Bachkovo Monastery & Asen's Fortress - day tour from Plovdiv
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Visit the remarkable remains of King Asen's Fortress and church from 13-th century, located on a picturesque hill in the Rhodope Mountains. Explore the Bachkovo Monastery, the second largest in Bulgaria, founded in 1083. Enjoy the wonderful Christian orthodox frescoes from 1643.
Note: Often this trip is actually delivered as a private one as there are no other travellers to join the experience.
Available options
Bachkovo Monastery
Pickup included
What's included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Professional guide
Driver/guide
Live commentary on board
Fuel surcharge
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
The remarkable Asen’s Fortress from 13-th century is located on a panoramic hill in the Rhodope Mountains som 30 min south of Plovdiv. Our guide will tell you the history and interesting facts about this impressive structure. There you’ll also find very well preserved Christian Orthodox church dating from the 13-th century painted with some authentic pieces of iconography. At the top of the fortress you’ll enjoy an awesome 360 degrees panorama all over the Rhodope Mountains, Asenovgrad town, The Thracian Valley and the imposing Balkan Range with its highest Botev Peak in the far distance.
2
Stop 2
Founded in 1083 Bachkovo Monastery is the second largest in Bulgaria. Inside the monastery you’ll visit the main church of Virgin Mary built in 1604 where a valuable miracle working icon of Saint Mary from 11-12th century AD is being kept together with some very well preserved original frescoes. The monastery refectory is another jewel in the complex which has preserved colorful murals from 1643. The refectory’s visit is optional at an extra charge for a small entrance fee. Inside together with the Doomsday fresco, you’ll witness the images of many prophets, saint-monks, ancient philosophers and writers such as Socrates, Aristotle, Plato etc. In the second monastery yard you’ll finally visit the Saint Nikola church built between 1834 and 1837. Optionally, for the nature enthusiasts you may continue the tour with a short and easy walk in the Red wall nature reserve nearby Bachkovo Monastery where you’ll discover a beautiful waterfall, green meadows and lush forests.
What's not included
Entrance fees: Assen's Fortress (4 EUR)
Food and drinks
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
6 reviews
5★
6
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
21 reviews
5★
20
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Important notes
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
