Bulgaria-2-day-itinerary

Bulgaria Travel Itinerary - 2 Days

Day 1: Sofia and Veliko Turnovo

Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM)

  • Sofia: Start your day by exploring the city’s historic center. Visit:
    • Alexander Nevsky Cathedral: A beautiful Orthodox church that is one of the largest in Bulgaria.
    • National Historical Museum: Learn about Bulgarian history and culture at this large museum.
  • Transfer to Veliko Turnovo (by car, bus, or train): From Sofia, travel north for approximately 3 hours. The best way to get there depends on your budget and preference.

Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM)

  • Veliko Turnovo: Explore the city known as the “City of Tsars.” Visit:
    • Tsarevets Fortress: A medieval fortress with historic significance, offering panoramic views.
    • Basilica of Saint Dimitar: An ancient church that dates back to the 12th century.

Evening (6:00 PM - 9:00 PM)

  • Enjoy Bulgarian cuisine in one of Veliko Turnovo’s traditional restaurants. Be sure to try some local dishes like shopska salad, banitsa, and shopska salad with chicken or beef.
  • Evening stroll: Walk along the Yantra River for a serene experience.

Day 2: Plovdiv

Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM)

  • Transfer to Plovdiv (by car, bus, or train): From Veliko Turnovo, travel south for approximately 4 hours.
  • Explore the old town of Plovdiv:
    • Old Town: Walk through cobblestone streets and explore the old buildings. Visit the Ethnographic Museum to learn about Bulgarian culture.

Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM)

  • Continue exploring Plovdiv’s historical center:
    • Church of The Assumption: A beautiful church with a unique architecture.
    • The Amphitheater: Ancient ruins that once hosted gladiator fights and other events.

Evening (6:00 PM - 9:00 PM)

  • Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants in Plovdiv. Be sure to try some local wine and desserts like baklava or crepe-style pancakes called “cheese pancake.”
  • Evening stroll: Explore the lively nightlife areas, perhaps ending your trip with a visit to a bar or club.

Things to Know:

  • Visa requirements: Depending on your nationality, you might need a visa. Check the official government website for the latest information.
  • Language: Bulgarian is the main language spoken in Bulgaria, but many people understand Russian and some English, especially among the younger population and those in the service industry.
  • Currency: The Bulgarian Lev (BGN) is the local currency, although euros are also widely accepted. Credit cards are commonly used in tourist areas.

Transportation:

  • Flights: Sofia Airport is a major hub with flights to Europe and other international destinations. You can fly into Sofia or Plovdiv for your trip.
  • Trains: Bulgaria has a decent train network. Trains are available from Sofia to Veliko Turnovo and then to Plovdiv, although this might not be the most efficient way depending on your time schedule.
  • Buses: A more affordable option is taking buses from one city to another. They cover most routes throughout the country.

Safety:

  • Bulgaria is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, as with any travel, take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
  • Be mindful of pickpocketing in crowded areas or tourist hotspots.

Enjoy your trip to Bulgaria!