Explore Bulgaria's rich wine heritage and exquisite traditional cuisine with curated tours and tasting experiences.
Bulgaria, a nation steeped in history and blessed with a diverse landscape, offers a compelling tapestry of wine and culinary traditions. For centuries, grapes have thrived on its sun-drenched hillsides, yielding distinct varietals and a burgeoning wine scene that's gaining international recognition. Beyond the vineyards, Bulgarian cuisine is a hearty, flavorful affair, rooted in fresh, seasonal ingredients and time-honored recipes. These dishes are often perfected through generations, showcasing a delightful balance of spices, herbs, and slow-cooking techniques. Exploring Bulgarian wine and culinary experiences through dedicated tours and activities provides an immersive gateway into this vibrant culture. Imagine wandering through ancient wineries, learning about the winemaking process from vine to bottle, and, of course, savoring generous pours of local vintages. Complementing these sips, culinary excursions delve into the heart of Bulgarian gastronomy. You might find yourself learning to prepare iconic dishes like banitsa (a savory cheese pastry) or kavarma (a slow-cooked meat stew) in a traditional setting, or embarking on guided market tours to discover the freshest local produce. These experiences are more than just tastings; they're an invitation to connect with the land, its people, and their enduring culinary heritage. Whether you're a seasoned oenophile or a curious food lover, Bulgaria's wine and culinary landscape promises a deeply satisfying journey. Tours often showcase regional specialties, highlighting the unique terroirs that influence wine character and the local ingredients that define regional cooking. From the fertile Thracian Valley, renowned for its red wines, to the crisp whites of the Black Sea coast, and the comforting stews found in mountain villages, there's a delicious discovery waiting around every corner. These curated experiences are designed to offer an authentic glimpse into what makes Bulgarian food and drink so special, connecting visitors with the stories and traditions behind every delicious bite and sip.
Discover our top picks for bulgarian wine and culinary experiences in Bulgaria

During your personal tasting experience I will guide you through the distinctive world of Bulgarian wines. Although Bulgaria has been producing wine for 5000 years it is still relatively unknown to the rest of the world. Now a rising new generation of Bulgarian boutique winemakers are devoted to the craft and bringing new attention to our country. You will taste 5 wine varieties of local grapes unique to Bulgaria, that can not be found anywhere else: Miskets, Melnik, Mavrud, Gumza and Rubin. Plus, local cheeses, artisanal bread and mineral water. The tasting is held in one of the best boutique wine shops in Sofia – Tempus Vini, which is located on an artsy street in the city center, known for its fine restaurants and boutiques. And just a few streets away from Sofia’s main pedestrian boulevard. During the tasting I can tell you about the wine regions of Bulgaria including the history and the wine culture of my beautiful country. All tastings are held in English or Bulgarian

Taste Bulgarian wines from boutique wineries along with typical Bulgarian meats and cheeses in the heart of Sofia. In a quiet artistic street among chill atmosphere you will learn more about the history of wine making in Bulgaria. You will explore the taste of the local grapes along with different local meats and cheeses. As it is very difficult to find Bulgarian wines outside our country you will have one truly unique experience nevertheless if you are wine enthusiast or have deeper knowledge of wine.

During your experience in Coupage Cheese and Wine Shop you will go through different wine regions in Bulgaria thanks to our big Country Chalkboard map. You will see mostly of the small wineries and farms locations with our recommendation what is best to visit. We know how to make our Bulgarian Wine and Cheese experience a great time for every wine lover!

Looking to go somewhere different than the beach? Enjoy a memorable wine tasting of 5 medal-winning wines combined with a history tour at the family-owned local winery DiVes! The tasting is accompanied by appetizers and water: - Rhodopean trout with a Muscat; - Vegetables (fresh and dried) from Thrace with a Rosé; - Bulgarian cheese from Plovdiv region with a Merlot; - Lukanka (local salami) from Stara Planina Mountain with a Pamid (the oldest Bulgarian wine variety); - Chocolate sticks with DiVes Sweet wine. The winery offers a big tasting hall for 50 people and a free bus/car parking. Our greatest honor has been to be recognized for the high quality of DiVes Estate wines at the most prestigious wine competition globally, Decanter World Wine 2014, with the first time ever Gold Medal awarded to Bulgaria, for our Merlo Barrique Special Selection 2012. Discover Bulgaria's best wines!

