All Plovdiv Tours & Excursions in 2026

Take advantage of your limited vacation time in Plovdiv on a small-group walking tour of the historic center. Listen to intriguing stories about the city's past as you wander the picturesque cobbled streets, pass stunning architecture, explore the key landmarks, and soak up the lively atmosphere. This comprehensive and quick tour is perfect for travelers who want to orient themselves to the city for future exploring.

From Plovdiv we head towards the Rhodope Mountains passing through the pretty town of Assenovgrad. Nearby we will see the remarkable remains of King Ivan Assen’s fortress – a wise ruler of the Second Bulgarian Kingdom. There we are to find an ancient church dating from the 13th century painted with some authentic pieces of iconography as well as the stone made inscription carved by King Ivan Assen. Next we go deeper in the Rhodope Mountains towards the picturesque Bachkovo monastery. The cloister is the second largest in Bulgaria, founded in 1083 and one of the most sacred places in the Bulgarian history. We can stop on the way if you wish. If you are the only one booked for that day, the tour is just for you. Please note that the maximum number of people who can join is 6

Get out of the city and explore the notable religious sites around Plovdiv on this private day tour. Travel with a guide towards the Rhodope Mountains and visit King Asen's Fortress in Asenovgrad. Stop at the 11th-century Bachkovo Monastery and learn about its history. Choose to take a walk in the Red Wall Nature Reserve.

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.

Immerse yourself in Bulgarian culture and lend a hand to your local hosts as they teach you the centuries-old art of breadmaking and yoghurt production. Plus, get your hands dirty and assist with cattle keeping. This opportunity allows you to fully merge with the locals and create lasting memories. With multiple locations to choose from, you can customize your experience to suit your preferences.

You can explore freely and use the app to listen to the tour, with clear directions telling you where to go next. You can begin at the Roman Forum of Philippopolis, the political and social heart of the ancient city, surrounded by columns and civic buildings. Nearby, discover the impressive mosaics of the Roman Basilica of Philippopolis. Continue through Tsar Simeon Garden and the Singing Fountains, then explore the Roman Stadium of Philippopolis and the still-active Roman Theatre of Philippopolis. Walk the Old Town streets to see Lamartine House, Klianti House, the Regional Ethnographic Museum Plovdiv, and Balabanov House. Pass the Yellow School, visit Church of St. Petka and Church of St. Constantine and Helena, and conclude near the Boris Hristov House of Culture. Listen, walk, and let Plovdiv reveal itself.

Choose your own wine adventure on this private and customizable experience at a Starosel winery from Plovdiv. Select from packages that let you taste three, five, or seven wines, or opt for a workshop that lets you create your own wine. Plus, opt to add on spa experiences to heighten your sense of relaxation.

The Festival of Herbs in Karlovo (with Lavender aroma) is emblematic for Bulgaria and it's as big as the Kazanlak Rose festival. It's a true experience with great events and lots of cultural rituals. A festival not to be missed and totally worth experiencing. Do not miss the 20.06.2026 as it's going to be exquisite this year. Choice between 2 options for maximum flexibility. The program for 20.06.2026 is: 10:00 a.m. Folklore program with the participation of amateur groups from the Municipality of Karlovo 12:00 Demonstration of lavender brewing in an authentic gyulpan Folklore program - Samodiv dance, ritual "Enyo's bulya" Passing through the Enyo's wreath (woven from herbs) Demonstration of kneading bread, baking in a clay pot "Podnitsa" and tasting Tasting of lavender tea *There could be changes in the program

Travel through the notorious Valley of Roses to discover 4 of the most impressive monuments of Bulgaria from 3 historic periods. All of them are located on top of or at the foot of the longest mountain range in Bulgaria - The Balkan Range. Buzludzha is the most impressive monument of communist Bulgaria (from 1944 to 1989). Shipka Monument of Freedom and Shipka Memorial Church were built after and in memory of the Russian Turkish War of Liberation from 1877-1878. Golyama Kosmatka Thracian Tomb/temple was erected around 5-4 century BC by the ancient Thracian civilization inhabiting in huge numbers the Balkans at that time.

From Plovdiv we go towards Balkan mountain. We pass through several small Bulgarian villages. Our road continues through the Valley of Roses where, if you wish, we can stop. Then we arrive at the Russian Church "Nativity of Christ". After enjoying the unique architecture, we visit the largest tomb in the valley of the Thracian kings. Built 330 BC. Then we head to Buzludzha Peak and UFO -Buzludzha Monument.

Escape the tourist trail and discover Bulgaria’s Rhodope Mountains on this private guided day tour. Explore the 13th-century castle, Asen’s Fortress, and the 11th-century Bachkovo Monastery with its murals and frescoes, then admire the naturally carved bridges known the Wonderful Bridges. Tour includes door-to-door round-trip transportation and a private guide but excludes the affordable entrance fees.

Plovdiv makes an excellent base to explore more of Bulgaria, as this private tour from the city shows. Travel into the mountainous countryside to see several major landmarks south of Plovdiv, from historical sites such as Asen’s Fortress and Bachkovo Monastery to natural attractions such as the Marvelous Bridges in the Rhodope Mountains. Choose between options for a self-guided trip with an itinerary or a private guided tour.

