Romania & Bulgaria: Capitals, Coast & Countryside

Itinerary

1. Day 1 Arrival in Sibiu

   Did you know that Sibiu is a 3* Michelin travel destination? Did you know that it was a European Capital of Culture in 2007 and the European Region of Gastronomy in 2019? We invite you to join us and discover an amazing town with so many stories! Walking through Sibiu is like walking through a fairytale, or perhaps a medieval movie set. From the 16th century Bridge of Lies to the 15th century towers, you’ll find something romantically ancient at every turn. But that doesn’t mean the city is frozen in time, there’s also a rich cultural life here to match the incredible architecture. You’ll have a fantastic time watching history come alive in Sibiu, even as you experience its more contemporary charms. This is a city of firsts: where the first book in Romanian was printed, where Romania’s first hospital and pharmacy were opened, and also where the country’s oldest museum is housed, the Brukenthal Art museum. You’ll be charmed by this mix of old and new. You’ll certainly want to meet with our local guide, who can give you a closer look at all the most amazing sites in the city, including the main square, one of the best-preserved in Transylvania. But you won’t be limited to staying within city limits, as there are several interesting day trips to take in the surrounding region. The Jidvei Vineyard in the nearby Tarnave Valley is the perfect place to enjoy a tasting of some of excellent Romanian wines and snacks. Calnic, Sebes and Alba Iulia Citadel are also nearby sites that are certainly worth visiting, and will show you a different side of this enchanting region.

   After your flight arrives at Sibiu Airport, we will have someone meet you at the airport and bring you to your centrally located accommodations in Sibiu. Duration of the drive is about 20 minutes.

   

   The First Night

   Head to the Council Tower for a panoramic view of the Old Town. This area between Piata Mica ("The Little Square") and Piata Mare ("The Grand Square") is where some of the city's finest restaurants and bars can be found. Before dinner, we suggest a very short walk towards the Evangelical Cathedral and up to Café Wien, where you can taste something truly unique: “smoked beer” made by monks. If you prefer wine over beer, there is a super cozy place called Winekeller, just on the other side of the cathedral. As for dinner, there are at least two good traditional restaurants in the nearby Piata Mica: the Kulinarium or Crama Sibiana. Don’t forget to end the evening with some nice photos while standing on the Bridge of Lies, an iconic spot in Sibiu.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

2. Day 2 Your First Full Day in Sibiu

   

   Sibiu Private Walking & Corvin Castle Tour

   Take a walking tour in Sibiu, a multicultural gem of Romania and a place where for 800 hundred years Romanians, Hungarians and Saxons lived together. The highly preserved and restored Old Town looks like medieval Vienna but with unique Latin and Magyar influences. For the second part of the tour your guide will drive you to Corvin – the castle of the Ravens. This 16th century giant is the most beautiful medieval castle in Romania and was listed by the Germans in top 10 castles of Europe. 

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 8-9 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

3. Day 3 Traveling to Brasov by Private Car / Arrival in Brasov

   

   A private driver will pick you up from your accommodations to drive you to Brasov, the gateway to Transylvania. Without stops, the drive should take about 3 hours, but you will have a 2 hours stop in Sighisoara, one of the best-preserved medieval citadels in Europe, UNESCO Heritage. As the birthplace of Dracula, there are plenty of Vlad-themed attractions but in our opinion, the highlights are the citadel and the Clock Tower. A guided tour inside the citadel can be added for an extra fee. The transfer takes about 6 hours including the stop in Sighisoara.

   Brasov is a city of true medieval beauty, at the edge of which is the natural wonder of the Carpathian Mountains. This combination gives the place a truly unique feel, as history and the natural world come together here with astounding brilliance. The home of Romania’s largest Gothic church and the narrowest street in Europe, there is plenty here to enrich your visit. You can even take a gondola ride high above the city for new points of view. And, Brasov’s location makes it the perfect base for exploring some of Romania’s most magnificent castles. You’ll definitely want to spend a few days exploring the city, which offers everything from incredible architecture to excellent dining, a rich cultural program and fun outdoor activities. Day and night you’ll find something fun to do here, from the depths of the narrow Rope Street to the heights of Mount Tampa. Wine lovers will really enjoy a trip to the Rhein wine cellar just outside of Brasov. Here you can learn more about the local wine and of course taste it too. Bran Castle, Rasnov Fortress, Peles Castle, some of Romania’s most impressive castles, are all within distance for a perfect day trip. History, culture, architecture, the great outdoors: Brasov brings all of Romania’s greatest gifts together in one place.

