5-Day Romantic Retreat in Stara Zagora, Bulgaria

Discover romance in the heart of Bulgaria's ancient past in Stara Zagora.

22 April 2023

Stara Zagora is a beautiful destination in Bulgaria for a romantic getaway. The city's charm lies in its history, architecture, and fabulous culinary scene. From walking down romantic streets to indulging in delectable food and wine, couples will appreciate the serene experience in Stara Zagora.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Welcome to Stara Zagora!

  • Check in at the luxurious Mey Hotel, and enjoy the romantic ambiance and top-notch service.
  • Head to the city center and explore the Roman Forum Augusta Trayana, a well-preserved ancient landmark.
  • Take a stroll in the beautiful Ayazmoto park, originally used as a Roman quarry, and now a tranquil sanctuary for locals and visitors alike.
  • Enjoy traditional Bulgarian cuisine at the rustic restaurant Han Krum, and indulge in local specialties like banitsa and kavarma.
  • Finish the night with a glass of wine from one of the city's renowned wineries, such as Chateau Kolarovo.
Day 2

A Journey through Time

  • Start the day with a visit to the Regional History Museum, showcasing the rich history and cultural heritage of the region.
  • Explore the Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the best-preserved ancient tombs in the world.
  • Visit the Zaychari Ethnographic Complex, a charming open-air museum dedicated to showcasing traditional Bulgarian lifestyle and crafts.
  • Savor a cup of aromatic herbal tea at the cozy tea house Buona Sera, and sample local sweets like marmalade and lokum.
  • End the day with a romantic walk along the pedestrian street Ruski, lined with elegant baroque buildings and charming cafes.
Day 3

Into the Wild

  • Take a day trip to the Sinite Kamani Nature Park, home to stunning landscapes, rare flora and fauna, and spectacular hiking trails.
  • Explore the majestic Sinite Kamani peak, with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Observe the endangered griffon vultures and other wildlife at the nearby Vulture Center.
  • Have a picnic lunch by the tranquil Buzludzha Lake, surrounded by lush forests and rocky cliffs.
  • Drive back to Stara Zagora and have a romantic dinner at the intimate restaurant Four Rooms, known for its inventive cuisine and cozy ambiance.
Day 4

Indulge and Relax

  • Spend the morning pampering yourself at the Mey Hotel Spa, with various massage and beauty treatments.
  • Visit the impressive Stara Zagora Opera House, with its beautiful baroque architecture and superb acoustics.
  • Take a scenic drive to the nearby Rose Valley, where the world-famous Bulgarian roses are cultivated for the production of rose oil.
  • Visit a local rose distillery and learn about the traditional techniques of rose oil production.
  • End the day with a romantic candlelit dinner at the rooftop restaurant of the Mey Hotel, with stunning views of the city and the sunset.
Day 5

Farewell Stara Zagora

  • Have a leisurely breakfast at the Mey Hotel restaurant, with a wide selection of fresh, organic products.
  • Visit the city's vibrant Farmer's Market, where you can sample and buy local produce and artisanal products.
  • Take some time to shop for souvenirs and handcrafted items at the charming Old Town district.
  • Say goodbye to Stara Zagora and head back home, with fond memories of your romantic trip to this hidden gem of Bulgaria.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Stara Zagora by plane would be to fly into Plovdiv International Airport and then take a direct bus or taxi to Stara Zagora. Alternatively, you could fly into Sofia International Airport and take a train or bus to Stara Zagora.

Car

The best way to get to Stara Zagora by car would be to take the A1 motorway from Sofia or Plovdiv. The journey takes around 2 hours from Sofia and 1 hour from Plovdiv. There are several petrol stations and rest areas along the way.

Train

Stara Zagora has a train station with connections from major cities in Bulgaria, including Sofia and Plovdiv. The best way to get to Stara Zagora by train would be to take a direct train from Sofia or Plovdiv to Stara Zagora.

Boat

There are no direct boat routes to Stara Zagora as it is a landlocked city. The nearest port is Varna on the Black Sea coast, which is around 3 hours drive from Stara Zagora. From there, you could take a bus or train to Stara Zagora.

Bus

The best way to get to Stara Zagora by bus would be to take a direct bus from Sofia or Plovdiv to Stara Zagora. Buses leave regularly from both cities and there are several bus companies to choose from.

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5-Day Romantic Retreat in Stara Zagora, Bulgaria

Stara Zagora is a beautiful destination in Bulgaria for a romantic getaway. The city's charm lies in its history, architecture, and fabulous culinary scene. From walking down romantic streets to indulging in delectable food and wine, couples will appreciate the serene experience in Stara Zagora.