If you still did not do your full research, what can be visited around Sofia. Then this article is for you. Most tourists start their vacation in Bulgaria in Sofia, the country's capital. The capital is a wonderful city; however, there are many magnificent landmarks around. It will not take you more than a few hours to arrive at most of these places. In this article, you can explore which of these picturesque places cannot be missed!
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🗺 Plovdiv
Seven Rila Lakes
This is one of the most magical places in Bulgaria, and if you love hiking, then this destination is perfect for you. You will witness an amazing view when you reach each of the lakes. In order to visit this place, you can use a guided tour, which will be easier for you. However, be prepared for hiking because the route is not short. The glacial lakes are between 2,100 and 2,500 meters in elevation. Of course, there is a lift ride that will carry you to the Seven Rila Lakes hut. From there, you can hike to the lakes. Some of the lakes names are chosen because of their shapes, such as The Eye and The Kidney. Do not forget to take your sun protection; because of this height, the sun is very strong. Last, but not least, after a long day of hiking, you can always enjoy a cup of nice tea and the stunning view at the Seven Rila Lakes hut.
Plovdiv
Provdiv is the second-largest city in the country. It is a great destination for a day trip, and it is close to the capital. To reach the city from Sofia, you have a choice of train or bus. It will take you around 2 hours and 45 minutes. You can start your walk from the city center, where you can see the half-buried Roman stadium and Roman Forum. This is a great example of how Plovdiv is combining past and present in order to create the perfect symbiosis. When you visit the city, you should not miss "The Trap" either. It is a neighborhood full of cafes and restaurants in a very bohemian style. "The Trap" is a wonderful place to try great food with a creative presentation. However, if you are interested in seeing the main attraction of the city, then you can go to the city’s Old Town, where you will be amazed by the impressive Roman Theatre and the variety of old houses owned by famous families in the past that are very well-maintained today. At the end of the day, you should not miss enjoying the sunset from some of the most popular places, known as "Tepeta". Be sure that Plovdiv will give you an unforgettable day full of history.
Melnik Pyramids
Melnik is known as the smallest town in Bulgaria, with fewer than 400 residents. However, the city is surrounded by incredible nature. The three most popular things about the city are the wine, old houses, and sand pyramids. In order to learn about the local wine production, you can visit the Melnik Wine Museum. After that, you can sample some of the wines. It's now time to make your way to the town's edge and locate a vantage point from which you can fully appreciate the sandstone ridges known as the "Sand Pyramids" there. Do not miss this magnificent view! You can take advantage of guided tours to visit the city, which will be even easier for you.
Rila Monastery
I have already mentioned the Seven Rila Lakes; however, it is impossible not to include Rila Monastery, which is one of the sacred places in Bulgaria. The largest and most significant Eastern Orthodox monastery complex in Bulgaria is this medieval monastery, which is hidden away in the Rila Mountains. There are frescoes and an iconostasis with beautiful wood carvings inside the church. The monastery also houses a museum with historical artifacts, including Rafail's Cross, which was carved out of a single piece of wood. There are frescoes and an iconostasis with beautiful wood carvings inside the church. The monastery also houses a museum with historical artifacts, including Rafail's Cross, which was carved out of a single piece of wood. For this destination, you can also take advantage of an organized tour to visit.
Veliko Turnovo
Veliko Tarnovo has a rich history that dates back to the Second Bulgarian Kingdom. A large fortification on the hill next to the city's Old Town, called Tsarevets fortification, is the focus of most of the city's history. Although the fortress can be seen from the Old Town, you should go inside to see the Patriarchal Cathedral, Baldwin's Tower, and the fortress walls. It will not take you more than 3 hours to arrive at the city by train. Veliko Turnovo can also offer you a close look to many traditions that people still keep in the Old town.
We've reached the end of the article about one day trips in Bulgaria. These places has a fantastic atmosphere, and we believe you will love it as much as we did! In the meantime, you can read other articles on our website. Remember to follow us@thewalkingparrot to be continuously updated on the new releases. We will be back soon with a new article!