   Welcome to Brasov! After the drive, your driver will take you to your centrally located accommodation.

   

   Dine, Drink, and Watch

   For your first night, walk up to the Sub Tâmpa restaurant, located between Brasov's walls and Mt. Tampa, which is only a few minutes walk from Council Square. Here, in addition to great food, you can enjoy a splendid panoramic view of Brasov's Old Town and the fortress overlooking the city from the opposite side. After dinner, you can walk back to Old Town for a quick wine-tasting session at Le Sommelier win bar or Terroirs Boutique du Vin, both located on Diaconu Coresi Street. You should definitely try wines from local Feteasca Neagra grapes and neighboring wine regions such as Dealu Mare and Tarnava.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

4. Day 4 Your First Full Day in Brasov

   

   Brasov and Bran Castle Private Walking Tour

   Enjoy a guided walking tour in Brasov while learning some general facts about the town itself and the Transylvania region. Start from Council Square, visit the Black Church, the largest Lutheran church in Southeastern Europe and then continue down on the narrowest street in Europe, called Rope Street. Next, there’s just a 30 minute drive to the famous Bran Castle – a place where the legend of Vlad Impaler meets the fiction of count Dracula. 

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 5-6 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   Brasov from Above

   Every visit to Brasov should include a cable car ride to Mt. Tampa, where superb views are just waiting to impress you. From your first moments in Brasov, you’re likely to notice the Hollywood-like “BRASOV” sign high above the city on Tampa Mountain. You can take the cable car or enjoy an hour-long hike to the top. The walk is not challenging, but there are enough rocks underfoot along the way to warrant wearing comfortable shoes. Just next to the big letters, there’s a platform from where you can have the best panoramic view of the city. From here, you’ll fall in love with Brasov. 

   Suggestion to explore on your own

5. Day 5 Traveling to Bucharest by Private Car / Arrival in Bucharest

   

   Today you're headed back to the capital, Bucharest. A private driver will pick you up from your accommodations in the morning. Without stops, the drive should take about three hours but close to Brasov you'll stop at Peles Royal Castle where you will have a guided tour inside. The transfer with a stop at Peles takes about 6 hours. The vehicle used for your transfer will be a standard sedan, station wagon, or minivan. We can arrange for an upgrade to a more luxurious class of vehicle for an extra fee.

   The capital of Romania, Bucharest is a truly intriguing city where modern sophistication meets a rich and varied history. The business center of the city definitely has a cosmopolitan feel, but farther afield Bucharest still feels a little rough around the edges. The restored Old Town with its resplendent buildings is simply magnificent, as is Nicolae Ceausescu’s Palace of Parliament. One of the world's largest buildings (and with all its marble, certainly the heaviest), we highly recommend a tour of its gilded interior. This "Paris of the East" also has some amazing cafes and delicious restaurants, especially near Lipscani Street. The city is no stranger to culture either, with numerous galleries, antique shops and concert halls. The most stunning landmarks are along Calea Victoriei, but you can see something impressive on just about every corner. After discovering the incredible variety of neighborhoods and architectural styles in the city, you might want to enjoy one of its cultural festivals, or take off for a unique day trip. If you’re ready for a full day, a trip to Transylvania including Peles Castle and Dracula’s Castle, will certainly be a memorable excursion, and very Romanian. We can also arrange for a private guide to show you around the city and the notable surroundings.

   Welcome to Bucharest! Our driver will take you to your centrally located accommodation.

