Best of Bulgaria and Romania

Best of Bulgaria and Romania

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10 Days From

$3254

$3099

Best of Bulgaria and Romania

10 Days Starting in Sofia, Bulgaria and ending in Bucharest, Romania

Visiting: Sofia, Plovdiv, Veliko Tarnovo, Bucharest, Sibiu, Brasov

Tour operator:

Indus Travels

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 6

Physical rating:

EASY

Tour operated in:

English
From: $3254 $3099 Travel Club discount: -$155

NB: Prices correct on 23-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Bulgaria and Romania with our "Best of Bulgaria and Romania" tour. Discover the spiritual and architectural marvels of Rila Monastery, explore the historical treasures of Plovdiv, and delve into the rich history of Veliko Tarnovo's Tsarevets Fortress. In Romania, marvel at the grandeur of Bucharest's Parliament Palace and uncover the legends of Bran Castle, famously known as Dracula's Castle. Enjoy seamless transportation, superior hotel accommodations, and the expertise of a professional, English-speaking driver-guide. This cultural adventure promises a blend of sightseeing, history, and unique experiences, all while savoring local cuisines with included meals. Join us for an enriching exploration of these captivating countries.

Highlights

  • Discover Rila Monastery, where intricate architecture and spiritual ambiance captivate you

  • Explore Plovdiv's historical gems, like the Old Town, Antique Theatre, and Roman Stadium

  • Visit Veliko Tarnovo's Tsarevets Fortress hilltop site, offering insights into Bulgarian history

  • Pay a visit to Bucharest's Parliament Palace, one of the world's massive civilian buildings

  • Uncover the history of Bran Castle (Dracula Castle), perched atop the Carpathian Mountains

  • Tour the Rock Churches of Ivanovo, a UNESCO site renowned for its unique frescoes

  • Explore Brasov's medieval city centre, including the old city hall and the Black Church

  • Tour Peles Castle, once the summer residence of the Romanian royal family

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Sofia

Location: Sofia

Accommodation Name: On board the flight

Make your way to your gateway airport to board your flight to Sofia.




Overnight on board the flight

Day 2: Sofia (Arrival)

Location: Sofia

Accommodation Name: Hotel in Sofia

Meals Included: Dinner

Upon arrival at Sofia International Airport, you'll be greeted by our representatives who will assist with your transfer to the hotel. A warm welcome awaits you with a delightful dinner that introduces you to Bulgarian cuisine and sets the tone for your upcoming journey.




Overnight stay in Sofia

Day 3: Sofia (B/-/-)

Location: Sofia

Accommodation Name: Hotel in Sofia

Meals Included: Breakfast

Have breakfast and later embark on an immersive sightseeing tour of Sofia, a city steeped in a remarkable 8500-year-old history. Explore iconic landmarks including the awe-inspiring Alexander Nevski Cathedral, the grandeur of the Royal Palace, the historically significant St. Sofia Church, which bestowed the city its name, and the ancient Roman Forum dating back to the era of Emperor Constantine the Great. Dive into the heart of Sofia's historical and cultural essence. The afternoon offers free leisure time to explore the city at your own pace.




Overnight in Sofia

Day 4: Sofia – Rila Monastery – Plovdiv (B/-/-)

Location: Plovdiv

Accommodation Name: Hotel in Plovdiv

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast, depart to Rila Monastery - the biggest Bulgarian spiritual centre since the middle Ages, a UNESCO monument. After visiting the monastery, we will have lunch in an authentic local house with delicious meals. In the afternoon, proceed to Plovdiv through the Rhodopi Mountains. We will enjoy the cool fresh air and beautiful surrounding nature. Arriving in Plovdiv in the afternoon, Visit contemporary of Troy and one of the most ancient cities in Europe, selected to be the European capital of culture for 2019.




Overnight in Plovdiv

Day 5: Plovdiv – Kazanlak – Veliko Tarnovo (B/-/D) (B/-/-)

Location: Veliko Tarnovo

Accommodation Name: Hotel in Veliko Tarnovo

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Post breakfast, delve into the historical richness of Plovdiv, discovering its Old Town, the Ethnographical Museum, the still-in-use Antique Theatre, the Roman Stadium, and the Bishops Basilica of Philipopolis, boasting magnificent mosaics from Roman times. The journey continues to Kazanlak, the Rose Valley capital, where you'll witness the fascinating process of producing Bulgarian rose oil at an authentic distillery. Explore the UNESCO-listed Thracian Kazanlak Tomb before heading to Etara, an open-air museum offering a glimpse into Bulgarian life in the 19th century. As the day draws to a close, arrive at Veliko Tarnovo, the former capital of Bulgaria, for a night filled with dinner.




