How to plan your Valley of the Thracian Kings Hidden Treasures tour in Sofia

If you’re looking for an immersive experience into Bulgarian history, the Valley of the Thracian Kings Hidden Treasures tour is an excellent option. This 10-hour group tour takes you through some of Bulgaria’s most significant historical sites, including the Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak and Iskra Historical Museum. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to plan your Valley of the Thracian Kings Hidden Treasures tour in Sofia.

Overview of the Tour

The Valley of the Thracian Kings Hidden Treasures tour is an all-day, guided tour of Bulgaria’s Valley of the Thracian Kings region. The tour starts and ends at your Sofia accommodation, and you’ll travel in comfortable, round-trip transportation. Along the way, you’ll learn about the myths and legends surrounding Orpheus and Spartacus, as well as the region’s rich history. You’ll also enjoy guided visits to notable sites like the Ostrusha Tomb, Golyama Kosmatka Mound, and the UNESCO-listed Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak.

What’s Included in the Tour

The Valley of the Thracian Kings Hidden Treasures tour includes the following:- Professional guide

– Hotel pickup and drop-off

– Transport by private vehicle

– Food and drinks

– Admission to all attractions

Itinerary

Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect from the tour’s itinerary: 8:00 AM: Pickup from Your Sofia Accommodation

The tour starts with a pickup from your Sofia accommodation. The pick-up point is flexible and can be customized to your location. 10:00 AM: Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak

The Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak is one of Bulgaria’s most famous historical sites. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and contains elaborate frescoes and sculptures that depict ancient Thracian life. You’ll have around 3 hours to explore the site and marvel at its intricate beauty. 1:00 PM: Lunch Break

After visiting the Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak, you’ll take a break for lunch. The tour includes food and drinks, so you won’t have to worry about finding a place to eat. 2:00 PM: Ostrusha Tomb

The Ostrusha Tomb is another fascinating historical site. It dates back to the 4th century BC and contains ornate frescoes that depict battles, hunts, and ceremonies. Your guide will provide insight into its significance and history as you explore the site. 3:30 PM: Golyama Kosmatka Mound

The Golyama Kosmatka Mound is a Thracian burial mound that dates back to the end of the 5th or the beginning of the 4th century BC. It’s a unique historical site that offers insight into ancient Thracian culture. 5:00 PM: Iskra Historical Museum

The tour ends with a visit to the Iskra Historical Museum. The museum contains over 32,000 artifacts and offers an in-depth look into Bulgaria’s history. You’ll have around an hour to explore the museum before the tour ends.

Booking Your Tour

You can book the Valley of the Thracian Kings Hidden Treasures tour through Viator. The tour includes a professional guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, transport by private vehicle, food and drinks, and admission to all attractions. To book the tour, click here.

Conclusion

The Valley of the Thracian Kings Hidden Treasures tour is an excellent way to experience Bulgaria’s rich cultural history. With the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, round-trip transportation, and admission to all attractions included, this tour makes it easy to explore the region without worrying about logistics. Book your tour today and get ready to dive deep into Bulgarian history.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sofia

Sofia is a picturesque city with a rich history and fascinating culture. As one of the oldest cities in Europe, there are a lot of interesting things to see and do in the Bulgarian capital. However, if you’re planning a visit to Sofia, you might have a few questions. Here, we’ll answer some of the most commonly asked questions about Sofia.

1. What is the best time to visit Sofia?

The best time to visit Sofia is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and comfortable. The months of May and September are the ideal time to visit. The summer can be hot and crowded, while the winter is cold and snowy. However, if you’re traveling to Sofia for winter sports, that’s the best time for you to visit.

2. What are some must-see attractions in Sofia?

Sofia has a lot of great attractions to see, but some of the most popular include:

• The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
• The National Palace of Culture
• The Ivan Vazov National Theater
• The National Museum of History
• The Boyana Church

3. What is the currency in Sofia?

The currency in Sofia is the Bulgarian lev (BGN). You can exchange your currency at banks or currency exchange offices, which can be found throughout the city. ATMs are also widely available.

4. Is English widely spoken in Sofia?

English is widely spoken in Sofia, especially in the tourist areas of the city. Most signs and menus are also available in English, so you should have no problem communicating and navigating your way around the city.

5. What is the public transportation like in Sofia?

Sofia has an efficient public transportation system that includes buses, trams, and a metro. The metro is the fastest and easiest way to get around, while the buses and trams are ideal for shorter trips. You can purchase tickets at kiosks or on board the vehicles, but be sure to validate your ticket before boarding.

6. Is Sofia a safe city?

Sofia is a relatively safe city compared to other cities in Europe. However, as with any city, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions, especially at night. Avoid dark and isolated areas, and be wary of pickpockets in crowded areas.

