Step back in time and experience Bulgaria in a truly unique way – aboard special steam and narrow-gauge trains that will take you through breathtaking landscapes, historic towns, and UNESCO World Heritage sites. This one-of-a-kind journey combines the romance of rail travel with Bulgaria’s rich cultural and natural treasures.
Our nostalgic trains can be arranged with steam or diesel locomotives, or with vintage railcars and carriages. Clients may choose between “modern” passenger cars, the historical Corona Express, or authentic freight wagons for a truly unique experience.
Additional tailor-made services can also be included:
Welcome to the Bulgarian capital! After arrival, enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of Sofia, including highlights such as the Alexander Nevski Cathedral – the largest Orthodox church on the Balkans – the “Ivan Vazov” National Theatre, the National Assembly, the Central Mineral Baths, Sofia University, the Russian Church of St. Nikolai, and St. Nedelya Church.
Railway enthusiasts may also visit Sofia’s locomotive depot, home to classic diesel and legendary steam engines. On request, visits to the locomotive or tram depot can be arranged.
Dinner in a local restaurant. Overnight in Sofia.
Special Train: Sofia – Mezdra – Pleven
After breakfast, transfer to Sofia Central Railway Station. Board your special steam train for a journey through the scenic Iskar Gorge, a dramatic canyon carved by the Iskar River through the Balkan Mountains.
Upon arrival in Pleven, visit the impressive “Pleven Epopee 1877” Panorama, commemorating the battles of the Russo-Turkish War with a unique blend of painting, sculpture, and architecture.
Dinner and overnight in Pleven.
Breakfast and departure eastwards to the Ivanovo Rock Monasteries, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Dating from the 12th–14th centuries, these cliff-hewn churches are famous for their remarkable medieval frescoes.
Continue to Rousse for a visit to the National Transport Museum, housed in the city’s first railway station. Its outdoor collection features over ten steam locomotives, including the oldest preserved engine in Bulgaria (built in 1865 in England), as well as royal carriages once used by Bulgarian kings and the Ottoman sultan.
Dinner and overnight in Rousse.
After breakfast, enjoy a short sightseeing tour of Rousse, known as “Little Vienna” for its elegant architecture and cultural heritage.
Travel to the historic village of Arbanassi, famous for its traditional houses and tranquil atmosphere. Optional stop at the Gorna Oryahovitsa railway depot for train enthusiasts.
Continue to Veliko Tarnovo, the medieval capital of Bulgaria, dramatically perched on the banks of the Yantra River. Highlights include the Tsarevets Hill and the ruins of the royal palace.
Dinner and overnight in Veliko Tarnovo.
Special Train: Veliko Tarnovo – Tryavna – Kazanlak
Board your special train across the Balkan Mountains to Kazanlak. After lunch, visit the Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak (UNESCO), famous for its exquisite frescoes. The original is closed to visitors, but a full-scale replica provides insight into this remarkable site.
Nearby, explore an ethnographic complex dedicated to the traditional distillation of rose and lavender oil – a Bulgarian specialty. Learn about centuries-old methods and enjoy a tasting of rose honey.
Transfer to Plovdiv, Bulgaria’s cultural capital. Dinner with folklore program. Overnight in Plovdiv.
Special Train: Septemvri – Velingrad (Narrow-Gauge Railway)
Morning walking tour of Plovdiv’s Old Town: the Ethnographic Museum, Ancient Theatre, Roman Stadium, and charming National Revival houses.
Continue to Septemvri and board the Rhodope narrow-gauge train, the last of its kind in Bulgaria. This spectacular route winds through 10 tunnels, steel bridges, and scenic valleys before reaching Velingrad, Bulgaria’s spa and wellness capital.
Dinner and overnight in Velingrad.
Special Train: Velingrad – Bansko
Continue your nostalgic ride along the narrow-gauge railway, passing through the highest railway station in the Balkans – Avramovo (1267 m).
Arrive in Bansko and transfer to the village of Dobarsko. Visit its 12th-century church, known for unusual frescoes that depict Christ in what appears to be a space craft. Local women will greet you with traditional songs, dances, and homemade specialties such as “Banitsa” (cheese pastry) and “Ayran” (yogurt drink).
Return to Bansko, Bulgaria’s top mountain resort, beautifully set between three mountain ranges. Dinner in a traditional tavern with regional specialties. Overnight in Bansko.
After breakfast, stroll through Bansko’s old town and visit the Church of St. Trinity.
Travel to the iconic Rila Monastery (UNESCO), the spiritual heart of Bulgaria, nestled high in the Rila Mountains. Admire its striking architecture, colorful frescoes, and serene mountain setting.
Return to Sofia. Free time for shopping or leisure. Farewell dinner and overnight.
Breakfast and transfer to Sofia Airport for your onward flight.
