TRAVELHOUSE TRIP №1
PLOVDIV AND BACHKOVO MONASTERY – A FULL – DAY TOUR FROM SOFIA
and Arbanasi
Route: Sofia – PLOVDIV AND BACHKOVO MONASTERY – Sofia
HIGHLIGHTS:
9 am Pick-up from Sofia: Start the journey from your hotel or a central meeting point.
11 am – arrival at Bachkovo Monastery (a 2-hour drive).
Founded in the 11th century, second-largest in Bulgaria.
Visit the Refectory and the small chapel of St. Nicolas (since 1834);
12.30 pm Drive to Plovdiv: (1/2 hrs.)
At arrival enjoy traditional Bulgarian cuisine during your frеe time;
After the break discover the Roman ruins along the central pedestrian street;
Explore the Old Town – a blend of 19th-century Bulgarian Revival houses and Roman ruins.
Sites of interest:
Ethnographic Museum or another house-museum depending on the day of the week; Roman Theatre; Church of St. Constantine and Helena;
5:30pm Return to Sofia: Relax and reflect on the day’s experiences.
Price from: 150 €
Transport
By car or van
Small group / Private tour
7-8 people
Duration
9 hours
What’s included:
Transport, guide-driver, entrance fees;
What’s not included:
Meals, personal expenditure costs;
More information about the tour
A Journey through Bulgaria’s Ancient and Modern Wonders
Dear visitors to Bulgaria,
Even if your time in Sofia is limited, this one-day tour offers an exceptional glimpse of Bulgaria’s picturesque countryside and rich history. In just a few hours, you’ll experience the spiritual tranquility of Bachkovo Monastery and explore the historical charm of Plovdiv, the second-largest city in Bulgaria. This tour offers a perfect blend of nature, history, and culture, all within a comfortable two-hour drive from Sofia.
For approximately 9 hours, you’ll discover Bulgaria’s historical landmarks, enjoy traditional Bulgarian meals, and create lasting memories of your visit to this fascinating country.
Itinerary:
- Pick-up from your hotel or chosen meeting point in Sofia: I will meet you at your hotel or any central location, ready to start our day of exploration.
- Drive to Bachkovo Monastery: We’ll travel through the scenic Thracian Plain, reaching the renowned Bachkovo Monastery after a two-hour drive. Founded in the 11th century, this is Bulgaria’s second-largest and one of the most significant monasteries. I recommend a visit to the Refectory (dining room), where for a small entrance fee of 8 BGN, you can also explore the small chapel of St. Nicholas the Miracle Worker, renowned for its peaceful atmosphere.
- Visit to Plovdiv: After our time at the monastery, we’ll head to Plovdiv, where the charm of both the Old Town and the vibrant city center awaits. Plovdiv’s Old Town is a remarkable blend of Bulgarian Revival architecture and Roman influence. Here, you’ll wander through cobblestone streets, admire the well-preserved houses from the mid-19th century, and feel the essence of Bulgaria’s rich history.
- Lunch in Plovdiv: Enjoy a delicious traditional Bulgarian meal at a cozy local restaurant in the heart of the city. Experience typical Bulgarian cuisine in an authentic setting that captures the essence of our culinary culture.
- Sightseeing in Plovdiv: After lunch, we’ll dive deeper into the city’s history. A visit to the Ethnographic Museum or another local house-museum is highly recommended to gain insight into Bulgaria’s cultural heritage. We’ll also explore the Roman Theatre, dating back to the 1st century, and the stunning Church of St. Constantine and Helena.
- Return to Sofia: After an enriching day, we’ll head back to Sofia, reminiscing about the beautiful sights, sounds, and tastes we’ve experienced.
This one-day tour is a perfect introduction to the richness of Bulgaria’s history, culture, and traditions, offering a harmonious balance of spiritual sites, historical landmarks, and authentic Bulgarian experiences.