Taste of Bulgaria

Main Destination Bulgaria

Taste of Bulgaria

The Land of Roses and Thracian Kings

This journey offers an immersive exploration of Bulgaria’s rich historical and cultural tapestry, blending stunning landscapes, ancient sites, and authentic local experiences.

The adventure begins in Sofia, the vibrant capital, where visitors get acquainted with the city's prominent landmarks and historical treasures, including the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and the Roman ruins of Serdica. The journey then leads to the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Boyana Church and Rila Monastery, showcasing Bulgaria’s deep religious and artistic heritage.

Traveling south, participants explore Melnik, Bulgaria's smallest town, renowned for its distinctive wine and picturesque vineyards. Here, guests enjoy a unique wine tasting experience and delve into local traditions at the luxurious Zornitsa Family Estate, the only Relais & Chateaux property in the country.

The trip continues through the charming Dobarsko Village, where visitors are introduced to traditional Bulgarian folklore and crafts. In Plovdiv, the itinerary covers the city's Roman mosaics and ancient architecture, with ample time to explore its vibrant Old Town.

Another highlight of the journey is the exploration of Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria’s medieval capital, where visitors marvel at the Tsarevets Fortress and enjoy the quaint ambiance of Samovodene Market. The tour also includes a visit to the Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak, an archaeological gem, as well as rose distillery in the Valley of the Roses.

The final leg of the trip takes participants to Varna, the summer capital of Bulgaria. In Varna, will marvel at the oldest man-made gold artifacts in the world at the Archaeological Museum before heading to the luxurious Black Sea Rama Golf Resort. Here, guests unwind with golf, spa treatments, and seaside relaxation.

The journey concludes with a 45-min domestic flight from Varna to Sofia, where travelers enjoy a farewell dinner at the Grand Hotel Sofia, reflecting on an enriching journey through Bulgaria’s historical and cultural landscape.

Terms, conditions and restrictions apply; pricing, availability, and other details subject to change and/ or apply to US or Canadian residents. Please confirm details and booking information with your travel advisor.

What our guests thought of this experience:

A wonderful cultural experience in becoming familiar with Bulgaria and its history. A very, very impressive guide. The service was great and the attitude was even better. Excellent value for money. This trip should be a must if we are ever going to understand what other people have gone through in their lives as a result of politics, wars, education, etc. We saw an unbelievably beautiful country with an abundance of natural resources that have been badly used by political programs. It is an eye-opener.

John M.

The opportunity of Mladen and Joy showing me their home country made the experience of seeing Bulgaria very fulfilling. The country is beautiful, the people are warm and friendly, the foods and wines are great, and the history is very interesting. The guide was very knowledgeable about the entire country.

David D.

A great trip and wonderful experience! Wines and food were great! The service can be slow. But to be honest, a lot better than I expected. The guide Kamen was outstanding !!!!! Very knowledgeable and he read the group’s interest well. A well thought thru trip in all aspects. A trip I could never do on my own. Fun group. Excellent value for money.

James P.

Mladen and Joy did a fantastic job, showing us so many aspects of Bulgaria, helped to realize the beauty of the country.  The trip was most beneficial because of the personal stories including what life was like under the Communists.  Wines were wonderful from the many SB, Roses to Malbecs. Again much enhanced by Mladen’s knowledge of both wines and country. Great variety, quality, and quantity. Wineries were fun & educational. From the first meal with all eyes popping after seeing our first Bulgarian salad to our last meal food was great. Food experience went from everyday Bulgarian to Fusion fantastic choices.  Our guide Kamen was extremely knowledgeable and was a perfect addition to the group. I told friends prior to the trip that I would come back as an expert on Bulgaria, little did I know how true that was thanks to Kamen.  Loved it all: villages, cities, resorts, monasteries - all with their individual stories. Museums gave new education on Bulgarian history. I can't say enough about the visit and the performance at the School of Bulgarian Folklore & Dance. Wow!

Excellent value for money. The trip exceeded my expectations. Because Bulgaria is still an undiscovered country, this trip enlightens you on all aspects of culture, history, beauty, and an understanding of the people. Great immersion into wines, foods, and understanding of what living under communism was like.

Peter C.

Looking for inspiration on where to go next, and suggestions for the best hotels, cruises, tours, and experiences around the world?

Stay inspired by signing up for our mailing list!