Bulgaria's Best: 8-Day Adventure from Sofia to the Rila Monastery and Beyond Itinerary

Kick off your day with a visit to the Boyana Church, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its impressive medieval frescoes. After exploring the church, take a scenic drive to the beautiful Boyana Waterfall, nestled in the Vitosha Mountain. Enjoy a peaceful walk in nature and breathe in the fresh mountain air.

For lunch, indulge in a delightful meal at The Little Things, a charming restaurant offering a mix of international and Bulgarian cuisine. Afterward, visit the National Museum of History, where you can delve into Bulgaria's rich past through a diverse collection of artifacts and exhibits.

In the evening, experience the vibrant energy of Vitosha Boulevard (Vitoshka), Sofia's main shopping street. Explore the shops, cafes, and restaurants, and soak up the lively atmosphere. For dinner, head to Soul Kitchen, a popular eatery known for its creative dishes and welcoming ambiance.

Today, embark on a day trip to the charming city of Plovdiv. After a scenic drive, start your exploration at the Amphitheater of Serdica, an ancient Roman amphitheater. Take a guided tour and learn about its fascinating history.

For lunch, savor the flavors of Plovdiv at Motto, a stylish restaurant offering a mix of Mediterranean and Bulgarian cuisine. After lunch, continue your journey through Plovdiv's Old Town, where you'll discover architectural gems, such as the St. Sofia Church and the Church of St. George (St. George Rotunda).

As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely walk along the Kapana (The Trap), Plovdiv's vibrant arts and crafts district. Explore the narrow cobblestone streets and discover local galleries, boutiques, and cafes. For dinner, we recommend Happy Bar & Grill, a popular restaurant with a diverse menu and a lively atmosphere.

Today, embark on a journey to the breathtaking Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the monastery complex and marvel at its stunning architecture and rich history. Afterward, take a scenic drive to the Rila Mountains, where you can enjoy a peaceful hike surrounded by natural beauty.

For lunch, enjoy a picnic amidst the picturesque mountain scenery. After refueling, continue your outdoor adventure with a visit to the Seven Rila Lakes Snowshoe Walk & Thermal Spring Pools. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the lakes and take a refreshing dip in the thermal pools.

As the day comes to a close, relax and unwind at Shtastlivetza, a cozy restaurant known for its warm ambiance and delicious comfort food. Enjoy a hearty meal and reflect on the natural wonders you've experienced today.

Begin your day with a visit to the Museum of Socialist Art, where you can gain insight into Bulgaria's socialist past through a unique collection of art and artifacts. Afterward, take a stroll through the tranquil Sofia City Garden, a green oasis in the heart of the city.

For lunch, we recommend The Little Things, a charming restaurant offering a mix of international and Bulgarian cuisine. After lunch, join a Sofia's Hidden Bars 4-Hour Pub Crawl to discover the city's best-kept secrets and enjoy a taste of Sofia's vibrant nightlife.

In the evening, experience the lively atmosphere of Vitosha Boulevard (Vitoshka). Explore the shops, cafes, and restaurants, and soak up the energy of the city. For dinner, head to Soul Kitchen, a popular eatery known for its creative dishes and welcoming ambiance.

Today is all about relaxation and pampering. Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at The Little Things, where you can enjoy a delicious meal in a cozy setting. After breakfast, treat yourself to a rejuvenating spa day at Vitosha Thermal Spa and Wellness Center. Unwind with a massage, soak in the thermal pools, and let go of any lingering stress.

For lunch, indulge in a delightful meal at Shtastlivetza, a charming restaurant offering traditional Bulgarian cuisine with a modern twist. Afterward, take a leisurely walk through the Sofia National Botanical Garden, where you can admire a diverse collection of plants and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.

As the day transitions into evening, head to Raffy Bar & Gelato, a popular spot known for its delectable gelato and refreshing cocktails. Relax on the outdoor terrace and savor the sweet treats as you reflect on your day of relaxation.

Start your day with a visit to the Sofia National Gallery, where you can admire a diverse collection of Bulgarian and international art. Afterward, take a guided tour of the Sofia Synagogue, one of the largest Sephardic synagogues in Europe.

For lunch, savor the flavors of Bulgaria at Motto, a stylish restaurant offering a mix of Mediterranean and Bulgarian cuisine. After lunch, take a leisurely walk through the Central Sofia Market Hall (Halite), where you can sample local delicacies and shop for unique souvenirs.

In the evening, experience a guided tasting of local wines and cheeses at Sofia Wine & Cheese Tasting Experience. Learn about Bulgaria's winemaking traditions and indulge in a selection of fine wines and artisanal cheeses. It's the perfect way to end your cultural immersion in Sofia.

As your journey comes to an end, take a moment to reflect on your experiences in Sofia. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Made in Home, a cozy restaurant known for its delicious pancakes and local specialties. After breakfast, take a peaceful walk through the Sofia City Garden, where you can soak up the serene atmosphere and bid farewell to the city.

For lunch, we recommend The Little Things, a charming restaurant offering a mix of international and Bulgarian cuisine. After lunch, take one last stroll through the city streets, visiting your favorite spots and savoring the memories you've made.

In the evening, celebrate your time in Sofia with a farewell dinner at Happy Bar & Grill, a popular restaurant with a diverse menu and a lively atmosphere. Raise a glass to the adventures you've had and the new memories you've created in Bulgaria.