Located in the heart of Plovdiv, Cork & Fork is not just a wine bar but a journey through the diverse and rich world of Bulgarian wines. It is a part of the historical building of Atlas House And Luxury Suits. The Cork&Fork team is determined to show the richness of Bulgarian wine through individual and group wine tastings, themed wine dinners, a variety of wines by the glass, an exclusive selection of farm dairy and meat products, and premium tapas and bites. We are offering 365 Bulgarian wines (for every day of the year) from over 110 wineries from all over Bulgaria. The Cork&Fork enoteca represents the five wine regions of Bulgaria with the most characteristic varieties and styles of wines. In addition to its wine list, Cork&Fork also impresses with its unique and authentic atmosphere. It is the perfect spot for wine team buildings, company events, celebrations and gatherings. It is the best way to have an unforgettable wine experience with friends and loved ones.

In Nessebar's Old Town, sunlight danced on cobblestones as you entered a charming, vine-draped winery. Cool stone walls whispered of history, and the air thrummed with anticipation. On a terrace overlooking the Black Sea's turquoise embrace, crystal glasses awaited, each holding a promise of enchantment. Your guide, a local with a twinkle in his eye, unveiled Bulgaria's secrets - the deep, earthy Mavrud, the crisp, citrusy Sauvignon Blanc, and the robust, oak-aged Melnik. Each sip, a journey through sun-drenched vineyards and family traditions. As the sun dipped, casting a golden glow, a cheese platter arrived, a symphony of flavors on your tongue. Laughter mingled with the sea breeze, creating an unforgettable tapestry of Bulgarian magic. You leaned back, the world slowing to the rhythm of waves, forever enchanted. Escape to a haven for Bulgarian gems! Since the beginning, we've championed the finest small-batch Bulgarian wines.

The wine has always been a part of the Bulgarian culture and history, and Sofia is home to some of the country’s most vibrant wine bars and craft wine shops. Sofia Wine Walk organizes wine related walking tours and tastings in Sofia. The tours specialize in small, boutique Bulgarian wineries that produce limited editions of wines. If you are looking to expand your knowledge about Bulgarian wine and experience something different, Sofia Wine Walk offers an opportunity to explore Sofia’s inspiring wine scene. On this tour, you will visit a range of unique venues chosen for their excellent wine selections and contribution to Bulgaria’s wide variety, and listen to their fascinating stories. I also can introduce you to Sofia and Bulgaria’s history, culture and traditions so you can learn as you walk. The duration of the tour is 2-2.5 hours. The minimum number of people per tour is 2, and the maximum is 10. The tour is in English.

A visit to Sofia just got more flavorful with a premium wine tasting experience at a chic boutique wine bar in the city center. This exclusive tasting features five carefully selected Bulgarian wines, each paired with gourmet bites, including aged cheeses and artisan charcuterie. As you sip, a knowledgeable local wine expert shares insights into Bulgaria’s celebrated wine regions and the artistry behind small-batch winemaking. Enjoy a refined yet relaxed atmosphere, perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone eager to indulge in Bulgaria’s rich wine culture.

Taste an unforgettable selection of Bulgarian wines with appetizers. We have sorted the best of the best so that you can say "Yes, I tasted true Bulgarian wine". Come and try this absolute favorite experience in Varna.

Taste an unforgettable selection of Bulgarian wines with appetizers. We have sorted the best of the best so that you can say "Yes, I tasted true Bulgarian wine". Taste a selection of 4 Bulgarian wines and enjoy a platter of delicacies. Bulgaria is a popular wine destination and this trip takes you on a "road-trip" to the best regional wines. Come and try this absolute favorite experience in Burgas.

