Bulgaria · UNESCO Heritage Sites

3-Day Bulgaria Heritage Tour from Sofia with Plovdiv and Kazanlak

3 Days Round trip from 86 Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Visit the Bachkovo Monastery from the 18th century
02 Marvel at the Rose Valley in Kazanlak
03 See the Kazanlak Thracian Tomb and Goliama Kosmatka Seuthus III Thracian Temple
04 Admire the gorgeous church frescoes in Arbanassi village

Tour some of Bulgaria's most popular attractions on a 3-day journey from Sofia through Plovdiv, Kazanlak, and Veliko Tarnovo. Visit historic monasteries, Thracian tombs, and the old quarters of Bulgaria's most atmospheric towns, while enjoying scenic views in the Rose Valley and along the Shipka Pass. The experience also includes remarkable church frescoes in Arbanassi village and time to explore both historic and modern city areas.

Visit the Kazanlak Thracian Tomb (heritage site), Goliama Kosmatka Seuthus III Thracian Temple, and Shipka Memorial Church.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 3 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Not applicable

Cities Plovdiv, Sofia, Kazanlyk, Veliko Tarnovo

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Bachkovo Monastery and Plovdiv Discovery

Meet your local tour guide in Sofia for pick-up and transfer to Plovdiv.
Begin with a strong dose of history with a stop at the Bachkovo Monastery. This ancient monastery dates from the Revival period (18th-19th century).
Sightsee houses and other Roman buildings in the Old Town of Plovdiv.
Enjoy a city walk in the modern area of the city and look at local restaurants, cafes, bars, and parks.
Stay in a wonderful Renaissance-style hotel in the old town of Plovdiv.

Day 02

Rose Valley, Thracian Heritage, and Shipka Pass

Head north to the Rose Valley of Kazanlak for some scenic valley views.
Visit the Kazanlak Thracian Tomb (heritage site), Goliama Kosmatka Seuthus III Thracian Temple, and Shipka Memorial Church.
Continue on to the Balkan range via the Shipka Pass, which used to be a historical place during the Russian-Turkish Liberation War. Engage in some gorgeous scenery here. This will be followed by a stop at Dryanovo Monastery.
Visit Etara (optional) if your group is energetic or if you decide to skip one of the Thracian tombs.
Stay overnight in a beautiful, authentic hotel in Veliko Tarnovo.

Day 03

Arbanassi Village and Return to Sofia

Enjoy a delightful breakfast in the family hotel at Veliko Tarnovo.
Begin the climb to see the fortress-style construction of houses at Arbanassi village. At this village, you can also learn about local history.
Visit the local churches, including the Nativity Church and St. Archangels Michael and Gabriel's Church, to see some amazing church frescoes. An unforgettable Sound and Light performance over the fortress is optional, subject to availability.
Begin the 3-hour journey back to Sofia.
Make an optional stop at Saeva Dupka Cave, if possible (entrance fees extra).