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Plovdiv ProvinceCulture & history

Our most recommended Plovdiv Province Culture & history

From Sofia: Day Trip to Plovdiv by Shuttle w/ Optional Guide

1. From Sofia: Day Trip to Plovdiv by Shuttle w/ Optional Guide

Join this usually small group tour (most times the group size is up to 20 people), to discover the oldest existing town in Europe - Plovdiv - its capital of culture for 2019! The tour departs at 9:00. Please be at the meeting point - at the parking lot Behind Alexander Nevsky Cathedral at 8:45 and ask for the City Tour guide and van (our guides usually wear blue clothes). The traveling time to Plovdiv is abour 2-hours. There, if you have chosen the option with the guided tour, you will have a 2-hours guided tour in the old town, where you will be able to see the remarkable Revival houses, the views from the hill, the Roman theater and stadium, as well as the main walking street. After the guided tour, you will have 2 hours free time, during which you can have lunch, check the shops and visit some of the museums. If you have booked the self-guided option, you will have 4 hours free time after the arrival, during which you can explore the town on your own. The departute back to Sofia is at 15:00 and the approximate return between 17:00 and 17:30, depending on the trafic.

From Plovdiv: Wonderful Bridges and Rhodope Cuisine Day Trip

2. From Plovdiv: Wonderful Bridges and Rhodope Cuisine Day Trip

The Wonderful Bridges are a stunning set of natural wonders that have been carved from solid rock over millions of years. With breathtaking views of the rushing river below and unique rock formations, this is a destination unlike any other. The village of Kosovo is a peaceful and authentic corner of Bulgaria, with traditional homes, cobbled streets, and a strong sense of community. Here, visitors can experience the charm of rural life and admire the well-preserved historical and cultural heritage of the village, and also enjoy the amazing Rhodope cuisine. At 08:00 your guide will pick you up from your hotel and you will start a beautiful and scenic trip toward the highlight of the day- Wonderful Bridges. The Wonderful Bridges are a set of unique natural bridges formed over millions of years through the process of erosion. These bridges are located in the Rhodope Mountains of Bulgaria and are considered to be some of the most stunning and unusual geological formations in Europe. Each bridge is carved from solid rock and is a result of the relentless action of water over time. The bridges vary in size, shape, and height, but all have a natural beauty that is truly breathtaking. Some of the bridges are over 100 meters in height and span up to 50 meters across. The tallest and most famous bridge, known as the Eye Bridge, is a popular spot for tourists and is considered one of the most beautiful and impressive natural wonders in Bulgaria. After we admire the mighty of Nature we will start our drive deeper into the mountain and our goal is to reach an amazingly beautiful small village where you will taste the culture and the unique cuisine of the Rhodope region. The village is known for its well-preserved historical and cultural heritage, with many of the traditional homes and buildings dating back several hundred years. Visitors to Kosovo can admire the architecture and intricate details of the old homes, which are characterized by their wooden balconies and intricate carvings. After Kosovo, we will start our journey back to Plovdiv. On the way, we can make a stop and visit the second biggest monastery in Bulgaria- Bachkovo monastery. Its story started in the XI century but is mostly famous for the burial sites of two Bulgarian heroes, responsible for saving the Jews during the Second World War in Bulgaria. Despite the historical value of the place, the monastery is also very beautiful and it is surrounded by picturesque landscapes. Together, these destinations offer a unique and unforgettable experience that will leave you inspired and motivated. So join us on this day tour and discover the beauty and wonder of Bulgaria!

From Sofia: Full-Day Tour to Plovdiv and Asen's Fortress

3. From Sofia: Full-Day Tour to Plovdiv and Asen's Fortress

After a 2-hour drive, begin this full-day tour in one of Europe's oldest towns, Plovdiv. Walk along cobblestone streets and visit a 19th-century house to learn about the local production of alcoholic drinks and rose oil products. Explore the Roman Theater, Roman Stadium and church before enjoying 2 hours of free time to walk around and have lunch and coffee along the main pedestrian street. After exploring Plovdiv, meet your van and guide to make the 30-minute drive to Asen's Fortress. Admire this beautiful, medieval structure and learn about the history of the place before taking photos from the top. Start your journey back to Sofia with an expected arrival time of approximately 6:00 PM.

From Sofia: Plovdiv, Asen's Fortress and Bachkovo Monastery

4. From Sofia: Plovdiv, Asen's Fortress and Bachkovo Monastery

After you have been picked up from your hotel or accommodation in Sofia, enjoy an hour and a half scenic drive to Plovdiv.  Visit sights of historic importance such as the Roman Theatre and the Roman Stadium. Walk around the Old Town and admire the architecture of the houses, museums and cobbled streets typical of the Revival Period. After a traditional Bulgarian lunch, take a 25-minute drive to Asenova Fortress situated on the top of a cliff in Rodopi Mountain. Admire this medieval building and breathtaking views across the valley.  Visit Bachkovo Monastery, founded in 1083 and see the beautiful mural paintings which are still preserved today. End your tour with a drive back to Sofia where you will be dropped off at your accommodation.