   

   Dine and Drink on Your First Night

   For your first night, it’s best to start with a short walk in the Old Town area to see a glimpse of how Bucharest looked and felt at its zenith, specifically during the 19th century when it was nicknamed the “Paris of the East”. Seek out a traditional dinner at one of the city’s historical Old Town restaurants: Manuc Inn, Hanul Berarilor or Caru cu Bere. Make sure you don’t miss the bean soup in a bread bowl, cabbage rolls, or pork stew. Save some room for dessert: the best option is Papanasi, a pastry shaped like a doughnut with a small sphere on top, filled with soft cheese, and covered in sour cream and sour jam. After dinner, you should definitely enjoy a glass of Romanian wine at one of the many rooftop bars located in the Old Town: Linea Closer to the Moon, Nomad SkyBar, or Pura Vida SkyBar. You’re in a Latin country, so get out there and enjoy the cheerful and happy vibe!

   Suggestion to explore on your own

6. Day 6 Your First Full Day in Bucharest

   

   The Little Paris

   Bucharest is an eclectic city, a place of business, parties, arts, and contrasts. Nearly half a century of communist rule dramatically changed some aspects of the city, but traces of the old bohemian times can still be found. Discover the highlights of Bucharest on an amazing half-day guided tour, and marvel at the monuments of the historic city center. Some highlights of the tour include: the Romanian Athenaeum, Revolution Square, Old City with its beautiful 19th century buildings, and the Old Court from the times of Vlad the Impaler, the inspiration for Dracula. The tour will end with a visit inside the monumental Palace of Parliament, one of the world's largest buildings (and certainly the heaviest).
   

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 6 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

   Watch the video

   

   Taste Romania’s Food and Wine with an Expert

   Discover Romania’s super-tasty cuisine with one of our expert tour guides. You can take a slow walk through central Bucharest's boulevards and charming side streets to enjoy traditional food, pastries, and desserts while learning the stories behind them. If you prefer a more leisurely tour, you can join the Traditions in Bucharest tour, where you’ll have the chance to taste several types of traditional wines along with a cheese platter after a tour at the outdoor Village Museum.

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 5 hours

   Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

7. Day 7 Traveling to Veliko Tarnovo by Private Transfer / Arrival in Veliko Tarnovo

   

   Today your driver will meet you at your accommodations in Bucharest and drive you to Veliko Tarnovo. The drive takes around 3 hours. Please note on the border between Romania and Bulgaria there's a passport control. This process might take a longer time depending on the traffic.

   Capital of the medieval Second Bulgarian Empire, which controlled most of the Balkan Peninsula at its height, Veliko Tarnovo is still dominated by Tsarevets. This massive fortress housed the royal and religious palaces, and still covers one of the Old Town's three hills, fully encompassing it with 12-foot walls. Be sure to visit its main tower for striking views of the city. Veliko Tarnovo's cultural and historical riches stretch out beyond the fortress. This city is rich in beautiful Bulgarian National Revival architecture, mostly in the form of whitewashed homes with red rooftops, wooden trim, and ample balconies. This city naturally has showy medieval and Bulgarian Renaissance churches, especially its cathedral, and plenty of museums. Even if you'd rather stay outside and enjoy the weather, Veliko Tarnovo's hilly, rugged landscape, with its steep valleys, makes for plenty of great views, which can be enjoyed from its many affordable cafes.

   Welcome to Veliko Tarnovo! Your driver will bring you straight to your centrally located accommodations.

8. Day 8 Traveling to Varna by Private Transfer / Arrival in Varna

   

   Today our driver will meet you at your accommodation in Veliko Tarnovo and drive you to Varna. The drive takes 3 hours.

   Known by its ancient Greek settlers as Odessos, Varna is Bulgaria's third largest city, and certainly its main settlement along the coast. The city's deep history is testified to by the discovery of the world's oldest gold treasure, dating back to the 5th millennium BC. One of the most important prehistoric finds in the world (one grave along had more gold than has been found anywhere else in that epoch), you can visit the treasure for yourself in the city' archaeological museum. Varna is a great spot for those who want to combine beachside relaxation with day trips and perhaps the occasional visit to one of the many thermal baths in the area. Popular among tourists for decades, Varna has plenty of good beach bars and restaurants, and the kinds of beaches that bring families back year after year.

