Bulgaria in One Week: 3 Recommended One-week Itineraries to Bulgaria

One week in Bulgaria is enough time to explore the country’s diverse landscapes, from the sun-drenched Black Sea coast to the rugged Balkan Mountains, while also experiencing its vibrant cities and tranquil countryside. Check out our Bulgaria one-week itinerary suggestions below for more inspiration.

This one-week Bulgaria itinerary takes you through the most iconic sights around the country. Begin in Sofia, exploring its blend of Ottoman, Soviet, and modern architecture, including the National History Museum. The following day, we set out on the trip toward the Unesco-listed Rila Monastery, which is rich in colorful paintings and stunning mountains. Next, explore the Old Town and the ruins of the ancient Roman amphitheater of Plovdiv, the oldest city in Europe. Thracian Tombs provide a great overview of the history and lifestyle of the Thracians, while Veliko Tarnovo bears the impression of most of the Bulgarian medieval Tsarevets fortress. Relax at Nessebar Beach, a Unesco World Heritage site, before returning to Sofia for the final sightseeing tour of the city’s highlights, including Boyana Church, which is famous for its stunning frescoes of the 13th century.

Embark on a historical journey from Sofia to Veliko Tarnovo with this week-long Bulgaria itinerary. Start your journey in Sofia, exploring its rich history and vibrant culture. The next day, visit the Unesco-listed Boyana Church before traveling to Koprivshtitsa, a town that offers a glimpse into the Bulgarian National Revival period. In Kazanlak, discover the Valley of the Thracian Kings and its ancient tombs. Journey through the historic Shipka Pass next and visit the Etara Ethnographic Complex to experience traditional Bulgarian crafts. Spend two days in Veliko Tarnovo, exploring its medieval fortress and nearby historical villages. End your trip with a visit to the exquisite Troyan Monastery and travel back to Sofia for your flight back home or onward journey.

Experience Bulgaria's diverse landscapes and rich culture on this cycling adventure. Begin in Sofia with a short orientation ride to prepare for your journey. The next day, embark on a challenging ride through the Rhodope Mountains to reach Plovdiv. Spend a day exploring this ancient city by bike and visiting nearby wineries. Continue your journey through the fragrant Rose Valley to Kazanlak, home to Thracian tombs. Challenge yourself with a climb over the historic Shipka Pass to reach Gabrovo. Ride through picturesque villages to the medieval capital of Veliko Tarnovo. Conclude your cycling odyssey with a scenic ride back to Sofia.

Whether you're wandering through Unesco heritage sites, cycling through scenic landscapes, or exploring medieval towns, the above week-long itineraries offer a comprehensive taste of Bulgaria's rich heritage and stunning scenery. For more Bulgaria one-week itinerary ideas, consider going through our comprehensive Bulgaria travel guide, which also includes an article about the best time to visit Bulgaria.

Other related articles:
5 days in Bulgaria
Two weeks in Bulgaria