Experiencing the Rose Festival of Bulgaria

Experience the rose picking rituals at the Valley of Roses. Rose picking rituals happen at 10:00 AM in each respective village and are organized by local rose producers, local folklore groups and the local municipality. When the sun begins to heat the flowers, the oils travel down into the stem, which is why rose picking always happens in the morning while the petals still contain that all essential oil the rose is famous for.
The Rose ritual is organized in various locations around the Valley. They feature Bulgarian traditional customs with folklore dancing, as well as an opportunity to take pictures in a rose field.
The most visited ritual event is the one near Kazanlak and happens on the first Sunday of June every year in the fields north of the city, near Kran village.
If you are visiting outside the festival week, you can still visit the valley of Roses and take those all important photographs surrounded by roses.

Visit the Institute of roses where you can see the actual process of making essential oils, which is fascinating. From rose, chamomile, mint, juniper, pine, balm, and others, here you will be able to compare different smells and see how many different types and varieties of roses there are, as well as which ones produce the oil needed for the products.
Open Hours: Monday - Sunday: 09:00 - 17:00

Take a break to recharge at this wonderful and charming restaurant that offers authentic Bulgarian cuisine in a great setting. From homemade soups like Shkembe Chorba, to Shopska Salata, you can't go wrong with any of the food here.

Park you car here to enjoy the rest of the city on foot.

Visit the ethnographic museum to see what rural and town houses from the 18th-19th century in Kazanlak were like. See the inside decor as it was back in those times, and you will also get to enjoy a folklore performance to experience the true musical culture of old Bulgaria. Definitely a great place to visit if you wish to learn more about this country’s origin and history.
Open Hours: Monday - Sunday: 09:00 - 17:00
Winter visits are only possible on request. For more information, visit the official website.

Finally, walk through the town to enjoy the Rose festival parade and coronation. It is the biggest parade in Bulgaria with over 3000 participants joining the march. Here you will be able to see folklore dancing and music from different parts of the country all gathered to celebrate this special event. A very colorful and delightful spectacle to experience.
The Main Event happens on the 1st weekend of June, which includes the festive concert Coronation of the Rose Queen and the Rose Festive Parade. To see which one you would like to visit, you can visit the local website for all information.

Park your car here to enjoy some time at the restaurant

Dine in at this family-friendly restaurant in Sliven that offers the most amazing Bulgarian desserts for the rest of your trip. Featuring traditional Bulgarian dishes in a peaceful setting, it's a great way to end your day.
Open Hours: Monday - Sunday: 08:30 - 23:00

Take a pit stop here to enjoy this fascinating rock structure on the river. The rock structure is like a tunnel with carved out areas for cars to drive through. A great place to enjoy in the evening, when there are no tourists.