Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Two Weeks
Along the Danube to the Sea
From Sofia, head north by bus to the little town of
Vratsa
, where you can spend a couple
of days walking in the mountains or visiting the interesting museums. From here, travel
by bus to
Pleven
where you can pick up another bus to
Ruse
, for your first glimpse of the
mighty Danube. One of Bulgaria's most elegant and appealing cities, Ruse is known for
its grand Viennese-style architecture and boasts several diverting museums, extensive
parkland and a lively cafe scene.
Spend three or four days in Ruse, taking a day trip south of the city to the
Rusenski
Lom Nature Park
to visit the remarkable rock churches and caves, and maybe spot some
of the rare local wildlife.
From Ruse head eastwards to
Silistra
, a quiet town on the Danube, for a relaxing day
or two before continuing to the Black Sea coast at
Varna
. You could easily spend several
days in Bulgaria's 'maritime capital'. Relax on the long, sandy city beach, enjoy a show
or concert at one of the city's many cultural venues, or go clubbing along the vibrant
seafront.
Three Weeks
Southern & Central Bulgaria
From Sofia, catch a bus south to tranquil
Melnik
, famous for its wine, chalky 'pyramids'
and National Revival- era mansions. Soak up the sunshine for a couple of days and visit
historic
Rozhen Monastery
nearby. Continue by bus to
Bansko
, for two or three days of
summer hikes or winter skiing.
From Bansko, take the train as it meanders on a narrow-gauge rail through mountainous
forests before reaching Septemvri, on the main line to
Plovdiv
; this city boasts a sublime
old town with clustered, classic architecture, ancient sites, art galleries and cafes - it de-
serves three or four days, especially if you'll also visit nearby
Bachkovo Monastery
.
Head north to
Hisar
, famous since antiquity for its healing waters.
Continue to quiet
Karlovo
for more traditional ambience before visiting
Kazanlâk
,
famous for its ancient Thracian Tomb. Cross the mountains at the gorgeous
Shipka Pass
,
stopping first in
Shipka
village, to see its gleaming, golden onion-domed church. Finally,
unwind for a few days in
Veliko Târnovo
, Bulgaria's medieval capital. In the shadow of
its impressive fortress, this university city offers elegant eating and vivacious nightlife.
