Brill Travel's Blog Cultural Tours

Plovdiv, My Love

July 9, 2026July 9, 2026 brilltravel

Last modified: July 9, 2026

Plovdiv - European capital of Culture

The Charming city of Plovdiv is getting ready to be the 2019 European Culture Capital. It is the first Bulgarian city chosen to be European Capital of Culture. Construction is active and part of the city looks like a construction site. Plovdiv attracts numerous guests from all over the world,despite small inconveniences, and maybe due to the unusually warm fall of 2018.

We all ask ourselves “Why”? Why do so many people come over especially on weekends. Presumably, it’s the romance of the narrow cobbled streets, and the silence, tranquility and history. Colourful facades of 19th-century houses carefully restored recently, tiny art galleries, small shops selling local artists’ works – all add authentic charm to this place.

Plovdiv - European Capital of Culture & Artistic Atmosphere

No matter how often I visit the city, Plovdiv always offers something new. The artistic atmosphere is in the air, and one feels this everywhere. It’s maybe hidden in the cultural memory of the city - almost 8000 years old.

Plovdiv Throughout History

Plovdiv is the oldest continuously inhabited city in Europe, founded about 6000 BC on Nebet Tepe, one of Plovdiv’s hills. Expanding around Nebet Tepe, then fortified by the Thracians during the Iron Age, conquered by Philip II of Macedon in the 4th c BC, conquered again by the Romans in 45 AC - the history of Plovdiv is very long and eventful. Ancient ruins show the importance of the city: the Roman Theater (108-114 AD) accommodating up to 5,000, the Stadium (90 AD) with a capacity of 30,000 people, the Odeon and the Forum, defense walls (2 c AD). One can still visit the Roman sites, scattered in the heart of the modern city, all within a convenient distance.

Old Plovdiv - a must-see

Depending on the time one spends in Plovdiv, the Old Town is a must-see. There are about 400 19-th century wooden-frame houses. Most of them are real architectural stars. It’s a difficult choice which one to visit. Balabanov’s house, Klianti House, House of Dimitar Georgiadi, housing the Ethnographic museum, Hindliyan’s House - they all tell a different and compelling story.

Centre of Art

Plovdiv is famous for being a centre of art with distinctive artistic and historical importance. We are all tempted to take pictures with the bronze sculpture of the Artist in Saborna Street. Zlatyu Boyadzhiev (1903-1976) is one of the most famous and much loved Bulgarian artists. There are two art spaces also worth a visit – the art galleries of Encho Pironkov and Dimitar Kirov.

Plovdiv - European Capital of Culture & Art in Kapana

The artistic neighbourhood of Kapana is located centrally downtown. In less than a decade this place has turned from a shabby one into a brilliant example of cultural approach to the architectural heritage of the early 20th century. Art thrives in Kapana. It is the place of creative industries and artistic approaches. We were lucky to be there during two festivals – the June Festival and the Young Wine Festival in October. One must bear in mind that Plovdiv is the centre of the Thracian Plane Wine Region. Boutique wineries have been mushrooming lately.Therefore, finding the best red wines can be a bit of a challenge. You only need time and enthusiasm for wine-tasting.

Wine & Dine

Plovdiv's wine and dine culture is exquisite. Small restaurants are mushrooming as well. Some of them are so popular that booking a table in advance is advised. “Green” practices and health food here are a priority. Guidebook’s recommendations might be outdated, in order to find “your place” you should ask the locals. They are the unexpected hidden gem of Plovdiv. Plovdivians describe themselves as laid-back, always warm, smiling and ready to assist you at any time.

Shopping

And last, but not least – Plovdiv is one of the best places for shopping. Some of the best shops are located along the main pedestrian street Alexandrovska (“Knyaz Alexander Battenberg I”).

Enjoy your stay and do come again.

Stara Zagora: Exploring the Hidden Gem of Bulgaria – From Archaeology to SPA

July 9, 2026July 9, 2026 brilltravel

Sightseeing in Stara Zagora

Nestled in the heart of Bulgaria lies a city brimming with history, culture, and charm — Stara Zagora. Often overshadowed by more prominent destinations in Europe, this hidden gem deserves a spotlight of its own. From its rich archaeological heritage to its vibrant cultural scene, Stara Zagora offers visitors a unique and unforgettable experience.

