Melnik & Rozen Monastery Tour: Wine Tasting, History, Scenic Walk

Sofia , Bulgaria

Melnik & Rozen Monastery Tour: Wine Tasting, History, Scenic Walk

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About this experience

Step into a world of timeless tradition, history, and natural beauty on this journey to Melnik and the Rozhen Monastery.

We begin our tour with a scenic drive through the Pirin foothills, arriving in the charming town of Melnik — officially Bulgaria’s smallest town but one of its richest in culture. Nestled among the striking Melnik sandstone pyramids, the town is famous for its preserved 18th-century architecture and red wines.

Enjoy a leisurely walking tour, visiting landmarks like the Kordopoulova House — the largest Revival-period house in the Balkans, with an ancient wine cellar carved into the rock.

After a wine tasting of local Melnik Shiroka Melnishka varieties, we set off on a short and scenic hike (about 45 minutes) through the sand cliffs to the stunning Rozhen Monastery, perched above the valley with views that stretch to Greece, You’ll explore the peaceful grounds and centuries-old frescoes.

Bulgarian lunch included. Couples and small groups benefit from reduced rate.

Available options

Melnik & Rozen Monastery Tour: Wine Tasting, History, Scenic Walk

Pickup included

What's included

Alcoholic Beverages

Entrance fee

Lunch

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Explore Melnik, Bulgaria’s smallest town with historic architecture

Enjoy a short hike through sandstone formations to Rozhen Monastery

Visit the Kordopoulova House and its 250-year-old wine cellar

Stop 4

Explore the Rozhen Monastery, a spiritual and cultural treasure

Train your senses like a professional wine taster at Villa Melnik. Enjoy a guided winery tour followed by a tasting of carefully selected wines combined with an interactive aroma recognition lesson. Using a professional sommelier aroma kit and the “aroma wheel,” you will learn how to identify the most common wine scents – from citrus and flowers to spices and oak.

This unique experience goes beyond traditional tasting, offering both beginners and experienced wine lovers the chance to deepen their knowledge of wine’s organoleptic profile through sight, touch, and smell. Fun, educational, and memorable, this sensory journey guarantees inspiring moments, new skills, and a deeper appreciation for wine.

Savor authentic Bulgarian cuisine.

Available languages

Guide guide

EN FR

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

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Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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.