Highlights of Bulgaria

Highlights of Bulgaria

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6 Days From

$1417

Highlights of Bulgaria

6 Days Starting and ending in Sofia, Bulgaria

Visiting: Sofia, Kazanlak, Plovdiv, Rila Monastery

Tour operator:

Indus Travels

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 6

Physical rating:

EASY

Tour operated in:

English

Activities:

Sightseeing, Walking

From: $1417

NB: Prices correct on 18-Dec-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Discover the rich tapestry of Bulgaria on this captivating tour, starting in the vibrant capital of Sofia with its blend of ancient history and modern charm. Journey to Veliko Tarnovo to explore the majestic Tsarevets Hill and its historical narratives. Experience the living history at Etara Open-Air Museum and marvel at the UNESCO-listed Thracian Tomb replica in Kazanlak. Wander through Plovdiv's Old Town, where 19th-century houses and Roman ruins await. Finally, immerse yourself in the spiritual serenity of the UNESCO-designated Rila Monastery. This tour includes five nights of accommodation, daily buffet breakfasts, transportation, airport transfers, and the expertise of a professional English-speaking driver-guide.

Highlights

  • Explore Sofia's blend of ancient history and modern vibrancy, from the majestic Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

  • Visit Veliko Tarnovo Castle on Tsarevets Hill, offering breathtaking views and stirring historical narratives

  • Discover the UNESCO-listed Thracian Tomb replica in Kazanlak and uncover ancient civilizations

  • Stroll around Plovdiv's Old Town, where 19th-century houses and iconic Roman ruins await you

  • Immerse yourself in the living history at Etara Open-Air Museum, where age-old crafts come to life

  • Reveal the profound spiritual importance embodied in Bulgaria's UNESCO-designated Rila Monastery

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Sofia (Arrival)

Location: Sofia

Accommodation Name: hotel

Upon arrival in Sofias capital city of Bulgaria today you will be met by our company representative and transferred to your hotel.




Overnight in Sofia

Day 2: Sofia - Veliko Tarnovo (B/-/-)

Location: Sofia

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast at the Hotel, meet your tour guide for a panoramic tour around the Bulgarian capital (an 8500-year-old city!) and visit the most interesting historical sights: Alexander Nevski Cathedral, the St. Sofia Church, which gave the name of the city, and the historical and cultural centre of the capital. Departure to beautiful city Veliko Tarnovo the capital of the Second Bulgarian Kingdom. Free time for an orientation tour around the city.




Overnight in Veliko Tarnovo

Day 3: Veliko Tarnovo – Etara – Kazanlak (B/-/-)

Location: Kazanlak

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Following an early morning breakfast, prepare for a panoramic tour of Veliko Tarnovo with a visit to the historical hill Tsarevets with the Fortress, the Patriarchal church and Emperor Baldwins Tower. You will also have a walk along the old Trade Street – “Samovodska charshia”. Departure to Etara - a unique open-air museum, recreating the way of life of the Bulgarians in the 19th C. It is a great attraction for tourists, one of the most visited places in the country. Set off to Kazanlak - the capital of the Rose Valley. Visit the Historical Museum, which houses a collection of bronze and gold treasures and the replica of the Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak, dating back to the 4th Century B.C. It is listed in the World Natural and Historical Heritage of UNESCO.




Overnight in Kazanlak

Day 4: Kazanlak – Plovdiv (B/-/-)

Location: Plovdiv

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, prepare to explore the Valley of Roses with a visit to a small village. Here we will discover a family-run rose oil distillery. The hosts will show us how the famous Bulgarian rose oil (used in perfumery) is produced. Departure to Plovdiv the “City of the seven hills. Plovdiv is the oldest city in Europe still in existence today. It was called Philippopolis in the 4th century B.C. after King Philip II of Macedonia. Today Plovdiv is the cultural centre of Bulgaria and was deservedly selected as the European Capital of Culture for 2019. Walking tour of the Old Town, which impresses with the houses-museums from the Revival period. The Ethnographical museum, the Ancient Theatre, the Fortress walls, the oldest church in the city “St.  Constantine and Helena” and many more are there to capture your imagination. We will see the Muslim temple Dzhoumaya Mosque and the Roman Stadium on the main street of Plovdiv.




