From Sofia: Day Tour of Plovdiv with Roman Theater Ticket

If you’re visiting Bulgaria and want to step back in time while enjoying a lively modern city, a day trip from Sofia to Plovdiv is hard to beat. This guided tour, offered by Easy Bulgaria Travel Ltd, promises a full day of history, stunning sights, and authentic local charm. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the reviews and detailed itinerary give a clear picture of what to expect—and it looks like a solid choice for history buffs, photography lovers, and anyone eager to see Bulgaria’s second-largest city.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the experience of walking on a 2,000-year-old Roman theater and stadium is truly something special. Imagine standing amid ancient ruins that have witnessed centuries of history, with your guide providing colorful stories along the way. Second, the chance to explore Plovdiv’s picturesque Old Town, with its narrow, cobbled streets and vividly painted revival houses, makes for a truly immersive experience. However, a potential consideration is the walking involved—cobbled streets and some steep climbs mean comfortable shoes are a must.

This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy history, culture, and scenic views but prefer a well-organized, small-group setting. If you’re looking for a day full of memorable sights, guided insights, and manageable pacing, then this trip checks all those boxes.

Key Points

• Historical Wonders: Walk on a 2,000-year-old Roman theater and stadium, with plenty of opportunities for photos.
• Charming Old Town: Explore Plovdiv’s colorful, cobbled streets and ornate revival houses.
• Panoramic Views: Capture stunning vistas of the city from one of the hills surrounding the Old Town.
• Expert Guidance: A knowledgeable guide delivers engaging stories and context.
• Comfortable Transportation: Modern, Wi-Fi-equipped vehicles make the journey smooth.
• Small Group: Limited to 7 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What You’ll Experience

Pick-Up and Drive to Plovdiv

The tour begins with a hotel pickup in Sofia, usually between 9 am and 10 am. You’ll be greeted by a friendly driver in a comfortable vehicle equipped with Wi-Fi—so you can surf or share photos en route. The drive takes roughly 1 hour and 45 minutes, giving you a cozy window to settle in and get excited about the day ahead.

Guided Tour of Plovdiv’s Old Town

Once in Plovdiv, the real adventure begins. The Old Town is a highlight for any visitor. Built on three hills called Tepeta, it feels like walking through a living museum. The streets are cobbled and winding, lined with colorful 19th-century houses featuring ornate facades and intricate woodwork. The tour guide will point out architectural details and share stories about the buildings’ histories, making the stroll both visually and intellectually stimulating.

The reviews love the guides’ depth of knowledge. Donna, for example, raves about her guide’s insights, saying, “my guide was well informed and provided so much information about the area.” That kind of commentary makes wandering these streets—bounded by history—more meaningful.

Roman Theater and Stadium

A major highlight is walking on the ancient Roman theater, still remarkably well-preserved and used today for performances. Standing on the stage, you’ll get a sense of how entertainment and civic life once thrived here 2,000 years ago. Next, you’ll take photos of the Roman stadium, also dating back 2,000 years, which adds to the sense of being in a city that has seen civilizations come and go.

The Roman ruins are often the most talked about features in reviews, with visitors appreciating the chance to get close to history in such a tangible way. Mary calls Plovdiv “a must-see,” emphasizing the importance of these archaeological sites.

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Free Time and Lunch Options

After the guided portion, you’ll have some free time. You might opt for a local restaurant or cafe in the city center, which is lined with shops, fountains, and monuments. The central pedestrian street stretches from the Central Square past the Mosque and all the way to the Maritsa River, offering plenty of options for a relaxed lunch or some souvenir shopping.

Return Journey

The drive back to Sofia is the same as the trip there—about 1 hour and 45 minutes. The tour concludes with hotel drop-off, leaving you with lasting memories of Bulgaria’s treasures.

The Practicalities: What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers excellent value, especially considering it includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a modern vehicle with Wi-Fi, and a professional guide. The entrance fee to the Roman theater is also covered, allowing you to skip long lines and focus on the experience.

Lunch is not included, giving you flexibility to choose your own meal. Whether you want a quick snack or a sit-down meal, you can tailor your experience.

The tour operates in a small group setting—limited to 7 participants—which enhances the chance for personalized attention and lively conversations. The tour is available in English and French, catering to a broad audience.

Important to Keep in Mind

• Bring comfortable shoes for walking on cobbled streets and some climbs.
• Wear sunglasses and a sun hat as Bulgaria can be sunny.
• This tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or people with mobility impairments due to walking and uneven surfaces.
• Cancellation is flexible—up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What Reviewers Say: Authentic Perspectives

Donna’s glowing review highlights her appreciation for the well-informed guide and the amazing ruins. She describes the experience as “another amazing experience,” emphasizing the historical richness of the city and her guide’s storytelling skills.

Mary found the day “highly recommended,” calling Plovdiv “a must see,” and suggesting that the tour captures the city’s essence perfectly.

Agnès, in her review in French, mentions her “passionate discovery” of the city with her guide Paulina, summing it up with a strong recommendation.

These reviews underline the tour’s strength: a knowledgeable guide who enriches the experience and well-preserved ancient sites that leave a lasting impression.

Why This Tour is a Great Choice

This day trip hits the sweet spot for travelers wanting a meaningful, manageable glimpse into Bulgaria’s past without feeling rushed. The small group size guarantees a friendly atmosphere, and the comfortable transport ensures you arrive relaxed and ready to explore.

While the tour emphasizes history and architecture, it also offers visual rewards—stunning views, colorful houses, and ancient ruins—that photographers will love. And with flexible booking options and free cancellation, it’s designed to be accessible and convenient.

If you’re a curious traveler eager to step into a city that’s been around for over 8,000 years, this trip offers an authentic taste of Bulgaria’s cultural tapestry. Perfect for history lovers, culture seekers, and those who simply want a beautiful scenery-filled day.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the drive from Sofia to Plovdiv?
The trip takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes each way, making it a comfortable journey without feeling rushed.

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation in a modern vehicle with Wi-Fi, a professional guide, and entrance fee for the Roman theater.

Can I customize the departure time?
Yes, you can choose your preferred departure time within the suggested window of 9 am to 10 am.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, giving you the flexibility to choose where to eat after the guided tour.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour isn’t explicitly designed for children, families with older kids who are comfortable walking on cobblestone streets and uneven surfaces should find it manageable.

Are there any accessibility issues?
The tour involves walking on cobbled streets and some steep inclines, so it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments.

What languages are available for the guide?
Guides speak English and French.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to small groups of up to 7 participants, ensuring personalized attention.

What should I wear?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection like sunglasses and a sun hat, especially if the weather is sunny.

How do I cancel if my plans change?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel schedule.

To sum it up, this guided day tour offers a well-rounded experience of Bulgaria’s second city, blending ancient ruins, charming streets, and spectacular views. It’s ideal for travelers looking for a manageable, enriching, and visually stunning day out. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply seeking a taste of Bulgarian culture, this tour delivers both value and authenticity in spades.

You can check availability for your dates here: