Plovdiv & Starosel

Price

Duration

10 hours

Tour Type

Overview

Experience a unique blend of ancient history and modern street art on this day trip from Sofia. Begin in Plovdiv, one of the oldest cities in the world. Wander through the atmospheric Old Town, where well-preserved Roman ruins and grand 19th-century mansions sit side-by-side.

Next, travel into the heart of the Sredna Gora mountains to the Starosel Thracian Cult Complex. This sacred site features the largest royal Thracian temple ever discovered, offering a rare look into the spiritual world of the ancient kings from the 5th century BC.

The journey concludes in the quirky village of Staro Zhelezare. Known as a living art gallery, its walls are adorned with avant-garde murals of global icons and local legends, making it a surreal and colorful finish to your Bulgarian adventure.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
  • Plovdiv Old Town Walking Tour: Discover a living museum featuring Roman stadiums, Ottoman mosques, and National Revival architecture.
  • Ancient Thracian Mysteries: Step inside the majestic 5th-century BC temples at Starosel and learn about the enigmatic Thracian kings.
  • Street Art Safari in Staro Zhelezare: Discover Bulgaria’s most Instagrammable village!
  • Scenic Balkan Landscapes: Enjoy a comfortable, picturesque drive through the rolling hills and vineyards of central Bulgaria.

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Included/Excluded

  • Live guide or online audio guide in different languagess
  • Transport in a modern air-conditioned minibus
  • Parking Fees
  • Gratuities
  • Food & Drinks
  • Entry tickets (optional)

Tour Plan

09:00 Departure from a point in central Sofia

Join your group at the Vasil Levski Monument, located in front of the Slovakian Embassy (LINK to the meeting point on Google Maps). We recommend arriving at least 10 minutes before the start time, as the transport leaves promptly at 9:00 am and cannot accommodate late arrivals.

Note: Alternative collection locations can be selected during your reservation.

09:00 – 11:00 The Journey to Plovdiv

Sit back and relax during the two-hour transit. Watch the rural landscapes and the peaks of the Sredna Gora range pass by as we travel toward Plovdiv. A brief stop for refreshments will be provided during the drive.

11:00-13:00 Guided walk of Plovdiv's Old town.

A guided tour of Plovdiv’s Old Town is a fantastic way to explore one of Europe’s oldest cities, rich in history, culture, and stunning architecture.

Some of the walking tour highlights are:

  • Ancient Roman Theatre – One of the best-preserved Roman theatres, still hosting performances today.
  • Hisar Kapia – A medieval gate marking the entrance to the Old Town, built over Roman foundations. One of the most famous Instagrammable places in Bulgaria.
  • Bulgarian National Revival Houses – Beautifully preserved 19th-century homes with intricate wood carvings and colourful facades.
  • Djumaya Mosque – A stunning Ottoman-era mosque in the heart of Plovdiv.
  • Kapana District – A lively arts and crafts neighbourhood with charming cafés and galleries. It is considered the cultural heart of Plovdiv.

13:00-14:00 Free time for lunch or further explore Plovdiv on your own.

ake an hour to discover the charms of Plovdiv at your own pace. Wander through the longest pedestrian zone in Europe or find a spot for lunch in the trendy Kapana district. Known as "The Trap," this area is celebrated for its creative street art, cozy coffee shops, and lively vibe.

14:00-14:45 Transfer from Plovdiv to Starosel

Take a 45-minute scenic drive through the heart of the Thracian Valley, famous for its vineyards and rolling terrain. This peaceful transit brings you directly from the city to the historic entrance of the ancient Starosel sanctuary.

14:45-15:45 Tour of Starosel Thracian Cult Temple

Explore the largest underground royal complex built by the Thracians ever unearthed. This tour takes you around and inside the Chetinyova Mogila, where you can admire the massive stone walls and the unique 4th-century BC domed chamber used for ancient Orphic spiritual rites.

16:00 – 17:00 Tour of the art village of Staro Zhelezare

A short 10-minute trip brings us to the "Open-Air Art Gallery" of Staro Zhelezare. Renowned for its unique mural style, the village displays walls where local residents are depicted next to world figures like Marilyn Monroe and Barack Obama. It is a creative, engaging stop perfect for a stroll and photography.

17:00 – 19:00 Enjoy a relaxing return journey to Sofia

Following a roughly two-hour drive, the tour concludes back at the original departure point at the Vasil Levski Monument.

*Please note that times are approximate and may vary based on group size and local traffic conditions.

Important info

  • How to Dress: Koprivshtitsa is more than 1000 meters above sea level in the mountains. We advise you to bring additional layers even during the summer.
    (In the summer the temperature in Plovdiv reaches over 40°C. Traventuria advice: Bring a sun hat, sun lotion and sunglasses.)
    Shoes: We advise you to wear comfortable walking shoes as most of the streets in Koprivshtitsa and the Old town of Plovdiv are cobbled.
  • Cash or Card: Kindly note that paying by credit/debit card is possible at some restaurants, cafes and stores, but everywhere. We recommend bringing leva (BGN) in cash with you.
  • Food: Plovdiv is a melting pot of different cultures and arts. In the center you will find many of those different nuances in the fine restaurants and street foods especially in the area of Kapana, near the mosque. If you want to spend all of your free time you will not regret exploring the center of the city, we advise you to bring your own snacks or try some new tastes. In the city center you will find a variety of options - from modern restaurants to small local shops and fast food.
    *Ask your tour guide for more information*.
    *If you want to have more time to explore the area at your own pace - Traventuria recommends bringing your own snacks.

Why choose Traventuria?

At Traventuria we pride ourselves on creating unforgettable travel experiences. With expert local guides, carefully curated itineraries, and a digitally optimized booking process, we ensure that your journey is smooth from start to finish. From the moment you book with us, your adventure is our priority. Trust us to take you into the heart of the destinations you dream of exploring.

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Competitive pricing

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We offer you our years travel experience, deep knowledge and strong love of Bulgaria.

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