Sofia, Plovdiv, and The Rose Valley in 2 Days

Bulgaria boasts a rich cultural tapestry that’s ripe for exploration. In just two days, you can experience the highlights of this captivating country, from the historic churches and landmarks of Sofia to the ancient Roman amphitheaters of Plovdiv and the enchanting Rose Valley. Along the way, you’ll savor traditional Bulgarian cuisine, explore the region’s unique heritage, and uncover the UNESCO-listed Thracian Tomb of Kazanluk. With an immersive itinerary and expert local guidance, this tour promises to leave you with a deeper appreciation for Bulgaria’s diverse wonders. But the true allure lies in the stories waiting to be discovered…

This experience made our list of the 2 Best 2 Day Tours In Sofia.

Key Points

• This 2-day tour covers the highlights of Sofia, Plovdiv, and the Rose Valley, including UNESCO World Heritage sites and cultural landmarks.
• The tour includes comprehensive pickup and drop-off in Sofia, professional guide services, transportation, overnight accommodation, and all necessary entrance fees.
• Key sites visited in Sofia include the Boyana Church, Alexander Nevski Cathedral, and St. Sofia Church, showcasing the city’s rich history and architecture.
• The afternoon in Plovdiv features a tour of the historic city center, the well-preserved Roman Theatre, and the Roman Stadium.
• The second day explores the Thracian Tomb of Kazanluk, the Shipka Memorial Church, and the Damascena distillery, providing insights into the Rose Valley’s cultural and historical significance.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This 2-day tour typically covers the highlights of Sofia, Plovdiv, and the Rose Valley, providing travelers an immersive experience in Bulgaria’s rich history and culture.

The tour lasts for 2 days and costs from $397.38 per person, with a limited group size of 8 participants.

All tours are conducted in English, and there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Pickup from your location in Sofia is included.

Over the two days, you’ll explore the capital city of Sofia, the historic city of Plovdiv, and the renowned Rose Valley, learning about the region’s UNESCO World Heritage sites, traditional Bulgarian cuisine, and the renowned rose oil production.

Day 1: Sofia and Plovdiv Exploration

The tour begins with a morning pickup in Sofia, followed by a 3-hour guided exploration of the city’s key historical and architectural landmarks. Visitors will marvel at the UNESCO-listed Boyana Church, the grand Alexander Nevski Cathedral, and the stunning St. Sofia Church. The tour also highlights the National Theatre and the St. George Rotunda, offering a comprehensive introduction to Sofia’s rich heritage.

Site	Significance
Boyana Church	UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its remarkable medieval frescoes
Alexander Nevski Cathedral	One of the largest Eastern Orthodox cathedrals in the world, a symbol of Bulgarian national identity
St. Sofia Church	Dating back to the 4th century, one of the oldest churches in Sofia
National Theatre	Landmark of Bulgarian culture, home to renowned opera, ballet, and drama productions
St. George Rotunda	One of the oldest buildings in Sofia, a well-preserved example of early Christian architecture

After the Sofia exploration, the group travels to Plovdiv, where they check into their accommodations and enjoy a traditional Bulgarian lunch before embarking on a tour of the historic city.

Key Sites in Sofia

Anchored within Sofia’s historical core, the magnificent Boyana Church stands as a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its remarkably well-preserved medieval frescoes that captivate visitors with their artistic brilliance.

Towering over the city, the grand Alexander Nevski Cathedral – one of the largest Eastern Orthodox cathedrals worldwide – serves as a powerful symbol of Bulgarian national identity.

Juxtaposed against these grand structures, the intimate St. Sofia Church, dating back to the 4th century, offers a glimpse into the city’s early Christian heritage.

Beyond these religious landmarks, the stately National Theatre and the well-preserved St. George Rotunda further enrich Sofia’s architectural tapestry, showcasing the city’s multifaceted cultural identity.

Afternoon in Plovdiv

After exploring the highlights of Sofia, the group journeys to Plovdiv, where they check into their accommodations and enjoy a traditional Bulgarian lunch before embarking on a captivating tour of the city’s rich history.

First, they visit the impressive Roman Theatre, a remarkably well-preserved ancient amphitheater that once hosted elaborate performances.

Next, they explore the remains of the Roman Stadium, a stunning feat of engineering that could hold up to 30,000 spectators.

