Annual Rose Festival Celebration from Sofia

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3 days (approximately)
Offered in: English

Immerse yourself in the vibrant Rose Festival in Bulgaria, a unique cultural experience that celebrates centuries-old traditions. Wake up early to pick roses in the enchanting Valley of Roses, don traditional attire, and take part in the festivities alongside the Rose Queen. This exclusive weekend getaway also includes visits to historic sites like the UNESCO-listed Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak and the Damascena Ethnographic Complex, where you’ll learn about rose oil production. Unwind at a luxurious thermal spa resort, and enjoy the grand finale with the colorful festival parade.

- Participate in the traditional rose-picking ritual with locals
- Explore historical sites and learn about Bulgarian rose oil production
- Relax at a thermal spa resort near Stara Zagora
- Enjoy the spectacular Grand Rose Festival Parade on the final day

What's Included

Entrance ticket: Golyama Kosmatka Tumulus
2 nights accommodation in a thermal spa hotel (4 stars) near Stara Zagora
Entrance ticket: Damascena Ethnographic Complex
Breakfast (Optional[2])
Breakfast
Guided cultural excursions and exclusive festival visits as per itinerary
Entrance ticket: Ethnographic Complex Kulata
Entrance ticket: Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak
Lunch and dinner
Tips for the driver or guide (optional)

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

The meeting point is at Vasil Levski Boulevard, near the corner with Vrabcha street. The bus will have a sign with a rose on the front and a writing "Hola Bulgaria". Please be there 15 minutes before the departure!

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 3 days (approximately)
    Day 1

    Sofia - Rose Valley - Stara Zagora

    2 stops
  • 1
    Kazanlak

    Begin your journey with a scenic drive through central Bulgaria towards the picturesque Valley of Roses, located between the Balkan Mountains and the gentle slopes of the Sredna Gora. Arrive in Kazanlak, the historic rose capital of Bulgaria, and explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site – Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak, one of the best-preserved Thracian monuments in the world, famous for its remarkable Hellenistic frescoes. Next, visit the Ethnographic Complex Kulata, a traditional cultural site located in the center of Kazanlak, recreating the atmosphere of a Bulgarian National Revival courtyard. Discover local crafts and traditions connected with the centuries-old production of rose oil from Rosa Damascena.

    4 hours • Admission ticket free
  • 2
    Shipka Memorial Church

    After lunch at a traditional Bulgarian restaurant, visit the impressive Golyama Kosmatka Tumulus, one of the most important discoveries in the Valley of the Thracian Kings. The tomb is believed to be the burial place of the Thracian ruler Seuthes III, founder of the nearby ancient city of Seuthopolis. At the Valley of the Thracian Kings Archaeological Complex, watch master artisans demonstrate pottery, weaving, woodcarving, and icon painting. Then, visit the magnificent Shipka Memorial Church. Its golden domes and colorful façade make it one of the most iconic landmarks in the region. Transfer to Stara Zagora Thermes and enjoy free time to relax in the thermal spa facilities. Dinner at the hotel and overnight stay.

    1 hour • Admission ticket included
    • Day 2

    Stara Zagora - Rose Valley - Stara Zagora

    1 stop
  • 3
    Kazanlak

    After breakfast at the hotel, experience the most magical moment of the festival — the traditional rose-picking ritual. Participate in the traditional ritual in the rose gardens near the village of Yasenovo together with the Rose Queen. Local women dressed in colorful folk costumes sing traditional songs while gathering the delicate blossoms. Next, visit the beautiful Damascena Ethnographic Complex, an impressive rose-oil distillation estate surrounded by blooming rose gardens. Learn about the delicate process that transforms thousands of rose petals into the precious essence used in the world’s finest perfumes. After lunch at the Damascena Complex, return to the hotel and enjoy free time to relax in the thermal spa and wellness facilities. In the evening, attend the International Folklore Festival in Kazanlak, featuring traditional dance and music performances from Bulgaria and around the world. Overnight at the hotel.

    8 hours • Admission ticket free
    • Day 3

    Stara Zagora - Rose Valley - Sofia

    1 stop
  • 4
    Kazanlak

    After breakfast at the hotel, attend the final day of the festival featuring its most spectacular event. Watch a colorful procession through the streets of Kazanlak featuring folklore ensembles, musicians, and flower-decorated floats celebrating the beauty of the rose harvest. Enjoy free time for photos and souvenirs before departing for Sofia.

    8 hours • Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Children under 5
Supplied by Hola Bulgaria

Tags

Multi-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private and Luxury
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Small Group
Carnival

Cancellation Policy

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.
If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.

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