Karlovo is a charming town in South-Central Bulgaria, nestled at the scenic southern foothills of the Balkan Mountains. Serving as the administrative center of the Karlovo Municipality and the third-largest town in the Plovdiv Region, it perfectly blends a strategic location with a deep historical legacy. It is situated just 5 km east of the neighboring town of Sopot and 52 km north of Plovdiv. With a population of over 18,000 residents, Karlovo welcomes visitors with its unique National Revival atmosphere, beautiful sub-Balkan nature, and exceptional local hospitality. The town is globally renowned as the heart of the Valley of Roses. Every year, in late May or early June, it hosts the iconic Festival of the Roses — a vibrant celebration filled with traditional dances, rose-picking rituals, and the scent of fresh blossoms. Karlovo is also the birthplace of the Apostle of Freedom, Vasil Levski, making the annual commemorations of his life and legacy significant national events. The local cultural calendar is further enriched by traditional Kukeri (monster) games around Shrove Tuesday in the Sushitsa district, the Crafts Fair at Old Karlovo in May, and the autumn celebration honoring the great Bulgarian donors Evlogi and Hristo Georgiev, who were also born here. The local landmarks attract history enthusiasts and nature lovers year-round. The Vasil Levski National Museum preserves the birthplace of the revolutionary and is a prominent stop on the country’s top tourist routes. In the town center, standing proudly between two churches, is the majestic Monument of Vasil Levski. Crafted by sculptor Marin Vasilev, the monument depicts the Apostle with a roaring lion symbolizing the nation, and its pedestal bears the names of local citizens who perished in the struggles for freedom. For hikers, the Central Balkan National Park opens up just above the town, featuring the beautiful Suchurum Waterfall. Meanwhile, ancient history buffs can explore the ruins of the Karlovo Fortress (Kale) — a late antiquity stronghold from the 4th-6th centuries that once guarded the vital mountain passes and the Roman roads below.
Plovdiv
0.3 km away
Plovdiv
0.8 km away
Plovdiv
2.0 km away
Plovdiv
4.5 km away
Plan an unforgettable road trip along the Bulgarian National Revival Trail. Discover the history of Koprivshtitsa, Panagyurishte, Karlovo, and Kalofer with our travel guide.
Planning a trip to Kalofer? Discover the birthplace of Hristo Botev — museums, the famous monastery, family-friendly tips, parking, and the best time to go.
Planning a trip to Karlovo? Explore our ultimate travel guide featuring the Vasil Levski Museum, Suchurum Waterfall, parking tips, and family activities.
Karlovo is located in Plovdiv, Bulgaria.
Karlovo is most easily reached by car. Use the coordinates above to navigate, or open the location in OpenStreetMap or your preferred maps app for turn-by-turn directions. Public transport options vary by region — for remote destinations a rental car gives the most flexibility.
Karlovo can be visited year-round, but late spring (May–June) and early autumn (September–October) offer the most pleasant weather and fewer tourists. Summer is the busiest season; winter is the quietest, with shorter daylight and possible cold weather.
Bulgarian settlements typically reward unhurried walking — historic centres, churches and monasteries, local markets, and family-run restaurants serving regional dishes. Larger towns often have museums and seasonal cultural events. The local tourist information centre is a good first stop for current opening hours and what's on.
