Sofia , Bulgaria

Plovdiv - Group Day Trip from Sofia

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(286 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Enjoy a Memorable Day Trip to Plovdiv – Europe’s Oldest Living City!
Join us for an unforgettable journey to Plovdiv, the oldest continuously inhabited settlement in Europe. Nestled among picturesque hills, this vibrant city offers a rich blend of history, culture, and charm.

Stroll along the longest pedestrian street in Europe, explore the beautifully preserved Revival-era Old Town, and marvel at the impressive Roman Theater. Your local guide will bring the city’s fascinating history to life during a 2-hour guided tour, followed by 2 hours of free time to discover Plovdiv at your own pace.

Total tour duration: 8.5 to 10 hours.
A perfect day trip filled with culture, sights, and unforgettable experiences!

Available options

[EN] Guided tour in English

Guided tour in English: With this option you have a guided tour in Plovdiv with English-speaking guide.

[IT] Guided tour in Italian

Guided tour in Italian: With this option you have a guided tour in Plovdiv with an Italian-speaking guide.

[AG] Tour with Audio Guide

Tour with Audio Guide: With this option you can use an audio guide for the specfied langauge during the tour in Plovdiv.

[SG] Smart Audio Guide

Smart Audio Guide: You will need to have an active internet connection during the tour, in order to use it. Available in ENG, ES, IT, DE & RU.

[TR] Transport only

Transport only: This option includes only the transportation - you have 4 hours to explore the town on your own, before departing back.

[ES] Guided tour in Spanish

Guided tour in Spanish: With this option you have a guided tour in Plovdiv with a Spanish-speaking guide.

What's included

English - speaking driver or guide, depending on the booked option.

Group tour

Guided sightseeing tour in the heart of Plovdiv (if option booked)

Transportation

Detailed itinerary

The meeting point for the tour is Vasil Levski Monument, Yanko Sakuzov Blvd 7 please be there at 08:40 am. The departure is at 9am. Please be on time!

Stop 2

Discover Plovdiv- one of the oldest existing settlements in world! See the Roman Theater and parts of the Roman Stadium. Walk through the longest pedestrian street in Europe. Explore the magnificent Revival old town with its unique colorful houses from the 19th century.

Plovdiv is about 2 hours’ drive from Sofia and is situated in the western part of the Thracian Valley. It is one of the oldest settlements in the world, having emerged on the three adjacent hills – the beginning of its history dates back to 4,000 years BC. It has preserved Thracian, Roman and Bulgarian heritage from different epochs. In Plovdiv you will have about 2 hours guided walking tour in the heart of the town and you will learn lots of historical facts and legends while exploring its most interesting sightseeing places. After the guided tour you will have about 2 hours free time for lunch break and shopping. The approximate return in Sofia is between 5pm and 5:30 pm.

At the end of the tour, the van/bus returns to the same starting point, Vasil Levsky Monument - Yanko Sakuzov Blvd 7

What's not included

Food and drinks

Gratuities

Available languages

Audio guide

DE RU EN IT FR ES

Guide guide

EN IT ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.2

89 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.7

197 reviews

5★

158

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Rough terrain- please wear comfortable walking shoes

Please warn us if you have a 0-2 years old baby when you make the reservation so that we can prepare a special seat for them

For the safety and enjoyment of all guests, any customer who appears intoxicated at the time of the tour will not be permitted to participate. In such cases, no refunds will be issued.

The expected departure from Plovdiv to Sofia is 3:30 pm. The expected return in Sofia is at 5:20 - 6:00 pm.

Meeting point

The meeting point for the tour is Vasil Levski Monument, Yanko Sakuzov Blvd 7 Ask for travel agency City Tour. Please be there at 8:40am.
The van departs at 9am and will not wait for you if you are late.

