

Varna Retro Museum: Begin your day with a visit to this unique museum that showcases life during Bulgaria's socialist era through vintage cars, household items, and memorabilia. Have breakfast at Cafe Odessos, known for its great coffee and pastries.

Varna Archaeological Museum: Spend your afternoon exploring this museum which houses an impressive collection of artifacts from Varna's rich history, including the world's oldest gold treasure. For lunch, dine at Staria Chinar, renowned for its seafood dishes.

Balchik Palace (Dvoreca): End your day with a visit to this beautiful palace located on the Black Sea coast. The palace gardens are particularly stunning during sunset. Enjoy dinner at Mussel House Dalboka, famous for its fresh mussels and scenic views.