Plovdiv Province is a treasure trove for travelers who enjoy rich history, beautiful landscapes, and authentic Bulgarian culture. Its ancient sites, spectacular views, and delicious wines make it a perfect destination for day trips and guided tours. We particularly love the From Plovdiv: Bachkovo Monastery & Asen’s Fortress Tour for its combination of history and scenery, and the Plovdiv: 2-Hour Sightseeing Walking Tour for those wanting a quick but in-depth look at Bulgaria’s oldest city. Whether you’re after cultural insights, stunning vistas, or a taste of local wine, this region offers memorable experiences.
Quick Overview
Our list includes three top-rated tours that cater to different interests and time constraints. From exploring medieval fortresses and monasteries to walking through ancient streets, and sampling regional wines—each offers a unique way to experience Plovdiv Province. You can learn more about each tour by visiting the links provided, including From Plovdiv: Bachkovo Monastery & Asen’s Fortress Tour, Plovdiv: 2-Hour Sightseeing Walking Tour, and Chateau Copsa Wine Tasting Tours & Activities.
1. From Plovdiv: Bachkovo Monastery & Asen’s Fortress Tour
At number one, this 3-hour tour blends two of the most impressive landmarks in the region: the Bachkovo Monastery and Asen’s Fortress. It’s a great choice for those who want a focused visit to Bulgaria’s spiritual and military history in a short time frame. The tour includes a visit to the 11th-century monastery complex, renowned for its stunning medieval frescoes and icons, including the largest mural in the Balkans. The guide shares insightful stories about monastic life and the monastery’s significance, making it more than just sightseeing.
Next, a scenic drive takes you to Asen’s Fortress, perched high above the Rhodope Mountains. From here, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, perfect for photo lovers. The fortress, dating back to the 13th century, played a key role in the region’s defense and offers a tangible connection to Bulgaria’s medieval past. The tour also features a visit to the 17th-century Mary’s Assumption Church, with its preserved paintings.
Rated 4.9/5 from 19 reviews, travelers rave about the knowledgeable guide and the easy access from Plovdiv. Although the price might seem a bit high, many find the personalized experience and the opportunity to explore two major sites in just three hours well worth it. This tour is ideal for history buffs and those with limited time who want a rich, immersive experience.
Bottom Line: For a compact, engaging day of history and stunning views, this tour offers excellent value and a well-rounded introduction to Bulgaria’s medieval heritage.
2. Plovdiv: 2-Hour Sightseeing Walking Tour
If your time in Plovdiv is limited but you want a solid overview of the city’s highlights, this 2-hour walking tour is perfect. It’s a quick, lively way to see the Roman Stadium, Roman Theatre from the 2nd century, and the picturesque Old Town with its colorful houses and narrow cobbled streets. The tour also includes a stroll along the longest pedestrian street in Europe, giving you a real flavor of local life.
The guide walks you through the Three Hills area, offering sweeping views of the city below—an excellent photo opportunity. The Djumaya Mosque and other historic sites blend Ottoman, Roman, and Bulgarian influences, illustrating Plovdiv’s layered history. With a 4.8/5 rating from 9 reviews, travelers appreciate the engaging storytelling and practical tips on what else to explore locally.
This tour suits visitors who want a taste of Plovdiv’s past without committing to a full day. It’s especially helpful if you’re arriving in the city or have limited time but still want to see its most iconic spots. Reviewers highlight that it’s a “fantastic tour” and recommend it even during a short stay.
Bottom Line: For a brisk, informative introduction to Bulgaria’s oldest city, this guided walk hits the right notes, perfect for history enthusiasts and first-time visitors.
3. Chateau Copsa Wine Tasting Tours & Activities
Wine lovers should not miss the opportunity to visit Chateau Copsa, located in Bulgaria’s Thracian Valley. This winery offers a variety of tasting packages and activities, making it a flexible choice for small groups or individuals. For around $21.99 per person, you can enjoy a wine tasting tour that lasts anywhere from 1 to 8 hours, depending on your interest and schedule.
During the tour, you’ll explore the winery facilities, learn about Bulgaria’s winemaking traditions, and sample several regional wines. The winery is also a hotel, so you could combine the tasting with an overnight stay or simply enjoy a relaxing afternoon. The reviews point out that the experience is intimate and informative, with personal attention from staff.
While the tour’s rating is a bit lower at 4.5/5 from 3 reviews, the value is hard to beat for wine enthusiasts. The flexible timing allows you to customize your experience, whether you want a quick tasting or a more thorough session. It’s a perfect stop if you’re traveling through the Thracian Valley or want a break from sightseeing with a more indulgent activity.
Bottom Line: For a personalized, affordable wine experience in a beautiful setting, Chateau Copsa offers a charming taste of Bulgaria’s wine culture, ideal for small groups and wine aficionados.
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider your interests and schedule. If you prefer a deep dive into Bulgaria’s medieval castles and monasteries, the From Plovdiv: Bachkovo Monastery & Asen’s Fortress Tour provides a focused experience. For those seeking a quick overview of Plovdiv’s historic core, the 2-hour walking tour hits all the highlights efficiently. And if your passion is wine, the Chateau Copsa tasting offers a relaxed, in-depth experience of Bulgaria’s renowned viticulture.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred times. Think about how much time you have, your fitness level (the walking tour involves some strolling), and whether you’re more interested in history or wine. Each of these options offers a different slice of the region, so choose what excites you most.
Final Thoughts
Plovdiv Province has a rich mix of sights and flavors, from ancient ruins and medieval fortresses to monastic sites and vineyards. For a comprehensive history tour, the Bachkovo Monastery & Asen’s Fortress provides a meaningful and scenic experience. If you’re short on time but want to see Bulgaria’s oldest city, the 2-hour walking tour is perfect. And for a relaxed afternoon sampling local wines, Chateau Copsa delivers both education and enjoyment.
No matter what you pick, booking in advance ensures you won’t miss out. These tours are a fantastic way to deepen your connection with Bulgaria’s culture and history while enjoying the beautiful scenery. We encourage you to choose what best fits your interests, and most importantly, to get out and explore—early and often!