Top Plovdiv Culture in 2026

Traverse millennia of history on a seamless day trip from Sofia. Traveling by air-conditioned coach, explore ancient Plovdiv, the mystical Starosel Thracian Temple, and the open-air street art village of Staro Zhelezare. - Plovdiv Old Town: Walk through historic cobblestone streets and major Roman ruins. - Lunch & Walk: Enjoy local food along Europe's longest pedestrian zone. - Starosel Temple: Discover an ancient 4th-century BC Thracian site. - Staro Zhelezare: Capture vibrant street art in a unique rural village. - Scenic Drive: Relax through the scenic Thracian Valley. Important Details This tour operates as a large group tour. Transport is provided by large 45 to 65-seater tourist coaches (not small minibuses). You will share the vehicle with other travelers and multi-language guided groups Passengers with different options may share transport; add-ons may require vehicle/guide changes. Closed-toe walking shoes are strictly required for uneven cobblestone streets.

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 7

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.

Many tours help you explore Bulgaria’s Marvelous Bridges, but not all of them pair the experience with the opportunity to sample authentic Rhodope cuisine (own expense). On this full-day, small-group tour, hop in a minibus and relax on the ride to the Rhodope Mountains. As well as taking in the region’s rock bridges, explore the cobblestone streets of the traditional village of Kosovo.

Explore the ancient city of Plovdiv on a full-day small-group tour from Sofia. Discover the city's rich history and culture as you visit top attractions like the Roman Theatre, Old Town, and the iconic Nebet Tepe Hill. With a small group of travelers, enjoy an intimate and personalized experience with a local guide. Plus, enjoy free time to explore independently, browse the local markets, and enjoy Bulgarian cuisine (own expense).

Skip the tourist traps, eat like a local, and get an authentic taste of Bulgarian culture on this food walking tour. Learn about—and sample—some of the country's best-loved dishes while learning all about Bulgarian customs and culture.

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.

Experience the essence of Plovdiv on this guided walking tour through the city's Old Town, one of Europe’s oldest cities. Engage with captivating stories, visit stunning Revival-era architecture, and enjoy local wine and traditional Bulgarian snacks. Immerse yourself in the local culture with a fun folklore experience that invites you to embrace the rhythm of Bulgaria. Additionally, receive a digital audio guide and a comprehensive PDF booklet in multiple languages, allowing for continued exploration at your own pace. - Guided tour of Plovdiv’s atmospheric Old Town with an expert guide - Taste local wine and authentic Bulgarian specialties along the way - Enjoy an interactive folklore experience, no dance skills required - Access digital audio guide and PDF booklet for independent exploration

Forget the restrictions of a formal itinerary and discover Plovdiv at your own pace on an audio-guided tour, with commentary available in multiple languages. Depart at a time that suits you and be immersed in the ambiance of the ancient city as you explore by foot, or take time to relax in a local restaurant with a 15% discount included.

In this tour, we are combining exhilarating outdoor exploration, mouthwatering culinary delights, and the captivating wonders of the underground world. Get ready to embark on a journey that will satisfy your senses and leave you with lasting memories. Lace up your hiking boots, bring your appetite, and prepare to be amazed by the natural and gastronomic treasures that await you in this enchanting region of Bulgaria.

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.

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.

Discover Plovdiv - one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe, with more than 6,000 years of history. We will show you over 20 landmarks and cultural monuments in Plovdiv. You will see beautifully preserved mosaics, traditional Bulgarian architecture, atmospheric cobblestone streets, and experience the magic of Plovdiv's Old Town. Our guided walking tour includes audio guide devices through which you listen to the history of the landmarks in your own language. This will allow you the freedom to move comfortably, enter churches, take photos, and not having to stand next to the guide all the time to hear the stories. Instead you can listen to the tour from a distance. During the approximately 2.5-hour walking tour, you will explore the main highlights of ancient Plovdiv and the Old Town, discover lesser-known archaeological sites, understand the local culture, and feel the unique atmosphere of the city. At the end, you can taste the traditional Bulgarian Rakia.

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.

Explore the 8000-year history of Plovdiv with ruins from the Roman times, beautiful Revival architecture and cozy restaurants in Kapana district. Enjoy breathtaking views from Asen’s Fortress, perched on top of a hill in the beautiful Rhodope Mountains. Visit the second largest monastery in Bulgaria and see the miraculous icon of Virgin Mary. Take the advantage of this small-group tour with free hotel pickup.