From Plovdiv: Koprivshtica and Starosel Thracian Tomb Tour

5. From Plovdiv: Koprivshtica and Starosel Thracian Tomb Tour

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. At 09:00 your guide will pick you up from your hotel in Plovdiv and after an hour and a half of beautiful driving, you will reach the architect reserve Koprivshtica. This small town is like a time machine. It will send you back into the late 19th century and you will feel the atmosphere of those times. You will learn a lot about the Ottoman period and the struggle for independence. For a better feeling your guide will show you some of the preserved houses and you will be able to enter and see what was like to live in that period. Also, the town is famous for its restaurants and absolutely delicious traditional cuisine. Your guide will assist to have an amazing lunch. Our next point of interest will send you 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. After this amazing visit, you will head back to Plovdiv.

From Plovdiv: Bachkovo Monastery & Asen’s Fortress Tour

6. From Plovdiv: Bachkovo Monastery & Asen’s Fortress Tour

Drive to the dramatic Rhodope Mountains for this half-day tour from Plovdiv, passing the pretty town of Asenovgrad to see the remarkable fortress remains of King Ivan Asen, a wise ruler of the 2nd Bulgarian Kingdom. Visit the 13th-century Church of the Holy Mother of God to admire the historic iconography and ferscoes. Enjoy panoramic views of the mountain scenery, and learn why the fortress gained importance in the Middle Ages, and how it was conquered by the armies of the Third Crusade. Next, head to picturesque Bachkovo Monastery deeper in the mountains. Founded in 1083, and one of the most sacred places in Bulgarian history, the monastery’s main church contains a valuable icon of the Virgin Mary from 11-th century that, according to legend, can work miracles. Admire the exterior of the 12th-century bysantine style Church of the Archangels. Admire the stunning mural on the outside wall of the refectory, representing a bird’s eye view of the monastery and the surrounding buildings. This is the largest panoramic mural of Bulgaria, painted in the middle of the 19-th sentury. The monastery complex tour ends at the Church of Saint Nikola, built between 1834 and 1837. There enjoy the impressive Doomsday frescoe in the narthex of the church.

Plovdiv: Valley of the Thracian Kings Guided Day Trip

7. Plovdiv: Valley of the Thracian Kings Guided Day Trip

At 08:00 your guide will pick you up from your hotel and your journey will start. You will have around 2 hours drive until you reach the Valley of the Thracian kings. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to numerous Thracian tombs and burial mounds dating back to the 5th century BC. As you travel to the site, imagine the grandeur and splendor of the Thracian civilization that flourished in this region over 2,000 years ago. Envision the powerful kings and queens who were buried in these tombs, surrounded by their wealth and treasures. Upon arrival, your highly educated guide will lead you on a tour of the site, bringing the history of the Thracians to life. You'll see the impressive 5 tombs, and learn about the customs and beliefs of this ancient civilization. As you explore the Valley of the Thracian Kings, you'll be struck by the beauty of the natural surroundings. The valley is surrounded by lush green forests, offering a peaceful and serene setting for your visit. After exploring the Kazanlak region, we will continue our journey toward Stara Zagora where we will observe the layers of human history between the Stone age and modern times. But first, we will walk in the beautiful city center where we will have lunch. When we regain our strength we will start our exploration. Augusta Trayana was founded in the 2nd century AD and was an important center for trade and culture. The city was named after the Roman emperor Trajan and was a thriving metropolis during the Roman Empire. You will walk on the original streets from those days and will see where the city council has gathered for its meetings. We will visit the remains of a Roman house where you will see amazing mosaics in perfect condition, and will get the feeling of the way of living in the city in the days of the Roman empire. During your walk in Stara Zagora, your guide will show you a unique place- the Museum of Religions. It is situated in one of the oldest Mosques in the Balkans- Eski Mosque from the early XV century. Our last stop of the day is the furthest that we will get back in time- to the Neolithic age. You will visit the ruins of 2 houses from those times. They were part of a big Neolithic settlement. These houses are one of the best-preserved prehistorical buildings in Europe. The exposition will bring you back to the VII Millennium BC and your guide will do his best to explain who those people were and how they lived. In addition to the houses, you will also see, an archaeological collection of objects, related to the culture and the religion of the Stone age people, discovered in the Stone age settlements. After this incredible visit, we will start our journey back to Plovdiv.

Koprivshtitsa History and Architecture: From Plovdiv

8. Koprivshtitsa History and Architecture: From Plovdiv

Visit the charming town of Koprivshtitsa and explore its fascinating history and authentic 19th-century Bulgarian architecture. Koprivshtitsa was a center of the heroic 1876 April Uprising and the site of the first shot against Ottoman domination. The town still preserves the atmosphere of the 19th-century National Revival period and boasts over 380 architectural monuments from the time, most of which have been restored to their original appearance. Explore the town's architecture and visit one of its many museums to admire the vast collections of ethnographical treasures, including ancient weapons, intricate national costumes and stunning jewelry. The handsome historic town lies atop the Sredna Gora mountains and overlooks the beautiful Topolnitsa River. Enjoy a leisurely lunch by the peaceful waters of Topolnitsa River in the center of Koprivshtitsa and take in the spectacular views of the surrounding Bulgarian countryside before returning to Plovdiv for the night.

