Prestige Holidays Discover Bulgaria

Take in the serenity of the surroundings of Rila Monastery
Wine tasting in Melnik, reputed to be Winston Churchill’s favourite vintage
Enjoy stunning landscapes and an introduction to traditional lifestyles in the Rhodope mountains
Enter the tomb of a Thracian noble with excitement and trepidation
Marvel at the wonder that is Plovdiv’s ancient Roman theatre

Return British Airways flights from London Heathrow to Sofia
7 nights’ accommodation in good standard hotels
Daily breakfast, six lunches and five evening meals
All excursions and entrance fees
All overseas transport with English-speaking guides
Escorted throughout by a Prestige Holidays Tour Manager

Day 1 Sofia

Arrival. Explore the numerous attractions of one of Europe’s most historic cities, Sofia. A plethora of churches is ready for a discerning eye to appreciate some truly unique architecture, including the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.

Overnight: Sofia

Day 2 Rila Monastery – Sandanski

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Rila Monastery. Continue to the foot of the Pirin Mountains, where only 20km from the Greek border is the smart resort town of Sandanski.

Overnight: Sandanski

Day 3 Melnik

Transfer to Melnik, Bulgaria’s smallest city. Visit the nearby Rozhen monastery, followed by a wine tasting. Proceed to Bankso to walk around
its old quarter.

Overnight: Bansko

Day 4 Dobarsko – Belitza 

Visit the village of Dobarsko, famous for its 17th century church and noted for the abundance of original frescoes, some of which are interpreted as portraying Jesus in a rocket! In the afternoon, take the narrow-gorge railway to Belitza and enjoy a scenic journey through mountainous terrain. At Belitza, visit a conservation park for rescued bears, the largest sanctuary of its type in Europe.

Overnight: Bansko

Day 5 Leshten – Kovachevitsa – Devin

Today’s journey passes through the villages of Leshten and Kovachevitsa. Continue along the picturesque route over the Rhodope Mountains before reaching one of its most famous landmarks, the Yagodinska cave, about 10km long with labyrinths and abysses inside.

Overnight: Devin

Day 6 Shiroka Laka- Plovdiv

Continue your exploration of the mysterious Rhodope Mountains with a visit to Devil’s Throats cave, rumoured in myth to be where Orpheus descended into the underworld in search of his beloved Euredice. Continue visit Shiroka Laka and the magnificent Bachkovo monastery.

Overnight: Plovdiv

Day 7 Plovdiv

Visit Plovdiv, designated to be the European Capital of Culture for 2019. Enjoy a comprehensive tour of the city and bask in the atmosphere of the enchanting Roman theatre.

Overnight: Plovdiv

Day 8 Departure.

Please note, prices listed are guide prices only and are based on 2 people sharing and don’t include any additional supplements. Holiday prices are fluid and dynamic and may be changed at a moment’s notice, prior to booking, at which point they are confirmed. Please call the team free on 0800 707 6229 for more departure dates available and a quote.