Nessebar offers more than just picturesque streets and ancient ruins; it’s also a hidden gem for wine enthusiasts. Its proximity to renowned vineyards and historic cellars makes it an ideal spot for wine tours that blend local culture with a glass in hand. We’re particularly fond of the Special History And Wine Tour including Wine Tasting, which combines a guided visit with five award-winning Bulgarian wines, perfect for those who want a taste of authentic Bulgarian craftsmanship without breaking the bank. For a more private, intimate experience, the Private Wine Tasting in the UNESCO town of Nessebar offers a personalized approach, including options for snacks or a full multi-course meal. And if lavender is your thing, the Aroma sampling of 5 Bulgarian Lavender varieties at DiVes Winery adds a fragrant twist to your trip, showcasing Bulgaria’s blooming treasure.
In this guide, we’ve rounded up five of the best wine tours in Nessebar, each with its own unique appeal. Whether you’re looking for a quick, budget-friendly tasting, a private experience, or a sensory journey through lavender fields, there’s something here for every wine lover.
1. Special History And Wine Tour including Wine Tasting
At number 1 on our list is the Special History And Wine Tour including Wine Tasting, which is a fantastic choice for travelers seeking a meaningful introduction to Bulgarian wines. For around $22, you get a guided visit to DiVes Estate Winery, where the owner and guide walks you through the grounds, explaining the winemaking process as you enjoy tasting up to five medal-winning Bulgarian wines. This experience lasts about 90 minutes and is perfect for those on a budget who want a genuine, behind-the-scenes look at local wine production. The reviews speak volumes—guests praise the friendly guide, the in-depth insights, and the high quality of wines, especially the rosé.
What makes this tour stand out is its balance of affordability and authenticity. Tasting fees are included, so you can focus on learning rather than worrying about extra costs. The winery itself is a well-kept secret, offering a glimpse into Bulgaria’s thriving wine scene while also providing some local history thrown into the mix.
Bottom line: If you’re after an informative, budget-friendly wine experience that doesn’t skimp on quality, this tour hits the mark.
2. Private Wine Tasting in the UNESCO town of Nessebar
Next up is the Private Wine Tasting in the UNESCO town of Nessebar, which offers a more personalized experience ideal for couples or small groups. Priced at around $50.88 per person, it provides a tasting of four or five premium wines at the Minkov Brothers Winery, with an included exploration of the estate and its traditional cellar. The tour lasts approximately 1 to 2 hours, with ample opportunity to ask questions and learn about Bulgaria’s long history of viticulture, dating back to ancient times. The highlight is tasting a curated selection of top-quality wines paired with local cheeses, cured meats, and bread, making it a true gourmet experience.
A key feature is the option to upgrade, adding a three-course lunch or dinner, which can turn a simple tasting into a full meal. The reviews are glowing—people appreciate the intimate atmosphere, the depth of knowledge from the oenologist, and the chance to sample some truly delicious wines. The Old Nessebar cobbled streets make a charming backdrop, enhancing the experience.
Bottom line: For those seeking a refined, private tasting with excellent food pairings, this tour offers a memorable Bulgarian wine experience.
3. Aroma sampling of 5 Bulgarian Lavender varieties at DiVes Winery
If you’re interested in more than just wine, the Aroma sampling of 5 Bulgarian Lavender varieties at DiVes Winery offers a fragrant detour into Bulgaria’s lavender industry. This 40-minute private tour costs just over $17 and is perfect for sensory explorers. You’ll walk through terraced lavender fields overlooking the Black Sea and learn how Bulgaria became a key producer of lavender products. The highlight is sampling the aromas of five different lavender varieties, each with its own unique scent profile.
This experience is unique because it combines botanical learning with the chance to browse the on-site shop for lavender-based products. It’s a shorter, more relaxed activity suitable for those wanting a quick, aromatic break during their stay. Reviews note that it’s a great way to understand Bulgaria’s “Purple Treasure” and capture some beautiful photos of the fields.
Bottom line: If you love aromatic experiences and want to learn about Bulgaria’s lavender industry, this is a fragrant highlight.
4. Nessebar: Guided Tour in English with Wine Tasting
A comprehensive experience at number 4 combines cultural sightseeing and wine tasting in one accessible package. The Nessebar: Guided Tour in English with Wine Tasting lasts about 5 hours and includes a guided exploration of the UNESCO-listed town, followed by a wine tasting session. The tour visits local wineries near Pomorie, where you sample four renowned Bulgarian wines paired with finger foods, all explained by a knowledgeable guide.
This tour is perfect for travelers who want a blend of history and wine. The itinerary includes visiting scenic spots and learning about the town’s architecture, with a focus on the local wine production. Guests rave about the organized nature, scenic views, and the opportunity to enjoy 4 different wines, making it a good value at a competitive price.
The tour’s biggest strength is its balance—combining sightseeing with wine tasting without feeling rushed. The convenient pick-up and drop-off options add ease to your day. It’s suited for those wanting a structured, full-day experience that combines culture and spirits.
Bottom line: Ideal for history lovers who also want to taste some of Bulgaria’s best wines in a well-organized setting.
5. Nessebar: Guided Walking Tour of Nessebar Old & Wine tasting
Rounding out our list is the Nessebar: Guided Walking Tour of Nessebar Old & Wine tasting. This 2-hour tour is available in five languages and ends with a visit to a local winery. The walking tour covers more than 15 attractions, passing through narrow streets, historic churches, and ancient ruins—ideal for travelers wanting a quick but thorough intro to the town.
What makes this tour special is the audio guide system that allows everyone to listen in their preferred language without noise interference, making it accessible for international visitors. The highlight is the final wine tasting, where you sample local wines in a relaxed setting amid the historic backdrop.
This tour is best suited for visitors with limited time who want a structured sightseeing experience coupled with a taste of local wine culture. Reviewers mention it’s a “friendly, well-organized way to see the sights and enjoy some Bulgarian wine,” making it a practical choice for first-timers.
Bottom line: A solid choice for those wanting a quick overview of Nessebar’s sights combined with a local wine experience.
How to Choose the Best Wine Tour in Nessebar
When picking your ideal wine experience, consider your budget, time availability, and interest level. For budget-conscious travelers, the Special History And Wine Tour offers excellent value with a focus on quality and storytelling. If you’re after something more exclusive, the Private Wine Tasting provides intimacy and gourmet options. For those curious about Bulgaria’s natural side, the lavender aroma tour offers an aromatic twist, while the guided sightseeing plus wine tasting is perfect for combining culture with wine in a full-day adventure.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak season, to secure your spot on popular tours like the private tasting or cultural walks. Think about whether you prefer a quick tasting, a thorough private experience, or a combination of sightseeing and sampling—each tour highlights different aspects of the local wine scene.
Final Thoughts
Nessebar is a surprisingly rich destination for wine lovers who want to explore Bulgaria’s wine and cultural heritage. The options range from affordable group tours to immersive private tastings, and even lavender scent sampling for a sensory change. For first-timers, the guided sightseeing combined with wine tasting offers a balanced introduction, while dedicated oenophiles might enjoy the private tasting at Minkov Brothers Winery.
No matter your choice, booking early will help secure a spot in your preferred tour. Each experience offers a different taste of Bulgaria—so pick one that suits your interests, and enjoy a memorable sip of Nessebar.