EXPLORE BULGARIA'S BLOOMING ROSE FIELDS

Bulgaria Rose Valley Tour

Q: 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 towns, we’ll visit the Rose Valley for special-access 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. The fitness level is moderate; we’ll be walking through town centers, and rose fields, so comfortable shoes and a love for exploring on foot are important.

Q: 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.

Q: 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.

Q: What are the visa requirements for Bulgaria?

Visa requirements 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.

Q: Should I carry cash or rely on card payments in Bulgaria?

Bulgaria uses the Bulgarian Lev (BGN), but the country is set to join the Eurozone in 2026 — so bringing euros may soon be enough. While cards are widely accepted, it’s helpful to carry some cash for smaller purchases, market stands during the Rose Festival, and rural stops. Your tour host will be there to assist you along the way.

May 27 - June 2, 2026, €1490

7 days

Group: 10–20

Flowers & Nature Focus

7 days

10–20

Flowers & Nature Focus

overview

Explore the Best of Bulgaria During the Rose Season

What to expect on this Bulgaria Rose Valley Tour:

⬥ Enjoy a comfortable and well-paced journey with 4-star accommodations.

⬥ Expert guidance, local insight, and stories that bring Bulgaria’s past and present together.

⬥ Discover Bulgaria's most famous and picturesque towns: Plovdiv, Veliko Tarnovo, and the rustic roads of Bulgaria's Rose Valley.

⬥ Enjoy traditional rose picking, learn about the oil distillation process and buy quality rose oil products directly from producers.

Rose essential oil and dried rose petals – A beautiful bottle of Bulgarian rose essential oil alongside another bottle filled with dried rose petals.

Traditional Bulgarian bread with rose petals – A beautifully decorated Bulgarian bread, adorned with delicate rose petals.

Close-up of a hand holding three rose varieties—Rosa Damascena, Rosa Alba, and Rosa Centifolia.

Blooming pink roses of the Damask rose in Bulgaria's Rose Valley, on our One-Day Rose Festival Tour.

Artisanal rose products from Bulgaria – A close-up of handcrafted rose-based products, including rosewater and rose creams.

Tour Highlights

Join us on our annual Bulgaria Rose Valley tour and experience the beauty of Bulgarian roses first-hand. Visit picturesque towns, and learn the curious history behind Bulgaria’s most ancient UNESCO site.

Soak in the Fragrant Roses

…out in the rose fields, during the distillation of rose oil, or while sampling and selecting rose oil products.

Bulgaria's Cultural Heritage

Visit Plovdiv – one of Europe’s oldest cities, and Kazanlak Tomb – Bulgaria’s most ancient UNESCO site.

Traditional Arts & Crafts

Experience the timeless beauty of traditional crafts and hand-made pieces in Tarnovo’s craft street.

Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Welcome to Sofia, Bulgaria

Arrive at your conveniently located hotel in Sofia, Bulgaria’s busy capital. Meet your tour host and fellow travelers over a delicious welcome dinner, and get a taste of the fragrant days to come.

Welcome Dinner | Rosslyn Central Park Hotel Sofia or Similar

Day 2: The Rila Monastery - Bulgaria's UNESCO Jewel

This morning, travel into the Rila Mountains to visit one of Bulgaria’s most iconic landmark – the Rila Monastery. Set at nearly 1,200 meters (around 3,940 feet), this UNESCO-listed site is a stunning example of Bulgarian Renaissance architecture. Explore its vivid frescoes, striped arcades, and peaceful mountain setting. After your guided visit, enjoy free time and a traditional lunch nearby. Later, continue to Plovdiv, check in to your hotel, and enjoy the evening at leisure. Plovdiv is a great spot for foodies and your tour host can recommend favourite local spots for dinner.

Driving time: ~4.5 hrs | Breakfast, Lunch | Grand Hotel Plovdiv or Similar

Day 3: Discover Plovdiv - Ancient & Beautiful

Start the day with a walking tour of Plovdiv, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Explore the picturesque Old Town, and colourful merchant houses, and admire the stunning views from the ancient Roman theatre.

Spend the afternoon at leisure. You may wish to browse Plovdiv’s shops, some of which are known for high-quality cosmetics and essential oils, or stroll around the vibrant Kapana district. Your tour host will be happy to recommend the best spots based on your interests.

