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Private Tour with a Local Experiencing with you the Gems around Plovdiv
About this activity
Explore Plovdiv's cultural treasures on a 5-hour private tour led by a local guide, combining the medieval Asen Fortress in Asenovgrad, the historically significant Bachkovo Monastery, and tastings of the region's legendary Mavrud wine. Discover why this corner of Bulgaria earned the nickname 'Bulgarian Jerusalem' through stories, architecture, and local expertise.
Nearby Plovdiv, the Asenovgrad town is located, better known as the Bulgarian Jerusalem. It is also called the city of brides, but its symbol is the medieval fortress named after the Bulgarian king Ivan-Asen II.
Asen’s fortress still controls the passage through the Rhodope Mountains, leading us to the Bachkovo monastery – the second biggest in Bulgaria and the most impressive with its miraculous stories.
Once entered in this area, you’ll definitely hear about Mavrud – man, hero, or wine? – Many legends are speaking about one fabulous wine – the Mavrud from Asenovgrad!
Highlights
- ✓Medieval Asen Fortress overlooking the Rhodope Mountains pass
- ✓Bachkovo Monastery – Bulgaria's second-largest and most legendary
- ✓Mavrud wine tasting and local wine heritage
- ✓Private guide sharing authentic stories and local knowledge
- ✓Historic Asenovgrad, known as the 'City of Brides'
Insider tips
- ★Ask your guide about the miraculous legends connected to Bachkovo Monastery – locals take these stories seriously and they add context to the architecture
- ★Mavrud wine is a regional specialty; if you're interested in viticulture, discuss this with your guide beforehand so they can arrange a deeper dive
- ★The fortress offers panoramic views early or late in the day with fewer crowds – worth timing your visit accordingly
Good to know
- •Tour includes both minivan transport and walking sections; wear comfortable, sturdy shoes
- •Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen) as fortress and monastery grounds have limited shade
- •Private tour allows flexible pacing – confirm start time and hotel pickup details in advance
- •Wine tasting may be included; inform guide of dietary restrictions or preferences when booking
Who it's for
Best time to visit
Visit spring (April–May) or autumn (September–October) for mild weather and manageable crowds. Late morning to early afternoon offers optimal light for monastery photography and fortress views.











