Plovdiv’s vineyards and wine culture have a history that stretches back centuries, making it a prime spot for wine enthusiasts. The city isn’t just about ancient Roman ruins and colorful streets; it’s also a hub for authentic Bulgarian wines, often paired with local cuisine and unique experiences. Whether you’re into horseback riding through scenic vineyards or exploring the city’s historical sites with a glass in hand, Plovdiv offers something special for every wine lover. We particularly like the Half-Day Horseback Adventure with Wine Tasting for its mix of countryside charm and cultural insight or the Plovdiv Exquisite Wine Tasting for a refined sampling of Bulgaria’s best bottles. Check out these experiences and more below.
Quick Overview: Our list features a range of wine tours— from a horseback adventure in Yustina Vineyard Park to a private city tour combining historic sights and Bulgarian wines. There’s also a full-day journey from Sofia to visit Thracian temples, local wineries, and charming towns, plus shorter, focused tastings right in Plovdiv. All tours offer unique angles on Bulgaria’s wine and cultural traditions, making it easier to find the perfect fit for your interests and schedule.
1. Half-Day of Horseback Adventure with Wine Tasting
At number 1 on our list is the Half-Day of Horseback Adventure with Wine Tasting. This 4-hour experience combines scenic riding with a taste of Bulgaria’s wine heritage. You’ll start from Yustina Vineyard Park, riding through lush vineyards, along gentle rivers, and into quiet forests—an ideal way to see the countryside while staying active. Your guide provides riding tips and cultural insights, making this accessible even for beginners. After exploring part of the Rodopi region on horseback, you’ll visit the Red Church, a stunning local landmark. The highlight, of course, is the wine tasting session, where you sample Bulgarian wines in a relaxed setting. The tour is rated 5.0/5 based on four reviews, with travelers praising the combination of nature, culture, and wine.
What makes this tour special is its blend of outdoor adventure and wine tasting, with the added bonus of learning about Bulgarian traditions from a knowledgeable guide. It’s well suited for active travelers who want a taste of the rural side of Bulgaria without sacrificing comfort. The $179.01 price is reasonable considering the personalized experience and scenic ride. A potential drawback? It’s limited to those 18 and over and requires some level of comfort on horseback.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active wine lovers who want a scenic, culturally rich experience with a little adventure thrown in.
2. Plovdiv Exquisite Wine Tasting
Coming in at number 2 is the Plovdiv Exquisite Wine Tasting, a 2-hour session dedicated solely to sampling Bulgaria’s top wines. This tour is all about tasting—nothing else—making it ideal for visitors who want a concentrated wine experience. The selection includes some of the finest Bulgarian wines, paired with appetizers, providing a true taste of local winemaking craftsmanship. Rated 5.0/5 from two reviews, it’s clear that this experience resonates with those seeking quality over quantity.
The $68.25 price offers excellent value for a curated tasting that highlights the region’s best wines. The intimate setting allows for personalized attention and detailed explanations of each varietal. This tour is particularly suited for wine enthusiasts eager to learn about Bulgarian wine styles without the distraction of sightseeing. It’s a straightforward, immersive experience that appeals to those short on time but long on curiosity.
Bottom Line: For a focused, high-quality wine tasting in Plovdiv, this tour offers a memorable, educational experience at a reasonable price.
3. Private Ancient History Spa and Wine from Sofia
Ranked third, this full-day Private Ancient History Spa and Wine Tour from Sofia combines Bulgaria’s ancient sites, a spa experience, and wine tasting—all in one. Starting in Sofia, you’ll visit the historic town of Koprivshtitsa, admired for its 19th-century Bulgarian Revival architecture and its role in the 1876 uprising. After exploring the town and visiting the Todor Kableshkov House Museum and other landmarks, you’ll head to the Rose Valley and the Thracian Temple of Starosel.
This tour is unique because it blends cultural history, local traditions, and wine in a comprehensive 8-hour package. The visit to a local winery and spa means you get moments of relaxation amid cultural exploration. Rated 5.0/5 from one reviewer, it’s clear that the tour offers a personalized, enriching experience for those interested in Bulgaria’s past and its wine scene.