A Journey Through Time – Sightseeing in Stara Zagora

One of the most fascinating aspects of Stara Zagora is its deep-rooted history, dating back thousands of years. The city boasts an impressive array of archaeological sites, including the Neolithic Dwellings Museum, which showcases remnants of one of the oldest Neolithic settlements in Europe (late VII – VI millennium B.C.). Visitors can wander through reconstructed houses and gain insight into the daily lives of prehistoric inhabitants. This small museum will truly impress you. You will see a number of amazing masterpieces of pottery, anthropomorphic and zoomorphic sculptures, ornaments and tools made by neolithic artists. And they were the creators of the first European civilization. “The Birth of Europe” this is the title of a BBC documentary, dedicated to the unique prehistoric cultural heritage of Stara Zagora region.

Stara Zagora’s history is further illuminated by its Roman-era ruins. The Ancient Roman Forum Complex of the ancient city is situated on area of about 7 acres. You will see the Western gate of Augusta Trayana, Parts of the two fortified walls, the first of which was erected in the end of II century, and the second – the end of V and the beginning of the VI century. A stone square with a pedestal for a statue and Amphitheatre auditorium with nine rows of stone seats are really impressive. Regional History museum is another site worth a visit. It displays amazing artifacts form the Roman period.

Roman-Theater-Stara-Zagora — Roman Theater

Architectural complex “Museum of religions” – consider including it in your bucket list, too. It is a unique cult place in the center of Stara Zagora. It was a sacred place for different religions, starting from the early Stone Age (X – IX c. BC). The whole complex is strong evidence of uncommon continuity throughout the ages.

Sightseeing

Exploring these sites is like taking a journey through time, offering glimpses into the city’s diverse past.

Cultural Delights

Beyond its historical treasures, Stara Zagora is a cultural hub with much to offer. The city’s lively arts scene is evident in its theaters, galleries, and annual festivals. The Opera House presents a variety of performances, from classical operas to modern productions. On February 09,2024 famous Metropolitan Opera voices participated in Verdi’s Otello. The famous Bulgarian soprano Krassimira Stoyanova, as Desdemona, together with Željko Lučić (Yago) and Matin Iliev as Otello, created an unforgettable night for thousands of opera fans on stage of the Stara Zagora Opera.

Art enthusiasts will appreciate the array of galleries and exhibitions scattered throughout the city, featuring works by local and international artists. The Stara Zagora Art Gallery is a must-visit should you be an art fan

Natural Beauty

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes, Stara Zagora is an ideal destination for nature lovers. The nearby Sredna Gora mountain range offers ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring pristine wilderness. The Bedechka and Zagorka Reservoirs provide tranquil settings for picnics and water-based activities, while the Rose Valley, located just outside the city, is renowned for its fragrant rose fields and annual Rose Festival.

Gastronomic Delights

No visit to Stara Zagora would be complete without indulging in its culinary delights. All in all, the city’s diverse culinary scene reflects its cultural influences, blending traditional Bulgarian flavors with international influences. From cozy taverns serving hearty stews and grilled meats to trendy cafes offering artisanal coffee and pastries, there’s something to satisfy every palate.

You will find a variety of options – from budget-friendly bites to more sophisticated local gourmet places. Note the outdoor seating, which is vital for a nice summer evening out with friends. Some of the most popular places, for instance, are “Buchchevata Kashta”, “Shtastliveca“, „Uniquto” and “Forum”. In brief, Stara Zagora will not leave you hungry or thirsty.

Beer’s Museum “The World of Zagorka” is the only beer museum in the country. It awaits you with doors wide open and glasses full to the brim.

The founder of this museum was Dr. Konstantin Kozhuharov, back in 1902. The Museum owns the only collection of personal items of the first Braumeister (the first licensed brewer in Bulgaria) in the country. You can see the first beer bottle (1902) and more that 15 kinds of beer glasses, used throughout the years And “Zagorka Vita”- is the first Bulgarian non-alcoholic beer, exported to the Middle East.

Wine Tourism in Stara Zagora

To start with, there are 6 wineries in the region. Actually, it seems that Stara Zagora is one of the most attractive wine tourism destinations in Bulgaria. Estates own hundreds of acres of red varieties – Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Syrah, Petit Verdot, Grenache, Mourvèdre & Barbera. White varieties : Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Traminer, and Viognier. It’s a good idea to stop for a visit, a short wine-break en route to your next destination.

Stara Zagora Hot Mineral Baths – Starozagrski Bani

Bulgaria is famous for its mineral springs. And while Stara Zagora may not have as many as some other regions, there are still some springs in the vicinity that offer therapeutic benefits.

Thermal baths and spa resorts are located just half an hour away from Stara Zagora. Moreover, mineral water springs from a depth of 1,600 meters and is hot (40⁰ С). All SPA hotels in the area offer

various wellness treatments, including hot mineral baths, massages, mud therapy, and more.

