Plovdiv stands out as Bulgaria’s cultural heart, with its layered history, lively streets, and architectural treasures. What makes it particularly appealing for tours and experiences is the city’s mix of ancient ruins, vibrant neighborhoods, and surrounding natural beauty. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, food lover, or nature seeker, Plovdiv offers a variety of ways to explore. We’re especially fond of the Private city walking tour for its personalized touch and in-depth insights, and the Valley of the Thracian Kings guided trip for its immersive history and stunning views. Not to mention, the Bachkovo Monastery and Wonder Bridges day trip offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration and scenic hiking. Each experience is tailored to different interests, making Plovdiv a city that truly caters to curious travelers.
Quick Overview
Our list includes guided walking tours, private full-day excursions, archaeological explorations, and even culinary adventures. They range from intimate private walks to comprehensive day trips into Bulgaria’s countryside. Some tours focus on history and architecture, like the Kazanlak-Rose Valley and Thracian Tombs, while others highlight nature and monasteries, such as the plovdiv: Bachkovo Monastery, Asen Fortress, & Wonder Bridges. We’ll walk you through each, giving you the details needed to find your ideal experience.
1. Private city walking tour of Plovdiv
At number 1, the Private city walking tour of Plovdiv offers an excellent way to see the city with a dedicated guide. For around $177.92, you get about 2.5 hours of personalized attention exploring both the ancient and modern parts of Plovdiv. Your guide will tailor the route to your interests, ensuring you see highlights like the Ancient Stadium of Philippopolis, Balabanov House, and the Ethnographic Museum. The tour’s strength lies in its flexibility and detailed storytelling, making it ideal for history buffs or anyone wanting a deep dive into Bulgaria’s past through a local lens. Reviewers praise guide Niki for her knowledge and friendliness, often mentioning how much they appreciated the customized experience. Since it covers major sites and offers a private, relaxed pace, this tour is perfect if you prefer a personal touch and want to get to know the city intimately.
Bottom Line: A fantastic option for those wanting a comprehensive, personalized introduction to Plovdiv’s rich heritage.
2. Plovdiv: Bachkovo Monastery, Asen Fortress, & Wonder Bridges
For those keen on combining natural beauty, history, and spirituality, the Plovdiv: Bachkovo Monastery, Asen Fortress, & Wonder Bridges day tour is a standout. This 7-hour trip takes you into the Rhodope Mountains, where you’ll see the impressive Wonder Bridges—massive natural rock arches—great for photos and a bit of light hiking. The tour also includes a visit to Bachkovo Monastery, famous for its miraculous icon, and Asen’s Fortress, perched high on the mountains with panoramic views. Guides like Stojan are known for their friendliness and deep knowledge, sharing engaging stories about Bulgaria’s medieval past. Many reviews mention how the natural scenery and the terrain challenge visitors, so good footwear is recommended. It’s best suited for active travelers who enjoy a mix of outdoor adventure and cultural insights.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a scenic, history-rich day out with some light hiking and authentic Bulgarian monasteries.
3. Plovdiv: Valley of the Thracian Kings Guided Day Trip
At number 3, the Valley of the Thracian Kings offers a full day immersed in ancient Bulgaria’s thrilling archaeology. The 10-hour trip includes visits to the Kazanlak royal tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning frescoes from the 4th century B.C., and the Museum of Religions. Your guide, Adrian, is praised for his storytelling and flexibility, adjusting the trip based on your interests. It’s ideal for history lovers wanting a comprehensive look at the Thracian civilization and its influence on Bulgaria. The combination of ancient tombs, archaeological sites, and local museums provides a well-rounded experience. Expect to walk around historic sites and learn about Thracian art, warfare, and burial customs.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for history aficionados who want to see significant Thracian archaeological sites in one day.