The $114.70 price is quite competitive for a day of varied experiences, especially given the inclusion of visits to significant historical sites and a spa. It’s best suited for travelers who want a deep dive into Bulgaria’s heritage, with a touch of wine indulgence.
Bottom Line: Ideal for history buffs and culture seekers who also want to enjoy some of Bulgaria’s finest wines and a spa break.
$114.70 per person
4. The Ultimate Private Plovdiv Urban Wine & Cultural Tour
Number 4 is the Private Plovdiv Urban Wine & Cultural Tour, a 4-hour journey that mixes Plovdiv’s ancient sights with wine tasting. This fully personalized experience starts with the Roman Amphitheatre, then explores the Old Town with its brightly painted houses and cobblestone streets. Throughout the tour, you’ll enjoy tastings of local Bulgarian wines, learning about the region’s long-standing wine-making traditions from a knowledgeable guide.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on Plovdiv’s history and architecture alongside wine, making it perfect for culture lovers who want to combine sightseeing with tasting. The small-group format ensures an intimate experience, and the inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off adds convenience. The $79.94 price provides good value given the personalized attention and the opportunity to enjoy multiple landmarks and wines in just a few hours.
Rated 5.0/5, travelers have appreciated the tailored approach and the chance to see Plovdiv through a local’s eyes while sampling Bulgarian wines. This tour suits travelers short on time but eager to combine city exploration with wine.
Bottom Line: A good choice for those wanting a flexible, private experience that pairs Plovdiv’s sights with wine.
$79.94 per person
5. Plovdiv: Food and Wine Tour
Rounding out our list is the Plovdiv Food and Wine Tour, a 2-hour experience focusing on local flavors and wines. Starting at ul. “Knyaz Alexander I”, this tour combines street food with wine tastings, featuring three Bulgarian wines, each in 50 ml samples. Alongside the wines, you’ll sample local antipasti, gaining insight into Bulgaria’s culinary traditions.
This tour is ideal for travelers interested in both gastronomy and wine, offering a relaxed pace with plenty of tastings. The variety of local snacks paired with wine provides a taste of daily Bulgarian life. While specific pricing isn’t listed, the tour’s emphasis on street food and wine makes it accessible and fun, especially for those who enjoy culinary adventures.
Rated 4.5/5, this experience appeals to foodies and casual wine lovers alike. It’s particularly good for those wanting a shorter, informal introduction to Bulgaria’s flavors without long hours or complex schedules.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a quick, tasty introduction to Plovdiv’s street food scene paired with Bulgarian wines.
How to Choose Your Perfect Wine Tour in Plovdiv
When deciding between these options, consider your interests and schedule. Are you after an active outdoor experience? The horseback trip (Half-Day Horseback Adventure) offers scenic riding and cultural insights. Want a dedicated wine tasting session? The Exquisite Wine Tasting is ideal for those seeking depth. For a full culture, the Ancient History, Spa, and Wine combines history and relaxation.
If you prefer exploring the city’s landmarks alongside wine, the Urban Private Tour is perfect. And for a quick taste of local flavor, the Food and Wine Tour is a fun, informal option.
Booking early is advised, especially during peak tourist season. Think about what kind of experience you want — active, educational, relaxed, or culinary — and pick the tour that best matches your style.
In summary, Plovdiv offers a rich variety of wine-related experiences, from scenic horseback rides to city-focused tastings and full-day cultural tours. For active travelers, the horseback tour combines countryside beauty with wine, while those who prefer city exploration might enjoy the private urban wine and cultural tour. Budget-conscious visitors can choose the shorter tastings, and history buffs might love the full-day Sofia trip that adds a spa and ancient sites into the mix.
No matter your style, these tours promise a memorable taste of Bulgaria’s wine and culture. Be sure to book early and enjoy every glass—cheers to discovering Bulgaria through its wines.