Join us for an unforgettable Bulgaria photography workshop that blends the country’s most spectacular autumn landscapes with authentic cultural encounters. This small-group tour takes you from the golden forests of the Rhodope Mountains to the dramatic sand pyramids of Melnik, with opportunities to photograph daily life in traditional villages, shepherds tending their flocks, and local farmers preparing for winter.
“Photograph Bulgaria’s vibrant fall colors, rich culture, and world-famous heritage sites.”
Along the way, we’ll enjoy Bulgaria’s rich traditions of local cuisine and excellent wines, including a special wine tasting in Melnik, famous for its unique grape varieties. We’ll also explore two of Bulgaria’s most iconic landmarks: the UNESCO-listed Rila Monastery and Sofia’s magnificent Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.
This carefully designed itinerary combines autumn photography in Bulgaria with cultural portraiture, authentic gastronomy, and timeless architecture — perfect for photographers who want to experience the real Bulgaria while capturing memorable images.
TOUR INFO
| Dates | Oct 26 – Nov 1, 2026 |
| Duration | 8 days / 7 nights |
| Group size | 6 guests |
| Price | 2750 € |
| Single Supplement | 250 € |
| Pro | Dancho Hristov & Luka Esenko |
| Arrival | Sofia Airport |
| Departure | Sofia Airport |
Our Bulgaria photography workshop is suitable for photographers of all levels and does not require special physical fitness. A moderate level of fitness is helpful, as we will take short walks around traditional villages and hike to a few scenic viewpoints overlooking the sand pyramids of Melnik.
Most of our time will be spent outdoors, often on uneven terrain and occasionally with small elevation gains. For your comfort and safety, we recommend bringing sturdy walking shoes or boots – ideally waterproof for wet grass, morning dew, or rain. A light rain jacket is also advisable to keep you comfortable during changing mountain weather.
With the right gear and preparation, you’ll be free to focus on what matters most – creating beautiful images and enjoying the experience.
Bulgaria Photography Workshop ITINERARY
Capture autumn colors, village life, and timeless landmarks on our Bulgaria photography workshop.
Day 1:
Arrival in Sofia
Meet at Sofia Airport or a central city hotel at the agreed time. We head directly into the Western Rhodope Mountains (approx. 2-hour drive). Our mountain lodge is surrounded by pine forests – the perfect base for the coming days. In the afternoon we explore nearby villages and mountain landscapes until sunset. In the evening we enjoy a welcome dinner at the hotel.
Days 2 & 3:
Life in the Rhodopes
Two full days devoted to the people and landscapes of the Rhodopes. We’ll meet shepherds and small-scale farmers, photograph village life, and capture intimate portraits of the locals. Autumn colors light up the rolling hills, glades, and pine forests – offering endless opportunities for landscape and cultural photography in Bulgaria. Early risers will have the chance to photograph misty valleys at sunrise.
Day 4:
Rhodopes to Melnik
We leave the Rhodopes and head south to Melnik, Bulgaria’s smallest town. On the way, we stop at a traditional guesthouse to enjoy a cooking class, taste authentic dishes, and photograph local hospitality. In the late afternoon, we capture the first golden light over Melnik’s iconic sand pyramids.
Days 5 & 6:
Exploring Melnik & Sand Pyramids
We dedicate two full days to the region. Sunrise and sunset sessions among the sand pyramids provide dramatic landscapes, while daytime explorations include the historic town, local monasteries, and vineyards. A winery visit allows us to sample unique local grape varieties and photograph the traditional winemaking process.
Day 7:
Rila Monastery & Sofia Sunset
After breakfast we drive north, stopping at the magnificent Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its colorful frescoes, arches, and mountain backdrop make it one of Bulgaria’s most photogenic locations. In the late afternoon we return to Sofia, where we photograph the golden light around the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral — one of the most iconic landmarks in the Balkans. We close the day with a farewell dinner in a traditional restaurant, celebrating our journey together.
Day 8:
Departure from Bulgaria
Transfer to Sofia Airport for your onward flight, full of unforgettable images and stories from this Bulgaria photography workshop.
Bulgaria Photography workshop Includes
Accommodation in specified hotels (7 nights), all meals, all entrance fees, all transportation as per the itinerary, airport transfers, guidance and assistance with photographic tuition, all local taxes, and organization.
ACCOMMODATION
We have carefully selected hotels for their proximity to the events, cleanliness, and comfort. These are 3- and 4-star properties offering standard facilities to ensure a pleasant stay. Contact us for more details about the accommodations and the trip!
Extend your stay!
You can also extend your adventure with our Greece Photography Workshop, where we capture the dramatic Meteora monasteries, Vikos Gorge, and traditional Zagori villages in peak autumn colors. A free transfer between Bulgaria and Greece and a complimentary overnight stay between the two workshops are included, making it easy to combine both workshops into one unforgettable journey.
Photos of Mountains and People of Bulgaria
Capture autumn colors, village life, and timeless landmarks on this unforgettable journey through the Rhodope Mountains, Melnik, and Rila Monastery.
