Morning brings an intriguing tour of Veliko Tarnovo. Stroll through the Old Town and sift through the wares offered in the lovely handcraft shops. Learn about the living art, textile, and metalworking traditions.
Next, venture on to 12th-century Tsarevets, a high fortification and palace that served as Bulgaria’s strongest medieval fortresses. The imposing and highly strategic edifice historically functioned as a primary royal residence and religious patriarchs’ home. Investigate the three-meter-thick fortress walls and the towers, throne room, and site of the old drawbridge.
Later, take a short trip to the village of Arbanassi, a beautiful little town rich with examples of 17th- and 18th-century architecture. The town formerly benefitted from Ottoman support and became a center for the wealthy and privileged. Visit Konstantzalieva House, and become familiar with the quotidian life of an affluent 17th-century family. Tour the intriguing Nativity of Christ Church, built partially underground due to Ottoman restrictions.
In the afternoon, travel on to Bucharest. You’ll begin your discovery of the Romanian capital as soon as you arrive. Here, in Europe’s sixth-largest city and glimmering hub of industry, transportation, and the arts, you’ll find a lavish mix of architectural styles: neoclassical, Bauhaus, Art Deco, Communist-period, and ultramodern/contemporary. Let your guide fill you in on the story of Bucharest, as evidenced in its outer diversity. You’ll take part in a panoramic city tour, providing you with an exclusive view of the living culture and deep history of this remarkable city.