The town of Koprivshtitsa is located some 110 km southeast of Sofia. It is a 2-hour transfer along a road, which passes via small valleys and traces the southern foothills of the Balkan Mountains. Probably, the best way to understand the roots of the Bulgarian Renaissance Period is to learn more about Koprivshitsa's 19th houses with their colorful courtyards, surrounded by high stone walls and gates. The disorderly built curved and narrow cobblestone little streets and plots and the numerous stone fountains contribute to the attractiveness of the little town. Many of these houses are turned into museums, but each one has its own identity, which corresponds to the main business and the size of the family of its owner. On the way back to Sofia, you will travel through a different route, which will go through the valley of Strelcha, famous for its rose oil-yielding rose bushes, exceptionally picturesque during May and June.

Your tour begins with a short introduction to Plovdiv with it's main sights as we walk towards the workshop in the Old town. A demonstration and hand-on experience of 2 crafts are to be explored by you privately without the crowds. The professional local guide makes your every minute of your tour to remember. This experienced in designed to incorporate workshops and a cultural visit to Plovdiv - the European Capital of Culture for 2019.

See the best of Plovdiv's landmarks without feeling overwhelmed on a private walking tour. This excursion is ideal for people who are short on time or want to orient themselves to the city. The itinerary includes stops outside the Plovdiv Roman Theater, Nebet Tepe Archeological Complex, and Balabanov House. Every step of the way, your local guide will provide illuminating commentary on the city’s history and culture to ensure a truly immersive tour experience.

Explore the ancient charm of Plovdiv at your own pace with this self-guided walking tour. Discover the city's rich history as you navigate through the cobblestone streets of the Old Town, where a Roman stadium lies beneath the modern shopping area, and an Ottoman mosque overlooks ancient ruins. Using an interactive audio guide, unlock fun facts and quizzes at each stop, making your journey engaging and informative. Enjoy this flexible experience available daily, designed for solo travelers or groups. - Explore 2 km of Plovdiv's historic sites at your own pace - Includes an audio guide, quizzes, and a smart navigation map - Tour duration is approximately 1.5 hours, available anytime - Complimentary 500MB eSIM data for global use included

Explore the ancient Thracian temples of Starosel on a private tour from Plovdiv. This journey takes you to the monumental Chetinyova Mound, a royal sanctuary showcasing ancient rituals, and the stunning Horizon Mound, known for its rare colonnaded design and panoramic views. After immersing yourself in history, unwind at the Wine & SPA Complex Starosel, where you can relax in mineral pools and indulge in a curated selection of local wines that honor Thracian traditions. This tour combines cultural exploration, relaxation, and exquisite wine tasting for a rejuvenating experience.

In Starosel is located one of the biggest Thracian cult complexes. Archaeologists presume that the most powerful Odrissy king - Sitalk -was buried here. Starosel Winery Complex offers not only the opportunity to taste wine grown in the land of the Thracians but only to immerse yourselves in the atmosphere of an age long gone. Hissarya is famed for its hot mineral springs, significant Roman ruins, archeological museum, green parks, and swimming pools. Our private day trip would bring you to 2 of the best destinations in proximity of Plovdiv. Your private local guide would make your trip unforgettable.

On September 9th, 1944, the Red Army entered Bulgaria, marking the beginning of a 45-year era during which the country was part of the Eastern Bloc. This shift brought radical transformations to all aspects of life. On our Socialist Heritage Tour, we will explore how Socialism reshaped Plovdiv — from monumental buildings and hidden symbols to personal stories of conformity, resistance, and quiet rebellion. This is not a textbook lecture, but a walk through places where history was lived, questioned, and remembered. Join us for an insider’s look at a period that continues to shape the city and its people today.

No trip to Plovdiv is complete with a visit to Rila Monastery. Make your excursion to the UNESCO listed attraction memorable and stress-free on a private 10-hour tour. Skip the overcrowded tourist bus and relax in end-to-end transfer from your hotel. After a scenic drive through the mountains, enjoy an immersive guided tour through the monastery grounds. Along the way, feel free to ask questions and engage with your guide.