Besides the Rose distilleries and experiences, you can explore Shipka and Buzludzha monuments alongside the ancient Thracian tombs in the valley. The Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak is one of Bulgaria’s UNESCO sites, while Kazanlak’s historical museum, albeit a bit dated, has an incredibly rich collection of ancient artefacts.
EXPLORE BULGARIA'S BLOOMING ROSE FIELDS
Bulgaria Rose Valley Tour: A Self-Drive Adventure
From €350
3 days
Private
Flowers & Nature Focus
3 days
Private
Flowers & Nature Focus
overview
Explore Bulgaria's Rose Valley and Festival on a Curated Self-Drive Journey
This journey is for you if:
⬥ You want to experience something seasonal and rare. The rose harvest happens only a few weeks each year. You are here at the exact moment when the valley is at its most active and fragrant.
⬥ You enjoy the freedom of a road trip. This tour is built for travellers who like being behind the wheel and having the freedom that comes with it.
⬥ You value your peace of mind. You want to wake up knowing the logistics have been taken care of. We handle the more complex parts of the Rose Valley and Festival – and give you all the practical information you need.
Tour Highlights
Embark on a curated self-drive Bulgaria Rose Valley tour, and experience the beauty of Bulgarian roses first-hand.
Soak in the Fragrant Roses
…out in the rose fields, during the distillation of rose oil, or while sampling and selecting rose oil products.
Experience the Rose Festival
Experience the culmination of the Kazanlak Rose Festival with festive rose picking and the Rose Parade.
Stunning Mountain Views
Climb the 890 steps to Shipka Monument – the views at the top are absolutely worth the challenge!
Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Bulgaria's Rose Valley
5 June, 2026
Pick up your rental car and depart from Sofia, Plovdiv or Burgas. As you approach Kazanlak, you will stop at one of the oldest working rose oil distilleries in the region. Here, you will get an introduction to Bulgaria’s rose oil tradition, still carried out using methods that have changed very little over time.
You will also step into the fields for your first rose-picking experience. Here, you can see the three main varieties grown in Bulgaria: Rosa Damascena, Rosa Alba, and Rosa Centifolia.
Continue your journey through the Rose Valley. Stop at the beautiful Shipka Memorial Church, built in honour of those who died in the battles for Bulgaria’s liberation.
Drive further up to the Shipka Monument. Here, you will enjoy some of the most beautiful views across the Balkan Mountains and the valley below. Reaching them requires climbing around 900 steps, but the view is totally worth it!
You can also make a detour to the Buzludzha Monument, a striking example of communist-era brutalist architecture.
End the day at your mountain forest retreat hotel, once used as a residence by Bulgaria’s former communist leadership.
Driving Time: ~ 4 hrs
Day 2: Rose Festival Experiences & Traditions
6 June, 2026
Begin the day with a visit to the largest rose distillery and ethnographic complex in the area.
The Saturday before the festival begins with organised morning rose picking. Later, enjoy a brief guided tour of the complex and spend time exploring the grounds at your own pace. During the festival, the complex hosts workshops and demonstrations connected to rose oil production, local crafts, and traditions.
Later, continue to Kazanlak. In the town centre, you can explore the Rose Festival bazaar, where local producers, artisans, and performers gather. You can also visit the Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak, the Rose Museum, or the Museum of Essential Oils.
In the evening, return to your hotel.
Driving Time: ~ 2 hrs
Day 3: Kazanlak Rose Festival
7 June, 2026
Today is the main day of the Kazanlak Rose Festival! Wake up early and head to the fields outside Kazanlak to take part in the official rose picking organised by the local municipality. This is a lively event, with traditional music, folk costumes, and a festive atmosphere.
After the morning activities, return to town and take your place for the Rose Parade. This is the culmination of the festival, with performers and groups from across Bulgaria and beyond. The parade usually continues until 1:00 – 1:30 PM.
Once it finishes, you can spend a bit more time in Kazanlak or continue your journey to your next destination.
We hope you’ve had a wonderful time and that you leave Bulgaria’s Rose Valley with fragrance-filled memories!
INCLUSIONS
What's included
- 2 nights in Hotel Edelweiss or a traditional hotel in Karlovo / Shipka area, depending on availability
- Admission to Kazanlak Rose Festival, including parade seats
- Guided visits to two (2) rose oil distilleries with included rose picking
- Detailed information and logistics for a smooth, hassle-free trip
- Support and assistance throughout the trip
EXclusions
Not included
- Flights to and from the destination
- Visas and passport fees
- Rental car
- Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
- Bevarages and meals
- Bank or credit card processing fees
- Admission to museums and other sites
Dates & Prices
The tour is subject to availability. To ensure we can secure the best accommodation and listed Rose Valley & Festival experiences, we recommend booking as far in advance as possible.
June 5 -7, 2026
Price per Person: €350 EUR
Accommodation: Double / Twin Room Occupancy
*Rates are valid for a minimum party of two travellers. Contact us for bigger groups.
Love the tour, but need to change the dates or route?
We are happy to customise it for you! Simply get in touch.
Bulgaria Rose Valley Tour FAQs
Is this tour suitable for me?
If you enjoy traditional sightseeing but also have a passion for essential oils, perfumes, and nature, you’re going to love this tour! Alongside exploring picturesque sites you’ll visit the Rose Valley for special curated experiences like essential oil distilleries, traditional rose picking, festivities, and more. You’ll also have the chance to discover artisanal rose products, from pure rose oil to natural cosmetics.
Why is Bulgarian rose oil so famous?
Bulgarian rose oil is famous for its unmatched purity, rich aroma, and high concentration of natural compounds. It comes mostly from the Rosa damascena variety, which thrives in the Rose Valley’s unique microclimate — cool spring nights, humid mornings, and well-drained, mineral-poor soil.
When is the best time to visit Bulgaria's Rose Valley?
The best time to visit the Rose Valley is from late May to early June, during the annual rose harvest season. This is when the Damask roses are in full bloom, the fields turn pink at sunrise, and the region hosts traditional rose-picking rituals and folk festivals.
What else will I see on the tour besides the Rose Valley?
What are the visa requirement for Bulgaria?
Visa requirements for both depend on your nationality. Citizens from many countries, including those from the EU, USA, Canada, and Australia, do not require a visa for short stays (up to 90 days) within the Schengen Area, which includes Bulgaria.
While these are the general guidelines, it is essential to confirm the visa requirements with your local authorities, as rules may change. Travellers from certain countries may need to apply for an e-Visa or a traditional visa before arrival.
Please, ensure that your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your entry date. We recommend consulting your local embassy or consulate for the most accurate information.
Should I carry cash or rely on card payments in Bulgaria?
Since January 2026, Bulgaria uses the Euro (EUR). While cards are widely accepted, you will find it helpful to carry some cash for smaller purchases and market stands during the Rose Festival, where cash is often the only option.
2026 balkan TOURS AND EXPERIENCES