From Sofia: Plovdiv, Asen's Fortress and Bachkovo Monastery

9. From Sofia: Plovdiv, Asen's Fortress and Bachkovo Monastery

Leave Sofia and enjoy a full-day tour to Plovdiv, Asen's fortress, and Bachkovo Monastery with a licensed guide. See some of the most interesting historic sites in the area, like Nebet Tepe, the Roman theater of Phillippolis, and the Church of the Holy Mother of God on this tour. Leave Sofia and set out for a full-day tour to Plovdiv, Asen's Fortress, and Bachkovo Monastery. Start the day with hotel pickup in Sofia and relax on the 90-minute drive to Plovdiv. Visit the site of Nebet Tepe, an ancient settlement founded around 4000 BC, and see some historical buildings. Travel to the Roman theater of Phillippolis, one of the world's best-preserved ancient theaters. Marvel at the intricate wooden architecture of Hindliyan's house before moving on to the modern Kapana district to explore the shops and wander one of the longest pedestrian streets in Europe. Relax on the approximately 30-minute drive from Plovdiv to Asen's Fortress, perched on top of a hill in the beautiful Rhodope Mountains. Learn how the fortress that defended the route from the Aegean Sea to Thrace, and see the ruins of the fort itself and the Church of the Holy Mother of God. Admire some of the fragments of fourteenth-century murals in the church, and see its rectangular tower, believed the be the earliest preserved tower of its kind in the Balkans—Marvel at breathtaking views from the top of the fortress before departing for the next stop. Leave the fortress behind and stop at Bachkovo Monastery, the second-largest monastery in Bulgaria. Explore the main church with one of the oldest iconostasis in Bulgaria and the miraculous Icon of the Virgin Mary, the biggest fresco from the nineteenth century. Wander the Monastery and see the old dining room and original marble table, where monks ate for over three centuries, and gazer at the well-preserved murals in the St. Archangels and St. Nicolas churches. Sit in the courtyard and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and impressive trees. Buy handicrafts, honey, homemade jam, yogurt, herbs, and other gifts on the walk back by the monastery alley before returning back to Sofia on an approximately 2 hour and 20-minute drive.

From Sofia: Koprivshtitsa & Historic Homes Tour w/ Transfer

10. From Sofia: Koprivshtitsa & Historic Homes Tour w/ Transfer

Embark on a scenic adventure through the foothills of the Balkan Mountains and reach the small town of Koprivshtitsa, just southeast of Sofia. Join an immersive tour and visit Koprivshitsa’s historic 19th-century homes, with colorful courtyards and high stone walls. Depart from Sofia and drive toward Koprivshtitsa to better understand the roots of the Bulgarian Renaissance Period. Start your guided walk at the monumental mausoleum dedicated to the April Uprising, located in the central square. Venture to the home of local merchant Nencho Oslekov, marvel at its ornate facade, and see how a well-off Bulgarian family lived in the late 19th century. Admire the homes of symbolist poet Dimcho Debelyanov, the Karavelov family, and revolutionary leaders Todor Kableshkov and Georgi Benkovski. Wander around the curved and narrow cobblestone streets with numerous stone fountains and stop at the iconic Assumption of Virgin Mary Church. After the tour, have plenty of free time for lunch and shopping before being transferred back to Sofia. The local tour operator, Traventuria, was awarded a “Business Which Supports Biodiversity” certification by the Bulgarian Biodiversity Foundation for its “Tours with a Cause” initiative.

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What people are saying about Plovdiv Province

Overall rating

4.8 / 5

based on 205 reviews

Had a lovely time visiting Plovdiv. Travelled there with a mix of Spanish and English speakers, with Phillip giving great commentary both in English and in Spanish on way there. When arrived the group was split into Spanish and English with Tuni taking the English. Tuni was friendly and knowledgeable and his love of the city Plovdiv and history came across. Plovdiv is a lovely city to visit if you love architecture (big smoosh of old, communist and new), history (both ancient and more modern) culture and religion. Beware if you do not like hills there are 7 of them!

The day trip to Plovdiv is a great experience! I highly recommend it to everyone visiting Sofia as it is a relatively close destination. The architecture and history in Fillipoupolis is captivating. Our english tour guide (Maria) was very pleasant, helpful and informative about the city. Timing was followed according to the program.

Evo was a great tour guide. Gave us lots of information about Plovdiv, the fortress and the monastery. We had plenty of time for lunch and to explore Plovdiv on our own … a brilliant day out.

Great day out, Plovdiv is lovely and our guide Plamin was great, very helpful

Excellent tour with our own tour guide Val who was very knowledgeable.