Overnight in Plovdiv

Day 5: Plovdiv – Rila Monastery – Sofia (B/-/-)

Location: Rila Monastery

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, take off to the Rila monastery. Founded in the X century, it was the biggest Bulgarian medieval spiritual centre with rich collections of icons, wall paintings and old-printed books some 15,000 volumes. Guided tour around the monastery. The monastery is a UNESCO monument and it is situated on the highest mountain in the Balkans – Rila with its top peak “Moussala” standing at 2925 metres above sea level. In the afternoon you will return to Sofia.




Overnight in Sofia

Day 6: Sofia (Departure) - Usa/ Canada (B/-/-)

Location: Sofia

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. At the scheduled time, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight.

What's Included

  • 05 nights accommodation on a twin-sharing basis at listed hotels or similar

    Enjoy comfortable accommodation for 5 nights on a twin-sharing basis at the listed hotels or similar.

  • Daily buffet breakfasts at the hotel

    Start your day with a delicious buffet breakfast at the hotel each morning.

  • Transportation as per the itinerary

    Travel conveniently with transportation provided as per the itinerary.

  • Arrival and departure airport transfers

    Benefit from hassle-free arrival and departure airport transfers.

  • Services of a professional, English-speaking driver-guide

    Enjoy the services of a professional, English-speaking driver-guide throughout the tour.

  • Sightseeing as per the itinerary

    Experience guided sightseeing tours as outlined in the itinerary.

  • All applicable local taxes

    All applicable local taxes are included in the tour package.

What's Not Included

  • Items of a personal nature, tips & gratuities

    Personal expenses, tips, and gratuities are not included.

  • Visa application and fees

    Visa application and associated fees are not covered.

  • Optional Tours

    Optional tours and activities are not included in the package.

  • Items not mentioned as being included

    Any items not specifically mentioned as included are excluded from the package.

Mode of Transport

Transportation is provided as per the itinerary, including arrival and departure airport transfers, ensuring a smooth and convenient travel experience.

Accommodation

Enjoy 5 nights of comfortable accommodation on a twin-sharing basis at listed hotels or similar, ensuring a restful stay throughout your journey.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour includes 5 nights of accommodation on a twin-sharing basis at listed hotels or similar.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    Daily buffet breakfasts at the hotel are included in the tour package.

  • Is transportation provided during the tour?

    Yes, transportation as per the itinerary is included in the tour package.

  • Are airport transfers included in the tour package?

    Yes, arrival and departure airport transfers are included.

  • Will there be a guide during the tour?

    Yes, the services of a professional, English-speaking driver-guide are included.

  • What kind of sightseeing is included in the tour?

    Sightseeing as per the itinerary is included in the tour package.

  • Are there any additional costs not covered by the tour package?

    Items of a personal nature, tips & gratuities, visa application and fees, optional tours, and items not mentioned as being included are not covered by the tour package.

  • What historical sites will be visited in Sofia?

    In Sofia, you will visit Alexander Nevski Cathedral, the St. Sofia Church, and the historical and cultural center of the capital.

  • What can I expect to see in Veliko Tarnovo?

    In Veliko Tarnovo, you will visit the historical hill Tsarevets with the Fortress, the Patriarchal church, and Emperor Baldwin's Tower. You will also walk along the old Trade Street 'Samovodska charshia'.

  • What is special about the Etara Open-Air Museum?

    The Etara Open-Air Museum is a unique attraction that recreates the way of life of Bulgarians in the 19th century and is one of the most visited places in the country.

  • What will I see in Kazanlak?

