We recommend flying into Sofia International Airport (SOF), Bulgaria’s main airport, and then traveling to Plovdiv by private transfer or taxi. This is the fastest and most convenient option, taking about 1 hour and 40 minutes. Unfortunately, because our guests will be arriving at different days and times, we won’t be able to provide a single shuttle service. Here are some companies we recommend:

https://taxi-bg.com/en/ - About $87 one way


https://www.transfertaxi.net/sofia-airport-taxi-transfers/plovdiv/ - About $80 one way


https://www.welcomepickups.com/ - About $114 each way

There are lots of options for getting to Bulgaria. We often fly Delta/Air France and fly into London or Paris, but another great option is using Turkish Airlines and flying through Istanbul. Usually, we try to only have one stop (London, for example) before our flight to Sofia, but adding a stop in the States can lower the cost of your flight. For example, a flight with stops in NYC and then Paris.

You can book flights with your final destination set as Sofia, or you can book a flight to your choice of European city and then book a separate flight to Sofia on a budget airline. This is a good option if you want to stay in that first city to explore on your way to Bulgaria or on your way home.

We’ve reserved a block of rooms at Villa Flavia, a boutique hotel on the main pedestrian boulevard in the center of Plovdiv.

We chose this hotel not only for its beauty but also for its historical significance. In the foundations of the building, you’ll find an ancient Roman bath, part of a complex near the aqueducts that brought water into the city. The excavations are well preserved and exhibited, allowing you to walk through the rich historical heritage and travel through time from modern Plovdiv to the ancient city of Philippopolis. This is only one of many ruins you’ll see in Plovdiv, a city with an 8,000-year history. You can read more about the hotel here: https://villaflaviahotel.com/en/hotel

The room block we have reserved for guests includes breakfast and can be booked with the codes below for each individual room type. The rooms are available for any dates between June 4, 2025 and June 11, 2025:

Elegant Room - WED1

Premium Room - WED2

Junior Suite (includes a pull-out sofa for up to 2 additional people) - WED3

One-bedroom apartment (includes a separate bedroom and a pull-out sofa for up to 2 additional people) - WED4

To book, go to https://villaflaviahotel.com/en/rooms and select “book now” next to the type of room you would like. Then, select “Do You Have a Code?” and enter the code that corresponds with your room type in the field labeled “Block Code.”

If rooms are unavailable (already fully booked) or you'd prefer another option, let us know, and we’ll assist with recommendations.

If you're flexible with your travel plans, the Explore feature can help you find the most affordable options across multiple destinations in Europe. This tool is also helpful if you're considering multileg travel and want to pair a visit to another European destination with your trip to Bulgaria. Here’s how to use Explore and track flights to find affordable flights:

1. Access the Explore Tool

Go to https://www.google.com/flights/explore or click “Explore” on the main Google Flights page.

2. Enter your departure city and leave the destination field blank to view all options.

3. Set your travel dates and Explore will show destinations with the lowest fares for the selected timeframe.

4. Zoom in on Europe to see fares for major hubs like London, Paris, Rome, and more.

5. Look for the cheapest fares and note connecting flights to Sofia or Plovdiv. Flying into major European cities (e.g., London Heathrow, Frankfurt, or Istanbul) often offers lower fares, and budget airlines can then connect you to Sofia.

6. If you’re not ready to book yet, turn on "Track prices" to receive email updates on fare changes.

Many airlines offer award flights via frequent flyer programs. Here’s how to use Air France Flying Blue or Virgin Atlantic (you can sign up for free accounts with both - AMEX, Chase, and Capital One all transfer credit card points to these airlines):

Air France Flying Blue

1. Create an Account

Sign up at Flying Blue.

2. Check Award Availability

Log in and search for flights using the "Book with Miles" option.

3. Enter your departure city and destination, and select your travel dates.

4. Look for Promo Rewards

Flying Blue offers monthly "Promo Rewards" with discounted mileage requirements. Check the Promo Rewards page for deals.

5. Book Your Flight

Select your preferred flight and complete the booking using accumulated miles or transfer miles from your travel credit card.

Virgin Atlantic Flying Club

1. Sign Up for Flying Club

Create an account at Virgin Atlantic Flying Club.

2. Check Partner Awards

Use Flying Club miles to book flights on Virgin Atlantic or its partners (e.g., Delta, Air France, KLM).

3. Visit the Partners Page to understand how many miles are needed for your route.

4. Search for Award Availability

Call Virgin Atlantic’s customer service or use the website to check availability.

5. Transfer Points

If needed, transfer points from programs like Amex Membership Rewards or Chase Ultimate Rewards.

Typically, London and Paris are among the cheapest to fly into. From there, it is easy to take a budget airline to Sofia.

The hotel where you will be staying is conveniently located right on the main pedestrian boulevard. All sites and many food and drink options will be within walking distance. You shouldn't need a car or public transportation unless you are leaving the city!

If you’re interested in seeing more of Bulgaria, here are a few places that offer a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. These options include easy day trips and slightly longer excursions that showcase the best of Bulgaria. You can easily book guided tours focused on history, food, wine and more to these places for affordable prices here: https://www.getyourguide.com/

Bachkovo Monastery: Just 30 minutes from Plovdiv, this 11th-century monastery is famous for its serene mountain setting and exquisite frescoes. It remains a spiritual hub in Bulgaria.

Asen’s Fortress: A stop at this medieval hilltop fortress en route to Bachkovo is a must. Its panoramic views and rich history make it an iconic Rhodope Mountain landmark.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Bulgaria’s most iconic landmarks, this 10th-century monastery is renowned for its vibrant frescoes, spiritual history, and dramatic mountain location. Located about 2.5 hours from Plovdiv, it's a longer trip but highly rewarding.

Bulgaria’s capital (and where you'll fly into) is a mix of history and modern culture, located 90 minutes from Plovdiv. Explore landmarks like the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and the Church of St. George, or stroll down Vitosha Boulevard for dining and shopping. This is a great day trip to tack on right before departure or immediately after your arrival, before coming to Plovdiv.

Visit Bulgaria’s famed Rose Valley in Kazanlak, known for its rose oil production and celebrated with an annual Rose Festival in June (unfortunately, the same weekend as our wedding this year). You can also discover the Thracian Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore ancient Thracian history paired with wine tours.

Hisarya: Famous for its Roman walls, ruins, and natural hot springs, this spa town offers relaxation and history.

Starosel: Discover Bulgaria's largest Thracian temple-tomb, showcasing fascinating ancient craftsmanship and culture.

For nature lovers, this chain of glacial lakes in the Rila Mountains offers a serene hiking experience. The pristine alpine setting is one of Bulgaria’s most picturesque spots and is perfect for a day trip with breathtaking views. Here is a guided tour option:

As the medieval capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire (and the former seat of the crown), this city boasts the awe-inspiring Tsarevets Fortress with its panoramic views. Stroll through cobblestone streets, visit historic churches, and enjoy the nearby village of Arbanasi.