Rila Peaks & Black Sea Shores: A Relaxing Self-Drive Journey Through Bulgaria

Breakfast. Private walking city tour of Sofia - the capital city of Bulgaria, which Constantine the Great once called "My Rome". Rent- a-car delivery to your hotel and departure for independent visit of Rila Monastery UNESCO site. Late afternoon to Borovets mountain resort. Check in at your hotel and relax.

Day in Borovets for walks/ hikes in Rila Mountain. Enjoy the peaceful landscapes, crystal-clear lakes and sumits. 

The walk towards Musala Hut, nestled in the heart of Bulgaria’s Rila Mountains, is an exhilarating yet rewarding experience, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, valleys, and lakes. Musala is the highest peak in the Balkans, and the path leading to the hut is a beautiful introduction to the rugged beauty of the area.

The trail from Yastrebets Station to Musala Hut is a well-marked, moderate hike that takes you through a stunning alpine landscape. The distance is about 6 kilometers (one way), with an elevation gain of approximately 500 meters. It typically takes around 2-3 hours to reach the hut, depending on your pace and the weather conditions.

Depart from Borovets to Pionerska hut and take the lift to the 7 Rila lakes nature park. 

The Seven Rila Lakes are a stunning group of glacial lakes located in the Rila Mountains of Bulgaria, at an altitude ranging from 2,100 to 2,500 meters above sea level. These pristine, crystal-clear lakes are renowned for their breathtaking beauty, surrounded by rugged peaks, lush valleys, and alpine meadows. Each lake has its own unique character and name, making the area one of the most popular hiking destinations in Bulgaria.

Back to Borovets.

Day in Borovets, possible visit of the small town of Samokov nearby, or visit Malyovitsa area and Govedartsi village - beautiful, tranquil destinations in the Rila Mountains, offering a wonderful blend of outdoor adventure, scenic beauty, and authentic Bulgarian culture. Visiting these two places provides the perfect opportunity to explore some of the most picturesque landscapes. Back to Borovets.  

Depart from Borovets to PLovdiv - the 2nd largest city of Bulgaria, once capital city of Philip the 2nd of Macedonia. Plovdiv has been European capital of cukture in 2019.

Check in at your hotel and free time to explore Europe`s oldest contunuously inhabited city. Visit the Old town, the ruins of the Ancient Theatre, Roman Stadium, Djumaya mosque Square, the National Revival houses, gthe longest pedestrian street in the world and Kapana - the artistic neighbourhood of Plovdiv.  

Head towards the Black Sea coast for relaxation by the beach in places like Varna or Nessebar. Spend your days lounging on the beaches, taking a dip in the sea, and exploring the charming coastal towns. 

Free time to enjoy the sea and the beach. Dinner at your hotel. 

Free time to enjoy the sea and the beach. Dinner at your hotel. 

Free time to enjoy the sea and the beach. Dinner at your hotel. 

Return back to Sofia. Check in at your hotel and rent-a-car drop off. 

Free time and departure