Certainly, Stara Zagora still offers plenty of opportunities for visitors to unwind, recharge, and connect with nature. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a combination of both, Stara Zagora has something to offer for every traveler.

In conclusion, Stara Zagora may be one of Europe’s best-kept secrets, but its allure is undeniable. Whether you’re a history buff, art enthusiast, nature lover, or foodie, this charming city has something to offer everyone. So why not venture off the beaten path and discover the magic of Stara Zagora for yourself? You won’t be disappointed.

Saeva Dupka Cave

June 24, 2026July 9, 2026 brilltravel

Last modified: July 9, 2026

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Saeva Dupka Cave: Bulgaria’s Underground Palace of Natural Wonders

You can find the spectacular Saeva Dupka Cave near the village of Brestnica in the Lovech district, just 100 km east of Sofia. Two brothers, Seju and Saju, originally discovered the entrance. Because of this accidental find, locals later named the cave in their honour.

The History of Exploration

Professor Georgi Zlatarov conducted the first scientific research here in 1883. Shortly after, Herman and Karel Shkorpil published the first official data about the cave at the end of the 19th century. This information appeared in their 1898 monograph on Bulgaria's karst waters.

The Shkorpil brothers belonged to a group of Czech scholars who moved to Bulgaria after its liberation from Ottoman rule in 1878. Consequently, these scholars became the very first to document numerous archaeological sites across the country, effectively founding modern Bulgarian archaeology.

Exploring Saeva Dupka: A Journey Through One of Bulgaria’s Most Beautiful Caves

For the Science Enthusiasts: If you want a deep scientific study of the area, check out Dynamic Tectonics and Karst by Stefan Shanov and Konstantin Kostov (published by Springer).

The government designated the cave as an official Natural Phenomenon in 1963 and installed electricity in 1967. However, the site closed to visitors between 1990 and 2004. Fortunately, the local community stepped in. Thanks to their hard work and goodwill, they preserved this natural wonder and successfully reopened it to the public.

Inside the Cave: Facts & Formations

The cave sits at an altitude of 510 meters. Inside, you will find one large main gallery divided into five massive chambers.

Feature	Details
Total Length	210 meters
Vertical Drop (Denivelation)	40 meters
Humidity	90% constant
Temperature	9°C to 11°C year-round

Nature formed this cave during the Berriasian Age, roughly 145 to 139.8 million years ago. Today, a standard tour takes about an hour. Local guides lead every group, and these experts are witty, knowledgeable, and always eager to reveal hidden secrets.

As you walk through, the rich diversity of rock formations tells a three-million-year-old story. Your imagination will run wild looking at fantastic stalactites, stalagmites, and massive columns - including one giant column with a three-meter diameter. Simply put, Saeva Dupka is amazing and the views are stunning.

The Secret Life of Bats

If you look up, you can see bats hanging from the ceiling. To help you learn more about them, the Bulgarian Biodiversity Foundation placed a comprehensive information board right at the cave's entrance.

Amazingly, eight different bat species with international conservation status live inside this cave:

Greater horseshoe (Rhinolophus ferrumequinum)
Lesser horseshoe (Rhinolophus hipposideros)
Mediterranean horseshoe (Rhinolophus eutyale)
Greater mouse-eared (Myotis myotis)
Bechstein’s (Myotis bechsteinii)
Geoffroy’s (Myotis emarginatus)
Natterer’s (Myotis nattereri)
Daubenton’s (Myotis daubentonii)

Before you go, take some time to read the informational boards out loud to your children. They will love it! More importantly, you will finally be able to answer the ultimate question: “What do bats have in common with dolphins, polar bears, and Count Dracula?”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

February 26, 2026August 15, 2026 brilltravel

Planning a bespoke trip through Romania, Bulgaria, and North Macedonia?

Explore our frequently asked questions below for expert insights on our customizable private itineraries and regional travel logistics.

Who are your private cultural tours designed for?

Our private cultural Balkans tours are ideal for travellers who want an in depth cultural experience, including individuals, couples, families, and small groups seeking personalized, hand-crafted itineraries. Though small in size, Bulgaria holds a profound legacy shaped by 7,000 years of civilization. Located in the heart of the Balkan peninsula, Bulgaria is an ideal starting point for visiting the neighbouring Balkan countries Romania, North Macedonia, Greece.

Do you offer adventure tours?

We do offer adventure activities. For example, for our younger guests, we organize dedicated adventure days alongside the cultural visits. Again, depending on the itinerary and the season, these may include canyoning, caving, kayaking, or trekking activities.

