Best of Bulgaria and Romania

The morning brings a peaceful escape to the Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site nestled in the Rila Mountains. As you step inside this spiritual sanctuary, the vivid frescoes and ancient icons tell stories of Bulgaria’s faith and resilience. The mountains frame the monastery, creating a sense of timelessness. After soaking in the tranquility, return to Sofia in the afternoon, where the rest of the day is yours to explore or relax at your leisure.

Overnight in  Sofia, Hotel Niky*** (centrally located)

Today, leave the bustling streets of Sofia and journey into the heart of Bulgaria’s history. First stop: the charming village of Koprivshtitsa, a place where time seems to have stood still. Stroll through its cobbled lanes, past 19th-century houses, each brimming with stories of Bulgaria’s revolutionary past. By afternoon, you arrive in Plovdiv, where your guide takes you through the winding streets of its Old Town. Renaissance homes, Roman ruins, and an artistic vibe fill the air, making Plovdiv a delightful mix of history and culture.

Overnight in Plovdiv, Hotel Evmolpia*** (located in the Old Town)

This day is a deep dive into Bulgaria’s ancient and medieval past. Leaving Plovdiv, your journey takes you to the Valley of Roses and the Thracian Tomb in Kazanlak, where ancient murals whisper the stories of a long-lost civilization. The scenic Shipka Pass leads you across the Balkan Mountains, where the memories of Bulgaria’s struggle for liberation are etched into the landscape. Before arriving in Veliko Tarnovo, the medieval capital, your final stop is the picturesque Etara Ethnographic Complex, a collection of traditional houses and craft workshops.

In Veliko Tarnovo, you begin your day wandering through the winding streets of the Old Town, discovering artisan workshops where traditional crafts are alive and well. Then, climb to Tsarevets Fortress, standing proudly on a hilltop with panoramic views that tell tales of royal Bulgarian dynasties. A short drive brings you to the village of Arbanassi, a treasure trove of Ottoman-era architecture and charming 17th-century merchant houses. Afterward, you cross into Romania, arriving in the lively capital of Bucharest by the late afternoon. Panoramic city tour upon arrival.

This is the day Transylvania reveals its mysteries. First, visit the hauntingly beautiful Curtea de Argeş Cathedral, where legends blend with history. The twisting spires seem to defy gravity. Your next stop is Poenari Castle (photo stop), once Vlad the Impaler’s stronghold, perched dramatically on a cliff. Then, the famous Transfǎgǎraşan Road* winds through the Carpathians, offering spectacular views that seem straight out of a fairytale. By late afternoon, you arrive in Sibiu, where medieval streets and grand Saxon walls await your exploration.

Step further back into history as you journey to Biertan, home to one of Transylvania’s most remarkable fortified churches, built to protect villagers from invaders. Then, explore Sighişoara, a living medieval citadel with cobblestone streets and centuries-old towers. You’ll walk through the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, the infamous figure behind the Dracula legend, and climb to the Church on the Hill for stunning views. In the afternoon, drive to Alba Iulia, a city filled with Roman and Habsburg history, where the grand fortress dominates the skyline.

Today, venture deep underground to the Turda Salt Mines, a surreal world where striking lights illuminate colossal chambers. Then, stop in Cluj Napoca, a lively university city where history meets youthful energy. The final destination is Breb, a village in the remote Maramureş region. On the way, explore the Şurdeşti wooden church (UNESCO World Heritage Site).

In Breb, you’ll experience life as it’s been lived for centuries. Surrounded by wooden churches and carved gates, you’ll enjoy a home-cooked dinner, savoring the flavors of this untouched corner of Romania.

Immerse yourself in the traditions of Maramures, where the medieval way of life is still alive and well. Visit a local market brimming with handmade crafts and sample the region’s famous plum brandy. A stop at the Merry Cemetery in Sǎpânța reveals a more humorous side to death, with colorful tombstones and witty epitaphs. The day continues with a visit to the towering wooden church in Peri, a masterpiece of craftsmanship, and an exploration of the Memorial to the Victims of Communism. By evening, return to Breb, where the warmth of village life embraces you.

Travel across the Eastern Carpathians into the picturesque region of Bucovina, known for its exquisite painted monasteries. Your journey begins at Bârsana Monastery, a peaceful enclave nestled in nature. As you reach Bucovina, you’ll be mesmerized by the vibrant frescoes adorning the walls of Moldovița and Sucevița Monasteries, each telling ancient stories of faith and history. It’s a day of spiritual discovery, ending in the charming town of Gura Humorului, where you’ll rest surrounded by Bucovina’s natural beauty.

Begin your day with a visit to two of Romania’s most celebrated painted monasteries, Voroneț and Humor, each a masterpiece of medieval art. Voroneț’s blue frescoes are especially famous, with intricate details that captivate all who visit. Afterward, travel through the dramatic Bicaz Gorges, where towering cliffs and winding roads offer some of the most breathtaking views in Romania. By late afternoon, you’ll arrive in Braşov, a Transylvanian gem with its medieval charm still intact.

Your last full day is one filled with legendary castles. First, visit Bran Castle, perched high on a rocky hill and forever tied to the Dracula legend. Then, journey to Peleş Castle, the former summer residence of Romania’s royal family, where each room dazzles with luxurious details and stunning woodwork. As you wind your way through the Carpathians, the day closes with a visit to the Sinaia Monastery before returning to Bucharest for a final night in Romania’s lively capital.