Bulgaria And Romania Revealed

Romania & Bulgaria

From

3480 

Duration

17 days

Languages Support

English

Tour Description

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of southeastern Europe, where history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes intertwine. Begin in the ancient capital of Sofia before traveling to the charming village of Koprivshtitsa and the mystical Thracian Royal Mausoleum in Starosel. In Plovdiv, lose yourself in artistic splendor before heading to Kazanlak, home of the famed Thracian Tomb. Wander the cobblestone streets of Nessebar, dine by the sea, and discover Varna’s treasure troves of ancient gold. In Veliko Tarnovo, the towering Tsarevets Fortress invites you to delve into Bulgaria’s medieval history.

From there, cross into the wild, mythic lands of Transylvania. Stop at Poenari Fortress to glimpse the legend of Vlad the Impaler. In Sibiu, explore the fortified heart of Saxon Transylvania, then be awed by Corvin Castle’s Gothic grandeur. The astounding Turda salt mines are next, followed by a journey into Maramureș, where wooden churches and vibrant markets preserve centuries-old traditions.

In Bucovina, the vibrant painted monasteries glow with history and art. You’ll have the chance to explore ancient crafts—egg painting and black pottery. Drive through the towering Bicaz Gorges, then wander through the medieval citadel of Sighisoara, still alive with the whispers of its storied past. A rare visit to a Gypsy family home offers a glimpse into their unique culture.

In the quiet village of Viscri, traditional craftspeople will welcome you, preserving generations of skills. Finally, your journey ends with the legendary Bran Castle and the majestic splendor of Peles Castle, a fitting finale to a tour steeped in history, legend, and breathtaking beauty.

If you’re looking for different tour options in Bulgaria and Romania or have specific preferences, feel free to explore our alternative Bulgaria & Romania tours or reach out to us for a personalized experience tailored just for you!

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Tour Itinerary

Welcome to Sofia! Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly greeted by your guide and settle into the heart of the city. As you stroll through Sofia’s vibrant streets, you’ll visit iconic landmarks like the Aleksandar Nevski Cathedral and the ancient St. George Rotunda. A short trip to Boyana Church, nestled at the base of Vitosha Mountain, reveals stunning 13th-century frescoes that whisper stories of Bulgaria’s medieval past. The day is an exciting introduction to the city’s rich history and lively culture.

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

Today, escape into the serenity of Bulgaria’s majestic Rila Mountains to visit Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site. With its vibrant frescoes and rich spiritual history, this sacred place has stood as a beacon of Bulgarian culture for centuries. Wander through its peaceful courtyards, where the tranquil surroundings invite reflection. In the afternoon, return to Sofia, where you’ll have time to explore the city at your own pace, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

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

Bid Sofia farewell and journey to the artistic haven of Plovdiv. On the way, stop in Koprivshtitsa, a quaint village of colorful 19th-century homes where every corner whispers tales of Bulgaria’s revolutionary past. Continue through scenic countryside to Starosel, where you’ll explore the largest Thracian royal tomb ever discovered in Bulgaria. This ancient site offers a fascinating glimpse into the mysteries of the Thracian civilization. By late afternoon, you’ll arrive in Plovdiv, where art, history, and bohemian charm await.

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

Plovdiv, one of Europe’s oldest cities, is a tapestry of ancient history and modern vibrancy. Begin your day with a visit to the Roman amphitheater, a grand relic from the city’s time as a Roman stronghold. The Ethnographical Museum offers a window into Bulgaria’s folk traditions, housed in a charming 19th-century home. In the afternoon, venture to Asenova Fortress, dramatically perched atop a rocky cliff, before exploring the peaceful Bachkovo Monastery, known for its stunning frescoes and spiritual atmosphere.

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

Today, head to the Valley of Roses, home to the ancient Thracian Tomb of Kazanlak. The murals within, dating back to the Hellenistic period, offer a glimpse into Thracian rituals. Then, travel to the Black Sea and arrive in the charming coastal town of Nessebar. As you stroll through its cobbled streets, lined with ancient churches and quaint restaurants, the salty sea breeze fills the air, and the historic town feels like a hidden gem waiting to be explored.

Overnight in Nessebar, Hotel Saint John Baptist“ Nesebar****  (located in the Old Town)

Your journey continues to Varna, where the Sea Garden offers stunning coastal views, and the Archaeological Museum reveals the world’s oldest collection of gold, dating back to 4000 B.C. Stroll through the city’s old Greek neighborhood or take a short trip to Balchik, where Queen Marie’s Palace and the tranquil botanical garden offer a peaceful retreat by the sea. After a day of exploration, return to Varna for a relaxing evening.

