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The Rose Festival 2026

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(13.420 Reviews)

Highlights

Rose Festival in Kazanlak, Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak (UNESCO), Plovdiv Ancient Theatre & Old Town, Koprivshtitsa Revival architecture

Destinations

Sofia, Stara Zagora

Budget

From €620,- p.p excl. flight tickets

Tour Highlights

Journey to the Heart of Bulgaria: The Rose Festival in Kazanlak
Step into a land where the air is filled with the sweet scent of blooming roses and ancient traditions come alive in vibrant celebration. Join us on an unforgettable tour to Kazanlak, nestled in Bulgaria’s enchanting Valley of the Roses, where every June, the town bursts into color, music, and joy for the world-renowned Rose Festival.

This is more than just a festival – it’s a magical experience. Walk through endless rose fields at sunrise, witness the age-old rituals of rose picking and distillation, and feel the rhythm of Bulgarian folklore through dance, music, and parades. Discover the deep cultural roots of rose oil production, known as “liquid gold,” and its significance to Bulgaria’s heritage.
Let the beauty of nature, the warmth of local hospitality, and the spirit of celebration uplift your soul. Whether you’re a lover of culture, nature, or simply in search of a unique escape, the Rose Festival in Kazanlak promises memories that will bloom in your heart forever.

Itinerary

Day 1: Sofia

Arrival in Sofia and guided walking tour of the Bulgarian capital, including Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, St. George Rotunda, National Theatre, National Assembly Square, and the Archaeological Museum. Free time in the city center. Overnight in Sofia.

Day 2: Sofia – Plovdiv – Kazanluk – Stara Zagora

Departure to Plovdiv for a tour of the Old Town and the Ancient Roman Theatre. Continue to Kazanluk to attend the opening events of the Rose Festival. Transfer to Stara Zagora for overnight.

Day 3: Kazanluk – Shipka – Stara Zagora

Participation in the Rose Festival celebrations, including folklore performances and rose-picking rituals. Visit the UNESCO-listed Thracian Tomb of Kazanluk and the Russian Memorial Church in Shipka. Return to Stara Zagora for overnight.

Day 4: Koprivshtitsa – Sofia

Excursion to the Revival town of Koprivshtitsa, known for its 19th-century houses and revolutionary history. Visit selected museum houses. Return to Sofia for overnight.

Day 5: Sofia Departure

Free time in Sofia until transfer to the airport. End of services.

Services

Included

4 nights accommodation in 3★ or 4★ hotels
Daily breakfast
Private English-speaking driver-guide
Rent-a-car for the entire tour
Airport arrival transfer and departure transfer
Sightseeing as per itinerary (external visits)
Rose Festival attendance (non-ticketed areas)
Fuel, parking, road taxes
VAT & local taxes

Excluded

International flights
Lunches and dinners
Entrance fees to museums & sites (Ancient Theatre of Plovdiv, Kazanluk Thracian Tomb, Koprivshtitsa house museums, etc.)
Special Rose Festival ticketed events
Personal expenses
Tips for guide/driver
Travel insurance

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What our travellers are saying

TripAdvisor reviews

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