One-Day and Round Trips in Bulgaria with MATO

Discover the beauty and history of Bulgaria with MATO’s professionally organized one-day and multi-day tours. Our trips depart from Sofia and cover the country’s most breathtaking and culturally significant destinations. Whether you are traveling solo, with friends, or in a group, we offer taxis, VIP cars, minivans, or minibuses, all with a licensed driver and professional guide.

All tours include:

Professional driver
Licensed guide (Bulgarian, English, Russian)
Fuel, road, and parking fees
Time for sightseeing

Our goal is to provide not just a trip, but a complete cultural and natural experience, with stories, legends, and practical tips for each location.

Popular One-Day Tours from Sofia

Rila Monastery – Bulgaria’s Spiritual Heart

The Rila Monastery is Bulgaria’s largest monastery and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Founded in the 10th century by St. Ivan Rilski, it is a symbol of Bulgarian spirituality and culture.

Highlights:

Main church with magnificent frescoes
Museum with historical relics and icons
Courtyards, gardens, and stunning mountain views

Tips for visitors:

Distance from Sofia: ~124 km (~2 hours by car)
Best time to visit: Spring, summer, early autumn
Bring comfortable shoes and a camera for amazing views

Plovdiv – Bulgaria’s Cultural Capital

Plovdiv is Bulgaria’s second largest city and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe, with over 8,000 years of history. It was the European Capital of Culture 2019.

Highlights:

Ancient Roman Theater of Philippopolis
Old Town with colorful Revival houses and cobblestone streets
Roman Stadium, museums, and art galleries

Visitor tips:

Distance from Sofia: 150 km (~2 hours by car)
Best time to visit: Spring and autumn
Enjoy traditional Bulgarian cuisine in cozy cafes and restaurants

Bachkovo Monastery – The Second Largest Monastery

Founded in the 11th century, Bachkovo Monastery is the second largest in Bulgaria. Nestled in the Rhodope Hills, it features remarkable architecture, centuries-old frescoes, and the miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary.

Tips for visitors:

Distance from Sofia: ~165 km (~2.5 hours by car)
Free entrance, guided tours may require a small fee
Ideal for lovers of history and religious tourism

Koprivshtitsa – Bulgaria’s Open-Air Museum

Koprivshtitsa preserves the spirit of the Bulgarian National Revival. Walk through its cobbled streets, colorful houses, and visit the homes of national heroes such as Todor Kableshkov and Lyuben Karavelov.

Tips for visitors:

Distance from Sofia: 110 km
Summer is cool and pleasant; winter is snowy and romantic
Sample local dishes at charming taverns

Veliko Tarnovo – City of the Tsars

Veliko Tarnovo, former capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire, is famous for the Tsarevets Fortress, Old Town, and the panoramic view over the Yantra River.

Tips for visitors:

Distance from Sofia: 220 km (~3 hours by car)
Best time to visit: Spring and autumn
Wear comfortable shoes for walking on steep streets

Melnik – Small Town with Big Wine

Melnik is famous for its sand pyramids, historic houses, and rich red wine. Nearby is the Rozhen Monastery, worth a visit.

Tips for visitors:

Distance from Sofia: 180 km
Combine the trip with local wine tasting
Best time to visit: Late spring and autumn

Seven Rila Lakes – Natural Wonder

The Seven Rila Lakes are renowned for their crystal-clear waters and poetic names – Tear, Eye, Heart, etc.

Tips for visitors:

Distance from Sofia: 120 km to Pionerska Hut, then lift to the lakes
Bring hiking shoes and mountain clothing
Best time to visit: Summer and early autumn

Prohodna Cave – “The Eyes of God”

One of Bulgaria’s most spectacular natural landmarks, Prohodna Cave is located near the village of Karlukovo. Its two giant openings in the ceiling resemble human eyes, giving it the nickname “The Eyes of God”.

Tips for visitors:

Distance from Sofia: 120 km
Popular among photographers, climbers, and spiritual seekers
Can be combined with a visit to Devetashka Cave or Pleven

Why Choose MATO

Comfortable vehicles and professional drivers
Licensed guides in Bulgarian, English, and Russian
Flexible itineraries and customized programs
All expenses included in the price
Perfect for individuals, families, and groups

For reservations and personalized tours: office@mato.bg