Embark on a journey through the mystical East Rhodope Mountains, where history and mystery come together to create an unforgettable experience. On this day tour, you'll have the chance to visit some of the region's most fascinating sites, each with its own unique story to tell. Start your day at the awe-inspiring Perperikon, a megalithic sanctuary that has been called one of the most significant archaeological sites in Bulgaria. Marvel at the intricate carvings and breathtaking views that have made this place famous. From there, travel to Haskovo, a city rich in history and culture, where you'll visit the biggest monument of the Madona. Finally, discover the hidden treasures of the Thracian Tomb of Alexandrovo, where intricate frescoes offer a glimpse into the beliefs and customs of the ancient Thracians. Get ready for an inspiring journey through the mystical East Rhodope Mountains!

Step into the lesser-known yet profoundly moving Jewish history of Plovdiv — one of Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited cities. On this immersive walking tour, you’ll explore the city through the lens of its Jewish community — from ancient roots to modern-day revival. Discover the Forgotten Corners of History Wander through charming streets once home to prosperous Jewish merchants, doctors, and bankers. Hear and see the story of one of Europe’s oldest synagogues and learn about the vibrant Sephardic traditions that flourished here. Experience Memory and Survival Stand where acts of solidarity defied the darkest moments of WWII. Visit the Jewish School, the Monument of Gratitude, and learn the story of how Bulgaria’s Jews survived the Holocaust through a rare and inspiring civil stance.

Discover the ancient history and stunning nature of the Rhodope Mountains within an hour drive from Plovdiv. This tour will not only introduce you to the area's most prominent architecture examples - Asen's Fortress and Bachkovo Monastery, but also will lead you deep into the roots and traditions of the local people. You will visit a village which locals refer to as 'the village where time has stopped'. Not visited by many tourists today, this place still preserves the authentic lifestyle and architecture of its dwellers. You will get the chance to taste the most delicious specialities of the region made by our lovely hosts who have prepared a bag of stories for you. Your adventure ends with the magnificent natural phenomena - The Wonder Bridges, which fascinated its visitors with its grandeur beauty and mystical energy.

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!

Our service offers transportation from Sofia to Plovdiv with new and well maintained vehicles. Comfort and punctuality are our priorities. All of our drivers are kind and English speaking.

If you love horses and horse riding, escape the city for the charms of the Rhodope Mountains and hack through the scenic countryside. Starting from near Galabovo town, ride through meadows and old oaks to a small chapel and the Kuklen Monastery. Explore the monastery before looping back to Galabovo by a different route. Your day includes door-to-door round-trip transfers.

Without a car, it is very difficult to get to Buzludzha, the famed abandoned Communist Party house. This private tour can take you from Sofia into the remote mountains where the crumbling building sits. Your tour also includes visits to the Shipka Monument and Valley of the Roses.

Itinerary: 8:00 AM – Depart from Plovdiv Drive: ~30 minutes to Asen's Fortress Highlights: - Stunning medieval fortress with panoramic views of the Rhodope Mountains - 12th-century Church of the Holy Mother of God Bachkovo Monastery Highlights: - Bulgaria’s second-largest and one of the most beautiful monasteries - 11th-century Orthodox monastery with rich history and frescoes - The miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary (believed to have healing powers) Optional: - Light a candle and experience the spiritual atmosphere - Visit nearby stalls selling local honey, jams, and handmade souvenirs Our last stop will be Wonder bridge - enjoy breathtaking Rhodope Mountain views along the way. Around 12:30 PM – arriving at the Wonder Bridges This is a Natural rock bridge formed by erosion over thousands of years Walk under and over the massive stone arches (~45m high) Perfect spot for photography. Possible wildlife sightings. Lunch break on the way back Returning to Plovdiv around 4pm.

Visiting the scenic town of Veliko Tarnovo from Plovdiv in a day can be tricky without a car. On this full-day private tour, travel with a guide directly from your hotel to Veliko Tarnovo. Visit Shipka Memorial Church, the village of Arbanassi, and Tsarevets Fortress during the day. Take time to explore the scenic streets of Veliko Tarnovo.

Discover Bulgarian history and culture away from the crowds on a private 6-hour tour to Koprivshtitsa. Seemingly frozen in time, the town offers a snapshot of 18th and 19th-century Bulgaria with its well-preserved architecture and monuments. Explore the cobblestoned streets with your guide and break for lunch at a riverfront restaurant (at own expense). Round-trip transportation from Plovdiv spares you the headache of navigating public buses in a foreign country.

Join our journey through time and history with a day trip to Koprivshtitsa Architectural Reserve and Starosel Thracian Tomb. Step back into the 19th century as you wander through the beautifully preserved Bulgarian town of Koprivshtitsa, where every house tells a unique story of the country's struggle for independence. Marvel at the colorful facades and ornate wooden balconies as you immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of the region. Next, travel further back in time to the ancient Thracian era at the Starosel Thracian Tomb. Explore the fascinating underground complex, marvel at the intricate murals, and learn about the intriguing rituals and beliefs of these mysterious people. As you stand in awe of the impressive burial chambers, you'll be transported to another world where the past comes to life in vivid detail.