Breathtaking Bulgaria

Journey with RTT to Bulgaria, a nation where millennia of history and stunning landscapes meet, and where hospitality is a celebrated tradition. Bulgaria's past is a vibrant mosaic of ancient cultures. Explore the legacy of the Thracians, Romans, and Byzantines as you visit remarkable UNESCO World Heritage sites. Discover Plovdiv, one of Europe's most ancient cities, and the splendid Rila Monastery, a beacon of faith and artistic expression for centuries.

Day 1: Frankfurt - Bulgaria

An early morning flight takes us from Frankfurt to Sofia. We'll then travel to our centrally-located hotel in Plovdiv, which is just a short stroll from the heart of the ancient city, allowing you to settle in and begin exploring with ease.

Day 2: Plovdiv

Our day begins with a hearty breakfast at the hotel before we meet our expert local guide to explore Plovdiv, one of Europe’s oldest and most captivating settlements. We'll journey through millennia of history as we visit the remarkably preserved ancient Roman theater, the Odeon, and the stadium. Our tour continues with the beautiful Church of St. Constantine and Helena, the vibrant and artistic Kapana district, and the city's historic mosque.

After a short break for refreshments, our adventure takes us into the majestic Rhodope Mountains to a serene 11th-century monastery. Still active today, it guards a botanical marvel in its courtyard: a 300-year-old jujube tree. From the mountains, we'll descend into the fertile Thracian Lowlands, a region celebrated for its winemaking. At the Ustina Winery, a guided tour will unveil the secrets of local production, followed by a tasting of three delicious Bulgarian wines.

Upon returning to Plovdiv, the late afternoon and evening are yours to enjoy at your leisure. You might choose to explore the city's charming streets a bit more or find the perfect spot for a traditional Bulgarian dinner.

Day 3: Plovdiv – Valley of Roses - Sofia

After a hearty breakfast and check out, we delve into the fragrant world of the Bulgarian rose, a symbol of the nation and the source of its world-renowned rose oil. Our journey takes us to the famous Valley of Roses, just north of Plovdiv. At the fascinating 'House of Roses,' we will uncover the secrets behind the cultivation of the Damascena rose and the delicate process of oil extraction. The experience is heightened with a unique tasting of an artisanal rose product.

You'll have ample time to browse and shop for authentic rose products before we journey back in time to visit the Thracian tomb of Kazanlak. This remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site is celebrated for its perfectly preserved architecture and breathtaking murals.

Later, our journey continues to the nation's vibrant capital, Sofia. Upon arrival, we immerse ourselves in the city's dynamic atmosphere with a guided tour. We’ll explore highlights such as Sveti Nedelja Square, the ancient George Rotunda—the city's oldest church—and the magnificent Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, a 20th-century landmark and the second-largest Orthodox church on the Balkan Peninsula.

As the day winds down, we will check into our hotel. Tonight, our Bulgarian experience culminates in a special dinner accompanied by lively, traditional folklore entertainment.

Day 4: Sofia - Rila Monastery

After enjoying a hearty breakfast, we will embark on a breathtaking journey into the majestic Rila Mountains. Our destination is a place of profound beauty and spirituality: the legendary Rila Monastery. Nestled in a serene, forested valley, this UNESCO World Heritage site is the undisputed jewel of Bulgaria. Prepare to be captivated as you step into the sprawling monastery complex, a fortress of faith and art. You will marvel at the main church, where every inch of the interior is covered in vibrant, breathtaking frescoes and priceless icons that seem to glow with divine light. This is more than a visit; it's a soul-stirring encounter with centuries of devotion—a truly unforgettable experience.

Day 5: Free time in Sofia - Return

With hearts full of wonderful memories, today marks the conclusion of our enriching Bulgarian adventure. Before we bid farewell to this remarkable land, we've ensured ample time for you to enjoy some final souvenir shopping, allowing you to find the perfect mementos to remember your adventure by.