Eastern European Journey | Discovering the Balkans and Transylvania | Guaranteed departures
Description:
Discover the cultural treasures of Bulgaria and Romania on this immersive 12-day journey through historic cities, medieval towns, and breathtaking landscapes. Explore Sofia, Plovdiv, Veliko Tarnovo, Bucharest, Sibiu, Sighișoara, and Brașov, enriched by UNESCO World Heritage sites, authentic culinary experiences, and local traditions. Highlights include the Rila Monastery, rose oil production in the Kazanluk Valley, wine and brandy tastings, the legendary Dracula’s Castle, and the fairytale Peleș Castle. Carefully selected guided tours, traditional meals, and leisure time ensure a perfectly balanced and unforgettable travel experience.Trip Highlights:
Major cities:
Bucharest - the capital city of Romania, Sofia - the capital city of Bulgaria
Castles & palaces:
Bran Castle, Peles Castle, Parliament Palace
Ancient or medieval cities:
Plovdiv, Veliko Tarnovo, Sibiu, Sighisoara, Brasov
Churches & monasteries:
Rila Monastery, Black Church, Sinaia Monastery
Citadels and fortresses
Tsaravets Veliko Tarnovo, Biertan, Sighisoara
Activities:
visit of Rose Oil distillery in the Rose Valley Bulgaria and tasting of local products , wine tasting, brandy tasting
Included Services
- 11x nights at centrally located 4**** hotels
- 11x breakfast at the hotel
- 1x visit of Rose Oil distillery in the Rose Valley Bulgaria and tasting of local products
- 1x visit of winery and wine tasting (3 wine samples) at local winery in Bulgaria (Plovdiv Region)
- 1x brandy tasting (4 brandy types) in Romania (Sighisoara)
- Throughout English speaking guide in Romania and Bulgaria
- Entrance fees and visits as per itinerary (Alexander Nevski Cathedral, Rila Monastery, Ancient Theatre Plovdiv, Folk Art Museum Plovdiv, Thracian Tomb Kazanluk, Etar Museum, Tsaravets Fortress, Palace of the Parliament, Lutheran Church Sibiu, church castle Biertan, Clock Tower Sighisoara, Church on the Hill Sighisoara, church castle Viscri, Black Church, Dracula Castle, Peles Castle, Sinaia Monastery)
- Throughout transportation by modern vehicle , including parking fees and tolls
Pricing: From 1805€
Countries: Romania, Bulgaria
Language: English
Places You’ll See
A day-by-day plan you can trust
Upon arrival at Sofia Airport, you will be met by your professional local guide, who will accompany the group throughout the Bulgarian part of the tour. Transfer to your centrally located hotel and check-in. Depending on arrival time, enjoy a short orientation walk in the city center, passing some of Sofia’s main landmarks. The rest of the day is free for individual exploration. You may choose to dine at a local restaurant and sample traditional Bulgarian dishes, offering a first introduction to the country’s culinary traditions.