Driving time: N/A | Breakfast | Grand Hotel Plovdiv or Similar

Day 4: Bulgaria Rose Festival

This morning, head to the quaint town of Karlovo, right in the heart of Bulgaria’s Rose Valley. It’s the day of the Karlovo Rose Festival, so you’ll start with a traditional rose-picking experience in the nearby fields. Then, make your way into town to catch the festival celebrations and parade. After some free time to wander and enjoy the vibe, sit down for a tasty local lunch. In the afternoon, you’ll continue on to your spa hotel in the Rose Valley. On the way, stop at one of the oldest rose oil distilleries in Bulgaria and learn about the rose distillation process first-hand. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure – maybe unwind and enjoy the spa facilities at your hotel.

Driving time: ~3 hrs | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Spa Hotel King’s Valley or Similar

Day 5: Veliko Tarnovo - Bulgaria's Charming Medieval Capital

Start the day with a visit to one of Bulgaria’s oldest UNESCO sites – the Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak. where you’ll learn about the fascinating Thracian culture that once thrived in this region. Next, head to the Museum of Essential Oils, where you can smell and learn about some of the finest essential oils produced in Bulgaria. Proceed to Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria’s medieval capital, where you will explore the famous crafts street and the impressive Tsarevets fortress. Evening is at leisure.

Driving time: ~2.5 hrs | Breakfast, Lunch | Park Hotel Novel or Similar

Day 6: Welcome back to Sofia

This morning, travel back to Sofia, enjoying the scenic route through Bulgaria’s countryside. Upon arrival and lunch, set out on a guided walking tour in Sofia’s center. Explore key landmarks such as Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the Parliament, the Rotunda – a 4th century church working to this day. In the evening, gather for a farewell dinner, and celebrate the fragrant memories made along the way.

Driving time: ~3.5 hr | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Rosslyn Central Park Hotel Sofia or Similar

Day 7: Goodbye, Dear Travellers

Your tour comes to an end – it’s time to bid farewell to your fellow travellers! Take home the fragrant memories of Bulgaria’s rose fields or continue to your next adventure! See you next time!

Breakfast & Goodbyes

INCLUSIONS

What's included

6 nights in 4-star hotels throughout the tour
Daily breakfast
4 lunches and 3 dinners (not including drinks)
Professional Tour Host throughout the tour
Transportation in luxury air-conditioned coach (not including airport transfers)
Admission to Plovdiv Old Town Houses and Ancient Theatre, Kazanlak Tomb, Museum of Essential Oils,
Tsarevets Hill
Special Experiences: Traditional rose picking and festivities, Essential oil distillary tour

EXclusions

Not included

Flights to and from the destination
Visas and passport fees
Arrival and departure airport transfers
Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
Bevarages and meals outside of those described
Gratuities for Driver, Tour Host and Local Guides: for guidelines, please click here

Dates & Prices

Bulgaria Rose Valley Tour

This tour takes place just once a year and has limited availability. If you’re interested in joining in 2026, send us an inquiry.

May 27 - June 2, 2026

Double Room Occupancy: EUR €1,490

Single Room Supplement: EUR €360

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 towns, we’ll visit the Rose Valley for special-access 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.

The fitness level is moderate; we’ll be walking through town centers, and rose fields, so comfortable shoes and a love for exploring on foot are important.

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 the 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?

This tour covers much more than the Rose Valley. We’ll visit key places across Bulgaria, including the historic towns of Plovdiv and Veliko Tarnovo. You’ll also enjoy special experiences like rose-picking, a visit to a rose oil distillery, and learning about local crafts. It’s a full journey through Bulgaria’s culture, history, and springtime nature.

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?

Bulgaria uses the Bulgarian Lev (BGN), but the country is set to join the Eurozone in 2026 — so bringing euros may soon be enough. While cards are widely accepted, it’s helpful to carry some cash for smaller purchases, market stands during the Rose Festival, and rural stops. Your tour host will be there to assist you along the way.

Can I join as a solo traveller?

Many of our participants are solo travellers, and you’ll have the opportunity to connect with others. You can choose to be paired with another solo traveller (subject to availability) or opt for a single room supplement.

Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?

We can accommodate most dietary needs, but we ask that you inform us at the time of booking to ensure we can make the necessary arrangements.

What if I need to cancel?

Our cancellation policy is flexible, and partial refunds may be available. For details, please refer to our Terms and Conditions page. We strongly recommend getting travel insurance for such cases.

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Explore the Best of Bulgaria During the Rose Season