Premium wine & culture experience in Sofia and Struma valley

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Duration

5 days/4 nights

Tour Type

Specific Tour

Group Size

17 people

Languages

English, French, German, Spanish

About this tour

This tour invites you to explore the vibrant capital of Sofia, the serene beauty of the Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the charm of the Struma valley. Experience the historical treasures of Sofia, journey to the Rila Monastery and immerse yourself in the tranquility of this spiritual haven amidst the forests. Discover Struma valley and Melnik region- the “Bulgarian Tuscany”, with its rolling hills, lush vineyards and charming villages. Visit Melnik- Bulgaria’s smallest town, famous for its unique sandstone pyramids, traditional architecture, and rich wine-making traditions dating back centuries. Unwind at the premium Zornitza Family Estate and savor exquisite wines, taste local cuisine and enjoy a relaxing spa. Explore the ancient ruins of Heraclea Sintica-a prominent urban center of the Hellenistic and Roman periods. Visit local wineries and a retro car museum. This tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture and relaxation, promising an unforgettable journey through the heart of Bulgaria.

Highlights

Sofia- a blend of culture and vibrant urban scene
Rila Monastery- a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Melnik- the picturesque authentic town
Zornitza Family Estate- a luxury wine and spa retreat
Heraclea Sintica- an old ancient Roman city ruins
tastings at 4 local wineries

Included/Excluded

transfer from/to Sofia Airport
2 nights accommodation in double room in a 5-star hotel in Sofia city center, breakfast included
2 nights accommodation in double room in Zornitza Family Estate, breakfast included
4 wine tastings at local wineries
entrance fees in accordance to the program, incl. retro car museum
English-speaking guide in Sofia, Rila Monastery and Heraclea Sintica
private transport during the whole tour

flight tickets
meals and beverages (restaurants bookings upon request)
single room supplement
extras
tips

Itinerary

Day 1: Journey through Sofia’s historical treasures

Noon: Arrival at Sofia Airport. Transfer to your hotel in Sofia city center and check-in Afternoon: Getting to know the city with a guided tour to Sofia's landmarks-Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Largo Square Roman ruins, the Presidency, St. George's Rotunda, and more. Admire its stunning architecture and learn about its rich history. Evening: Experience Sofia’s culinary scene at traditional Bulgarian restaurant where you can taste typical for the region meals in an authentic atmosphere.

Day 2: Rila Monastery tour and Zornitza Family Estate

Morning: Check-out. Embark on a day trip to the Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the monastery's stunning architecture and serene atmosphere. Have a traditional lunch in the monastery area. Afternoon: Continue your way to the beautiful Zornitza Family Estate, which will welcome you with its charm, style and comfort. Relax in the SPA area, take a walk through the surrounding greenery, then enjoy a wine tasting of their own production in the wine cellar of the estate.
Evening: Enjoy a dinner in one of the estate’s exceptional restaurants.

Morning: The day begins with a wine tour in the Struma valley. The region is famous for its long winemaking tradition and unique terroir, which contributes to the production of exceptional wines. Enjoy a tasting at the first local winery that is also a home to a retro car museum. Leisurely stroll through the vineyards, get to know the local wine varieties and admire the amazing vintage car collection. Continue to the second winery- a symbol of modern Bulgarian winemaking, blending tradition with innovation, with awards-winning wines selection.
Afternoon: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Zornitza estate and have a walk by the river creek. Evening: Relax at the hotel's spa and enjoy a fine dinner at the hotel's restaurant.

Day 4: Explore Melnik and Heraclea Sintica

Morning: After breakfast, check-out and head to Melnik- a charming town known for its unique sandstone pyramids, authentic architecture and indigenous grape varieties. Visit the unique Kordopulova House Museum with its underground caves and indulge in a wine-tasting session at the house’s winery. Then, enjoy a lunch in one of the traditional restaurants in the heart of Melnik. Afternoon: Admire one of the oldest forums in Europe, recently restored- Heraclea Sintica. The ancient Greek-Roman city was founded by Philip II of Macedonia in the 4th century BC and served as an important center of trade and culture in the region. Evening: After this historic detour, we are heading back to Sofia to enjoy free time in the city.