Semi-Private Tour; Serbia, Bulgaria & Romania from / to Belgrade
Duration
14 days
Group Size
1 to 10 people
Ages
2 - 90
yrs
Languages
English
Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating 14-day journey through the heart of the Balkans. Explore the vibrant cities of Serbia, Bulgaria, and Romania, from the historic streets of Novi Sad to the stunning Rila Monastery. Discover Sofia’s rich culture and wander through Plovdiv’s ancient ruins. Cross into Romania to visit Bucharest’s architecture, the legendary Bran Castle, and the picturesque towns of Brașov, Sighișoara, and Sibiu. This tour offers a perfect blend of history and culture making it an unforgettable exploration of the Balkans.
Additional information
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Pickup
What's included
Hotel pick up in Belgrade
Tourist taxes; International car insurance; Road taxes; Petrol
Entry tickets for the ‘’will be visited’’ sites
Private transport provided by the company
Professional tour leader
Breakfast: 13
Other
Other
Gratuities
Itinerary
Our tour leader will come and pick you up at your hotel in Belgarde in the morning. We will continue this journey by driving towards our next destination, Nis located in southern part of Serbia. The city is one of the most important and bustling cities of Serbia, with a long and legendary historical past. Nis is a lively city with parks, museums and galleries that illustrate its past. Nis is actually one of the oldest places in the area, the birthplace of Constantine the Great. Over the centuries Nis often played a significant role in the history of the region. The first stop will be at Niš Fortress where we will get acquainted with the history and complex culture of this monument. The old fortress on the right bank of the river is believed to have been built on the ancient Roman city, Naissus. Inside the fortress, there is a weather station that provides forecasts for the city of Niš.
Overnight in Nis
In the morning we will cross border towards Bulgaria and visit our first destination Rila monastery. A day tour to Rila Monastery offers an excellent opportunity to explore one of Bulgaria's most iconic cultural and historical sites. The Monastery is located in the Rila Mountains, about 75 miles (120 kilometers) south of Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria. As we head towards the Monastery, you'll enjoy picturesque views of the Bulgarian countryside and the Rila Mountains. Be sure to have your camera ready for some stunning landscapes. The monastery was founded in 10th c.as a monastic society by the hermit St Ivan Rilski. It's the largest monastery in Bulgaria and the oldest building today is a fortress tower in the monastery yard from 1330s. The monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an architectural masterpiece. We will explore the complex, which includes the main church, a museum, and several monastic building. After a full day of exploring we will drive to Sofia.
Overnight in Sofia
Breakfast:
After brekfast we will have a city tour of Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, a city rich in history and culture. We will start our day with a visit to the iconic Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, one of the largest Eastern Orthodox cathedrals in the world. Next, we head to St. Sophia Church, one of Sofia's oldest churches and an important historical site. Later we will head to the Royal Palace, which is now the National Art Gallery and we will walk to the nearby National Theatre Ivan Vazov, one of the most prestigious theaters in Bulgaria. Take a look at its beautiful facade and the square in front of it, which is often used for cultural events and gatherings. We will continue the tour by passing by the President's Office. While we may not be able to enter, you can still appreciate the architecture and the significance of this governmental building. We will end this day at the Triangle of Tolerance, a symbol of religious harmony in Sofia.
Overnight in Sofia
Breakfast:
From Sofia we will continue our tour towards, Plovdiv, Bulgaria's second-largest city and one of Europe's oldest continuously inhabited cities. Plovdiv offers a chance to explore its rich history, culture, and vibrant atmosphere. The Old Town is a well-preserved historic district with narrow cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and charming architecture. Upon arrival we will stop at the recently opened Bishop's Basilica from 5-6th AD with preserved mosaics, showing more than 100 bird species. While having a short walking tour in the old town we will enjoy the colorful facades of the rich merchants' houses from 19th ceuntry, built atop Roman foundations. We will also visit the remains of two of the large public buildings from the Roman period – the ancient theater and stadium. In the evening have some free time to relax with a leisurely walk along the riverbanks, where you can enjoy the sunset and the scenic views.
Overnight in Plovdiv
Breakfast:
After brekfast we will depart from Plovdiv and head towards Shipka where we will visit the stunning Shipka Memorial Church, a memorial to the Russo-Turkish War with its striking architecture and beautiful frescoes. Next, we drive through the scenic hills of Shipka Pass and we will be treated with some breathtaking views.
We will continue our journey to Veliko Tarnovo, the medieval capital of Bulgaria. Upon arrival in Veliko Tarnovo we will stop at the Royal citadel of Tsarevets. It is one of the three fortified hills of the medieval capital (12 – 14th c.), where the palace and the patriarchal cathedral were situated. Most of the fortress walls were reconstructed in 20th century and the cathedral rebuilt with authentic exterior, and the interior is covered with modernist murals. In the afternoon we will have a short stroll along the Samovodene arts and crafts street, where we can visit the ateliers of local artisans.
Overnight near Veliko Tarnovo.
Breakfast:
Before we set off, take a final stroll through the charming streets of Veliko Tarnovo. Later we will depart towards Ruse. As we drive, soak in the beautiful Bulgarian countryside. After arrival in Ruse, we’ll start with an overview of the city’s history and significance as a major cultural and economic hub on the Danube River. Later we will stroll along Alexandrovskaya Street, known for its stunning neo-Baroque architecture. Admire the beautifully preserved buildings, including the Opera House and the City Hall. We will visit the Statue of Liberty, a symbol of Ruse and a tribute to the city’s historical connections with the United States. Later on the day have some free time to enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant. After lunch, we’ll walk along the Danube promenade, taking in the scenic views of the river and its surroundings. We will depart from Ruse and cross the Danube into Romania.
Overnight in Bucharest.
Breakfast:
Today get ready to discover Bucharest through a full-day city tour. Our first stop will be at the famous Palace of the Parliament, the second largest building in the world. Also known as the People’s House, the building was part of a larger project created by Nicolae Ceausescu during his communist regime period of Romania. The building was designed to house all the organs of the state while also being a safe house able to withstand earthquakes and nuclear attacks. After touring the Palace of the Parliament we will head to Bucharest’s Old Town (Lipscani), known for its vibrant atmosphere, quaint shops, and lively cafes. Have some free time for lunch in the old town, and indulge in delicious Romanian dishes such as sarmale (cabbage rolls) or mămăligă (cornmeal porridge).
Overnight in Bucharest.
Breakfast:
As we travel towards our next destination, enjoy the scenic views of the Romanian countryside. Our first stop for today will be Bran, a small village famous for Bran Castle. With a history of more than 6 centuries, Bran Castle became widely known as Dracula’s Castle, mainly due to Bram Stoker’s Dracula. Here, we will discover the history of Vlad the Impaler and the connection between Vlad Tepes and Bram Stoker’s Dracula. As we explore the castle’s rooms and towers, you will learn more about its significance as a royal residence and its role in Romanian culture. After the tour of Bran Castle, we will take a stroll through the charming village of Bran. We will visit the local market, where you can find handmade crafts, souvenirs, and delicious treats. Feel free to pick up souvenirs or local crafts. Take some time to explore on your own the surrounding market stalls and enjoy the picturesque views of the Carpathian Mountains.
Overnight in Brasov
Breakfast:
Today we will visit Brasov, one of Romania’s most beautiful cities. We will head towards Piața Sfatului (Council Square), the vibrant heart of the city. We will marvel at the colorful Baroque buildings and the impressive Black Church, the main Gothic style monument in Romania and the largest Lutheran place of worship in the region. Before driving towards our next destination, we will have some free time for lunch.
Overnight in Sighișoara.
Breakfast:
After brekfast we will drive towards our next destination, the city of Cluj Napoca, one of Romania's largest cities. Our first stop will be the Saint Andrew’s Cathedral, a stunning example of Neo-Gothic architecture. Marvel at its beautiful stained-glass windows and serene atmosphere. We will stroll through Unirii Square, where you’ll see the impressive St. Michael's Church and the nearby Matthias Corvinus Statue
Overnight in Sibiu.
Breakfast:
Today we will start with a city tour of Sibiu, a city that was named the European Capital of Culture in 2007, where we will take a walking tour of a city that blends history and multicultural elements. We will walk towards Piata Mare (Large Square), the main square of Sibiu. Admire the beautiful Baroque buildings, including the City Hall and the Council Tower. We will end our city tour with a stroll through the passage of stairs and a crossing of the famous Bridge of Lies, a famous landmark with a romantic legend.
Overnight in Timisoara.
Breakfast:
Before heading back to Serbia, we will have a city tour of Timișoara. The city is known having the largest area of historical monuments in Romania. Timisoara, was under a few empires and rulers starting with the Ottoman Empire, Austro – Hungarian Empire and the city where the 1989 Revolution began. These past eras have left their marks via architecture, religion, language, food, and the city landscapes. Starting in the mid-16th century, for 164 years, Timișoara was a Turkish city. We’ll pass by the sites of the hammam (Turkish public bath), bazaar (marketplace), Central Mosque, and cemetery. At the beginning of the 18th century, Austrian imperial troops led by Prince Eugene of Savoy conquer the place and new streets, new houses, new churches were built.
We will walk towards Union Square (Piața Unirii), the heart of Timișoara.
Overnight in Novi Sad
Breakfast:
After brekfast we will have a city tour of Novi Sad, considered to be the cultural capital of northern Serbia. Located on the historical border of two former empires – the Austro-Hungarian and Ottoman, as a result you will be able to distinguish among the mixture of melting cultures influencing the town through centuries. You will immediately notice the Austro-Hungarian as well as the Ottoman influences. The town has a unique Baroque architecture characterizing some of its most important buildings. Not to be missed is the Petrovaradin Fortress also known as the Gibraltar on the Danube. We will be able to explore the old town walking through the pedestrian streets passing by Zmaj Jovina and Dunavska.
Overnight in Belgrade
Breakfast:
Today we will visit Belgrade the capital of Serbia. Our first stop will be Belgrade Fortress and Kalemegdan Park, where Belgrade started as a human settlement a very long time ago. The fortress is built on the confluence of two big rivers Sava and the Danube. The view of the city from the Fortress is breathtaking. In the Upper Town of the Belgrade Fortress, you will visit the Pobednik monument with a history dating back to 1913. The park is a huge green area with beautiful trees and peaceful paths.
Leaving the Kalemegdan we will walk through Knez Mihailova, the oldest street in Belgrade also the social midpoint of Belgrade locals. Finally, we end the tour at the Republic Square, the real heart of Belgrade, with buildings of the National Theatre, and National Museum and a well-known statue of Prince Michael (Knez Mihajlo).
Breakfast:
FAQ
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