After breakfast, depart for a full-day excursion to the Rila Monastery, dramatically set in the Rila Mountains. Founded in the 10th century, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is Bulgaria’s most important religious monument. During the guided visit, admire the richly decorated frescoes, the wooden iconostasis, and the monastery’s museum, which houses significant historical artifacts. Return to Sofia in the afternoon for a guided city tour, including the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, St. Sofia Basilica, and views of the former Royal Palace. The tour continues with a walking exploration of the historic center, revealing layers of Roman, Byzantine, and modern history. Evening at leisure with a wide choice of dining options. (B)
After breakfast, travel to Plovdiv, considered one of Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited cities. Upon arrival, enjoy a guided walking tour of the beautifully preserved Old Town, characterized by colorful Revival-period houses and cobbled streets. Highlights include the Ancient Roman Theatre, still used for performances today, and the Folk Art Museum, offering insight into traditional crafts and daily life. Free time for lunch in the Old Town, followed by a visit to a local winery in the Plovdiv region. Here you will learn about Bulgaria’s long-standing wine tradition and enjoy a tasting of selected local wines. Overnight in Plovdiv. (B)
This morning, drive through the picturesque Rose Valley towards Kazanluk, a region famous for rose oil production. Visit a traditional rose oil distillery to learn about the harvesting and distillation process and sample locally produced rose-based products. Continue with a visit to the replica of the Thracian Tomb of Kazanluk, providing insight into the ancient Thracian civilization. Proceed to Gabrovo for a visit to the Etar Open-Air Museum, where traditional Bulgarian architecture, crafts, and folklore are brought to life. In the late afternoon, arrive in Veliko Tarnovo, check in to your hotel, and enjoy free time for dinner. (B)
After breakfast, explore Veliko Tarnovo, the medieval capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire. A guided walking tour leads you through the historic old town, culminating with a visit to the imposing Tsarevets Fortress, once home to Bulgarian tsars and patriarchs. Continue to the nearby village of Arbanassi, renowned for its well-preserved traditional houses and unique architectural style. After the visit, bid farewell to your Bulgarian guide and cross the border into Romania. Arrival in Bucharest, hotel check-in, and free evening to explore the lively Old Town, with numerous restaurants and cafés to choose from. (B)
Begin the day with a guided visit to the monumental Palace of the Parliament, an architectural symbol of Romania’s recent history. Continue with a guided walking tour of Bucharest’s Old Town, followed by a panoramic city tour including University Square, Revolution Square, the former Royal Palace, the Romanian Athenaeum, and Union Square. After some free time for lunch, depart Bucharest and travel through the scenic landscapes of southern Transylvania. Arrive in Sibiu in the late afternoon, check into your hotel, and enjoy a relaxing evening at leisure. (B)
Today is dedicated to discovering Sibiu, one of Romania’s most elegant medieval cities and a former European Capital of Culture. During the guided walking tour, explore the Grand Square, Small Square, and the famous Bridge of Liars, while learning about the city’s Saxon heritage. Visit the impressive Lutheran Church, known for its historic organ and panoramic views. The afternoon is free for independent exploration, shopping, or enjoying one of the many cafés and restaurants in the Old Town. Dinner at leisure. (B)
After breakfast, depart for Biertan, home to one of Transylvania’s most impressive fortified churches and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy a guided visit highlighting its defensive structures and unique medieval architecture. Continue to Sighișoara, the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler and one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe. The guided tour includes the Clock Tower, the Church on the Hill, and a walk through the colorful citadel. Later, enjoy a traditional Transylvanian brandy tasting in a local cellar. Free time and dinner at leisure. (B)
Travel to the rural village of Viscri, renowned for its authentic Saxon character and its association with King Charles III. Visit the fortified church Deutsch-Weißkirch and enjoy a walk through the village, offering insight into traditional Transylvanian village life. Continue to Brașov, where a guided walking tour introduces the medieval old town, including Council Square and the iconic Black Church, the largest Gothic church in Romania. Enjoy free time in the Old Town and dinner at leisure. (B)
Morning at leisure in Brașov. Optional activities include a cable car ride or hike to the summit of Tâmpa Mountain, offering panoramic views over the city and surrounding Carpathians. In the afternoon, travel to Bran for a guided visit of the famous Bran Castle, commonly known as Dracula’s Castle. Learn about its medieval history and legends before returning to Brașov for overnight. (B)
After breakfast, depart for Sinaia, the “Pearl of the Carpathians.” Visit the magnificent Peleș Castle, a former royal summer residence and a masterpiece of German Neo-Renaissance architecture. Continue with a visit to the peaceful Sinaia Monastery, set against a mountain backdrop. In the afternoon, return to Bucharest. The evening is free for individual activities or a farewell dinner. (B)
After breakfast, transfer to Bucharest Airport for departure. Your journey through Bulgaria and Romania comes to an end, leaving you with lasting memories of history, culture, and landscapes. (B)
We select high-quality hotels to make your stay as comfortable as possible.
The final list of hotels is to be confirmed after the tour has been booked and paid.