4. Kazanlak-Rose Valley-Valley of the Thracian Kings – private tour from Plovdiv
The Kazanlak-Rose Valley and Valley of the Thracian Kings is a full-day private experience that combines Bulgaria’s famous rose production with its ancient tombs. For $132.92 per person, you’ll visit the Rose Museum, learn about Bulgaria’s rose oil industry, and explore the Golyama Kosmatka Tomb and the Kazanlak Tomb, both UNESCO sites with incredible frescoes. Guides like Rusi bring the history to life, explaining how rose oil is made and the significance of Thracian burial rituals. Many reviewers highlight how the tombs’ architecture and artifacts leave a lasting impression. The tour provides comfort and convenience with hotel pickup, making it accessible for all travelers. It’s perfect for those interested in cultural heritage and Bulgaria’s fragrant rose fields.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a mix of sensory experiences—aromatic rose fields and ancient tombs—in one full day.
5. Food Walk Plovdiv: Bulgarian Food and Culture Tour
Food lovers should not miss the Food Walk Plovdiv, a 3-hour taste tour through the city’s culinary scene. For a small group, this experience takes you to local markets, specialty food shops, and a traditional restaurant, offering a full honey degustation and insights into Bulgarian food culture. Guides like Elijah bring local flavors alive with stories about regional customs and ingredients. Guests rave about the quality of the tastings, with mentions of delicious sausage, bread, and dips, and the opportunity to learn about Bulgarian cuisine firsthand. This tour suits foodies eager for authentic tastes and cultural context, especially if you’re curious about local ingredients and food traditions.
Bottom Line: A tasty, intimate introduction to Plovdiv’s culinary traditions, perfect for foodies wanting a bite-sized culture.
6. Plovdiv: Buzludzha Monument & Museum of Aviation Day Trip
For a journey into Bulgaria’s recent past, the Buzludzha Monument & Museum of Aviation tour offers a full 10-hour exploration. This trip takes you to the iconic Buzludzha Monument, a striking symbol of Bulgaria’s Communist era, perched high in the mountains. Visit nearby Dimitrovgrad, a town built during that time, and end with a tour of the Museum of Aviation, where military aircraft and history come together. Tour guides like Adrian are praised for their storytelling, and the trip is packed with cultural and historical insights. Expect a mix of architecture, history, and scenic mountain views. The tour is best for those interested in 20th-century history and Soviet-era architecture.
Bottom Line: A unique experience combining political history with Bulgaria’s aviation heritage, ideal for history buffs and architecture fans.
7. Full Day Eco Private Tour in Plovdiv
For travelers seeking sustainability, the Full Day Eco Private Tour is designed to explore Bulgaria in an environmentally friendly way. Led by a knowledgeable guide, this 8-hour private tour includes visits to ancient sites and natural landscapes, emphasizing green practices. The tour is tailored to you, with a focus on authentic experiences that connect you with Bulgaria’s cultural and natural heritage. Many reviewers appreciate the personalized service and the chance to learn about Bulgaria’s ecological initiatives while discovering the country’s oldest settlements. It’s a good fit for eco-conscious travelers who want a more mindful approach to sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want to explore Bulgaria’s history and landscapes with minimal environmental impact, all in a private setting.
8. Plovdiv: Perperikon, Haskovo and Thracian Tomb Full-Day Trip
Number 8 on our list is the Perperikon, Haskovo, and Thracian Tomb trip. Over 10 hours, you explore the legendary Perperikon, an ancient Thracian city built into rocky cliffs. Then, you visit the world’s biggest Virgin Mary statue in Haskovo, and finally discover the Thracian Tomb of Alexandrovo. Guides like Ivo make history engaging with stories about the mystical Thracians and their sacred sites. The trip offers a mix of archaeology, religious art, and stunning mountain scenery. It’s ideal for travelers interested in mythology and ancient civilizations, offering a broad look at Bulgaria’s mystical past.
Bottom Line: A fascinating, full-day journey into Thracian legends and archaeological wonders.
9. Plovdiv: Central Balkan National Park Guided Hike
For outdoor enthusiasts, the Central Balkan National Park Guided Hike is a 9-hour adventure. It takes you to the highest points of Bulgaria’s Balkan mountains via the country’s largest chairlift. The hike rewards you with spectacular views and the chance to spot wildlife, plus an option for paragliding if you’re feeling brave. Guides like Ivo are praised for their knowledge of the flora, fauna, and mythology of the mountains. Many reviews mention how the scenery, combined with the guide’s storytelling, makes for an unforgettable day. This tour is suited for fit travelers eager to combine hiking, sightseeing, and mountain air.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice for active travelers who love nature, panoramic views, and a dose of adventure.