Overnight in Veliko Tarnovo

Day 6: Veliko Tarnovo – Ivanovo – Bucharest (B/-/D)

Location: Bucharest

Accommodation Name: Hotel in Bucharest

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast, tour Veliko Tarnovo, visiting the historical hill Tsarevets and its Fortress, the Patriarchal church, and Emperor Baldwin's Tower. Journey to the Rusenski Lom River valley to explore the Rock Churches of Ivanovo, a UNESCO site renowned for its unique frescoes. Continue to Ruse, known as the \"little Vienna,\" situated on the Danube River. Meet the Romanian guide, cross the Danube, and embark on a panoramic tour of Bucharest, also known as \"the little Paris.\" Dinner at a local restaurant.




Overnight in Bucharest

Day 7: Bucharest – Sibiu (B/-/-)

Location: Sibiu

Accommodation Name: Hotel in Sibiu

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Following breakfast, visit the Parliament Palace, the world's second-largest building by surface area. Depart through the Carpathian Mountains to Sibiu, exploring the Oltului Valley. In the afternoon we arrive in the biggest medieval city in Romania – Sibiu. After check-in at the hotel, directly on the pedestrian street, we take a city tour in Sibiu/Hermannstadt - the European capital of culture for 2007. Visit among others the Evangelical Church, the Council Tower, the Large and the Small Square, the Liars' Bridge, and the Brukenthal Palace. Have your Dinner and return to your hotel.




Overnight in Sibiu

Day 8: Sibiu – Biertan – Sighisoara – Brasov (B/L/-)

Location: Brasov

Accommodation Name: Hotel in Brasov

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Morning departure to Sighisoara via Biertan. Visit the fortified church in Biertan, which previously used to be the Bishops' residence for more than 300 years, a UNESCO monument. Drive to Sighisoara - one of the most beautiful medieval towns in Romania a UNESCO city. City tour of Sighisoara with the Citadel - a Saxon edifice from the XII Century. A UNESCO monument.Sightseeing of the Clock Tower (inside visit too), the Covered Staircase, Dracula's birth house, and the Church on the Hill. Lunch at the famous restaurant Vlad Drakula located in the same house where the popular character of the British writer Bram Stoker was born. In the afternoon depart to Bran village, where the world-famous Dracula castle is located.




Overnight in Brasov

Day 9: Brasov – Sinaia – Bucharest (B/-/D)

Location: Bucharest

Accommodation Name: Hotel in Bucharest

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

After Breakfast at the hotel, Explore Brasovs medieval city centre, including the old city hall and the Black Church. Visit Sinaia, the \"pearl of the Carpathian Mountains,\" and tour Peles Castle, once the summer residence of the Romanian royal family. Return to Bucharest for dinner and accommodation.




Overnight in Bucharest

Day 10: Bucharest (Departure) - Usa/ Canada (B/-/-)

Location: Bucharest

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. At the scheduled time, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight.

What's Included

  • 08 nights accommodation on a twin sharing basis at listed superior hotels or similar

    Stay for 8 nights in superior hotels or similar accommodations on a twin sharing basis.

  • Daily buffet breakfast at the hotel

    Enjoy a daily buffet breakfast at the hotel.

  • 02 lunches

    Two lunches are included during the tour.

  • 05 dinners

    Five dinners are included during the tour.

  • Transportation as per the itinerary

    Transportation is provided as per the itinerary.

  • Arrival and departure airport transfers

    Airport transfers for arrival and departure are included.

  • Services of a professional, English-speaking driver-guide

    A professional, English-speaking driver-guide will be available throughout the tour.

  • All Sightseeing as per the itinerary

    All sightseeing activities mentioned in the itinerary are included.

  • All entrance fees for Parking, road and border taxes

    All entrance fees, parking, road, and border taxes are covered.

  • All applicable local taxes

    All applicable local taxes are included.

What's Not Included

  • Items of a personal nature, tips & gratuities

    Personal items, tips, and gratuities are not included.

  • Visa application and fees

    Visa application and associated fees are not included.

  • Optional Tours

    Optional tours are not included in the package.

  • Items not mentioned as being included

    Any items not specifically mentioned as included are excluded.

Mode of Transport

Transportation is provided as per the itinerary, including arrival and departure airport transfers, ensuring a seamless travel experience.

