The Heart of Bulgaria Tour

Duration: 6 Days / 5 Nights

The Heart of Bulgaria Tour is a fantastic way to introduce yourself to this majestic country. This 6 day tour of Bulgaria covers all of the major Bulgarian iconic sightseeing attractions as well as treating you to some of Bulgaria’s hidden treasures. This tour is available for couples, small groups of friends or ready made larger groups and is guaranteed to give you a Bulgaria holiday to be treasured for a long time afterwards.

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Day 1:   ARRIVAL IN SOFIA

Arrival in Sofia. Our guide will meet the group at Sofia Airport and transfer you to the “Serdica” hotel * * * for check in. Afternoon at leisure. Overnight Sofia – Half board basis.

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Day 2:   SOFIA – RILA MONATSERY – SANDANSKI

After breakfast you will be transferred to the town of Sandanski. On the way we will stop at the wonderful Rila Monastery, picturesquely located in the heart of the Rila Mountains. It is the most famous monument of Bulgarian culture from the National Revival period. After a visit of the monastery complex and museum we proceed to the wine cellar Damianitza near the town of Sandanski. Damianitza is located in the western region of Bulgaria, where the famous Melnik red and white wine is produced. A visit to the vineyards in the Melnik region and the oldest underground cellar, dug straight into the sandstone is included. Enjoy a typical lunch at a traditionally styled Melnik house. Accommodation at Inter Hotel “Sandanski”. Dinner and overnight.

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Day 3:   SANDANSKI – BRESTOVITZA – PLOVDIV

Breakfast. Transfer to the Brestovitza winery near Plovdiv (15 km). Here you will spend unforgettable moments close to nature; surrounded by genuine red wines. In the unique atmosphere of the wine tasting hall you are offered wine tasting with appropriate appetizers; and a tour around the cellar accompanied by a professional lecturer. They will talk about the varietals; myths and legends; wine producing technologies and methods of wine storage. The cellar is specialized in producing selected red wines in boutique series – merlot”, “Mavrud” and “Cabernet Sauvignon”. Lunch and folklore program at cellar’s tavern followed by a transfer to the ancient town of Plovdiv. Dinner and overnight at ‘Bulgaria’ * * * hotel.

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Day 4:   PLOVDIV – BACHKOVO MONASTERY – ASENOVA FORTRESS – PLOVDIV

Breakfast. Guided tour of the Old town of Plovdiv – a reserve of Bulgarian National Revival architecture (19-th century). You will visit the Ethnographical museum and Roman amphitheatre. The tour proceeds to the Asenova Fortress and Bachkovo Monastery - the second largest in Bulgaria – a masterpiece of architecture, murals and icons. It is located in a green cool river valley in Rhodopi Mountains. Lunch at local restaurant. Back to the town of Plovdiv. Free afternoon at leisure. Dinner and overnight at “Bulgaria” hotel * * *.

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Day 5:   PLOVDIV – SOFIA

Breakfast. Departure to the Museum town of Koprivshtitsa - one of the most unique Bulgarian towns with its original architectural heritage rising from the Bulgarian Revival period. Walking tour of Koprivshtitsa Museum Town. Lunch at local restaurant. Transfer to Sofia and accommodation at the hotel. Dinner at specialized enoteca restaurant - an excellent selection of wine and Bulgarian cuisine.

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Day 6:   SOFIA CITY TOUR – DEPARTURE

Breakfast. Half day sightseeing tour of Sofia with visits of The Crypt of St. Alexander Nevski Cathedral, the National museum of history and Boyana Church, dated 1259, known for its 13th century murals, famous for their exceptional realism. The church is one of the seven Bulgarian sites under UNESCO protection. In the afternoon transfer to the Sofia Airport for flight home.

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Price includes:

International Flights
Accommodation in double room – 3 star hotel
Breakfast
Evening Meals
Ground transport by luxury air-conditioned coach or car
Enter fees according to the program
English Speaking guide assistance throughout the itinerary
All local taxes
Wine tasting in Damianitza wine cellar
Wine tasting in Brestovitsa wine cellar & folklore show

This tour is subject to availability and is governed by Vamos Travel Terms & Conditions

“Serdica” hotel 3* - located in the heart of the city. There are 110 single and double rooms, 11 business rooms and 10 apartments in the Hotel, all equipped with a mini-bar, phone and cable TV. The guests of the Hotel can make use of the Conference hall with 65 places, another 3 Halls with 30 places and Business center. All halls are air-conditioned and offer Internet access.

Accommodation in Sandanski:

Inter Hotel “Sandanski” 4* - The Interhotel Sandanski, perched like a white bird amidst green hills, is visible from all parts of the town. The main street leads up to it, and the town park, boasting many rare plant species, starts from it. The four-star Sandanski Hotel is one of the country's largest balneotherapy centers. It offers 285 double rooms, 8 small suites and 3 deluxe suites. All rooms offers overlooking the town or park; modern furnishings; special flooring; bathrooms with tubs; hairdryer; SAT TV; radio; telephone; refrigerator; Room service; Balcony.

Accommodation in Plovdiv:

“Bulgaria” hotel 3* - Located in the center of the town, on the pedestrian street & shopping area. The hotel offers 49 standard and 13 luxury rooms, viewing the City Center and the beautiful Amphitheater in the Old Town. The hotel offers 2 types of rooms, standard and luxury. All of them are air-conditioned. Rooms facilities include: - air-condition; - TV set with cable/satellite programs; - mini-bar; - telephone with direct dialing; - bath or shower; The hotel facilities of this fine hotel include the following: - air-condition; - lift; - safe deposit boxes; - room service; - laundry and dry cleaning; - lobby bar; - restaurant; - private party catering; - business-meeting room; - secure parking lot; - casino.