Day-Trip to Bachkovo Monastery and Asen's Fortress from Plovdiv

Plovdiv , Bulgaria

Day-Trip to Bachkovo Monastery and Asen's Fortress from Plovdiv

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2h - 4h

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

A tour that encompasses the rich culture and history of Bulgaria's Rhodopes - a mountain known for its gorgeous scenery and fascinating traditional rural villages. Asen's Fortress (13th century) is located only 25 minutes from Plovdiv and offers a glimpse at Beulgarian history during medieval times. Nearby is the second largest monastery in Bulgaria - Bachkovo Monastery, a stunning work of architecture. It is home of the Miracle Working Icon of the Holy Virgin, an icon that is said to heal ailments and bring good fortune. The road up to the monastery is lined with market stalls selling local herbs, spices, jams and honey, and the restaurants offer some of the best traditional cooking in the country.

Available options

Day-Trip to Bachkovo Monastery and Asen's Fortress from Plovdiv

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Tour Guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Asen's Fortress is a medieval structure built atop a rocky ridge in the Rhodope mountains over the Asenitsa river.
This strategic place was first the location of a Thracian fortress, later used by the Romans, the Byzantines, and eventually the Bulgarians. It was renovated in the 13th century during the reign of Tsar Ivan Asen II to be used as a line of defense against the Latin Empire. It was destroyed in 1410 by the invading Ottoman armies. Today, the fortress lies in ruins, with a small church functioning within what remains of its walls. The “Holy Virgin of Petrich” Church is the only preserved building in the complex and one of the most remarkable examples of Medieval Christian architecture. In 1991, after a full restoration of the church, it began its function as an Orthodox temple.

Stop 2

Bachkovo monastery “Assumption of Holy Virgin” is the second largest in Bulgaria and a national cultural landmark. Built on a spacious terrace next to one of the banks of the Chepelare river, it is easily accessible and surrounded by scenic landscapes on all sides. The cobbled road leading up to the monastery is lined with market stalls selling trinkets, folk craft, homemade jam, honey and spices. Bachkovo Monastery was founded all the way back in the 11th century, while the area was still part of the Byzantine Empire. It has since been partially destroyed, rebuilt and restored numerous times.
The monastery has its own museum showcasing crucifixes, ceremonial garbs, manuscripts, icons and donated jewelry.
The cathedral in the larger courtyard is called “Assumption of the Holy Virgin”, with the smaller “St. Archangeli” church built into its side. The “St. Nicholas” church is the centerpiece of the southern courtyard.
In the cathedral there is an icon from 1311 known as the Miracle Working Icon of the Holy Virgin, with a silver repousse cover. It is believed that the icon has miraculous powers.

What's not included

Lunch

All Fees and Taxes

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT FR ES

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Service animals allowed

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Important notes

Your driver and tour guide will stay in touch with you over the phone before the start of the tour and arrange an exact meeting point. You can show them your ticket in person.

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.