Tempting wine journey to explore one of the most modern wineries in Bulgaria situated at the foothill of the Rhodope Mountains. The local wine experts combine millennia of experience with the latest wine making technologies to create top notch wines. Some 5000 years ago the ancient Thracians inhabiting the territory of the present-day Bulgarian lands began to grow vines and make wine. Nowadays Bulgaria produces some of the finest wines in the world and is a reviving country on the global wine market. Local Bulgarian sorts of wines as Mavrud, Melnik, Gamza, Dimiat, Rubin and more are famous around the world and have won many international awards.

Discover Bulgaria’s rich heritage at DiVes Winery, located on the historic Simeonova Mound—site of King Simeon the Great’s victory in 917 AD. With over 77 awards, the winery offers a tasting of 4 wines paired with Bulgarian finger foods: white wine with smoked trout, rosé with sun-dried tomatoes, red Grand Reserve with yellow cheese, and sweet wine with honey cake and chocolate. Non-alcoholic options are available for guests under 18. Continue your journey in Nessebar, a UNESCO site where ancient Roman ruins, 40 historic churches, and cobblestone streets meet the Black Sea breeze. Walk through centuries of history and feel the spirit of old Messembria in every stone.

Taste an unforgettable selection of Bulgarian wines with appetizers. We have sorted the best of the best so that you can say "Yes, I tasted true Bulgarian wine". Come and try this absolute favorite experience in Veliko Tarnovo.

Taste an unforgettable selection of Bulgarian wines with appetizers. We have sorted the best of the best so that you can say "Yes, I tasted true Bulgarian wine". Come and try this absolute favorite experience in Ruse.

