Sofia is the capital of Bulgaria, a bustling and cosmopolitan city. Home to over 2 million people, it is the major political, administrative, educational, and business center. Many of the significant national music and cultural institutions - The National Opera House, The National Philharmonic Orchestra, the National Music Academy, the “Ivan Vazov” National Theater, among others, are located there. Sofia offers numerous social opportunities for people of all ages – music theaters, friendly sidewalk cafés, restaurants, art galleries, shopping malls, and open markets.

Plovdiv is the second largest city in Bulgaria, after the capital Sofia. Plovdiv was nominated as a candidate for the European Capital of Culture 2019. It is situated in the western part of the Thracian plane, on both banks of the Maritza River. Scattering its buildings on the slopes and in the skirts of six hills, Plovdiv offers its visitors unforgettable sights. Plovdiv is one of the oldest cities in Europe with a history of 7,000 years and monuments from different civilizations. The ancient city of Plovdiv has a romantic atmosphere with its 200 year-old houses and unique charm which inspires tourists, artists, and poets.

Rila Monastery, formerly known as The Monastery of Saint John of Rila, is situated between the Rila Mountains, just south of the capital city Sofia. Founded in the 10th century, it is now the largest and most famous Eastern Orthodox monastery in Bulgaria. With its rich history and exquisite architecture, this site has become a key tourist attraction for many visitors. Rila Monastery is regarded today as a central monument in Bulgarian culture, history, and architecture.

Participants may pay with checks or by credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover). Credit card payments are subject to a 3% processing fee.

*Those who qualify for the student pricing package are individuals who are currently enrolled in a university or institution.

• OPTIONAL: Roundtrip international flight Washington DC – Sofia, Bulgaria (land tour and airfare package only)
• Three public performances in synagogues, churches, concert venues
• Professional private presentation and friendly exchange with soloists from the world renowned National Folklore Ensemble: Philip Kutev. Demonstration of authentic
• Bulgarian vocal and instrumental performance, and short lecture by world-renowned composer, Georgi Andreev.
• 5-star hotel accommodations in Bulgaria (OPTIONAL: 4-star hotel accommodations included in student land tour cost)
• Two meals daily
• Professional concert organization, including knowledgeable concert management staff
• Professional concert promotion and publicity
• Full-time professional bilingual tour manager
• Ground transportation per tour itinerary: modern A/C motor coach and driver. Airport transfers are only included for the participants who opt for the land and airfare package.
• Extensive touring and sightseeing of the cities on tour with pre-selected, professional tour guides: Sofia, Plovdiv, Rila Monastery.

• (OPTIONAL) Roundtrip Airfare: Varna International will provide a group airfare quote (for 10 people or more), or individual airfare quotes, upon request (land tour package only).
• Travel Insurance: Upon request, Varna International will provide recommendations of a travel insurance company, which tour individuals could approach for a quote.
• Single Occupancy supplement: $840 per person
• Tips and gratuities: $15 per person, per day. Total per person for 7- day tour: $105. The tips and gratuities will be collected with the last tour payment prior to the trip.

This performance tour is open to individual choristers and choral ensembles. Partners, significant others, and non-performing travelers are welcome to join the festival tour.

To request the daily tour itinerary, please email office@varnainternational.com