Which services does the tour package price include?

Usually, our tour packages typically include accommodations, transportation during the tour, guided services, and itinerary planning. You will find specific inclusions for each tour under the “Tour Price Includes” section.

What types of accommodations are provided – 3-star, 4-star, or customizable to 5-star?

Some tour itineraries include 3-star hotels, while others feature a combination of 3-star and 4-star properties. We carefully select highly rated hotels that meet modern comfort standards. Upon request, we can upgrade your stay to 5-star accommodations wherever available.

Private Cultural Balkans Tours: FAQ

Are meals included?

Of course, all breakfasts are included. Some meals may be included,too,depending on the itinerary. Specific details are provided for each tour. As dining preferences vary widely, we carefully select restaurants known for high-quality local cuisine.

What type of transportation do you use for land travel during the tours?

Transportation varies by tour and may include private vehicles:

Sedan for 2-3 people,

8-seater minibus for 4-6 people,

17-seater for 8-14 people,

and 40-seater for larger groups.

Are self-guided options available with just a driver, and how do they differ in price?

Yes, we offer seven tours with a self-guided option that includes a driver only (no tour guide). Our most popular program in this format is UNESCO World Cultural Heritage in Bulgaria. The self-guided option is approximately 30% less expensive than the fully guided version.

How far in advance should I book?

Certainly, we recommend booking as early as possible to secure your preferred dates, accommodations, and guides – especially during peak travel seasons. In fact, in Bulgaria, this includes the Rose Festival period (May 25 – June 10), when the roses are in full bloom.
And we consider booking requests within 60 days of travel last-minute and operate according to availability.

Private Cultural Balkans Tours: FAQ

Do you offer private multi-country tours through the Balkans?

Yes! We provide a variety of customizable cultural routes across three neighboring Balkan countries: Romania, Bulgaria, and North Macedonia. Our private itineraries feature major landmarks and historical sites in key destinations, including:

Bulgaria: Sofia, Plovdiv, and Veliko Tarnovo.
Romania: Bucharest, Brasov, and Sibiu.
North Macedonia: Skopje and the UNESCO site of Ohrid.

Whether you want to follow our curated routes or create a bespoke regional experience, all of our private tour itineraries can be tailored to your preferences.

How do we handle border crossings between Romania, Bulgaria, and North Macedonia?

Firstly, on our private Balkan tours, we handle all the logistics of border crossings for you. Your professional driver and guide will manage the paperwork and navigate the checkpoints at the land borders between Romania, Bulgaria, or North Macedonia. We monitor traffic and border wait times in real-time to ensure your itinerary remains seamless and stress-free.

What currency do I need for a multi-country tour of the Balkans?

Bulgaria joined the EUROZONE in 2026 and you can pay in EUR. Romania uses its own currency: the Romanian Leu (RON), and North Macedonia uses the Macedonian Denar (MKD). You can use your credit cards in the major cities like Bucharest and Sofia. Anyway, we recommend carrying a small amount of local cash for rural areas, local markets, and small souvenir shops. Surely, your guide will assist you in finding reputable exchange offices or ATMs with the best rates during the tour.

Can I combine specific landmarks like Dracula’s Castle and Rila Monastery in one trip?

Absolutely. We specialize in bespoke Balkan itineraries. You can easily combine iconic sites like Bran Castle (Dracula’s Castle) in Transylvania with Bulgaria’s Rila Monastery or North Macedonia’s Lake Ohrid. In short, since our tours are private, we can adjust the pace, add extra days in your favourite cities, or include niche experiences like wine tasting in the Melnik region or a traditional egg painting in Romania.

Do the tours include a local guide, and in what language?

Yes. All our private guided tours include a local guide, native of Bulgaria, Romania and North Macedonia. Guiding is available in several languages depending on your needs. Our best guides speak English, German, Spanish, French.

Note: Please ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months. Most Western travellers (US, UK, EU, Canada, Australia) do not require a separate visa for short stays in these countries.

THE POMORIE TOMB-MAUSOLEUM – A MYSTERY WITH A MYTHICAL TOUCH

April 11, 2025April 18, 2026 brilltravel

The Pomorie Tomb-Mausoleum is our focus in Pomorie. This site is ancient (II-IV c.) and enigmatic. When people think of the Black Sea, they often picture summer, sunshine, and beautiful sandy beaches. It’s no wonder the Black Sea coast draws thousands of holidaymakers to Bulgaria from May through October.The modern town of Pomorie, once the ancient city of Anchialos, lies just 20 km from Burgas. If you have extra time, a visit to the local history museum can enrich your understanding of the area’s thousands of years of history.