   Our driver will take you to your accommodation in Varna.

   

   Stroll and Dine in the Sea Garden

   Built and decorated by French architects for an esteemed statesman, Villa Burov offers great views from its terraces, and makes a great place for a memorable meal after a stroll through the surrounding Sea Garden, the largest landscaped park in the Balkans and a carefully designed spectacle. Villa Burov is slightly out of the way (30 min walk from Sea Garden entrance) so if you don't have time for a walk you can try instead The Sea Terrace restaurant, with great sea views and excellent food.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

9. Day 9 Your First Full Day in Varna

   

   Discover Varna on a Private Walking Tour

   The third largest city in Bulgaria, and the country's official "sea capital," Varna has plenty to offer. We recommend familiarizing yourself with a walking tour that covers the city's highlights. A fun and educational introduction to the city, you'll visit the Cathedral of the Holy Assumption of the Virgin, the theater, the opera, the central boulevard, and the Sea Garden, the largest landscaped park on the Balkan Peninsula.

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 3 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   A Day at the Beach

   Varna's beaches are also best known for their water sports offerings, and their nightlife, so stop by at different times of day (and night) to take in the city's main attractions. The best part of the beach goes in parallel with the Primorski Sea Garden park, roughly between the Naval Museum and Varna Summer Theater.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

10. Day 10 Traveling to Plovdiv / Arrival in Plovdiv

    Today our driver will meet you at your accommodation in Varna and drive you to Plovdiv. On your way you will stop in Nessebar where you will have two hours to explore the UNESCO-listed medieval Old Town. You will have a short walking tour with our local guide and some free time to have a coffee or look for souvenirs. The drive takes seven hours, including the stop in Nessebar.

    Plovdiv is a city that will charm you right away. The atmosphere here is laidback and the locals are welcoming. From the incredible architecture of the Old Town to the upbeat modern promenade with its hip cafes, bars and restaurants, there’s a mix of old and new here that will appeal to travellers of all ages and interests. Be sure to check out the local cultural calendar, as there is a rich cultural calendar including delightful concerts at the outdoor amphitheater. If you have an interests in the arts you won’t be disappointed, as Plovdiv also has numerous museums and art galleries that are always offering interesting exhibitions. To really soak up the city’s charm, you’ll want to take a walking tour with a local guide who can show you all of Plovdiv’s secrets. Besides the urban architecture, you’ll want to hike up one of the numerous paths that lead out of the city to impressive vantage points. There are also several day trips within a short drive of the city which will give you the chance to explore the countryside and some of the historical sites that are slightly farther afield. You’ll really enjoy exploring this unique destination, with its impressively eclectic local culture.

    Your driver will bring you directly to your accommodations in the center of Plovdiv.

11. Day 11 Your First Full Day in Plovdiv

    

    Dive into Plovdiv

    Plovdiv has a very rich history, and the best way to see it is on a private walking tour. Let a guide take you through the Kapana historic quarter, where you'll see beautifully decorated 19th century Bulgarian Revival houses, an ancient fortress wall, Roman Amphitheater, forum, stadium, and magnificent churches and mosques. Your guide will regale you with stories from the past, and this vibrant city will come alive for you in a whole new way.

    • Activity Level : Moderate
    • Duration : 2 hours 30 minutes

    Included in your vacation package price

    

    Go Beyond

    Plovdiv is a wonderful town to explore, but if you have an extra day, we invite you to explore the amazing countryside surrounding it. Embark on a tour beyond the city to see ancient architecture, 13th century monasteries, and impressive natural rock formations.

    • Activity Level : Moderate
    • Duration : 6 hours

    Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

12. Day 12 Traveling to Sofia by Private Transfer / Arrival in Sofia

    

    Today you are off to the capital or Bulgaria, Sofia. A private driver will pick you up at your accommodation and take you there. This is a non-guided transfer and the drive should take about 2 hours. The vehicle used for your transfer will be a standard sedan, station wagon, or minivan. We can arrange for an upgrade to a more luxurious class of vehicle for an extra fee.

