Bulgaria Walking Holiday

Upon arrival at Sofia Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel in the city centre. After checking in, take some time to settle in before joining the group for a welcome dinner. This evening provides a chance to meet your guide and fellow travellers and to get oriented in Sofia. Overnight in Sofia.

After breakfast, you will take a guided walking tour of Sofia’s main landmarks. The walk covers both historic and more modern parts of the city, giving a sense of its long and varied history. Highlights include Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the Church of St. Sophia, the Russian Church of St. Nicholas, St. George’s Rotunda, St. Nedelya Church, the Presidential Office Building, Parliament Square, the Ivan Vazov National Theatre, Borisova Gardens, and the National Palace of Culture.

In the afternoon, you will visit Boyana Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, notable for its 13th-century frescoes, which offer insight into medieval Bulgarian art. Afterward, visit the National Museum of History, which provides context on the country’s development from ancient times to the modern era. Return to your hotel for an evening at leisure.

Today’s walk is on Vitosha Mountain, located just outside Sofia. The route begins in Boyana and passes Boyana Lake, Boyana Waterfall, and the Kopitoto viewpoint before returning to Boyana. The walk is mostly on forested paths with some uphill and downhill sections, providing a moderate level of exercise.
This walk offers an introduction to Bulgaria’s natural landscapes while still being accessible from the city. Return to Sofia for an overnight stay.

Distance: 11 km

Ascent: 850 m

Duration: approx. 4–5 hours

After breakfast, you will transfer to Panichishte and take the chairlift up to the Seven Rila Lakes area. The walk here is at a moderate pace, covering several of the lakes. The terrain is generally manageable, with some uphill sections, and the pace allows time to rest and enjoy the surroundings.

Height Diff: +785/-300  /  Moderate
Duration: 3.5 hours walk – 10.5 km

After the walk, continue to Rila Monastery, Bulgaria’s most visited monastery and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The monastery complex includes the main church, residential quarters, and a museum, and offers a clear view of traditional Bulgarian religious architecture and culture. After visiting the monastery, transfer to Bansko, where you will stay for the next four nights.

Today is a free day to rest, explore the town, or take short local walks. Bansko is a mountain town with a mix of modern facilities and traditional character. Your guide can suggest options for gentle walks in the area or local points of interest. Overnight in Bansko.

After breakfast, transfer to Banderishka Polyana to start a walk in the Pirin Mountains. The route passes several mountain lakes, including Muratovo, Ribnoto, and Okoto, and includes sections along forested paths and open terrain. The walk provides an opportunity to experience the natural setting of the national park, with moderate uphill and downhill sections. Return to Bansko for an overnight stay.

Distance: approx. 9 km

Ascent: 650 m

Duration: 3–5 hours

The guide will decide today’s walk based on the group’s ability and current weather conditions. Options include walking to nearby peaks such as Vihren, Kutelo, or Todorka, or choosing a shorter route to local lakes and viewpoints. This flexibility ensures the walk suits the group and provides an achievable challenge for most participants. Return to Bansko for your final night in the mountains.

Duration: 3.5hrs approx

After breakfast, you will be transferred back to Sofia Airport for your return flight.