Overnight in Varna Grand Hotel London*****

Leave Varna behind as you journey toward Veliko Tarnovo, with a stop to admire the mysterious Madara Horseman, an ancient rock carving steeped in legend. Arriving in Veliko Tarnovo, you’ll explore this medieval city’s charming old town and towering Tsarevets Fortress, perched high on a hill. Once the capital of the Bulgarian Empire, Veliko Tarnovo’s history and culture are woven into its streets, offering a captivating glimpse into the past.

Overnight in Veliko Tarnovo, Hotel Gurko***  (located in the Old Town)

In the morning, take a short drive to the nearby village of Arbanassi and wander through beautifully preserved 17th-century houses and churches, reflecting the life of wealthy merchants under Ottoman rule.

In the afternoon, drive north, bound for the Romanian border and Bucharest. Upon arrival, enjoy a panoramic city tour of the Romanian capital.

With a population of just over 2 million, Bucharest is the largest city between Berlin and Athens. Nicknamed “the little Paris” after World War I, Bucharest today is a city of immense contrasts. Traces of bohemian times can still be found, especially in the French residential architecture and surviving churches scattered throughout the capital.

Overnight in Bucharest, Hotel Concorde Old Town**** (located in Bucharest's old town)

Today, venture deep into Transylvania, a land of legend and myth. Stop at Curtea de Arges Cathedral, an architectural wonder, and continue for photos of the Poienari Fortress, perched high above the valley and linked to Vlad the Impaler. Then, take in the stunning views as you traverse the Transfagarasan Road*, a breathtaking mountain pass often called the world’s best road. By late afternoon, you’ll arrive in Sibiu, a city rich with Saxon history and medieval charm.

*Please note the Transfagarasan Road is open only between June and September. If your tour takes place outside this period, you will travel on the road going along the Olt River valley

Overnight in Sibiu, Hotel Art**** (located in the Old Town)

Your day begins with a visit to Corvin Castle, a gothic fortress steeped in history and legend. Here, Vlad the Impaler was once imprisoned, and the castle’s dark towers seem to hold the echoes of the past. Next, visit Densuș Church, believed to be Romania’s oldest, before returning to Sibiu for an afternoon exploring its medieval streets, fortified walls, and lively squares, each corner revealing another layer of the city’s fascinating history.

Overnight in Sibiu, Hotel Art**** (located in the Old Town)

Today’s journey takes you to the heart of Romania’s Maramures region. First, stop at Turda Salt Mines, an underground marvel with soaring chambers and echoing halls. Then, explore Cluj Napoca, a vibrant university town brimming with youthful energy. As you head north, stop to explore the Şurdești wooden church (UNESCO World Heritage Site). The landscape changes, and you arrive in Breb, a village where life follows ancient rhythms. Here, enjoy a homemade dinner and experience the warmth of rural Romanian hospitality.

Overnight in the village of Breb, Pensiunea Lucia***, home-cooked dinner included.

Spend a full day immersing yourself in the traditions of Maramures. Visit a local market with vibrant crafts and stop by a plum brandy distillery to taste the region’s beloved spirit. At the Merry Cemetery in Sapanta, brightly painted crosses tell the stories of the departed with humor and honesty. In the afternoon, visit the Memorial to the Victims of Communism and end the day with a visit to Peri, home to the world’s tallest wooden church, a striking testament to the region’s craftsmanship.

Overnight in the village of Breb, Pensiunea Lucia***, home-cooked dinner included.

As you leave Maramures behind, the road takes you into the serene region of Bucovina. Along the way, visit Barsana Monastery, a wooden architectural gem set in a peaceful valley, and the Ieud wooden church (UNESCO World Heritage Site). The painted monasteries of Bucovina, with their vibrant frescoes, await you. Each monastery is a canvas of history and faith, telling stories of saints, battles, and miracles through their colorful, centuries-old murals.

Overnight in Gura Humorului, Hotel Buchenland****

Today is a journey through art and spirituality as you explore Bucovina’s famous painted monasteries. Begin with the vivid reds of Humor Monastery and the iconic “Voronet blue” at Voroneț Monastery, often called the “Sistine Chapel of the East.” Later, visit Moldovița and Sucevița monasteries, each a masterpiece in its own right, before stopping at a local artist’s museum to learn the delicate art of egg painting, a cherished tradition in Bucovina.