Important notes

Please leave contacts - e-mail, phone number

About Sofia

Sofia is the vibrant capital of Bulgaria, nestled at the foot of the Vitosha Mountain. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and lively cultural scene, it offers a unique blend of ancient and modern attractions. The city is a treasure trove of Roman ruins, Orthodox churches, and Soviet-era landmarks, all set against the backdrop of beautiful natural surroundings.

Top Attractions

Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

This iconic cathedral is one of Sofia's most famous landmarks. It was built in honor of the Russian soldiers who died during the Russo-Turkish War.

Religious 1-2 hours Free (small fee for the museum and bell tower)

Vitosha Mountain

Vitosha Mountain offers a stunning backdrop to Sofia and is a popular destination for hiking, skiing, and enjoying nature.

Nature Half day to full day Free (lift tickets for skiing cost around €10-€20)

National History Museum

This museum houses a vast collection of artifacts that tell the story of Bulgaria's rich history.

Museum 2-3 hours €5

Boyana Church

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Boyana Church is known for its stunning frescoes dating back to the 13th century.

Historical 1 hour €4

Sofia Central Mineral Baths

This historic building was once a public bathhouse and is now a popular spot for shopping and dining.

Historical 1-2 hours Free to explore

Must-Try Local Dishes

Banitsa

A traditional Bulgarian pastry made with layers of filo dough, cheese, and eggs. It's often served for breakfast with a side of yogurt.

Breakfast Vegetarian

Shopska Salad

A refreshing salad made with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and grated sirene cheese. It's a staple in Bulgarian cuisine and is often served as a side dish.

Appetizer Vegetarian

Kebapche

A grilled minced meat sausage made with a mix of pork and beef, seasoned with spices like black pepper, cumin, and coriander. It's often served with french fries or lyutenitsa (a spicy pepper and tomato spread).

Main Course Contains meat

Tarator

A cold soup made with yogurt, cucumbers, garlic, and dill. It's a refreshing dish, especially during the hot summer months.

Appetizer Vegetarian, Vegan (if made with plant-based yogurt)

Popular Activities

Hiking in Vitosha Mountain Skiing in Bansko or nearby resorts Mountain biking and other outdoor activities Visiting spas and wellness centers Strolling through parks and gardens Enjoying a meal or drink at a rooftop bar Exploring museums and galleries Attending concerts and performances

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the best time to visit Sofia for warm weather and outdoor activities. The city is lively with festivals and cultural events.

15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F) 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Bulgarian
Widely spoken: English, Russian, Romanian
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other places

Currency

Bulgarian Lev (BGN)

Time Zone

GMT+2 (EET)

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Sofia is generally a safe city for travelers, but petty crime and pickpocketing can occur in crowded tourist areas. It's important to take basic precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with petitions or surveys

Getting there

By air

Sofia Airport • 10 km (6 miles) from city center

By train

Central Railway Station

By bus

Central Bus Station, South Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The metro is efficient, clean, and affordable. It's the fastest way to get around Sofia.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Yellow Taxi, OK Taxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center Lozenets Studentski Grad Orlov Most

Day trips

Rila Monastery

120 km (75 miles) • Full day

The Rila Monastery is one of the most important cultural and historical sites in Bulgaria. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and is known for its stunning architecture and beautiful frescoes.

Plovdiv

150 km (93 miles) • Full day

Plovdiv is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. It's known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant cultural scene.

Bansko

160 km (100 miles) • Full day or overnight

Bansko is a popular ski resort in the winter and a great destination for hiking and outdoor activities in the summer. It's known for its stunning mountain scenery and traditional Bulgarian charm.

Festivals

Sofia Film Fest • March Sofia Pride • June Sofia International Film Festival • October

Pro tips

Visit the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the beautiful light.
Try traditional Bulgarian rakia and meze at a local bar for an authentic experience.
Explore the underground caves and tunnels of Sofia for a unique and fascinating look at the city's history.
Take a day trip to the Rila Monastery or Plovdiv for a taste of Bulgaria's rich history and culture.
Visit the National Palace of Culture for concerts, performances, and other cultural events.