7. What is the cuisine like in Sofia?

Bulgarian cuisine is hearty and flavorful, with influences from Turkish, Greek, and Serbian cuisine. Some popular Bulgarian dishes include:

• Kebapche (grilled meat sausage)
• Shopska salad (a salad of cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and peppers)
• Moussaka (layered casserole with meat, potatoes, and cheese)
• Lutenitsa (a spicy tomato spread)

8. What should I wear when visiting Sofia?

Sofia has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, so it’s important to dress accordingly. In the summer, light and breathable clothing is recommended, while in the winter, warm and waterproof clothing is essential. It’s also a good idea to bring comfortable shoes, as there are many cobbled streets and uneven sidewalks in the city.

9. What is the nightlife like in Sofia?

Sofia has a vibrant nightlife scene with many clubs, bars, and restaurants staying open until the early morning hours. Some of the most popular areas for nightlife include Vitosha Boulevard, Oborishte, and Studentski Grad.

10. Can I use my credit card in Sofia?

Credit cards are widely accepted in Sofia, especially in tourist areas. However, it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand in case credit cards aren’t accepted or if you need to make a small purchase.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Sofia

As one of the oldest cities in Europe, Sofia offers a unique blend of cultures, history, and modernity. From ancient Roman ruins to contemporary art galleries and rich cultural heritage, the Bulgarian capital has something to offer for every type of traveler. In this guide, we’ll share with you our top tips on how to spend your time as a tourist in Sofia.

1. Explore Sofia’s Historical Sights

Sofia is rich in cultural and historical landmarks, perfect for travelers interested in learning about the city’s past. Here are some must-see sights:

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is one of Sofia’s most iconic landmarks. The cathedral was built in honor of the Russian soldiers who died during the Russo-Turkish War of 1877-78. With intricate frescoes and stunning gold-plated domes, the cathedral is a must-see attraction.

Rila Monastery

Located just a few hours away from Sofia, the Rila Monastery is the largest and most famous Eastern Orthodox monastery in Bulgaria. The monastery is set in the Rila Mountains and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The complex includes a museum, a church, and a monastery courtyard.

Serdika Fortress

The Serdika Fortress is an ancient Roman site which dates back to the 4th century AD. The site is now located in the city center and visitors can explore the ruins and learn about the site’s history.

2. Visit Sofia’s Arts and Culture Scene

Sofia is also home to a diverse arts and culture scene with museums, galleries, and theaters. Here are some must-visit places:

National Museum of History

The National Museum of History showcases Bulgaria’s rich heritage, from the prehistoric period to the present day. The museum has over 650,000 artifacts and is a great place to learn about the country’s history.

National Art Gallery

The National Art Gallery is the largest art museum in Bulgaria, with over 50,000 works of Bulgarian art from the 19th and 20th centuries. The museum is located in Sofia’s Royal Palace and is a must-see for any art enthusiast.

Ivan Vazov National Theater

The Ivan Vazov National Theater is one of the oldest and most famous theaters in Bulgaria. The theater has a rich history and has showcased many famous Bulgarian plays and productions.

3. Experience Sofia’s Food and Drink Scene

Sofia has a delicious and varied food and drink scene. Here are some recommendations for food and drink lovers:

Banitsa

Banitsa is a traditional Bulgarian pastry made with filo dough and filled with cheese, spinach, or meat. It’s a popular breakfast food and can be found in most bakeries in Sofia.

Tsatsa

Tsatsa is a Bulgarian brandy made from grapes, plums, or apricots. It’s a popular drink in Bulgaria and can be found in most bars and restaurants in Sofia.

Vitosha Boulevard

Vitosha Boulevard is one of Sofia’s main shopping streets, but it’s also home to many cafes, restaurants, and bars. It’s a great place to try traditional Bulgarian cuisine and relax with a drink.

4. Enjoy Sofia’s Parks and Nature

Lastly, Sofia is also home to many parks and natural areas, perfect for travelers who want to take a break from the city. Here are some recommendations:

Vitosha Mountain

Vitosha Mountain is located just outside of Sofia and is a popular hiking spot. There are many trails to choose from, ranging from easy to difficult, and the views from the mountain are spectacular.

South Park

South Park is the largest park in Sofia and is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. The park has many walking and cycling paths, as well as a lake and many picnic areas.

National Palace of Culture

The National Palace of Culture is an iconic building in Sofia, but it’s also home to a large park area. The park has many green spaces, fountains, and sculptures, making it a great place to relax.

Conclusion

Sofia is a unique city with a rich history and culture. With so many things to see and do, it can be overwhelming for a first-time tourist. By following our guide, you can make the most of your time in Sofia and experience all that the city has to offer. Whether you’re interested in history, art, food, or nature, Sofia has something for everyone.