From Sofia: Full-Day Tour to Plovdiv and Asen's Fortress

Sofia Province, Bulgaria



Enjoy a full-day excursion live or local guide from Sofia to Plovdiv, the second-largest city and Capital of Culture 2019, with its numerous artists. Also see Asen's Fortress, built in medieval times.

This full-day tour from Sofia explores Plovdiv’s historic sites and offers optional visits to Asen's Fortress or outdoor hot pools, suitable for small groups.

Highlights

  • Explore Plovdiv’s 19th-century houses, churches, and Roman Theater
  • Visit Asen's Fortress or relax at outdoor hot pools
  • Small group tour with an informative guide
  • Free time for walking and lunch
  • Spa complex suitable for children, featuring water slides

Description

After a 2-hour drive from Sofia, begin the tour in Plovdiv, one of Europe’s oldest towns. Walk along cobblestone streets and visit a 19th-century house to learn about life during the Ottoman Empire. Explore the Roman Theater, Roman Stadium, and local churches. Then, enjoy 2 hours of free time to stroll the main pedestrian street, have lunch, and coffee.

Following the Plovdiv visit, depending on your selected option, transfer by van with your guide to either Asen's Fortress or the outdoor Thermae Spa complex. At Asen's Fortress, admire the medieval structure and its history, capturing photos from the summit. Alternatively, relax for 2 hours in warm or hot mineral pools, with a drink provided.

The tour returns to Sofia, arriving around 6:00–6:30 PM.

Includes

  • Transportation from the meeting point in Sofia
  • English-speaking guide in Plovdiv (if selected)
  • Online audio guide for Plovdiv in English, Spanish, Italian, French, German, and Russian

Excludes

  • Entrance to Asen's Fortress (€4)
  • Entrance to Plovdiv Museums (€4 each or €11 for all, including the Roman Theater)
  • Entrance to outdoor thermal spa complex (€10 per person)

Important Information

  • Women should cover their knees and shoulders when visiting monasteries

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

For the best experience, bring comfortable walking shoes, swimwear for the spa option, and plan for weather-appropriate clothing. Morning departures ensure ample time for sightseeing and relaxation.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes Plovdiv's Roman Theater, 19th-century houses, churches, and an optional visit to Asen's Fortress or an outdoor thermal spa.
The drive from Sofia to Plovdiv takes about two hours each way.
Yes, the tour offers an optional visit to Asen's Fortress near Plovdiv.
Yes, you can choose to enjoy outdoor thermal hot pools at a spa complex instead of visiting Asen's Fortress.
Yes, the outdoor thermal spa is family-friendly and includes water slides suitable for children.
Yes, the itinerary includes free time for walking and lunch in Plovdiv city center.
Yes, the tour covers historical sites such as Plovdiv's Roman Theater, old churches, and Asen's Fortress.
An expert local guide leads the small group tour, providing information and answering questions about Bulgaria's history and architecture.
Check the official websites of Plovdiv's Roman Theater, Asen's Fortress, or the thermal spa for up-to-date opening hours.
Yes, the tour is designed as a small group experience to allow more interaction with the guide and a personalized visit to Plovdiv and nearby attractions.

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