Accommodation

Enjoy 8 nights of superior hotel accommodation on a twin-sharing basis, ensuring comfort and convenience throughout your journey.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour includes 8 nights of superior hotel accommodation on a twin-sharing basis, ensuring comfort and convenience throughout your journey.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    Yes, the tour package includes daily buffet breakfast at the hotel, two lunches, and five dinners.

  • Is transportation provided during the tour?

    Yes, transportation is provided as per the itinerary, including arrival and departure airport transfers, ensuring a seamless travel experience.

  • Will there be a guide during the tour?

    Yes, the services of a professional, English-speaking driver-guide will be available throughout the tour.

  • Are entrance fees included in the tour package?

    Yes, all entrance fees for parking, road, and border taxes are covered in the tour package.

  • What is the starting and ending point of the tour?

    The tour starts in Sofia, Bulgaria, and ends in Bucharest, Romania.

  • What are some of the key highlights of the tour?

    Key highlights include discovering Rila Monastery, exploring Plovdiv's historical gems, visiting Veliko Tarnovo's Tsarevets Fortress, touring Bucharest's Parliament Palace, and uncovering the history of Bran Castle (Dracula Castle).

  • Are there any UNESCO World Heritage sites included in the tour?

    Yes, the tour includes visits to several UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Rila Monastery, the Thracian Kazanlak Tomb, and the Rock Churches of Ivanovo.

  • What kind of activities can I expect during the tour?

    The tour includes a mix of sightseeing, historical exploration, and cultural experiences such as visiting ancient cities, exploring medieval towns, and touring significant landmarks and museums.

  • Are airport transfers included in the tour package?

    Yes, airport transfers for both arrival and departure are included in the tour package.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    Yes, but only in case it was previously agreed by both sides and arranged by us.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Our e-document package includes all local contact details, daily itinerary, airline e-ticket information, service vouchers, and travel tips which should be everything you require to go on your trip.

  • If I need one, who is responsible to obtain my visa?

    You are responsible for obtaining the proper travel documents for the destinations on your itinerary, including having a passport that is valid for at least 6 months before the date of departure and a visa if required. Please check the Visa section in the Know Before You Go document for the countries you will be visiting.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    No, not as standard. Solo travellers can book and occupy their own room for a supplement.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    We have been organizing unforgettable trips since 2001.

  • Can I arrange flights via Indus Travels, too?

    In some cases, yes. Indus Travels can provide flights from/to selected departure points in the USA. If you would like a quote inclusive of flights, please let us know and we'll be happy to check the details for you!

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    Changes to an existing reservation up to the Final Payment Date, whatever the cause, will incur a $100 per person amendment fee, potential loss of any supplier fees (such as non-refundable event tickets, park permits, and sea cruise reservations) plus any costs for replacement services. On/ after the Final Payment Date, the $100 change fee is no longer valid, instead cancellations terms apply.

Reviews of this operator

Terry Kratz (Google Reviewer)  

Thanks to Indus and Nicko...

13-Sep-2024

Thanks to Indus and Nicko Cruise for a great trip down the Danube. I had not been on a river cruise prior to this and found it a very relaxing way to travel and see some European highlights. The ship was superb. The staff served great meals, were friendly and accommodating. As far as the tours and city visits, they all gave us a reasonable amount of time and insight into the location we were visiting to come away with a sense that we had a good glimpse of the city and were able to spend some free time in the city as well. A special thanks to Dhruv our fearless leader from Indus who was a great organizer. Lastly - nice to meet all of you in our group. terry

Joyce Elyse Baumbach  

The tour organized by Indus Travels ...

16-Dec-2022

The tour organized by Indus Travels was flawless. Hotels, tours, and transportation all impressed me. We had a very relaxing time knowing what was happening at each stage. The scenery and activities were fantastic and did not disappoint. The highlight of the trip was definitely Galapagos Islands.

Indus Travel Reviews
Sirjirick Gibson (Google Reviewer)  

This is my fourth Indus...

20-Aug-2024

This is my fourth Indus trip coming up. I love the way the app works. I love the way the trips are organized and small groupings. I love the accommodations. I love the transportation it’s just top-notch service for individual traveler. I just completed my fourth trip with This and I have already signed up for my up-and-coming fifth trip with Indus travel. Once again, I have to say the service of this is absolutely top-notch service. I am so grateful to have this opportunity to travel and style and comfort. The organization of this is top-notch service from start to finish.. I have to say this sales management and associate team is absolutely amazing which basically allows me to continuously book my trips through end this. My travel life is to travel to as many countries as possible, and it will all be done through excellent job. I would like to give a special thanks to Rachel P. And Ravi., I have been involved with Rachel for the past five years and I will continue to travel within due to the fact that she makes this such a pleasant experience. Great job to her..

