Sofia, Plovdiv, and The Rose Valley in 2 Days

This 2-day tour covering Sofia, Plovdiv, and the Rose Valley offers a comprehensive introduction to Bulgaria’s most captivating sights and cultural treasures. Priced at $403 per person, the experience includes visits to historic landmarks, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and the scenic Rose Valley, famous for its rose oil production. The tour is ideal for travelers who want a guided, all-inclusive journey with a small group, limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention.

With professional guides leading you through Bulgaria’s historic neighborhoods and lush landscapes, this tour combines city exploration, cultural insights, and beautiful scenery. A key strength is the well-paced itinerary that balances sightseeing with comfortable travel. An important consideration is that the tour requires comfortable shoes and passport or ID card, as you’ll visit important historic sites and pass through various regions.

Key Points

• Two-day guided tour covering Sofia, Plovdiv, and the Rose Valley
• Includes transportation, accommodation, and entry fees
• Visits UNESCO sites, Roman ruins, and the Thracian Tomb
• Small group experience with only 8 participants maximum
• Learn about Bulgaria’s history, culture, and rose oil industry
• Price of $403 per person

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Exploring Sofia’s Top Sights in a 3-Hour Tour

The tour begins in Sofia, where a 3-hour guided walk introduces you to the city’s most important landmarks. You start with a visit to the UNESCO-listed Boyana Church, renowned for its medieval frescoes. Then, you move toward the city center to see the Alexander Nevski Cathedral, famous for its grand domes and intricate interior.

Other stops include Saint Sofia Church, The National Theatre, and St. George Rotunda. Each site offers a glimpse into Sofia’s spiritual and cultural history. The professional guide explains the significance of each location, making this a rich, educational introduction to Bulgaria’s capital. This part of the tour is suitable for those interested in architecture, religion, and Bulgarian history.

Transferring from Sofia to Plovdiv and Checking into Accommodation

After exploring Sofia, the group departs for Plovdiv, Bulgaria’s second-largest city. The coach ride takes approximately 2 hours, offering views of the Bulgarian countryside along the way. Upon arrival, participants check into their accommodation with breakfast included.

The first day in Plovdiv continues with a traditional Bulgarian lunch at a local restaurant. This gives an authentic taste of regional cuisine before diving into the city’s historic sites. The hotel stay provides a comfortable base for the following day’s exploring.

Discovering Plovdiv’s Roman and Revival Era Heritage

The second day begins with a tour of Plovdiv’s Roman sites, including the Roman Theatre and Roman Stadium. These ancient structures remain remarkably intact and are central to the city’s archaeological landscape. The walk through the Old Town reveals narrow cobblestone streets lined with Revival Period houses, many of which are painted in bright colors and feature intricate facades.

This part of the tour highlights Plovdiv’s blend of ancient and modern, with plenty of photo opportunities and stories about the city’s past. The guide provides insights into the urban development and the significance of these historic districts. Visitors appreciate the vivid atmosphere and the chance to see Bulgaria’s cultural revival firsthand.

Scenic Drive to the Rose Valley and Kazanlak

On the morning of the second day, after breakfast, the group departs Plovdiv for the Rose Valley. The drive lasts around 90 minutes, passing through picturesque landscapes filled with fields of roses and rolling hills. The region’s fragrant atmosphere and lush scenery make the journey especially memorable.

Upon arrival, the tour visits Kazanlak, a town renowned for rose oil production and its mythical Thracian heritage. The highlight here is the Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring exquisite Thracian artwork and murals. The History Museum provides further context on the region’s ancient inhabitants and their traditions.

Next, visitors see the Shipka Memorial Church, a striking religious monument that commemorates Bulgaria’s struggles for independence. These sites offer both cultural depth and visual appeal, enriching the understanding of Bulgaria’s ancient and modern history.

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Rose Oil and the Damascena Distillery Experience

The journey continues with a visit to the Damascena, a private family distillery situated in the heart of the Rose Valley. Here, visitors enjoy a lunch in a rose garden, surrounded by blooming roses, which enhances the sensory experience. The tour includes an explanation of the rose growing industry and the production of Bulgarian rose oil.

This part of the day emphasizes Bulgaria’s famous rose industry, known worldwide for its high-quality oil. Visitors can purchase authentic rose oil directly from the garden, making it a perfect souvenir. The experience combines learning, tasting, and shopping, providing a well-rounded insight into the region’s fragrant industry.

Returning to Sofia and Tour End

After the rose oil experience, the group travels back to Sofia, a journey of approximately 2 hours. The tour concludes with a drop-off at your accommodations in Sofia. This seamless return allows for flexible plans afterward, whether exploring more of the city or relaxing after two full days of sightseeing.

Practical Details and Inclusions

This 2-day tour includes pickup and drop-off in Sofia, a professional guide, transportation, overnight accommodation with breakfast in Plovdiv, and all entrance fees. The package provides a convenient, all-in-one experience for travelers looking to explore Bulgaria without the hassle of organizing transportation or entry.

Food and drinks, apart from the included lunch in the Rose Valley, are not included unless specified. Travelers should bring passport or ID, and wear comfortable shoes for walking.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

This tour appeals to travelers eager to see Bulgaria’s historic sites, scenic landscapes, and cultural highlights in a manageable two-day package**. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy guided tours, want a small group setting for more personalized attention, and prefer organized transportation. The inclusion of accommodation and entrance fees adds value and convenience.

Sofia, Plovdiv, and the Rose Valley in 2 Days – Final Thoughts

This well-curated tour offers a balanced mix of city exploration, ancient ruins, and fragrant rose gardens. It provides a rundown of Bulgaria’s major attractions and cultural identity. The small group size ensures a more intimate experience, while the knowledgeable guides help bring each site to life.

The $403 price point covers all essentials, making it a good investment for those who want a structured, informative journey without the stress of planning every detail themselves. While the itinerary is packed, the pacing remains comfortable, and the included accommodation in Plovdiv offers a restful stop.

This tour is a solid choice for visitors wanting an immersive two-day experience that highlights both Bulgaria’s historic treasures and natural beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, transportation is included from pickup in Sofia to all sites, with travel between cities and to the regional attractions.

What should I bring for the tour?
Travelers should bring passport or ID and comfortable shoes for walking and site visits.

How many people are in the group?
The tour operates in a small group limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a more relaxed experience.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

Are meals included?
Meals are not included except for the lunch at the Damascena distillery and breakfast in Plovdiv, while other food and drinks are extra.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, as long as participants are comfortable walking and have no mobility issues, this tour suits a broad age range seeking cultural and scenic experiences.

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