Roman Bulgaria Tour | Private 10-Day Journey Along Ancient Roman Roads

This private 10-day tour is dedicated to the Roman heritage of Bulgaria and follows the footsteps of the Roman legions across ancient provinces of Thrace and Moesia.
Traveling along historic Roman roads such as Via Traiana, I introduce you to some of the most important Roman cities, military camps, villas, baths, and mosaics in Southeast Europe — from Plovdiv and Sofia to the Danube frontier and the Black Sea coast.
This journey is ideal for travelers passionate about Roman history who wish to experience authentic archaeological sites far beyond standard tourist routes.

Thе itinerary highlights Bulgaria’s Roman heritage, including ancient cities, fortresses, and engineering masterpieces. Roman sites featured here also appear in my Ancient Bulgaria itinerary and in selected routes of the Exclusive Bulgaria Round Tour.

Day 1 - Roman Sofia city tour. Transfer to Plovdiv. Tour of ancient Philippopolis, including the Roman Theatre, Forum, mosaics, and the presumed starting point of Via Traiana.

Day 2 - Departure to Hisarya, one of the most important Roman towns in the province of Thrace. Scenic drive across the Central Balkan Range via Beklemeto Pass, following the route of ancient Via Traiana.

Day 3 - Continuation along Via Traiana through Sostra (Roman military post) to Ulpia Oescus, a Roman city built in honor of Emperor Trajan. Drive east to Novae, a major Roman legionary camp on the Danube.

Day 4 - Visit to Nicopolis ad Istrum, founded by Emperor Trajan after his victory over the Dacians. Continue to Ruse, ancient Sexaginta Prista, an important Roman river fortress.

Day 5 - Visits to Abrittus (Roman military camp) and the impressive Museum of Mosaics in Devnya (Marcianopolis). Drive to Varna / ancient Odessos.

Day 6 - Excursion to Cape Kaliakra and the Byzantine stronghold in the Great Yaila area. Return to Varna.

Day 7 - Tour of ancient Odessos, including the Roman Baths and the Archaeological Museum. Drive to Nessebar (Mesembria). Old town tour including early Christian basilicas and medieval churches.

Day 8 - Drive to Bukelon, site of the decisive Battle of Adrianople (378 AD). Continue to Mezek and its impressive Byzantine fortress.

Day 9 - Drive to Ivailovgrad and visit to Villa Armira, one of the most luxurious Roman villas discovered in Bulgaria. Afternoon visit to Ustra Byzantine fortress.

Day 10 - Departure to Sofia.

The day-by-day itinerary above is an example and may be adjusted to match your interests, travel dates, and pace.