    In Kazanlak, you will visit the Historical Museum, which houses a collection of bronze and gold treasures, and the replica of the Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

  • What are the highlights of Plovdiv?

    In Plovdiv, you will explore the Old Town with its houses-museums from the Revival period, the Ethnographical Museum, the Ancient Theatre, the Fortress walls, the oldest church in the city 'St. Constantine and Helena', the Dzhoumaya Mosque, and the Roman Stadium.

  • What is significant about the Rila Monastery?

    The Rila Monastery, founded in the 10th century, was the biggest Bulgarian medieval spiritual center and is a UNESCO monument. It is situated on the highest mountain in the Balkans, Rila.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    Yes, but only in case it was previously agreed by both sides and arranged by us.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Our e-document package includes all local contact details, daily itinerary, airline e-ticket information, service vouchers, and travel tips which should be everything you require to go on your trip.

  • If I need one, who is responsible to obtain my visa?

    You are responsible for obtaining the proper travel documents for the destinations on your itinerary, including having a passport that is valid for at least 6 months before the date of departure and a visa if required. Please check the Visa section in the Know Before You Go document for the countries you will be visiting.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    No, not as standard. Solo travellers can book and occupy their own room for a supplement.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    We have been organizing unforgettable trips since 2001.

  • Can I arrange flights via Indus Travels, too?

    In some cases, yes. Indus Travels can provide flights from/to selected departure points in the USA. If you would like a quote inclusive of flights, please let us know and we'll be happy to check the details for you!

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    Changes to an existing reservation up to the Final Payment Date, whatever the cause, will incur a $100 per person amendment fee, potential loss of any supplier fees (such as non-refundable event tickets, park permits, and sea cruise reservations) plus any costs for replacement services. On/ after the Final Payment Date, the $100 change fee is no longer valid, instead cancellations terms apply.

Reviews of this operator

Terry Kratz (Google Reviewer)  

Thanks to Indus and Nicko...

13-Sep-2024

Thanks to Indus and Nicko Cruise for a great trip down the Danube. I had not been on a river cruise prior to this and found it a very relaxing way to travel and see some European highlights. The ship was superb. The staff served great meals, were friendly and accommodating. As far as the tours and city visits, they all gave us a reasonable amount of time and insight into the location we were visiting to come away with a sense that we had a good glimpse of the city and were able to spend some free time in the city as well. A special thanks to Dhruv our fearless leader from Indus who was a great organizer. Lastly - nice to meet all of you in our group. terry

Joyce Elyse Baumbach  

The tour organized by Indus Travels ...

16-Dec-2022

The tour organized by Indus Travels was flawless. Hotels, tours, and transportation all impressed me. We had a very relaxing time knowing what was happening at each stage. The scenery and activities were fantastic and did not disappoint. The highlight of the trip was definitely Galapagos Islands.

Indus Travel Reviews
Sirjirick Gibson (Google Reviewer)  

This is my fourth Indus...

20-Aug-2024

This is my fourth Indus trip coming up. I love the way the app works. I love the way the trips are organized and small groupings. I love the accommodations. I love the transportation it’s just top-notch service for individual traveler. I just completed my fourth trip with This and I have already signed up for my up-and-coming fifth trip with Indus travel. Once again, I have to say the service of this is absolutely top-notch service. I am so grateful to have this opportunity to travel and style and comfort. The organization of this is top-notch service from start to finish.. I have to say this sales management and associate team is absolutely amazing which basically allows me to continuously book my trips through end this. My travel life is to travel to as many countries as possible, and it will all be done through excellent job. I would like to give a special thanks to Rachel P. And Ravi., I have been involved with Rachel for the past five years and I will continue to travel within due to the fact that she makes this such a pleasant experience. Great job to her..

Neeraj Nauhwaar (Google Reviewer)  

Booked Mystical Egypt tour with...