But for those with a deeper interest in history and culture, the region offers much more. One of the most intriguing archaeological sites along the coast is the Pomorie tomb-mausoleum – a place shrouded in mystery and touched by myth. This Thracian monument offers a cosmic glimpse into the lives and spiritual beliefs of ancient peoples.

Thanks to modern navigation, it’s easy to find the site, officially known as the Pomorie Thracian Tumulus. A brief detour from the main road will bring you directly to this fascinating location.

Why Visit the Pomorie-Tomb- Mausoleum, a mystery with a mythical touch?

Set within what’s known as the “Hollow Mound,” the tomb stands out for its unique architecture and presumed ritual function. It’s believed to be part of a larger necropolis, which highlights the significance of this area in ancient times. The name Anchialos comes from the words anchi (near) and als (salt), hinting at its historic ties to salt mining. Salt as a resource so valuable in antiquity that even children today learn about its importance.

THE POMORIE TOMB-MAUSOLEUM – A MYSTERY WITH A MYTHICAL TOUCH

Most scholars believe the structure served as a mausoleum (heroon) for a wealthy Thracian family from Anchialos. It’s also thought to have been a site for religious rituals related to sun worship. This ancient domed tomb is the largest of its kind discovered in Bulgaria. It stands alone on the Balkan Peninsula as a unique blend of a traditional Thracian tomb and a Roman-style mausoleum.

The Pomorie Tomb-Mausoleum – What Meets the Eye

famed Treasury of Atreus in Mycenae. Its impressive scale and unique construction place it among the most remarkable monuments of the ancient world.

As Dr. Vassil Mutafov explains, the tomb was built using alternating layers of stone and standard Roman bricks, held together with mortar mixed with crushed brick. The facade is finely crafted, indicating that the tomb originally stood exposed before being covered by an 8-meter-high tumulus. A 22-meter-long corridor (dromos), topped with a half-cylindrical vault, leads visitors into the tomb’s interior.

The entrance to the dromos was never buried. It featured a double-leaf door designed for repeated use, secured from the inside. The structure’s materials reflect a blend of cultures: stonework typical of Thracian builders and bricks characteristic of Roman construction.

At the heart of the circular burial chamber—5.5 meters high and 11.56 meters in diameter—stands a hollow central column. The ring-shaped hall is covered by a torus-like vault that connects the central column to the surrounding wall. Inside the column, spiral stone stairs once led to the top of the tumulus. These stairs were later removed, and the passage was sealed. It is believed that the column extended above the mound and was once topped by a statue.

Around the inner wall of the chamber are five niches, likely used to hold urns of the deceased. The walls of the chamber, corridor, and side rooms were plastered with “hot mortar”. This is a mix of quicklime and sea sand—and painted, though only fragments of the original green-colored plaster have survived.

Architectural parallels to the Pomorie tomb can be found in Thracian and Bosporan tombs from the 4th–3rd centuries BC, as well as in sacred and royal buildings across the Mediterranean, such as the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus and structures in Commagene.

The Pomorie Tomb-Mausoleum, a Mystery with a Mythical Touch – What Lies Beyond Sight

The architecture of the Pomorie tomb-mausoleum is more than just remarkable engineering. It is a physical manifestation of ancient spiritual beliefs and cosmic symbolism.

According to Professor Alexander Foll, the priests of the time used the tomb as a sacred observatory. They interpreted the will of the god Sabazius—whom they identified with Apollo by day—by watching the sun’s rays as they penetrated the hollow column when the sun reached its zenith. At night, when the sun descended into the “lower hemisphere of the earth,” the priests lit a sacred fire on the altar. The flickering flames, shining through the column’s opening and reflected in the night sky, became a medium for divination. During these rituals, the god Sabazius was called Dionysus.

Many mysteries remain, known only to the initiates—those who tracked the sun’s rays during the vernal and summer equinoxes, when light gradually conquered darkness. The tomb’s flawless acoustics amplified the effects of autophony—a phenomenon used in rituals to bring the divine into oneself, in a state of spiritual ecstasy known as enthousiasmos.

Another symbol worth noting is the pentagram formed by the five niches inside the chamber. This sacred geometry was more than decorative—it reflected the ancient belief in universal harmony and cosmic order.

The Pomorie tomb–mausoleum invites us to revisit the sacred mysteries of the Thracians, the legend of Orpheus, and the Roman belief in the soul’s immortality. It is both an archaeological marvel and a gateway to the mythic and mystical world of the ancients.