5-Day Guided Tour to Sofia, Plovdiv and Istanbul

Set out on a captivating journey through the vibrant cultures of Bulgaria and Turkey with this 5-day guided tour. Explore the historic cities of Sofia, Plovdiv, and Istanbul, uncovering their rich heritage and architectural marvels. From the grandeur of Topkapi Palace to the charm of Plovdiv’s Old Town, this small-group adventure promises an immersive travel experience. With airport transfers, guided tours, and comfortable accommodations included, you’ll have the freedom to savor local flavors and uncover hidden gems at your own pace. Discover the intriguing blend of Eastern and Western influences that make this region truly unique. What awaits you on this unforgettable adventure?

Key Points

• 5-day guided tour covering the highlights of Sofia, Plovdiv, and Istanbul, including airport transfers, guided tours, transportation, and entrance fees.
• Tour priced at $632.55 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours before, and a small group size of up to 18 participants.
• Accommodation in 3 or 4 hotels with breakfast included, allowing travelers to explore local cuisine at their own pace.
• Tour includes tourist insurance, tips, and assistance with visas if required, ensuring a comprehensive and hassle-free experience.
• Participants must have a valid passport, necessary visa, comfortable walking shoes, and travel insurance, as the tour may not be suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This 5-day guided tour takes travelers to the vibrant cities of Sofia, Plovdiv, and Istanbul.

The tour is priced from $632.55 per person and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Travelers can opt for a reserve now and pay later option.

The small group is limited to 18 participants and is led by an English-speaking live guide. The tour includes individual airport transfers in Sofia and Istanbul, guided tours in the three cities, transportation by air-conditioned bus, all entrance fees, tourist insurance and tips.

Travelers will need to bring their passport, visa (if necessary), comfortable walking shoes, and travel insurance.

Itinerary Highlights

Arriving in Sofia on the first day, travelers embark on an orientation walking tour along Vitoshka Street, seeing the city’s vibrant atmosphere. The following day, the tour explores Sofia’s historic center, visiting landmarks such as the St. Sophia Church, Alexander Nevski Cathedral, and the National Gallery. In the evening, the group travels to Plovdiv for a walking tour of the Old Town.

Day	Destination	Activities
3	Edirne and Istanbul	Depart for Istanbul with a lunch stop in Edirne. The evening is free to explore the bustling city of Istanbul.
4	Istanbul	Set out on a sightseeing tour by bus and boat, visiting iconic sites like Topkapi Palace and the Bosphorus Bridge.
5	Istanbul	Check-out and transfer to the Istanbul airport, concluding the 5-day guided tour.

Accommodation and Meals

The 5-day guided tour includes 4 nights of accommodation with breakfast in 3 or 4 hotels in Sofia, Plovdiv, and Istanbul.

Meals not included in the tour package provide opportunities for participants to explore local cuisine during the tour.

The tour includes:

1. 1 night in Sofia
2. 1 night in Plovdiv
3. 2 nights in Istanbul
4. Breakfast at the hotels each morning, with lunch, dinner, and drinks left for travelers to arrange on their own.

This allows participants the flexibility to discover and savor the diverse flavors of the region at their own pace.

Inclusions

The 5-day guided tour includes a variety of services to enhance the travel experience.

Travelers receive individual airport transfers in Sofia and Istanbul, as well as guided tours in each of the three cities. Transportation is provided by air-conditioned bus, and all entrance fees for the sites visited are covered.

The package also includes tourist insurance and tips (gratuities), as well as visas if required. This comprehensive offering ensures participants can focus on exploring the destinations without worrying about logistics or additional costs.

With these inclusions, the tour provides a seamless and enjoyable journey through Bulgaria and Turkey.

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Important Information for Travelers

Meeting point for the tour is the Sofia airport arrivals hall, where a guide holding a sign will greet participants.

Travelers will need to bring their passport, visa (if necessary), comfortable walking shoes, and travel insurance. Plus, travel adapters for the 230V standard electrical outlets are recommended.

The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or individuals with mobility impairments. Suggested items to pack include an umbrella, sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses.

While the tours operate rain or shine, changes may occur in extreme weather conditions. It’s essential for travelers to check visa requirements prior to booking the tour.

Meeting Point and Requirements

Participants will meet the tour guide holding a sign in the arrivals hall of Sofia airport to begin the 5-day guided tour. Travelers will need to bring along their passport, visa (if necessary), comfortable walking shoes, travel insurance, and travel adapters to accommodate the 230V electrical outlets. Plus, the tour recommends packing an umbrella, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for the excursion.

Requirements	Details
Documents	Passport, Visa (if required)
Attire	Comfortable walking shoes
Accessories	Travel insurance, Travel adapters
Recommendations	Umbrella, Sunscreen, Hat, Sunglasses

Please note that the tour is not suitable for pregnant women or individuals with mobility impairments. The tours will proceed in rainy conditions, and changes may occur in extreme weather.

Recommendations for Travelers

For the guided tour, travelers are advised to pack carefully and plan ahead.

The recommendations include bringing an umbrella, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect against the elements. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as the tour involves extensive walking through historical sites.

Travel adapters for the 230V electrical outlets are also essential, as are a valid passport and any necessary visas.

Individuals with mobility impairments or those who are pregnant should refrain from booking this tour, as it may not be suitable for their needs.

Weather and Tour Changes

The tours are conducted regardless of weather conditions, though changes may occur in extreme circumstances.

If heavy rain or storms are forecasted, the itinerary may be adjusted to ensure the safety and comfort of participants. Similarly, if there are any local or national events or holidays that coincide with the tour dates, the program may be modified accordingly.

The tour guides are experienced and knowledgeable, and they’ll do their best to accommodate any weather-related changes while maintaining the overall quality of the experience.

Participants are advised to check the weather forecast and pack appropriate clothing and gear to be prepared for various weather conditions during the tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Tour Be Customized for Individual Preferences?

While the tour has a set itinerary, some customization may be possible, such as adjusting the pace or focusing on specific interests. Travelers should inquire about personalization options when booking to ensure the tour meets their individual needs and preferences.

How Much Time Is Spent at Each Location?

The tour spends 1 night in Sofia, 1 night in Plovdiv, and 2 nights in Istanbul, allowing ample time to explore the key highlights and landmarks in each city during the guided tours and free time.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour has no formal dress code, but travelers should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and walking shoes. Layering is recommended, as the weather may vary across the different destinations visited. Casual attire is generally acceptable throughout the tour.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour does not explicitly mention any discounts for seniors or students. However, it’s possible they may offer such discounts, so travelers should inquire directly with the tour provider when booking. The tour’s pricing is listed as starting from $632.55 per person.

Can I Extend My Stay in Istanbul After the Tour Ends?

Travelers can extend their stay in Istanbul after the tour ends, but they’ll need to make their own arrangements. The tour package only includes accommodations and transportation as specified in the itinerary.

Recap

This 5-day guided tour to Sofia, Plovdiv, and Istanbul offers a captivating blend of cultural and historical exploration. Travelers can expect a seamless experience with airport transfers, guided tours, and comfortable accommodations included. The tour’s flexibility allows visitors to savor local cuisine at their own pace, while an English-speaking guide ensures a hassle-free adventure. Whether seeking iconic landmarks or immersive cultural discoveries, this small group tour provides a comprehensive introduction to the diverse regions of Bulgaria and Turkey.

You can check if your dates are available here: