Explore the rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant cultures of Romania and Bulgaria on this immersive 9-day tour designed for small groups. Experience charming cities, majestic castles, mountain adventures, and authentic local traditions.
Welcome to Romania! Meet your English-speaking guide at the airport and transfer to your hotel. Enjoy a panoramic bus tour showcasing Bucharest’s highlights before a stroll through the beautifully restored Old Town. End your day with a lively welcome dinner at the iconic “Caru’ cu Bere” restaurant with live music.
After breakfast, journey north to the Southern Carpathians and visit the stunning Peles Castle, former summer residence of Romania’s King Charles I. Continue to Brasov, a medieval gem with Gothic landmarks like the Black Church and charming old town squares. Take a cable car ride up Tampa Mountain for panoramic views before reaching the mountain resort of Poiana Brasov for overnight.
Start with an exciting 3-4 hour jeep tour through remote mountain villages and wild nature. Afterward, visit the royal wine cellar in Azuga for sparkling wine tasting and a light lunch or barbecue. Explore Bran Castle – known worldwide as “Dracula’s Castle” – then enjoy free time in Brasov. Cap the day with a traditional dinner and live music.
Return to Bucharest to visit the open-air Village Museum and see landmarks like the Patriarchal Church and the Parliament building. After lunch, cross into Bulgaria and meet your Bulgarian guide. Check into your hotel in Rousse and relax on a scenic Danube river cruise with drinks and snacks. Dinner awaits at a picturesque hilltop restaurant overlooking the river.
Discover the medieval treasures of Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria’s former capital, including Tsarevets Fortress and the lively “Street of Crafts.” Enjoy a Bulgarian wine tasting in town before driving through the stunning Balkan Mountains via Shipka Pass, stopping at the Shipka Memorial Church. Visit the Rose Valley’s distillery to learn about and taste rose oil products. End your day in Plovdiv with dinner and overnight stay.
Explore Plovdiv’s rich 24-century history, including the Roman Theatre and ancient streets. In the afternoon, join a fun Bulgarian folk dance workshop or choose from optional craft workshops or a boutique winery visit in the nearby Rhodope Mountains. Enjoy leisure time in the evening with dinner in town.
Travel into the majestic Rhodope Mountains with stops including a microbrewery tasting and an authentic carpet factory visit. Ride the scenic narrow-gauge Rhodope railway, then experience a traditional Bulgarian cooking class and folk singing in a welcoming village home. Overnight in the mountain resort of Bansko.
Visit the UNESCO-listed Rila Monastery, Bulgaria’s largest and most famous monastery set in stunning mountain scenery. Lunch at a local fish farm restaurant, then stop at a unique retro museum featuring vintage cars, radios, and more. Arrive in Sofia for a festive farewell dinner with a folklore show in a traditional Bulgarian “mehana,” where you can showcase your newly learned dance moves!
Morning sightseeing of Sofia’s top sites: the magnificent Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the National Theatre, Parliament, and the vibrant pedestrian Vitosha Boulevard with time for shopping. Transfer to the airport according to your flight schedule.
