Treasures of Bulgaria and Romania

This morning, travel into the Rila Mountains to visit the famous Rila Monastery. Built in the 14th century, the monastery is home to remarkable frescoes, numerous manuscripts, early printed books, and intricate wood carvings. Continue to Dobarsko, where you will meet local singing grandmothers and sample traditional banitsa. Afterwards, proceed to Plovdiv, one of Europe’s oldest cities. During the tour, explore its rich heritage, including the Ancient Roman Theatre, the Folk Art Museum, and the Church of St. Constantine and Helen. Overnight in Plovdid. (B)

Today you head to Kazanlak, a region famous for rose cultivation and the production of rose oil and cosmetics. Visit the Rose Museum and the Thracian Tomb. Then continue along the scenic Shipka Pass to the Etar Museum. This open-air museum recreates a traditional village where artisans still practice old crafts such as woodworking and metalwork. Proceed to Veliko Tarnovo. (B)

Explore Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria’s former medieval capital, with a history dating back over 5,000 years. Visit Tsarevets Fortress and St. Demetrius Church. Afterwards, enjoy free time along the lively crafts street. In the afternoon, travel to Bucharest, the capital of Romania and one of the largest cities in the European Union. The city tour includes major highlights such as the Arch of Triumph, Victory Square, Roman Square, and Unification Square. At Constitution Square, admire the impressive Palace of the Parliament, the second-largest administrative building in the world. Dinner at a local restaurant. (B, D)

After breakfast, continue toward Transylvania, crossing the scenic Carpathian Mountains. Stop in Cozia to visit the 14th-century monastery. Later, arrive in Sibiu, ranked by Forbes among the most charming places to live worldwide. Sibiu was European Capital of Culture in 2007 alongside Luxembourg. Founded by German settlers in the 12th century, the town still retains its medieval character. The walking tour begins in the Grand Square, home to the Catholic Church, City Hall, and Brukenthal Palace, and continues to the Bridge of Lies, Small Square, and Huet Square. Free time in the old town. Ovenight in Sibiu (B)

Transylvania is renowned for its castles, legends, and fortified churches. Travel through charming villages to Biertan, where you will visit one of the largest fortified churches built by the Saxons. Continue to Sighișoara, the birthplace of Dracula. Founded in the 13th century, it remains one of the few inhabited medieval citadels in the world and is protected by UNESCO. During the tour, visit the Clock Tower and the Church on the Hill, and sample local brandies. Continue to Brașov for overnight. (B)

In the morning, discover Brașov, also known as the “Crown of Transylvania.” Established by the Teutonic Knights, the city features impressive medieval architecture. Visit the Black Church, the largest Gothic church in Eastern Europe. Then proceed to Bran Castle, often associated with the Dracula legend. Built in the 14th century, it once served as a customs post between Transylvania and Wallachia. End the day with a farewell dinner in a historic Old Town restaurant. (B, D)

Visit the remarkable Peleș Castle, considered one of the most beautiful castles in the world. Built in the late 19th century by King Carol I, it served as a royal summer residence until 1947. Today, it is a museum showcasing original interiors, furnishings, and artwork. Afterwards, transfer to Bucharest for your departure. You will be taken to the airport and bid farewell to your guide. Flight back home. (B)