    A city of gorgeous architecture, rich history, and a vibrant contemporary cultural life, Sofia is a gem. The historical center is nicely compact, so everything is within walking distance, giving this cosmopolitan city a quaint feel. It’s the perfect walking city, where you can enjoy stunning tourist attractions and also make your own itinerary, reveling in the lovely restaurants and cafes, and hidden surprises around every corner, including Roman and Byzantine ruins. The restaurants in Sofia are particularly impressive, with a mix of hearty traditional fare and creative twists on modern European cuisine. But there’s much more to do here than eat. Taking a tour with a local guide will help you get acquainted with all the city has to offer. When you’re ready to go a little farther afield, a day trip to one of Bulgaria's UNESCO sites is definitely worthwhile. Bulgaria’s past will come alive for you in these incredible destinations, which are popular with tourists and yet still feel very authentic. These short day trips will also give you a chance to explore the majestic landscape of Bulgaria as you leave the big city for more historic sites. Combining an alluring history with impressive architecture and world-class gastronomy, Sofia is a perfect destination for a fun, indulgent vacation.

    Your driver will bring you straight to your accommodation in the center of Sofia.

    

    See Sofia on a Private Walking Tour

    Admire the National Library, Sofia University, Parliament, the St. Alexander Nevsky Patriarchal Cathedral, the National Theater, St. Sofia Church, and Sofia's oldest building, the St. George Rotunda and other architectural gems. You will learn the history behind the sites but also some overall insights about Sofia’s rich culture. 

    • Activity Level : Moderate
    • Duration : 3 hours

    Included in your vacation package price

    

    Stroll the Streets

    Get a feel for Sofia's spirit and vibes by walking from the NDK subway station down Vitosha Boulevard towards the Palace of Justice and Saint Kyriaki Cathedral. On your way, have a quick stop on this pedestrian boulevard to enjoy a coffee or cocktail at one of its numerous bars and outdoor terraces. From St. Kyriaki, head down Tsar Osvoboditel Boulevard towards Saint Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, one of the world's largest and most impressive orthodox cathedrals in the world. On your way, you'll pass several landmarks, including the National Art Gallery, Sofia Synagogue, and Opera House. After taking some nice photos of the cathedral, you can head to the nearby Sense Hotel Rooftop Restaurant for dinner and a panoramic view over Sofia.

    Suggestion to explore on your own

13. Day 13 Your First Full Day in Sofia

    

    Rila and Boyana Private Day Tour (UNESCO Heritage)

    In this private tour you will discover two of the most famous Bulgarian monasteries and understand their importance for local and world culture. Rila Monastery, founded in the 10th century, is the most-visited UNESCO site in Bulgaria and an absolute must see. The arched balconies, unique frescoes, and the fabulous mountain views make this place truly special. Next stop is Boyana Church, which frescoes brought epochal changes to the mural painting style and are considered predecessors of the European Renaissance. 

    • Activity Level : Light
    • Duration : 6-7 hours

    Included in your vacation package price

    

    Traditional Bulgarian Dinner and Wine Tasting Private Tour

    Take this private tour and discover the traditional Bulgarian cuisine and their amazing wines. Did you know that Bulgaria was the world's biggest exporter of wine per capita during the 1980s? Your first stop is at a family owned wine bar where you’ll enjoy a private wine tasting coupled with interesting stories on Bulgarian wines, dishes and dances. The next stop is at a famous top-rated folklore restaurant, where you will serve a three course dinner and, if a bit lucky, even catch one of the live folkloric dances, which usually take place each evening. 

    • Activity Level : Easy
    • Duration : 4 hours and 30 minutes

    Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

14. Day 14 Departure Day

    Today, a driver will pick you up at your accommodation and bring you to the Sofia airport for your departing flight. The transfer takes about 45 minutes.