07-Dec-2023

Booked Mystical Egypt tour with them visiting Cairo and a 03 Nights Cruise from Luxor to Aswan in May. All services were perfect since the time we arrived at the airport, we were met by a hospitable Indus Representative who helped us with the purchase of local SIM and currency exchange. He was always there in time to assist for transfers. The Amwaj Cruise which we took from Luxor to Aswan was a Gem. We had great guides and all sightseeing worked like a clockwork. We enjoyed visiting Karnak Temples, Temples of Edfu, Kom Ombo and the boat ride to see Phillae Temple. Evening entertainment on cruise were great and engaging. In Cairo and Aswan, we had ample leisure time to explore on own, the Pyramids were impressive and visiting Khan e Khalili was fun. Overall and impressive and enjoyable tour, Thanks to Indus Travels!

Dhruv R (Google Reviewer)  

Recently went on a Rhine...

09-Jun-2023

Recently went on a Rhine River Cruise, a first for me. I must say the experience was exceptional, their tagline says. The group I was with were some of the most fun and interesting set of people I've ever traveled with. The ground transportation arrangements were top notch and comfortable. Variety in menu that we were provided with in the cruise was astounding. I was a bit worried if they'd have much options for me as I'm a vegetarian. But they not only had options, the taste was something I'd savor for foreseeable future. There's a reason Rhine cruises are popular owing to it's serene and picturesque route. Guided tours were very informative and gave us a bit of an insight of German culture. We had good amount of time to explore the towns on our own too. Strasbourg and Cochem were my favorite stops. Luckily the weather worked in our favour and it didn't rain the way it was predicted originally. No one from our group wanted the tour to end. If this trip was any indication, I can't wait to book my next trip with Indus Travels.

Dennis V (Google Reviewer)  

My wife and I travelled...

02-Jul-2024

My wife and I travelled with Indus on the essentials Portugal Spain Switzerland and Italy tour last October and had the time of our lives. The tour was very well planned we visited a lot of the highlights the countries had to offer. The tour went very smoothly with knowledgeable guides and courteous drivers. We would highly recommend travelling with Indus.

Gloria Parra (Google Reviewer)  

Indus Travel runs a highly...

04-Mar-2024

Indus Travel runs a highly professional organization. From customer service to brochures, bookings, tour guides, etc. and the consideration for their customers is superb. This was the first time I had travelled with Indus Travels. We took the Taste of Portugal Tour. Group numbers are small, accommodation comfortable and food excellent. The expert guide who accompanied us was outstanding - passionate, informative, engaging, and entertaining. This company is obviously at the heart of the itinerary planning, and attention to detail is second to none. I would highly recommend this company to anyone wanting a fun, relaxed, educational vacation with fine food - they will deliver! We will never forget this trip and we are already planning for another one to Wonders of Italy, Vienna, Budapest, and Prague.

Olivia  

Best of Italy

16-Nov-2022

Indus Travels did an excellent job planning the trip to Italy. We were on Best of Italy in Oct 2022. The tour was 5 stars all the way. The hotel accommodations were comfortable and clean & guides were top-notch.

Indus Travel Reviews
Kim Eisnor (Google Reviewer)  

We had an absolutely amazing...

12-Sep-2024

We had an absolutely amazing experience on our first ever river boat cruise. The itinerary and ports were incredible, the ship was beautiful, the food was great (especially Mario’s Grill), the excursions were excellent and the staff was lovely. We had such a memorable trip with our group and made lots of memories that will last a lifetime.

DJWalter Capote (Google Reviewer)  

We were looking for a...

07-Oct-2023

We were looking for a customized, small group tour. We took a chance on Indus without knowing much about the company. We just returned from our trip to Greece and are more than highly please and satisfied with our experience. They planned an amazing itinerary, booked amazing hotels, hired knowledgeable tour guides and arranged high quality transportation services. Everyone went above and beyond to please us. We are already planning a trip for next year (2024) and will definitely use Indus to do so.

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Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Indus Travels requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 45 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of indus travels charges.

    Up to 75 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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