Bulgaria in 5 Days: 4 Recommended 5-day Itineraries to Bulgaria

With 5 days to spend in Bulgaria, you can cover most of the country's highlights, including the capital, Sofia, as a must.  Check out our Bulgaria 5-day itinerary ideas below for your trip to Bulgaria.

If you are traveling to Bulgaria for a much-needed winter break, then this itinerary is for you. Your itinerary starts with a quick Sofia tour before you transfer to Bansko, one of Bulgaria's premier ski resorts. Settle into your accommodation and prepare for an exciting ski adventure. On the second day, hit the slopes for a full day of skiing or snowboarding activities. Take a break from the slopes on the third day to explore Bansko's charming Old Town, with its cobblestone streets and traditional Bulgarian architecture, followed by a relaxing soak in nearby thermal springs. The fourth day offers a change of pace with a guided snowshoeing adventure in the beautiful Pirin National Park, where you'll discover untouched winter landscapes. Conclude your trip with a morning ski session before heading back to Sofia for your departure.

Indulge in Bulgaria's rich culinary and wine traditions with this five-day gastronomic journey. Start your trip in Sofia with a welcome dinner featuring local specialties paired with Bulgarian wines. Then, travel to Melnik, Bulgaria's smallest town and a renowned wine region, where you'll taste unique local varieties and participate in a traditional cooking class. Journey to Plovdiv next to explore its charming Old Town, before visiting nearby wineries to sample the region's finest vintages. Then, head to the famous Rose Valley to learn about rose oil production and the taste of rose-infused products, including the local rose liqueur. The fifth day is when you head back to Sofia with a gourmet farewell lunch, savoring the flavors of Bulgaria one last time before your departure.

Uncover Bulgaria's rich history with this itinerary. Start your journey in Sofia with a tour of the National Archaeological Museum, home to artifacts spanning millennia. Then, visit the UNESCO-listed Rila Monastery and marvel at its intricate frescoes, followed by the medieval Boyana Church. Travel to Tatul of Kardzhali Region to pay your visit to the tomb of Orpheus. Day four takes you to Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria's medieval capital, where you'll wander through its fortress and charming old town. Conclude your historical tour back in Sofia with a visit to the magnificent Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, a symbol of Bulgarian Orthodox Christianity, before your departure.

Experience the charm of Bulgaria's Black Sea coast with this five-day itinerary. Start in Varna, known as the ‘Sea Capital,’ by leisurely walking through its famous sea garden. On the second day, visit the ancient city of Nessebar, exploring its Unesco-listed Old Town, filled with Byzantine churches and wooden houses. Spend the third day relaxing on the beautiful Golden Sands beach, followed by a visit to the mysterious rock-hewn Aladzha Monastery. Journey to Balchik on the fourth day to admire its stunning botanical gardens and the eclectic Balchik Palace, once a summer residence of the Romanian Queen Marie. Your coastal adventure in Bulgaria ends with a tour of Varna's impressive Roman baths.

From winter sports in Bansko to wine tasting in Melnik, from ancient Thracian tombs to Black Sea beaches, our top four itineraries offer a comprehensive taste of Bulgaria's rich culture, history, and natural beauty—all in just five days. For more Bulgaria 5-day itinerary plans, read our comprehensive Bulgaria travel guide. Also, go through our article on the best time to visit Bulgaria to plan your trip during the month that best suits your preferences and interests.

More information:
One week in Bulgaria
Two weeks in Bulgaria