Taste an unforgettable selection of Bulgarian wines with appetizers. We have sorted the best of the best so that you can say "Yes, I tasted true Bulgarian wine". Come and try this absolute favorite experience in Sliven.
Bulgaria boasts a winemaking history stretching back thousands of years, with unique indigenous grape varieties waiting to be discovered.
Experience the hearty, flavorful, and incredibly fresh traditional Bulgarian dishes, prepared with local ingredients and age-old methods.
Tour picturesque wine regions, often set against stunning natural backdrops, offering a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
Connect with local winemakers and chefs, gaining insights into their passion and the cultural significance of their craft.
From intimate cellar tastings to hands-on cooking classes, there's a diverse range of activities to suit every taste and interest.
Bulgarian wine and culinary tours often provide exceptional quality and authentic experiences at very competitive prices.
These tours focus on Bulgaria's diverse wine production, taking visitors to vineyards and wineries. Expect guided tastings, cellar tours, and insights into local grape varietals like Mavrud and Melnik.
Dive into the heart of Bulgarian gastronomy with hands-on cooking experiences. Learn to prepare traditional dishes from scratch, often in a local home or dedicated culinary studio.
Explore vibrant local markets, guided by a knowledgeable local who will introduce you to the freshest seasonal produce, artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and other Bulgarian specialties.
These tours combine delicious food with cultural exploration, often featuring multi-course meals at highly-rated restaurants or traditional mehanas, paired with local wines.
Tours typically range from 3 to 5 hours, with some full-day options available for deeper immersion into specific regions or multiple activities.
Bulgaria experiences distinct seasons. Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather for vineyard visits and outdoor dining. Summers can be hot, while winters are cold.
Group sizes vary, from intimate private tours for a few people to small group excursions of up to 10-15 participants.
Typically includes guided tours, tastings (wine and/or food), cooking class instruction, and often a meal. Specific inclusions are detailed on each tour listing.
Meeting points are usually in central, easily accessible locations in cities like Sofia, Plovdiv, or near specific wineries/restaurants. Pickup from hotels may be offered on some tours.
Prices start around $35 USD per person for shorter tasting experiences and can range up to $100+ USD for full-day immersive tours or private classes.
Consider visiting during autumn harvest season (September-October) for a chance to see grape picking and potentially participate in harvest festivals.
Don't be afraid to try the indigenous Bulgarian grape varieties like Mavrud (red) and Dimyat (white) – they offer truly unique flavors.
Many tours offer transport, which is highly recommended, especially in wine regions where driving after tastings is not advisable.
Book in advance, especially if you're traveling during peak season or want to secure a spot on a popular cooking class.
Engage with your guides and hosts; they are often passionate about sharing their knowledge and stories about Bulgarian food and wine.
Be open to trying less familiar ingredients and dishes – Bulgarian cuisine is known for its fresh vegetables, herbs, and dairy products.
If you're on a food tour, wear comfortable shoes as you'll likely be doing a good amount of walking, especially in markets.
Factor in time for leisurely enjoyment. Bulgarian culture often emphasizes savoring meals and conversations, so don't rush your experience.
A: The Thracian Valley is the largest and most renowned wine region, particularly for reds. Other notable areas include the Danube Plain for whites and some reds, and the Struma River Valley in the southwest, famous for its Melnik grape.
A: Must-tries include banitsa (flaky cheese pastry), shopska salata (a fresh tomato, cucumber, pepper, and cheese salad), kavarma (a hearty meat stew), and kebapche (grilled minced meat).
A: While becoming more available, Bulgarian wines are still considered somewhat niche internationally. Experiencing them in Bulgaria offers the best opportunity to discover their quality and variety.
A: Many operators offer private tours that can be tailored to your interests, whether you want to focus on specific grape varietals, particular dishes, or a combination of both.
A: It's generally polite to arrive on time, listen attentively to the guide, and enjoy the tastings provided. Asking questions is encouraged, and it's customary to thank your hosts for their hospitality.
A: Many traditional Bulgarian dishes are naturally vegetarian or can be adapted. It's best to inform the tour operator of any dietary restrictions in advance so they can make appropriate arrangements.
A: A 'mehana' is a traditional Bulgarian tavern, typically offering rustic decor, live folk music, and authentic, home-style cuisine. It's a great place to experience local culture and hearty dishes.
A: For popular tours, especially during peak travel seasons (summer and around holidays), booking at least a few weeks ahead is advisable. For private or custom tours, more notice is often appreciated.
Discover ancient Thracian history and stunning Black Sea coastlines in authentic Bulgaria.
Experience warm hospitality and delicious, hearty cuisine in Sofia's vibrant streets.
Enjoy affordable adventure, from hiking the Rila Mountains to exploring charming villages.
Uncover millennia of culture, from Roman ruins to UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Savor local wines and rakia while mingling with friendly locals in Plovdiv.
Bulgaria offers a rich tapestry of traditions, landscapes, and unforgettable encounters.
Check local weather forecasts for the best time to visit.
Spring and fall offer the best weather for most destinations.
Summer months are typically the peak season with higher prices and crowds.
Winter months offer lower prices and fewer crowds, though weather may be less ideal.
Explore comprehensive guides to plan your perfect trip, including food tours, cultural experiences, and more.
Discover Bulgaria's sun-kissed Black Sea shores with engaging tours exploring ancient history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural landscapes.
Discover Bulgaria's stunning mountain landscapes and ancient trails on guided hiking and trekking adventures.
Discover Sofia's rich history, diverse architecture, and vibrant culture with expertly guided city tours from various operators.
Unearth the ancient Thracian civilization with guided tours exploring Bulgaria's rich archaeological sites and historical landscapes.
Explore Bulgaria's rich history through its UNESCO World Heritage Sites with curated tours and activities, uncovering millennia of culture and stunning landscapes.
Getting around Bulgaria is quite manageable. Intercity buses are frequent and affordable, connecting most major towns and cities. Trains offer a more scenic, though sometimes slower, option. Renting a car provides the most flexibility, especially for exploring rural areas and smaller villages off the beaten path. Within cities like Sofia and Plovdiv, public transport, including metro, trams, and buses, is efficient. Taxis are also readily available, but it's wise to agree on a fare beforehand or ensure the meter is used.
Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.
Find the perfect accommodation for your Bulgaria adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.
Discover top-rated hotels with exclusive rates and special offers on Trivago USA.