Overnight in Gura Humorului, Hotel Buchenland****

Today, travel through the dramatic Bicaz Gorges, where towering cliffs and winding roads create a breathtaking landscape. Stop at the Nicolae Popa Ethnographic Museum, where Romanian folklore comes to life in the artist’s vivid sculptures and collections. In the afternoon, visit a Roma family, where you’ll gain a rare insight into this often misunderstood community's life, traditions, and stories, all while sharing a glass of homemade brandy.

Overnight in Sighisoara, Fronius Residence***** (located inside the Sighisoara citadel)

Begin the day in the enchanting citadel of Sighisoara, one of Europe’s last remaining inhabited medieval towns. Climb the winding streets to the Clock Tower and visit the Church on the Hill, offering panoramic views of the town below. This is the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, where history and legend intertwine. In the afternoon, visit Biertan’s fortified church, a stunning example of Transylvania’s Saxon heritage, towering walls, and Gothic architecture.

Overnight in Viscri, Viscri 125 B&B****, home cooked dinner included

The village of Viscri welcomes you with its colorful old houses and timeless charm. Visit the 12th-century fortified church, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and meet local craftspeople who carry on centuries-old traditions. In the afternoon, journey to Bran Castle, perched on a hilltop and shrouded in Dracula legend. The day ends in the lively town of Brasov, where the Gothic Black Church and charming old town await exploration.

Overnight in Brasov, Hotel Schuster*** (located in the Old Town)

Today, travel to the Carpathian Mountains to visit Peles Castle, a masterpiece of 19th-century architecture and the summer residence of Romania’s royal family. The castle’s opulent interiors, filled with crystal chandeliers and exquisite wood carvings, are a sight to behold. Afterward, visit the peaceful Sinaia Monastery before arriving at the Bucharest airport for your flight home.

Included / Excluded

  • The possibility of having your itinerary customized at no extra charge
  • Great flexibility regarding changes to the daily itinerary even after the start of the tour
  • A private, licensed English-speaking guide/driver, available throughout the tour
  • All guide's expenses (meals, accommodation, etc.)
  • Private transportation in an air-conditioned car
  • All car expenses, such as gasoline, parking and road tolls
  • Complimentary wireless internet access in the car so that you can stay in touch with your loved ones even while traveling
  • Entrance and photo fees as per the itinerary, with guided visits. If you wish to add any sight on the go, the guide will always be available with information during the visit
  • Accommodation as per the hotel list on the itinerary page (we can also offer a different selection of hotels, based on your preference)
  • Breakfast every day
  • One dinner with folklore show in Bulgaria
  • Three home cooked dinners
  • Airport transfers
  • Airfare to and from Romania or Bulgaria
  • Meals or beverages, other than the included ones
  • Credit card fees (3.25%). We offer you the possibility of paying by domestic bank transfer (for the U.S.A., Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom)
  • Gratuities for your guide (entirely up to your discretion)

Tour Information

Duration

17 days

Languages Support

English

Highlights Of The Tour:

Discover 12 of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Bulgaria and Romania.
Explore the most famous medieval towns in the two countries: Plovdiv, Veliko Tarnovo and Nessebar in Bulgaria and then Sibiu, Sighisoara and Brasov in Romania.
Explore Maramures in northern Romania – the area where traditions and local culture have scarcely altered over the centuries.
Tour the stunning UNESCO painted monasteries of Bucovina and learn about their crucial role in the history of the Romanians.
Tour Romania’s most famous castles: Peles, Bran (a.k.a. Dracula’s Castle) and Corvin (Hunyadi).
Visit a family of Transylvanian Gypsies in their home, a great opportunity to learn more about their culture and lifestyle.
Enjoy centrally located 3, 4 and 5-star hotels, perfect for exploring on own.

Total Distance Traveled:

3500 km / 2200 mi

Places Visited:

Sofia | Rila monastery | Koprivshtitsa | Plovdiv | Kazanlak | Nessebar | Varna | Veliko Tarnovo & Arbanassi | Bucharest | Sibiu | Corvin, Peles and Bran Castles | Maramures (area of the wooden churches) | Bucovina (UNESCO painted monasteries) | Sighisoara | Viscri | Brasov

Tour Price:

  • Single traveler: from 8630 euro pp
  • 2 travelers: from 4580 euro pp
  • 3 travelers: from 3480 euro pp
  • 4 travelers: from 3530 euro pp
  • For a different number of travelers, please contact us

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