Full Day tour from PLOVDIV to Bachkovo, Shiroka Laka & Vacha Dam

Plovdiv , Bulgaria

Full Day tour from PLOVDIV to Bachkovo, Shiroka Laka & Vacha Dam

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About this experience

Embark on this journey through one of the most picturesque roads in the Rhodopes. Visit the second biggest monastery in the country and hear the incredible stories that are hiding within its confines. This tour will give you a unique opportunity to indulge in the traditional lifestyle of Rhodope people and to experience their food culture. Stopping at Shiroka Laka village, you will be introduced to the authentic architecture of the houses there. Our hosts will welcome you to take a look at the beautiful wood carved ceilings adorning the interiors of these monuments of history. Shiroka Laka is also famous as the birthplace of the unique folklore Rhodope music. After enjoying your specially prepared organic lunch, we will head back to Plovdiv passing through the scenic road of Vacha Dam. There, you will have the time to relax and drink your afternoon cup of tea/coffee while admiring the breathtaking view of the dam in front of you.

Available options

Full Day tour from PLOVDIV to Bachkovo, Shiroka Laka & Vacha Dam

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Lunch

Professional Guide Services

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Our first stop will be Bachkovo Monastery – the second in size and importance monastery in Bulgaria. Build as a center of Georgian

monasticism the cloister witnessed the great struggles between the Byzantine Empire and the Bulgarian Kingdom. It served as a clashing point of many cultures and religions, finally to came under the authority of the Bulgarian Exarchate in 1894. Follow your leader, who is by profession an art historian, to understand more

about the history and symbolism embedded in the beautiful murals on the church walls and the rich collections of jewelry, coins, and old manuscripts preserved in the library.

Entering the central parts of the Rhodope Mountains, we will stop by the architectural village of Shiroka Laka, immersing ourselves in the authentic lifestyle of its dwellers. The old houses perched on both sides of the river bed represent the typical traits of the region’s architecture style. You will have the opportunity to pop in some of the well-preserved houses and admire the beauty of their detailed wooden interiors. As the birthplace of the magical Rhodope music, Shiroka Laka will reveal the secrets of the unique method of folklore singing and back pipe playing which originated in this area centuries ago.

During such a cultural encounter, it is not possible to miss learning about the mystical culinary traditions of the local people. You will be welcomed in a traditional house for lunch where your hosts will enchant you with their stories and delicious specialties.

The last stop for the day will be the gorgeous Vacha dam, raising with the highest dam wall in the country – 144.5 meters. The reservoir is situated in the stunning gorge of river Vacha. Enjoy your afternoon tea/coffee break in this peaceful atmosphere and take your moment to feel the power of mother nature and the mesmerizing beauty of its creations.

What's not included

Personal Expenses

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN IT FR ES

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Your guide will meet you just in front of the hotel!

About Plovdiv

Plovdiv is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe, known for its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and Roman ruins. Nestled in the Thracian Plain, it offers a unique blend of ancient heritage and modern culture.

Top Attractions

Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis

A remarkably preserved Roman theatre from the 2nd century AD, still used for performances today.

Historical 1-2 hours 5 EUR

Old Town

A charming district with well-preserved houses from the 19th century, museums, and art galleries.

Historical Half day Free to explore (museums have entry fees)

Kapana Creative District

A vibrant arts and crafts district with galleries, workshops, and trendy cafes.

Cultural 2-3 hours Free to explore (shops and cafes vary)

Nebet Tepe

One of the seven hills of Plovdiv, offering panoramic views of the city and historical ruins.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Banitsa

A traditional pastry filled with cheese, often served for breakfast.

Breakfast Vegetarian

Shopska Salad

A refreshing salad made with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and sirene cheese.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian

Kebapche

Grilled minced meat sausages, a popular street food.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Rhodope Mountains Rock climbing Spa treatments Cafes in Kapana District Visiting museums and galleries Attending local festivals Boating on the Maritsa River Skiing in nearby resorts

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the warmest and sunniest time of the year, perfect for outdoor activities and festivals.

20°C to 35°C 68°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Bulgarian
Widely spoken: English, Russian
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas

Currency

Bulgarian Lev (BGN)

Time Zone

EET (GMT+2)

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Plovdiv is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure in crowded areas.
• Use licensed taxis and insist on the meter.
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night.

Getting there

By air

Plovdiv International Airport • 10 km from city center

By train

Plovdiv Central Railway Station

By bus

South Bus Station, Central Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

A network of buses covers the entire city, with frequent and reliable service.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Yellow Taxi, OK Taxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town Kapana District City Center

Day trips

Bachkovo Monastery

30 km • Half day

One of the largest and most important monasteries in Bulgaria, known for its beautiful architecture and religious artifacts.

Asen's Fortress

25 km • Half day

A medieval fortress with stunning views of the Rhodope Mountains and the Asenitsa River.

Festivals

Kapana Fest • June Plovdiv International Fair • September

Pro tips

Visit the Roman Theatre for a performance to experience its incredible acoustics.
Explore the Kapana District for unique souvenirs and local crafts.
Try traditional Bulgarian dishes like banitsa and shopska salad.
Take a day trip to Bachkovo Monastery for a glimpse into Bulgaria's religious history.
Walk up to Nebet Tepe for stunning panoramic views of the city.