The highlight of the afternoon is wandering through Plovdiv’s charming Old Town, admiring the beautifully restored Revival Period houses that showcase the city’s cultural heritage.

As the sun begins to set, the group returns to their hotel, eager to rest and prepare for the next day’s adventure.

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Day 2: Rose Valley and Kazanlak

Travelers depart Plovdiv early the next morning, embarking on the 1.5-hour journey to the picturesque Rose Valley.

Their first stop is the Thracian Tomb of Kazanluk, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring stunning frescoes.

Next, they explore the History Museum of Kazanluk, which offers insights into the region’s rich history.

The group then visits the Shipka Memorial Church, an impressive 19th-century structure commemorating the Russo-Turkish War.

After a delightful lunch at the Damascena distillery, nestled in a rose garden, the travelers learn about the intricate process of rose oil production, a cornerstone of Bulgaria’s economy.

With these captivating experiences, the second day of the tour concludes on a high note.

Key Sites in Kazanlak

The Thracian Tomb of Kazanluk, a UNESCO World Heritage site, features stunning frescoes that offer a glimpse into the region’s ancient past.

The History Museum of Kazanluk provides visitors with in-depth insights into the rich history and cultural heritage of the area.

The Shipka Memorial Church, an impressive 19th-century structure, stands as a monument to the Russo-Turkish War.

After exploring these captivating sites, visitors can enjoy a delightful lunch at the Damascena distillery, set amidst a beautiful rose garden.

Here, they’ll learn about the intricate process of rose oil production, a vital part of the local economy and a key element of Bulgarian culture.

Inclusions

This tour includes comprehensive pickup and drop-off in Sofia, along with a professional guide to lead the way throughout the exploration of Sofia, Plovdiv, and the Rose Valley.

Travelers will also enjoy transportation, overnight accommodation with breakfast in Plovdiv, and all necessary entrance fees. The included offerings make this an all-inclusive experience:

1. Pickup and drop-off in Sofia

2. Professional guide services

3. Transportation throughout the tour

4. Overnight stay with breakfast in Plovdiv, and all entrance fees

With these valuable inclusions, travelers can focus on seeing the rich history and stunning natural beauty of these destinations without worrying about logistics or additional expenses.

Important Information and Booking Details

Passport or ID card and comfortable shoes are must-bring items for this tour.

Customers can reserve their spot now and pay later to secure availability.

Reviews indicate a 5/5 overall rating based on positive feedback highlighting the knowledgeable guide and scenic Rose Valley.

The two-day tour is limited to 8 participants and includes pickup and drop-off in Sofia, professional guidance, transportation, overnight accommodation with breakfast in Plovdiv, and all entrance fees.

Visitors will explore historical and cultural sites across Sofia, Plovdiv, and the renowned Rose Valley, learning about rose oil production and sampling local cuisine.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this comprehensive tour offers an enriching experience of Bulgaria’s highlights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Requirements?

The tour doesn’t specify any dietary restrictions or requirements. Travelers with special dietary needs should contact the tour operator in advance to inquire about accommodations. Lunch at the Damascena distillery includes a traditional Bulgarian meal.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The tour has a free cancellation policy, allowing customers to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This provides flexibility and gives customers peace of mind when booking their tour.

Can I Extend My Stay in Plovdiv at an Additional Cost?

Yes, customers can extend their stay in Plovdiv at an additional cost. The tour operator can assist with booking extra nights in Plovdiv if desired. Rates for extended stays will vary depending on the hotel and dates.

Is There an Option to Add a Private Transfer From the Airport?

Yes, the tour offers an option to add a private transfer from the airport to your accommodations in Sofia. This can be arranged at an additional cost, providing a convenient and hassle-free start to your 2-day exploration.

Do the Accommodations Have Air Conditioning or Heating?

The accommodations for this tour typically include heating and air conditioning to ensure guest comfort. Specific details on the amenities can be provided by the tour operator when booking the tour.

Recap

This two-day tour offers a captivating glimpse into Bulgaria’s rich cultural heritage.

Explore the historic landmarks of Sofia, experience the ancient charm of Plovdiv, and learn about the Rose Valley’s unique traditions.

With guided visits, traditional meals, and UNESCO-listed sites, it’s a comprehensive and practical way to discover the essence of Bulgaria in a short time.

You can check if your dates are available here: