Romania and Bulgaria Tour

Discover the best of Romania and Bulgaria on this unforgettable journey from Bucharest to Sofia. Explore Transylvania’s rich history, rural life in Maramures and Bucovina, cross into Bulgaria and marvel at the Belogradchik fortress and Rocks, visit Plovdiv and the impressive Rila Monastery. This Romania and Bulgaria tour blends medieval charm, scenic landscapes, and cultural heritage.

• Rural Life & Culture: Experience rural life in Viscri, visit the Merry Cemetery in Săpânța and cultural sites like the Sighet Memorial and the abandoned Buzludzha Monument.
• Cities & Historic Towns: wander through medieval Sibiu and Sighisoara, the historic squares of Veliko Tarnovo, and the lively atmosphere of Plovdiv. Take guided walks through Bucharest and Sofia’s landmarks.
• Monasteries & Castles: Discover the vibrant frescoes of the Painted Monasteries like Sucevita, Moldovita, and Voronet. Visit the sacred Rila and Bachkovo Monasteries, and explore iconic Bran and Peles castles.
• Wildlife & Nature: Visit the Zarnesti Bear Sanctuary in the Carpathians and enjoy the stunning Bicaz and Danube Gorges. Explore the unique underground world of the Turda Salt Mine.

This Romania and Bulgaria tour will be organized as a private guided tour for your group or family.

Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel in the center of Bucharest, and you can settle in. Afterwards you begin your journey.

Overnight in Bucharest

In the morning, you will enjoy a guided tour of Bucharest, exploring the older part of the city—a vibrant area filled with historical landmarks, impressive architecture, and fascinating museums.

Afterward, you will continue your journey to Peles Castle, beautifully set among forests and mountains. Moreover, this remarkable residence, with its intricate exterior and interior design, offers a glimpse into the elegant lifestyle of Romania’s former royal family.

Your day continues with a guided walking tour of Brasov, a charming town nestled between mountains and known for its historic center, defensive walls, and medieval towers. If you’re feeling active, you can take a one-hour uphill hike to the top of Tampa Mountain for stunning panoramic views of the town and surrounding area. Alternatively, you can reach the viewpoint comfortably by cable car.

Overnight in Brasov

Drive time 3h

In the morning, you will visit the Libearty Bear Sanctuary in Zarnesti, where formerly captive bears are offered a safe and natural environment. Here, you’ll learn their moving life stories and witness the care and rehabilitation efforts that give these magnificent animals a second chance.

Your journey continues with a visit to Bran Castle. Although often associated with Dracula, this stunning medieval Transylvanian castle is best known for its elegant interior, beautifully redesigned by Queen Maria in the 1920s. Inside, the “Bram Stoker” room reveals the story of Vlad the Impaler, the historical figure who inspired the Dracula legend.

In the afternoon, you will drive to Viscri, a charming UNESCO-listed Saxon village. Here, you’ll explore its ancient fortified church and the small museum inside, showcasing traditional pottery, handmade agricultural tools, as well as textiles and clothing that reflect the local heritage.

Overnight in Viscri (D)

Drive time 3h

Enjoy a peaceful morning in Viscri, where you can watch the cows heading out to pasture and stop by the village blacksmith to see traditional craftsmanship in action.

Later, you will travel to Sibiu, Europe’s Cultural Capital in 2007. Here, you’ll take a guided walking tour through the charming medieval center and visit the open-air Village Museum, which showcases traditional rural architecture and crafts.

Your day continues with a special cultural encounter as you meet a Roma coppersmith family who has practiced this craft for generations. You’ll see how they create copper stills and smaller household items, learn about their traditions and way of life, and even taste some homemade palinca (fruit brandy) made in their own stills.

In the afternoon, you will visit the beautiful medieval town of Sighisoara, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During your guided walking tour, you’ll explore its narrow cobbled streets, colorful historic houses, and perfectly preserved hilltop citadel—one of Europe’s most charming medieval old towns.

Overnight in Sighisoara

Drive time 4h

As you make your way toward Bucovina, you will admire the spectacular Bicaz Gorge, one of Romania’s most impressive natural landmarks. The scenic drive takes you through the mountains, with the option to stop at the Red Lake for a relaxing boat ride or a short walk. You will also continue along a beautiful mountain road through the Ceahlău Mountains, where you can pause at a viewpoint overlooking the stunning Bicaz Lake.

Later, you will visit the famous Voroneț Monastery, often called the “Sistine Chapel of the East.” Known for its remarkable interior and exterior frescoes painted in the vivid and mysterious ‘Voroneț blue,’ this 500-year-old monastery remains one of the most breathtaking examples of Romanian medieval art.

Overnight in Bucovina

Drive time 6h

You will spend the day exploring some of the most iconic painted monasteries in Romania: Sucevița, Moldovița, and the wooden monastery in Bârsana. Moldovița and Sucevița stand out for their remarkably well-preserved frescoes, impressive defensive walls, and superb natural settings. Along the way, you will also meet a local artist who practices the traditional craft of Easter egg painting—a hallmark of this region—and you will even have the chance to paint an egg yourself.

Afterward, your journey continues west toward Romania’s other famous rural region, Maramureș. Here you will stop at the wooden monastic complex in Bârsana, where you can enjoy expansive views of the surrounding countryside and admire the stunning wooden architecture that makes this area so unique.

Overnight in Maramures (D)

Drive time 5h

Today you will explore Maramureș, one of Romania’s most traditional and culturally rich regions. Your first stop is the famous Merry Cemetery in Săpânța, often considered the most colorful cemetery in the world. Its brightly painted crosses feature scenes from the lives of the deceased, along with poems that range from humorous to deeply moving.

Next, you will visit the Museum of the Victims of Communism in Sighetu Marmației, located in the former political prison. Here, you will gain a deeper understanding of the 40-year impact of Romania’s communist regime.

You will also stop at the wooden church in Desești, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its beautifully preserved interior paintings and remarkable traditional architecture.

Overnight in Maramures (D)

Drive time 1h30

Prepare to descend into the otherworldly Turda Salt Mine, an impressive underground complex that feels almost alien. Inside, you will find a lake perfect for rowing, an amphitheater, and even a Ferris wheel. While enjoying the healthy salt air, you can also try fun activities like mini golf, table tennis, or bowling.

Later, you will visit Corvin Castle, the most imposing Gothic castle in Transylvania. Built in the 15th century, it features a surrounding river, a grand entrance bridge, and tall observation and defensive towers. Inside, you can explore the knights’ hall, a historic torture room, and hear the many legends that make this castle so captivating.

Overnight in Hateg

Drive time 5h30

From here you can choose between two memorable experiences before leaving Romania and cross the Danube to Vidin in Bulgaria.

Option 1 takes you through the breathtaking Danube Gorge, where towering cliffs rise above the winding river. You’ll stop to admire the impressive statue of Decebal and enjoy panoramic views of the Danube. For those seeking adventure, there’s an optional hike up Ciucaru Mare, offering spectacular vistas over the gorge, or you can take a relaxing boat trip along the river, gliding past the dramatic landscapes.

Option 2 offers a cultural journey to Târgu Jiu, where you can explore the remarkable outdoor sculptures of Romania’s most famous sculptor, Constantin Brâncuși. This UNESCO-listed site features his iconic works—the Endless Column, the Gate of the Kiss, and the Table of Silence—which honor Romania’s heroes and highlight Brâncuși’s revolutionary artistic vision.

In the evening, bid farewell to your Romanian guide and cross the Danube into Bulgaria, where you will meet your Bulgarian guide to continue the next chapter of your journey.

Overnight in Vidin

Drive time 4h30-5h

Begin the day by exploring the Belogradchik Fortress, where history meets stunning nature. Perched among the dramatic Belogradchik Rocks, this remarkably well-preserved fortress offers panoramic views and showcases architectural influences from Roman, Bulgarian, and Ottoman times. It is a true highlight for history enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

Next, enjoy a walking tour of Veliko Tarnovo, a captivating city with charming old streets, a rich cultural atmosphere, and spectacular views. The highlight is the Tsarevets Fortress, one of Europe’s most impressive medieval fortresses, where you can stroll along ancient walls and take in breathtaking panoramas.

Nearby you will also find the picturesque village of Arbanasi. Nestled on a scenic plateau, this village is renowned for its beautifully preserved 16th and 17th-century churches and traditional Bulgarian houses, offering a delightful step back in time for lovers of history, culture, and architecture.

Overnight in Veliko Tarnovo

Drive time 5h30

Begin the day with a visit to Etar Village Museum, Bulgaria’s only open-air ethnographic museum. Here, you can immerse yourself in daily life from the Revival Era, wandering historic grounds, listening to the creak of a centuries-old water mill, and feeling history beneath your feet on the cobblestone paths, where tradition and craftsmanship come vividly to life.

Next, head to the Buzludzha Monument, a striking relic of Bulgaria’s communist era, perched on a remote mountain peak. Although the interior is closed, you can explore its massive concrete walls and enjoy breathtaking 360° views of the Balkan Mountains.

Finally, visit Bulgaria’s famous Rose Valley, renowned for its fragrant Damask roses used to produce the celebrated rose oil. Experience the vibrant fields and, in late spring, the traditional rose harvest. Nearby, explore the Kazanlak Tomb replica, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring 4th-century BCE Thracian frescoes, offering a fascinating glimpse into ancient history.

Overnight in Plovdiv

Drive time 4h30

Start the day with a guided walking tour of Plovdiv, one of Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited cities with a 8000 years history and the 2019 European Capital of Culture. Explore Roman ruins such as the Ancient Theatre, Stadium, and Forum, along with Early Christian temple remains and Late Antiquity mosaics.

Wander through the Old Town’s colorful Revival-era houses, visit the Regional Ethnographic Museum, step inside one of Europe’s oldest mosques, and enjoy a cup of traditional Turkish coffee.

In the afternoon, visit Bachkovo Monastery, a serene escape nestled in the scenic Rhodope Mountains and set along the Chepelarska River. The monastery grounds feature two courtyards, four churches, and 18 chapels. Nearby, the Red Wall National Reserve offers stunning natural beauty, making Bachkovo an ideal blend of history, spirituality, and nature.

Overnight in Plovdiv

Drive time 1h30

Begin your day by marveling at the Panagyurishte Gold Treasure, one of Bulgaria’s most remarkable archaeological finds. Admire nine exquisitely crafted gold vessels, weighing over 6 kg, and learn about the ancient Thracian culture and their impressive craftsmanship.

Next, visit Koprivshtitsa, a charming town that brings Bulgaria’s 19th-century Revival period to life. Stroll along its cobblestone streets, explore traditional houses, and immerse yourself in the authentic architecture, culture, and history of this unique town.

Overnight in Koprivshtitsa

Drive time 2h

Start your day by exploring Rila Monastery, Bulgaria’s largest and most important monastery and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire its stunning architecture set against the towering Rila Mountains and uncover its rich history dating back to the 10th century, when it was founded by the hermit Ivan Rilski.

Later, enjoy a guided walk through Sofia, discovering the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. Wander its charming streets, where impressive churches, historic landmarks, and hidden gems showcase Sofia’s unique blend of tradition and modern life.

Overnight in Sofia

Drive time 5h

Departure

We hope you have enjoyed your Romania and Bulgaria tour and the best of the Balkans.

Thank you for exploring historic towns, stunning landscapes, and local traditions with us.