All Karlovo Tours & Excursions in 2026

Travelers looking for an interactive cultural experience in Bulgaria can enjoy this rose workshop at the Gardens of Karlovo. Arrive at the gardens and immerse yourself in the age-old tradition of harvesting roses and creating luxurious rose oil. Perform the pick-and-distill ritual, indulge in delectable rose treats, and watch the process of extracting rose oil in the mini distillery. Unveil the secrets of this Bulgarian craft while relaxing in the atmosphere.

Bulgaria has been known for centuries with its rose oil, which is the best in the world. In recent years, another miracle has happened - she overtook France - the world leader in lavender production. From 2012 Bulgaria is officially number 1 in the world for the production of lavender oil. Bulgaria and France together produce about one-third of the world's lavender oil. Bulgarian lavender oil is used in French perfumery. You have a unique opportunity to see it all with your own eyes!

Foodies won’t want to miss the chance to witness a classic Bulgarian seasonal experience: making rose jam and oil. Between May and June, the Damascene roses of the Rose Valley near Kazanlak bloom, and their most delicate petals become a delicious homemade jam. Learn about centuries-old traditions as you watch expert hands prepare first jam, oil then yogurt. Then enjoy a yogurt tasting followed by fig jam and a “banitsa” pastry.

Art knitting is a traditional Bulgarian craft, including knitting of one and five hooks, lace point, frevole and brussels lace. The master will tell you the story of this art and will show the basic knitting techniques and as a result you will make a souvenir! Color embroidery-in its early period, the art of embroidery developed on the rich heritage of Slavic embroidery. Artistic woodcarving-processing, cutting and shaping wood with an applied and decorative purpose by using various tools. Plastene-in the past, there was an old Bulgarian craft, which produced fabrics of woven textiles. Probably this is the oldest technique for making textiles. Weaving-besides the dexterity and the creative instinct of the Bulgarian people, in its weaving art are intertwined borrowings from other ethnicities and nations, imported from historical contacts,invasions,trade exchanges. Immerse yourself in the charm of the past and return hundreds of years back in time!