Neeraj Nauhwaar (Google Reviewer)  

Booked Mystical Egypt tour with...

07-Dec-2023

Booked Mystical Egypt tour with them visiting Cairo and a 03 Nights Cruise from Luxor to Aswan in May. All services were perfect since the time we arrived at the airport, we were met by a hospitable Indus Representative who helped us with the purchase of local SIM and currency exchange. He was always there in time to assist for transfers. The Amwaj Cruise which we took from Luxor to Aswan was a Gem. We had great guides and all sightseeing worked like a clockwork. We enjoyed visiting Karnak Temples, Temples of Edfu, Kom Ombo and the boat ride to see Phillae Temple. Evening entertainment on cruise were great and engaging. In Cairo and Aswan, we had ample leisure time to explore on own, the Pyramids were impressive and visiting Khan e Khalili was fun. Overall and impressive and enjoyable tour, Thanks to Indus Travels!

Dhruv R (Google Reviewer)  

Recently went on a Rhine...

09-Jun-2023

Recently went on a Rhine River Cruise, a first for me. I must say the experience was exceptional, their tagline says. The group I was with were some of the most fun and interesting set of people I've ever traveled with. The ground transportation arrangements were top notch and comfortable. Variety in menu that we were provided with in the cruise was astounding. I was a bit worried if they'd have much options for me as I'm a vegetarian. But they not only had options, the taste was something I'd savor for foreseeable future. There's a reason Rhine cruises are popular owing to it's serene and picturesque route. Guided tours were very informative and gave us a bit of an insight of German culture. We had good amount of time to explore the towns on our own too. Strasbourg and Cochem were my favorite stops. Luckily the weather worked in our favour and it didn't rain the way it was predicted originally. No one from our group wanted the tour to end. If this trip was any indication, I can't wait to book my next trip with Indus Travels.

Dennis V (Google Reviewer)  

My wife and I travelled...

02-Jul-2024

My wife and I travelled with Indus on the essentials Portugal Spain Switzerland and Italy tour last October and had the time of our lives. The tour was very well planned we visited a lot of the highlights the countries had to offer. The tour went very smoothly with knowledgeable guides and courteous drivers. We would highly recommend travelling with Indus.

Gloria Parra (Google Reviewer)  

Indus Travel runs a highly...

04-Mar-2024

Indus Travel runs a highly professional organization. From customer service to brochures, bookings, tour guides, etc. and the consideration for their customers is superb. This was the first time I had travelled with Indus Travels. We took the Taste of Portugal Tour. Group numbers are small, accommodation comfortable and food excellent. The expert guide who accompanied us was outstanding - passionate, informative, engaging, and entertaining. This company is obviously at the heart of the itinerary planning, and attention to detail is second to none. I would highly recommend this company to anyone wanting a fun, relaxed, educational vacation with fine food - they will deliver! We will never forget this trip and we are already planning for another one to Wonders of Italy, Vienna, Budapest, and Prague.

Olivia  

Best of Italy

16-Nov-2022

Indus Travels did an excellent job planning the trip to Italy. We were on Best of Italy in Oct 2022. The tour was 5 stars all the way. The hotel accommodations were comfortable and clean & guides were top-notch.

Indus Travel Reviews
Kim Eisnor (Google Reviewer)  

We had an absolutely amazing...

12-Sep-2024

We had an absolutely amazing experience on our first ever river boat cruise. The itinerary and ports were incredible, the ship was beautiful, the food was great (especially Mario’s Grill), the excursions were excellent and the staff was lovely. We had such a memorable trip with our group and made lots of memories that will last a lifetime.

DJWalter Capote (Google Reviewer)  

We were looking for a...

07-Oct-2023

We were looking for a customized, small group tour. We took a chance on Indus without knowing much about the company. We just returned from our trip to Greece and are more than highly please and satisfied with our experience. They planned an amazing itinerary, booked amazing hotels, hired knowledgeable tour guides and arranged high quality transportation services. Everyone went above and beyond to please us. We are already planning a trip for next year (2024) and will definitely use Indus to do so.

1 Select your preferred date

Saturday - Monday

Mar 22, 2025 - Mar 31, 2025
$3254 $3099

Travel Club discount: -$155

Saturday - Monday

Aug 16, 2025 - Aug 25, 2025
$3254 $3099

Travel Club discount: -$155

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    CTS demo white label allows you to make 20 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.

  • Low Deposit

    CTS demo white label requires a minimum deposit of 55% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 30 days before departure.