10. Koprivshtitsa: History and Architecture from Plovdiv
Number 10 features the charming town of Koprivshtitsa, renowned for its well-preserved 19th-century architecture and pivotal role in Bulgaria’s fight for independence. This 6-hour tour includes walking along cobblestone streets, visiting ethnographic museums, and learning about the April Uprising of 1876. The town’s authentic houses and local museums make it a living museum of Bulgarian National Revival architecture. Many visitors appreciate the informative guides and the scenic lunch by the Topolnitsa River. It’s ideal for architecture lovers and history enthusiasts who want an immersive, relaxed day outside the city.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those interested in Bulgaria’s national awakening, with beautiful architecture and a peaceful setting.
11. From Plovdiv: Sofia – A Story of an Ancient State Day Tour
The Sofia day tour takes you from Plovdiv to Bulgaria’s capital, exploring 13,000 years of history. Highlights include the National History Museum, Roman ruins, and Boyana Church, a UNESCO site. The 9-hour trip is praised for its well-organized itinerary and the guide’s engaging storytelling. It suits travelers with limited time who want to see Bulgaria’s political and cultural heart. Many reviewers mention the personal attention and the variety of sites covered, making this an insightful experience for history lovers.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers wanting a rundown of Bulgaria’s capital in one day.
12. Plovdiv: Old Town Self-Guided Audio Tour
For those who prefer flexibility, the Old Town Self-Guided Audio Tour allows you to explore at your own pace. Available for one day, this tour provides a map and audio guide to the best sights of Plovdiv’s historic center. It’s perfect if you like to set your own schedule, take photos, and absorb the ambiance without rushing. Reviewers mention its ease of use and how it helps you discover Roman ruins, Revival-style houses, and scenic viewpoints on your own terms.
Bottom Line: A flexible, budget-friendly way to explore Plovdiv’s Old Town on your schedule.
13. Plovdiv: Guided Walking Tour
Number 13 offers a Guided walking tour for 2 hours, covering the main pedestrian street, Roman theater, and Thracian fortress hill. This small-group tour provides a compact overview of Plovdiv’s highlights, led by an expert guide who shares stories about the city’s multicultural past. It’s a good choice for travelers who want a brief, structured introduction without the commitment of a full day. Several reviews mention how the guide’s insights added depth to the sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those with limited time who want a well-rounded, quick tour.
14. Plovdiv and Rila Monastery tour in one day
Finally, the Plovdiv and Rila Monastery combines two of Bulgaria’s most iconic sites in an 11-hour tour. You’ll visit Bulgaria’s oldest city with 8,000 years of history, then marvel at the Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site from the 10th century. This tour is best for travelers eager to see both cultural highlights without multiple trips. Expect a full day of travel, with friendly guides like Svetoslav providing context along the way. It’s a great way to maximize your Bulgaria experience, especially if time is limited but you want a broad overview.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting an all-in-one cultural and historical day trip.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When deciding which tour suits you best, consider your interests, fitness level, and time constraints. For a personalized introduction, the Private city walking tour is hard to beat. If you love outdoor adventures and history, the Wonder Bridges and Monastery makes a memorable day. For those passionate about ancient civilizations, the Thracian tombs and Valley of the Thracian Kings are top picks. Budget travelers might prefer the Self-Guided Audio Tour, while history buffs can’t go wrong with the Sofia Day Trip or Full Day Eco Tour.
Booking early is advisable for popular tours, especially in peak season. Think about what experiences will resonate most—whether it’s cultural, outdoor, or culinary—and choose accordingly. Plovdiv’s diverse options mean you’re likely to find one that matches your curiosity and energy level.
Final Thoughts
From private walks to full-day archaeological adventures, Plovdiv offers a fantastic array of tours tailored to various interests. For a deeply personal experience, the Private city walking tour is hard to beat. History enthusiasts will love exploring the Thracian tombs, while nature lovers should not miss the Wonder Bridges and Monastery. With so many options, you can craft an itinerary that perfectly fits your pace and interests.
Finally, whether your trip is short or long, these experiences will deepen your connection with Bulgaria’s cultural and natural landscape. Book early, pick what excites you most, and enjoy everything Plovdiv has to offer.