What flights do you recommend?

The flights below are the suggested flights. You are more than welcome to book different flights from wherever is most convenient for you in the UK. If you wish to join the group from a different flight you will need to arrange a transfer to the hotel. You need to book your own flights. Below is the flight that Emma will be taking. Suggested flights are with Wizz Air and are as follows: Outbound (Direct) 03/10/2025 Depart London Luton 08.25 Arrive Sofia 13.35 Flight Number W64302 Inbound (Direct) 06/10/25 Depart Sofia 19.15 Arrive London Luton 20.40 Flight Number W64305

4 Days in Sofia. Bulgaria's Capital City with 2 full Day Tours & Folklore Show

No Fixed Departure Available!

Bulgaria’s capital is a captivating blend of vibrant culture, rich history and contemporary urban charm. Think ancient ruins and stunning Orthodox churches alongside contemporary street art. Lively markets and tranquil parks. Combine that with fantastic restaurants that serve up traditional Bulgarian fare and we have the perfect Travel Buddies Mini break.

Visit two of Bulgaria’s most important UNESCO World Heritage sites, the Rila Monastery and Boyana Church.
Enjoy a folklore evening with dancing
Spend a day in Plovdiv, Bulgaria’s ancient capital city and visit the Roman Amphitheatre

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

Dates

FAQs

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

Dates

FAQs

Bulgaria’s buzzing capital is where ancient history meets cool city vibes — think Roman ruins hidden beneath bustling streets, gold-domed Orthodox churches next to edgy street art, and lively markets opening onto peaceful green parks. Spend your days wandering pretty boulevards, tasting mouthwatering local dishes in cosy taverns, and soaking up Sofia’s warm, friendly energy. With Travel Buddies, it’s the perfect mini break packed with culture, fun and unforgettable memories!

Trip Highlights

Visit two of Bulgaria's most important UNESCO World Heritage sites, the Rila Monastery and Boyana Church.
Enjoy a folklore evening with dancing
Spend a day in Plovdiv, Bulgaria’s ancient capital city and visit the Roman Amphitheatre

Day 01 :

Friday 3 October

After meeting at the airport we will take our flight to Sofia where upon landing we take our private transfer to our hotel. We will be staying at the 3* AMAR Design Hotel.

The hotel has air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi. Each includes a private bathroom with hairdryer and bath or shower. Breakfast is included each morning.

A guest room at the Amar Design Hotel Sofia, Bulgaria.

Breakfast buffet at the Amar Design Hotel Sofia, Bulgaria.

Upon arrival we will take our private transfer to the hotel where we will be able to check in and have a little free time before taking the short walk to enjoy a walking tour of the city highlights which will last around 2 hours. Sights include the ruins of the Roman-era east gate, the 4th-century Rotunda of St. George, the Byzantine St. Sofia Basilica, the Ivan Vazov National Theater, and the Cathedral Saint Alexander Nevsky.

Sofia Bulgaria sightseeing Boyana Church.

Dinner will be at “Chevermeto” a wonderful traditional restaurant where we can enjoy a traditional folklore show with dancing and singing! There is an extensive menu with so many delicious meals to choose from. (Transfers to the restaurant are included but dinner is at our own cost).

Dancing at a restaurant in Sofia, Bulgaria.

The Travel Buddies trips work on the basis that as long as you are having a good time then that is what matters, if you don’t feel like coming on one of the excursions or joining the rest of the group for dinner one evening then that is absolutely fine. This is an adventure for everyone and there is nothing worse than having to go somewhere/do something that you don’t really fancy!

Day 02 :

Saturday 4 October

The Rila Monastery and Boyana Church are two of Bulgaria’s most important UNESCO World Heritage sites. We will experience them both today on a full day guided tour. First, check out the frescoes in the Boyana Church and then next head to the Rila Monastery for a short guided tour followed by free time. Please note: entrance fees are at our own expense and are approx 10 Euros in total.

Dinner locally.

Day 03 :

Sunday 5 October

Today we have a whole day to explore the wonderful city of Sofia at our leisure.
Here are some of the unmissable sights….

There’s no shortage of artsy things to see and do in Sofia, if that’s more your bag. There are sculptures and statues in the Museum of Socialist Art, and heaps of portraits in the National Art Gallery. Plus, if you’re a fan of off-the-beaten-track spots, check out the Hadzhi Dimitar neighbourhood – its grey apartment buildings are brought to life by modern multi-coloured murals.

Day 04 :

Monday 6 October

It’s an early start today as we make the absolute most of our last day. After checking out we leave the hotel with our luggage and head to Plovdiv for a full day tour.

As one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, cosmopolitan Plovdiv is packed with fascinating Thracian, Roman, Slav, Turkish and Bulgarian history. With our guide, enjoy a 2.5-hour walking tour on the cobbled narrow paths in the Old Town of Plovdiv. After the guided tour of the Old Town, we will have about an hour and a half to further independently explore the attractions of the city centre. We can have lunch (at our own expense) or go shopping on “Glavnata”- the longest pedestrian street in Europe.

Wander in the Kapana neighbourhood – a place with a bohemian vibe, chic bars and beautiful graffiti.

The region of Plovdiv is famous for its wine production and in Kapana we will find options to sample some of the local red or white wines.

Next we will explore the well-preserved Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis (local fee 4 BGN cash), a stunning Roman amphitheater in Plovdiv offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into Bulgaria’s rich history. The entry is optional and is around 4 Euros.